Cathepsin K inhibitor
Canine periodontitis
Medivir’s selective cathepsin K inhibitor MIV-701 was found to have properties suitable for veterinary use and was out-licensed to the French animal health company Vetbiolix in 2019. Under the agreement with Vetbiolix, Medivir retains significant financial upside through future royalties on net sales as well as a substantial share of potential partnership payments from collaborations with third parties.
In April 2024, Vetbiolix reported positive results from a clinical Proof-of-Concept study in canine periodontitis (gum disease) with its drug candidate VBX-1000, formerly known as MIV-701. In November 2025, Vetbiolix announced the publication of strong clinical Proof-of-Concept study results for VBX-1000 (MIV-701), in canine periodontitis in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science, representing the first drug treatment to demonstrate disease-modifying effects.
Periodontitis is one of the most common health problems in dogs as well as cats. Only the very earliest stage of the disease is reversible; once bone loss has occurred, it cannot be restored. Halting bone loss as early as possible is therefore critical to preventing disease progression and permanent damage.