Human Genome Sciences preclinical data

HGSI said that in an analysis of blood samples from 150 SLE patients, significantly higher active BLyS levels were seen in patients with higher levels of antibodies against double stranded DNA (dsDNA), which are thought to be involved in the autoimmune reaction in SLE. In a separate analysis of blood samples from 185 patients with various immune-based rheumatological diseases, including SLE and RA, BLyS levels were significantly higher than in normal serum. BLyS levels also were significantly higher in patients with higher levels of autoimmune antibodies, HGSI said. The company suggested that BLyS stimulates proliferation of B cells producing autoantibodies involved in disease progression, and that antibodies against BLyS may be useful to treat SLE and RA. Data were presented at the American College of Rheumatology meeting in Philadelphia.

HGSI is in preclinical development with anti-BLyS antibodies with partner Cambridge Antibody Technology Group plc (LSE:CAT, Melbourn, U.K.). ...