KER-065 (Keros Therapeutics)

KER-065 (formerly KB-013) is a monoclonal antibody developed by Keros Therapeutics that targets and neutralizes growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15). GDF15 is a stress-induced cytokine and a member of the TGF-beta superfamily that regulates appetite and body composition by binding to the GFRAL receptor in the hindbrain. While GDF15 agonists are typically explored for weight loss, KER-065 is a neutralizing antibody designed to inhibit GDF15 signaling. Keros is developing KER-065 primarily for the treatment of obesity, with a focus on preserving muscle mass and improving metabolic health during weight loss, particularly when used in combination with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Preclinical studies have also demonstrated its potential to prevent weight loss and muscle wasting in models of cancer cachexia.