KPL-404 for Rheumatoid Arthritis
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to test a new treatment called KPL-404 for people with moderate to severe Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), focusing on its safety and effectiveness. Participants will receive either KPL-404 or a placebo for comparison. This study suits individuals diagnosed with RA for at least three months who have not found other treatments effective. As a Phase 2 trial, the research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to important advancements in RA treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You will need to stop taking any biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) or Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi) before starting the trial. The required time without these medications (washout period) varies: 4 weeks for etanercept, 8 weeks for several others, 1 year for rituximab, and 2 weeks for JAKi. However, you can continue taking certain conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (csDMARDs) if they are stable.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that KPL-404 was well tolerated in earlier studies. Participants experienced no major safety issues. Lab tests and vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, revealed no significant problems. This suggests that KPL-404 is generally safe for people. However, as an experimental treatment, ongoing monitoring in trials remains necessary.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about KPL-404 for rheumatoid arthritis because it offers a unique approach compared to existing treatments like methotrexate or biologics such as TNF inhibitors. Unlike these treatments, which generally target broad immune responses, KPL-404 specifically blocks the CD40-CD154 pathway, a key player in the immune response that contributes to inflammation and joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis. This targeted mechanism could potentially lead to fewer side effects and more effective disease management. Additionally, KPL-404's varied dosing regimens, including subcutaneous administration, provide flexibility that could enhance patient compliance and convenience.
What evidence suggests that KPL-404 might be an effective treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Research shows that KPL-404, also known as abiprubart, may help treat rheumatoid arthritis. In this trial, participants will receive different dosages of KPL-404 or a placebo. Studies with patients who didn't respond well to other treatments have shown that KPL-404 significantly reduced symptoms after 12 weeks compared to a placebo. Patients experienced fewer symptoms and felt better. The treatment blocks a specific interaction in the immune system that attacks the joints, aiming to reduce inflammation and joint damage. Overall, findings suggest KPL-404 could effectively manage moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis.13467
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults with moderate to severe Rheumatoid Arthritis who haven't responded well or are intolerant to at least one biologic DMARD or a JAK inhibitor. They should be on stable csDMARD therapy, have active disease indicated by joint counts and lab tests, and must have completed their COVID-19 vaccination. Excluded are those with recent steroid injections, prior anti-CD40/CD40L treatment, early arthritis onset before age 16, high thromboembolic risk, certain heart conditions, uncontrolled hypertension, significant ECG abnormalities or a history of cancer (except some skin cancers).Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive KPL-404 or placebo for 12 weeks with varying dosing schedules
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- KPL-404
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals, Ltd.
Lead Sponsor