UX701 Gene Therapy for Wilson Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new gene therapy called UX701 for individuals with Wilson disease, a condition that prevents the body from properly removing copper, leading to dangerous copper buildup. The study aims to determine the safety of UX701 and its effectiveness in controlling copper levels. Participants will receive different doses of UX701 through a single IV infusion, while some will continue their current treatments before trying UX701. Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of Wilson disease who have been on stable copper-related treatment for at least two months may be suitable for this trial. As a Phase 1/Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people and measuring its effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to be among the first to benefit from this innovative therapy.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop your current medications. However, it requires that your Wilson disease treatment with copper chelator or zinc therapy has been stable for at least 6 months, with no changes in medication or dose during that time.
Is there any evidence suggesting that UX701 is likely to be safe for humans?
Research shows that UX701, a potential gene therapy for Wilson disease, is still undergoing safety testing in humans. Although direct safety data for humans is not yet available, the trial is in its early stages, with a primary focus on safety. During these initial phases, researchers closely monitor any side effects and how well participants tolerate the treatment. Previous studies in animals, such as mice with Wilson disease, have suggested that UX701 might be safe, but animal results do not always predict human outcomes. Currently, there is no solid evidence of harmful effects in humans, but ongoing studies will provide more information.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for Wilson disease?
Researchers are excited about UX701 for Wilson Disease because it represents a cutting-edge approach to treatment with its use of gene therapy. Unlike traditional treatments that often involve ongoing medication to manage copper levels in the body, UX701 targets the root cause by introducing a functional copy of the ATP7B gene, which is defective in Wilson Disease patients. This potentially offers a one-time treatment option through a peripheral IV infusion, which could significantly reduce the burden of daily medication and long-term side effects. With the possibility of addressing the disease at a genetic level, UX701 aims to provide a more lasting and comprehensive solution compared to the current standard of care.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for Wilson disease?
Research has shown that UX701 could be a promising treatment for Wilson disease, a condition where the body cannot manage copper properly, leading to organ damage. UX701 is a gene therapy designed to provide a working version of the ATP7B gene, which helps control copper levels. Early studies have demonstrated improvements in how patients process copper, suggesting the treatment might effectively address the root problem. This trial will evaluate UX701 at various dose levels. Some participants will receive a single, peripheral IV infusion at different doses, while others will continue their standard care before receiving UX701. The therapy uses a harmless virus to deliver the gene directly, aiming for stable and long-lasting effects. Although initial results are encouraging, further research is needed to confirm its full effectiveness.12367
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 confirmed Wilson disease who have been avoiding high copper foods and taking copper chelators or zinc therapy consistently for at least 6 months. They should be able to follow the study's procedures, including blood and urine tests. People with significant liver inflammation, pre-existing antibodies to AAV9 capsid, severe neurological issues, a MELD score over 13, or history of liver transplant cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Stage 1: Safety and Dose-Finding
Nonrandomized, open-label safety and dose-finding stage to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 3 dose levels of UX701
Stage 2: Randomized Treatment
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled stage to evaluate the safety and efficacy of UX701 using the dose selected in Stage 1
Stage 3: Long-term Follow-up
Evaluation of long-term safety, efficacy, and clinical benefit of UX701. All participants will be followed for at least 5 years from the time of UX701 administration
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- UX701
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