Loyal, a biotech startup dedicated to pet health, is on track to bring the first-ever FDA-approved drug to market with the goal of extending the healthy lifespan of dogs. The company, which has raised $135 million in funding, is developing multiple drug candidates aimed at slowing the aging process in different canine populations.

The company's lead product, LOY-002, is a daily pill for senior dogs (over 10 years old and 14 pounds). It has received a "reasonable expectation of effectiveness" certification from the FDA, a key step toward a potential conditional approval that could see the drug become available to veterinarians soon. The drug is designed to address metabolic dysfunction, mimicking the life-extending benefits of a calorie-restricted diet without requiring dog owners to alter their pets' food intake.

In addition to LOY-002, Loyal is developing LOY-001 and LOY-003, injectable and pill forms of a drug specifically for large and giant dog breeds, such as Great Danes and Newfoundlands. These breeds often have significantly shorter lifespans due to rapid growth during their early years. The drug targets a specific growth hormone thought to contribute to their accelerated aging.

Loyal founder and CEO Celine Halioua states that the company's approach is to treat aging as a disease, seeking a scientific solution rather than relying on unproven supplements. Halioua, whose motivation stems from her personal experience with her own dogs, believes the treatment will be affordable for the average dog owner, with a projected monthly cost of under $150.

The ultimate vision for the company is that the scientific insights gained from extending canine longevity could one day be applied to human longevity research, bridging the gap between animal and human health advancements, according to Forbes.