GTX-102 for Angelman Syndrome
(Aurora Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The trial aims to test the safety and effectiveness of a new drug, GTX-102, for individuals with Angelman syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting the nervous system and causing developmental disabilities and neurological problems. The trial includes several groups, each focusing on different genetic types of Angelman syndrome, with participants receiving the treatment through injections into the spinal fluid. This trial may suit individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of Angelman syndrome who meet specific genetic criteria, such as deletion-type or mutation-type. Participants should be able to manage regular injections and visits to the study site. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial requires that you do not change any medications or diet/supplements intended to treat symptoms of Angelman Syndrome within the month before the screening visit. If you are taking medications that increase the risk of bleeding, you may not be eligible to participate.
Is there any evidence suggesting that GTX-102 is likely to be safe for humans?
Studies have shown that GTX-102 is generally safe for patients. Previous research found that most patients handled the treatment well, with no major safety issues. In earlier studies, patients received increasing doses of GTX-102 through spinal injection, allowing the medicine to reach the brain quickly. Even with this method, the treatment did not cause serious side effects.
GTX-102 has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the FDA. This special status is for treatments that show promise in early research, particularly for serious conditions like Angelman syndrome. While this designation does not guarantee safety, it indicates potential benefits based on the safety and effectiveness observed so far.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for Angelman syndrome?
Unlike the standard treatments for Angelman syndrome, which include therapies like behavioral interventions and medications for seizures, GTX-102 offers a novel approach. This investigational drug is administered directly into the spinal fluid via intrathecal injection, allowing it to potentially target the neurological symptoms more effectively. Researchers are excited because GTX-102 specifically aims to increase the expression of the UBE3A gene, which is typically inactive in individuals with Angelman syndrome. This targeted mechanism of action could lead to significant improvements in cognitive and motor functions, offering hope for more comprehensive management of the condition.
What evidence suggests that GTX-102 might be an effective treatment for Angelman syndrome?
Research has shown that GTX-102 yields promising results for people with Angelman syndrome. In earlier studies, 97% of participants who received medium and high doses experienced symptom improvements after six months. This trial will evaluate GTX-102 across various subprotocols, each tailored to different genetic types of Angelman syndrome. Participants will receive increasing doses of GTX-102 via intrathecal injection every three months. These early results offer hope for better managing the challenges of the syndrome.23678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Medical Director
Principal Investigator
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with Angelman Syndrome (AS). It includes children aged 1-4 with deletion-type AS, kids and young adults aged 4-18 with UPD/ICD or mutation-type AS, and adults up to age 65. Participants must weigh at least 8 kg, be able to undergo certain medical procedures without intubation, and use effective contraception if of childbearing potential.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Loading
Participants receive increasing doses of GTX-102 via intrathecal injection until the target dose is achieved
Maintenance
Participants continue to receive GTX-102 at the target dose every 3 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Long-term extension (optional)
Participants may opt into continuation of treatment long-term
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- GTX-102
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc
Lead Sponsor
Dr. Emil D. Kakkis
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc
Chief Executive Officer since 2010
MD/PhD in Biological Chemistry from UCLA
Dr. Eric Crombez
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD from Wayne State University School of Medicine