VK2735: Molecular Structure

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

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:

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#

• VK2735 overview and research guide
• Peptides similar to VK2735
• VK2735 research evidence