BioAge Labs

BioAge Labs is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel therapeutic targets and drug candidates for metabolic diseases by deciphering the biology of aging. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, the company employs a data-driven approach to understand the biological foundations of human aging.

Research Platform

BioAge’s patented research platform encompasses over 65 million molecular measurements derived from more than 45 years of human aging data. This platform aims to identify novel biological pathways underlying age-related metabolic diseases by deciphering mechanisms associated with human lifespan and aging biology. The generated data is used in target identification, drug discovery, and early clinical development processes.

Clinical Programs

The company’s lead program, azelaprag, is a potential first-in-class oral APJ receptor agonist developed for the treatment of obesity in older adults. Azelaprag has entered Phase 2 clinical trials alongside tirzepatide, a member of the incretin class of drugs. In preclinical models, activation of the apelin/APJ pathway has been shown to mimic the biological effects of exercise by increasing energy expenditure. This approach offers a pharmacological parallel to the combination of diet and exercise.

BioAge’s other key research pipeline is BGE-102, an orally administered, centrally penetrant NLRP3 inhibitor. This molecule is being developed for the treatment of conditions such as obesity and neuroinflammatory diseases by targeting chronic inflammation driven by inflammasome activation. Preclinical studies have observed that BGE-102 alone induces dose-dependent weight loss, and when combined with incretins, this effect is doubled. Phase 1 clinical data for this program are expected by the end of 2025.

Scientific and Organizational Structure

BioAge’s scientific approach is grounded in biological insights derived from human longevity data. The company’s platform focuses on unraveling the biological networks underlying age-related disorders such as cardiometabolic and neurodegenerative diseases.

The management team consists of experienced scientists and executives with over 95 regulatory approvals in the biopharma sector. CEO and co-founder Kristen Fortney, PhD, COO Eric Morgen, MD, and CMO Paul Rubin, MD oversee the company’s strategic and clinical direction.

BioAge provides employees with a comprehensive health insurance package (medical, dental, and vision), childcare and fertility support, an employer-contributed 401(k) retirement plan, and professional development assistance. The company fosters a corporate culture grounded in the principles of diversity, inclusion, and equal employment opportunity.