VK2735: Molecular Structure
Chemical properties, amino acid sequence, and structural analysis
📌TL;DR
- •Molecular formula: Proprietary (not disclosed)
- •Molecular weight: 4700 Da
- •Half-life: Supports once-weekly subcutaneous dosing (exact half-life not publicly disclosed)
Amino Acid Sequence
91 amino acids
Formula
Proprietary (not disclosed)
Molecular Weight
4700 Da
Half-Life
Supports once-weekly subcutaneous dosing (exact half-life not publicly disclosed)
Molecular Structure and Properties#
VK2735 is a peptide-based dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist developed by Viking Therapeutics. The exact amino acid sequence and detailed molecular structure have not been publicly disclosed by Viking Therapeutics. As a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist, VK2735 belongs to the same pharmacological class as tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) but is a distinct molecular entity with potentially different receptor binding properties and pharmacokinetic characteristics.
Structural Features (Inferred)#
Based on the pharmacological profile and publicly available information:
- Peptide class: Modified peptide designed to activate both GLP-1 and GIP receptors
- Extended half-life: Supports once-weekly subcutaneous dosing, suggesting albumin binding or other half-life extension modifications (such as fatty acid conjugation or PEGylation)
- Oral bioavailability: The oral tablet formulation achieves meaningful systemic exposure, distinguishing VK2735 from most peptide therapeutics
| Property | Available Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical class | Peptide dual agonist |
| Molecular weight | Not publicly disclosed |
| CAS number | Not publicly disclosed |
| Receptor targets | GLP-1R and GIPR |
| SC dosing | Once weekly |
| Oral dosing | Once daily tablet |
Dual Formulation Strategy#
VK2735 is being developed simultaneously in two formulations:
Subcutaneous Formulation#
- Weekly injection
- Higher doses achievable
- Phase 3 VANQUISH program underway
- Up to 14.7% weight loss at 13 weeks in Phase 2
Oral Tablet Formulation#
- Daily oral dosing
- Up to 12.2% weight loss at 13 weeks in Phase 2
- No strict fasting requirements reported
- Phase 2 VENTURE-Oral data available
The parallel development of both formulations is a strategic differentiator from tirzepatide (injectable only) and reflects the growing clinical demand for oral anti-obesity therapies.
Pharmacokinetics#
Detailed pharmacokinetic data for VK2735 have not been fully published. Key observations from clinical trials:
- Subcutaneous: Once-weekly dosing produces progressive weight loss without plateau at 13 weeks, suggesting sustained receptor occupancy throughout the dosing interval
- Oral: Once-daily dosing achieves clinically meaningful systemic exposure, as evidenced by 12.2% weight loss in the oral Phase 2 trial
- Dose-proportional: Multiple dose cohorts in Phase 2 showed dose-dependent weight loss
Comparison with Tirzepatide#
Both VK2735 and tirzepatide are dual GLP-1/GIP agonists, but they differ:
| Feature | VK2735 | Tirzepatide |
|---|---|---|
| Developer | Viking Therapeutics | Eli Lilly |
| Routes | SC + oral | SC only |
| GLP-1/GIP balance | Not disclosed | GIP-biased |
| Fatty acid | Not disclosed | C20 fatty diacid at Lys20 |
| Sequence basis | Not disclosed | GIP backbone |
| Molecular weight | Not disclosed | ~4,810 Da |
| Half-life | Not disclosed | ~5 days (120 hours) |
Receptor Pharmacology#
VK2735 activates both the GLP-1 receptor and the GIP receptor. The relative potency at each receptor, the degree of biased agonism, and the GLP-1/GIP selectivity ratio have not been publicly characterized. These receptor binding characteristics may differ from tirzepatide and could contribute to differences in efficacy and safety profiles.
Related Reading#
Frequently Asked Questions About VK2735
What type of peptide is VK2735?
VK2735 is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist peptide developed by Viking Therapeutics for obesity treatment. In the Phase 2 VENTURE trial, weekly subcutaneous VK2735 achieved up to 14.7% weight loss in just 13 weeks with no plateau observed. An oral tablet formulation achieved up to 12.2% weight loss in 13 weeks. Phase 3 VANQUISH trials are underway with enrollment of over 4,500 patients completed. VK2735 is being developed in both injectable and oral formulations.
What is the half-life of VK2735?
The reported half-life of VK2735 is Supports once-weekly subcutaneous dosing (exact half-life not publicly disclosed). Half-life can vary depending on the route of administration, formulation, and individual factors. This information is based on available preclinical or pharmacokinetic data.
What is the amino acid sequence of VK2735?
The amino acid sequence of VK2735 is Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist peptide (exact sequence proprietary to Viking Therapeutics). Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist peptide with modifications for extended half-life. This sequence determines its biological activity and binding properties.
How stable is VK2735 in storage?
VK2735 is typically supplied as a lyophilized powder for maximum stability. Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist peptide with modifications for extended half-life. When reconstituted, it should be stored refrigerated at 2-8 degrees C and protected from light. Lyophilized powder should be stored at -20 degrees C.
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