LiCO-saUcp1

LiCO-saUcp1 is a first-in-class, adipose-biased, lipid-conjugated small activating RNA (saRNA) designed to treat obesity and metabolic disorders. Developed by Ractigen Therapeutics, it utilizes RNA activation (RNAa) technology to specifically target the promoter of the Uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) gene, inducing its expression and promoting the browning of white adipose tissue. In preclinical studies using diet-induced obesity (DIO) mice, subcutaneous administration of LiCO-saUcp1 resulted in significant, durable weight loss characterized by selective fat mass reduction and preservation of lean mass. It also demonstrated potential in treating hepatic steatosis by lowering liver triglycerides and showed synergistic efficacy when combined with GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide.