Crizanlizumab for RVCL
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of crizanlizumab, administered through IV infusion, in treating retinal vasculopathy with cerebral leukoencephalopathy (RVCL). RVCL is a rare and severe genetic condition affecting small blood vessels in the brain and eyes, with no current treatment available. The trial seeks individuals with a confirmed genetic diagnosis of RVCL and symptoms of brain or eye disease. Participants will receive crizanlizumab infusions on a set schedule to assess its impact on managing their condition. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you stop taking certain medications, such as other monoclonal antibody medications and anticoagulants, at least 30 days before starting the study drug. If you are on any investigational drugs, you must stop them 14 days before the trial begins.
Is there any evidence suggesting that crizanlizumab is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that crizanlizumab is generally safe, meaning most patients in studies tolerated it well. Although specific side effect details from these studies are not available, the treatment appears promising for further testing in larger studies. As this trial is in Phase 2, crizanlizumab has already passed initial safety tests, which should provide some confidence in its safety for potential trial participants.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Crizanlizumab is unique because it targets a specific pathway in the immune system called P-selectin, which plays a crucial role in inflammation and blood vessel damage. Unlike standard treatments for RVCL, which often focus on managing symptoms, crizanlizumab works by preventing the underlying cause of these blood vessel issues. Researchers are excited because this approach could lead to more effective management of RVCL, potentially reducing complications and improving quality of life for patients.
What evidence suggests that crizanlizumab might be an effective treatment for RVCL?
Research has shown that crizanlizumab targets a protein called P-selectin, which plays a role in inflammation and blood vessel issues. It is already approved to help prevent pain in people with sickle cell disease. Although direct evidence for its use in RVCL is limited, early research suggests it might be beneficial because RVCL also affects small blood vessels. By blocking P-selectin, crizanlizumab may reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, potentially slowing the damage caused by RVCL. However, more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness for this rare condition. Participants in this single-arm trial will receive crizanlizumab to further investigate its potential benefits for RVCL.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Andria Ford, MD
Principal Investigator
Washington University School of Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 25 with a rare, fatal genetic condition called RVCL confirmed by genetic testing. Participants must not be pregnant or breastfeeding and agree to use contraception. They should have normal blood counts, no recent infections, HIV, hepatitis B/C, or TB, and haven't taken certain medications recently.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive intravenous infusions of crizanlizumab 5 mg/kg at weeks 1 and 3, and then every 4 weeks for a total of 24 months
Monitoring
Standard-of-care serial MRI and eye disease monitoring, along with blood work monitoring (CBC/CMP) 1 month after initiation and every 3 months thereafter
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment completion
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Crizanlizumab
Crizanlizumab is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Prevention of recurrent vaso-occlusive crises in sickle cell disease patients aged 16 years and older
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Washington University School of Medicine
Lead Sponsor