# Therapeutic antibody for anorexia nervosa

> **NIH NIH R43** · LARIX BIOSCIENCE, LLC · 2022 · $259,606

## Abstract

Therapeutic antibody for anorexia nervosa
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric condition characterized by changes in eating habits eventually leading to
weight loss of more than 15% and up to 85% in comparison to a healthy population. The natural course is
variable, and long-term mortality is one of the highest of any psychiatric disorder. Treatment relies on nutritional
and psychotherapy, and no specific drug treatment has been identified for AN. Growth differentiation factor 15
(GDF15) is well documented as a critical mediator of body weight loss, and high GDF15 levels are associated
with AN. Administration of GDF15 causes weight loss in mice, rats, and primates. We have identified a high-
affinity human monoclonal antibody that neutralizes GDF15 in animal models of tumor-associated cachexia.
During this Phase 1 project, we will demonstrate activity of this antibody in murine models of AN. Phase 2 studies
will advance preclinical testing, including pharmacokinetics and toxicology, in preparation for an IND. The
therapeutic antibody to be developed in this project will directly block a major cause of weight loss to improve
quality of life in AN patients.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10480127
- **Project number:** 1R43MH130224-01
- **Recipient organization:** LARIX BIOSCIENCE, LLC
- **Principal Investigator:** JAMES W LARRICK
- **Activity code:** R43 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $259,606
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2022-03-01 → 2024-02-29

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10480127

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10480127, Therapeutic antibody for anorexia nervosa (1R43MH130224-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10480127. Licensed CC0.

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