IDEC is focused on developing improved treatments for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, such as Systemic Lupus Erythematous (SLE), psoriasis, and asthma, both on its own and with a trio of corporate partners. Autoimmune disease is the underlying cause of numerous serious, chronic illnesses.
IDEC-131 targets the CD40 ligand on T cells, which interact with antibody-producing B cells. By regulating the interaction between T and B cells, IDEC-131 may reduce excessive antibody production and may help restore a more normal immune response in patients with a variety of autoimmune-related conditions.
IDEC and its collaborator Eisai Co. Ltd. are initially developing IDEC-131 as a potential treatment for SLE.
Clinical Trial Update
In a Phase I single-dose trial of IDEC-131 in patients with symptomatic SLE, completed in 1998, an overall favorable safety profile was demonstrated. In March, 1999 IDEC began patient accrual for a Phase II multi-center, randomized, placebo-controlled, multi-dose study in SLE.