Sagimet closes down after acne drug denifanstat data, closing of stock offering

Ascletis Pharma Inc.'s partner, Sagimet Biosciences, has dosed the first patient in a Phase III U.S. trial of denifanstat (ASC40) for moderate to severe acne. The trial aims to enroll 800 patients. Ascletis' prior Phase III trial in China showed ASC40 was more effective than FDA-approved treatments, with 18.6% treatment success vs. 9.4% for sarecycline and 6.7% for doxycycline.

Sagimet Biosciences (SGMT) started its Phase 3 AURORA trial for denifanstat, a drug for moderate to severe acne. The trial's success could lead to regulatory approval. SGMT has a high P/S ratio of 58.8x, reflecting growth expectations. The company has a GF Score of 34, indicating strong financial stability but weak profitability and growth. Insider selling and cautious institutional sentiment are noted.

Sagimet Biosciences reported progress in its acne trials, with a Phase 3 trial underway and Phase 2 planned for TVB-3567. The company has $257.6M in cash and expects funding through mid-2029. Denifanstat met trial endpoints, and China's NMPA accepted its NDA. Further MASH development depends on non-dilutive funding.

Sagimet Biosciences has started a U.S. phase 3 trial for denifanstat, an acne treatment. CEO David Happel expects results to mirror Chinese data, showing 55.6-57.8% treatment success. The drug reduces inflammatory lesions by 75.8-78.1% and offers long-term flexibility. Happel believes positive U.S. results will gain acceptance from dermatologists and payers.

Sagimet Biosciences (SGMT) reported positive 52-week Phase 3 data for denifanstat in acne treatment, showing 57% IGA success and 72% lesion reduction. The drug was well tolerated. Sagimet's U.S. Phase 3 AURORA trial is ongoing. SGMT shares are up 0.56% at $0.71.

Sagimet Biosciences (NASDAQ:SGMT) announced 52-week clinical results for denifanstat, showing 57% success rate and significant lesion reduction. The data will be presented at the 2026 Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference. The drug is being developed for moderate to severe acne, with a U.S. Phase 3 trial underway. Ascletis holds rights in China, where a New Drug Application was submitted in December 2025.