- Hoth Therapeutics reports positive preclinical data for its GDNF-based liver drug.
- The drug, HT-VA, outperformed Semaglutide in a preclinical model of MAFLD.
- Results show the drug reprograms liver fat metabolism at the genetic level.
Back

Hoth Therapeutics (NASDAQ: HOTH) announced positive preclinical data for its HT-VA drug, showing it reprograms liver fat metabolism and outperforms Semaglutide in a model of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).
The company reported the findings on April 13, 2026, from its study conducted with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Emory University. The data shows that parenteral GDNF (Glial Cell-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) directly reprograms liver fat metabolism at the genetic level.
Specifically, the study demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the Srebf1 gene, which is responsible for fat production, and an increase in the Pparα gene, which controls fat metabolism. These genetic changes suggest a differentiated therapeutic approach that targets the root cause of fatty liver disease.
The positive data positions Hoth's GDNF therapy as a next-generation treatment for MAFLD and obesity, a lucrative market currently dominated by drugs like Semaglutide. The news could significantly boost investor confidence and drive Hoth's stock price higher.
The study's results are a crucial step for Hoth Therapeutics in developing a novel treatment for a widespread condition. By focusing on the genetic origin of fat metabolism, the company's approach could offer a more targeted and effective solution compared to existing therapies.
For investors, this data provides a strong positive signal about the potential of Hoth's pipeline. The next major catalyst will be the company's progression towards clinical trials to validate these preclinical findings in humans.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.