// startup autopsy
Zafgen
The anti-obesity biotech that discovered a novel MetAP2 enzyme pathway, advanced to Phase 3, and dissolved after two fatal clinical safety events.
marketfitSlow Death
Years-long decline before final shutdown · Fatal mistake: Product Failure
// the model, blind
Evaluating only Zafgen’s profile at its peak — without knowing the outcome — the model ranked Unit economics as the #1 likely cause. Documented cause: No market fit.
Key Events Timeline
FOUNDING
Zafgen founded
FUNDING
Zafgen secures Series B funding to advance beloranib clinical development
PRODUCT LAUNCH
Phase 2 trial results for beloranib show dramatic weight loss in severe obesity patients, generating optimism
REGULATORY ACTION
FDA places clinical hold on beloranib Phase 3 trials following two patient deaths; safety concerns emerge
DOWN ROUND
Zafgen announces merger with Larimar Therapeutics after failed reformulation attempts to address safety profile
SHUTDOWN
Slow Death: Zafgen ceases operations