Mankind Pharma has submitted its first Investigational New Drug (IND) application for approval to Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) for MKP10241, a patented novel anti-diabetic molecule.

“MKP10241 is a potent and orally administered small molecule, GPR119 agonist,” informed the company through a statement. GPR 119 is highly expressed in pancreatic beta cells and intestinal enteroendocrine cells.

“What makes MKP10241unique is its mechanism of action. GPR119 elevates intracellular secondary messengers such as cAMP inside the cells and promotes postprandial insulin and incretin secretion (GLP-1) in a glucose-dependent manner. This dual mechanism by GPR119 in mediating glucose-dependent insulin secretion is distinct from the currently available therapeutic options for Type 2 diabetes and thus becomes a promising new approach for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and related metabolic disorders,” informed the company statement.

It added, “The small molecules with GPR119 agonist property would help the Indian pharma industry to provide a new therapeutic option in the anti-diabetic armamentarium for the clinicians in the management of type 2 diabetes.”

The new drug was tested in multiple preclinical models of Type 2 diabetes to understand the mechanism of action and efficacy, and has shown effective results in reducing blood sugar levels and glycated haemoglobin. MKP10241 elevates plasma insulin as well as plasma GLP-1 levels ultimately leading to reduced plasma glucose in preclinical models validating the dual mechanism of action associated with GPR119.

MKP10241 has been granted patents worldwide till 2037.

RC Juneja, Executive Chairman, Mankind Pharma said, “Our team of scientists have worked tirelessly and with immense passion to develop this novel drug to benefit the people, and it will be affordable for patients. Mankind Pharma is committed to expanding its portfolio of products in the Indian market in all major therapeutic areas for the benefit of patients, prescribers and the healthcare system.”