A diabetes drug shows surprising promise against heart disease

An international research team led by Leiden University Medical Centre in the Netherlands, working with Monash University and other partners, published the preclinical findings in Science Advances. In the study, IC7Fc significantly reduced blood fats (triglycerides) and cholesterol in mice that are prone to developing heart disease.

Lower Cholesterol and Less Artery Damage

The researchers found that IC7Fc helped limit the buildup of fatty plaques inside blood vessels while also easing inflammation. Both processes play a central role in heart attacks and strokes, making them key targets for preventing cardiovascular disease.

Professor Mark Febbraio led the work for the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MIPS) and has played a major role in the long-term development of IC7Fc as a potential treatment for metabolic conditions.

"Our earlier studies showed IC7Fc could help manage type 2 diabetes, a metabolic disease. This new research shows it can also reduce atherosclerosis, meaning it slows the 'clogging' of the arteries, where fatty deposits build up and restrict blood flow to the heart," Professor Febbraio said.

He added, "Heart disease remains the world's biggest killer, driven largely by atherosclerosis. Even with common treatments that lower blood pressure and cholesterol, many people are still at risk, showing there's more work to do."

Different Effects in Obese and Lean Mice

Previous research found that IC7Fc reduced appetite and body fat in obese mice. In contrast, the new study focused on lean mice that are genetically prone to high cholesterol and artery disease. In these animals, the drug did not affect body weight or food intake.

This difference suggests the drug's weight loss effects may be most relevant for obesity, while its cardiovascular benefits, such as lowering cholesterol buildup in arteries, could extend to people who are not overweight.

Potential for a Dual-Action Treatment

Overall, the findings point to IC7Fc as a flexible therapy that may address multiple health risks, while also highlighting the need for further testing in humans.

"These results suggest IC7Fc could offer a dual benefit -- helping reduce obesity in some, while protecting the heart in others," Professor Febbraio said.

"It's an exciting step towards a treatment that targets both metabolic and cardiovascular disease."