Del-desiran for Myotonic Dystrophy
(HARBOR Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment called del-desiran for individuals with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1, a condition that causes muscle weakness and stiffness. The trial aims to determine if del-desiran is safe and effective compared to a placebo (a substance with no active drug). Participants will receive the treatment or placebo seven times. Suitable candidates have a clinical and genetic diagnosis of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 and can walk at least 10 meters unassisted. As a Phase 3 trial, this is the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to potentially groundbreaking treatment advancements.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you stop taking any anti-myotonic medications at least 14 days before starting the study or longer, depending on how long the medication stays in your body.
Is there any evidence suggesting that del-desiran is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that del-desiran is generally well-tolerated. In one study, 37 participants received over 265 doses of del-desiran. The drug proved safe, with only mild side effects such as nausea and headache. No serious safety issues emerged. These results suggest that the treatment is safe for people with myotonic dystrophy.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for myotonic dystrophy?
Del-desiran is unique because it targets myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) at its genetic roots, aiming to reduce the toxic RNA that causes the disease. Unlike existing treatments that mainly address symptoms, Del-desiran, also known as AOC 1001, uses an innovative approach by combining an antibody with a small interfering RNA to specifically target and degrade the harmful RNA in muscle cells. This targeted mechanism has the potential to improve muscle function more effectively and with fewer side effects than current options, which include physical therapy and medications that manage symptoms like muscle stiffness and pain. Researchers are excited because this could lead to a more direct and effective treatment for DM1, potentially altering the course of the disease itself.
What evidence suggests that del-desiran might be an effective treatment for myotonic dystrophy?
Research shows that del-desiran, which participants in this trial may receive, has promising results for treating myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). Studies have found that del-desiran reduces muscle stiffness and improves muscle strength. Specifically, patients who received 4 mg/kg of del-desiran every three months experienced consistent and lasting improvements over a year. These findings suggest that del-desiran could be an effective treatment for DM1, a progressive disease with no approved treatments.12356
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who can walk independently (with orthoses and ankle braces allowed) at least 10 meters and have a clinical and genetic diagnosis of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 with CTG repeat ≥ 100. It's not specified who cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive an intravenous infusion of either del-desiran or placebo every 8 weeks for a total of 7 doses
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Open-label extension (optional)
Eligible participants may opt into continuation of treatment long-term, pending regulatory approval
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Del-desiran
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Avidity Biosciences, Inc.
Lead Sponsor