Intrathecal SHP611 for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy
(EMBOLDEN Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether SHP611, an experimental treatment, helps children with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) maintain mobility for a longer period. The treatment involves injecting the medicine into the spinal fluid, which surrounds the brain and spinal cord, to assess its effects on movement and speech. The study will also evaluate how well children tolerate the treatment. Ideal participants are children with MLD who have movement issues and have received a diagnosis from a doctor. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial team or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that SHP611 is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that SHP611, a treatment for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD), has been tested for safety and tolerability. In earlier studies, researchers administered SHP611 directly into the fluid around the spine. Participants generally tolerated this method well. Most side effects were mild to moderate, with no severe reactions directly attributed to the treatment. This suggests that SHP611 is generally safe for children with MLD. However, individual experiences can vary, and ongoing studies aim to confirm these results.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatments for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy, which primarily focus on managing symptoms, SHP611 offers a novel approach by delivering the medication intrathecally, directly into the spinal fluid. This method allows for potentially more effective targeting of the central nervous system, where this disease primarily manifests. Researchers are excited about SHP611 because it could lead to better outcomes by directly addressing the neurological aspects of the condition, potentially slowing disease progression more effectively than current therapies.
What evidence suggests that SHP611 might be an effective treatment for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy?
Research has shown promising results for SHP611 in treating Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD). In earlier studies, administering SHP611 directly into the spinal fluid helped children maintain their mobility for a longer period. Although detailed information about SHP611's effectiveness in humans remains limited, its delivery method targets the brain and spinal cord directly, which is crucial for MLD. The treatment aims to improve movement and speech abilities. Early signs suggest patients tolerate it well, offering hope for those affected by this condition.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Study Director
Principal Investigator
Shire
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) who have movement issues due to the disease. They must be diagnosed with MLD, able to follow the study plan, and meet specific age and GMFC-MLD criteria. Children can't join if they've had certain treatments like bone marrow transplants or gene therapy, are enrolled in another drug study, or have conditions that make it unsafe to participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive 150 mg of SHP611 intrathecally once weekly for 106 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Extension
Participants may opt into an extended treatment period beyond the initial 2 years
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- SHP611
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Shire
Lead Sponsor
Pierre S. Sayad
Shire
Chief Medical Officer
MD from Loma Linda University
Flemming Ornskov
Shire
Chief Executive Officer since 2013
PhD in Medicine from Aarhus University
Takeda Development Center Americas, Inc.
Industry Sponsor