Wikipedia
Biohaven Pharmaceuticals said Wednesday that a new type of experimental medicine reduced levels of a disease-causing immune molecule by up to 37% in an early-stage study of human volunteers — a result that the company called “positive” as a proof of concept but that also fell short of investor expectations.
The drug, called BHV-1300, belongs to a new class of antibody medicines that shuttle harmful proteins to the liver so they can be removed from the body. BHV-1300 is specifically designed to reduce levels of an autoantibody called IgG that is implicated in rheumatoid arthritis, myasthenia gravis, and other autoimmune disorders.
advertisement
In its Phase 1 study, Biohaven tested four escalating doses of BHV-1300 in healthy volunteers, showing a reduction in levels of IgG of 5%, 15%, 30%, and 37%, respectively, the company said. The reductions in IgG levels, which occurred relatively quickly in just four to five days, did not cause significant, adverse changes in liver enzyme levels, Biohaven added — an important safety check given the mechanism of the drug.
STAT+ Exclusive Story
Already have an account? Log in
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the biotech sector — by subscribing to STAT+.
Already have an account? Log in
Already have an account? Log in
Monthly
$39
Totals $468 per year
$39/month Get StartedTotals $468 per year
Starter
$30
for 3 months, then $39/month
$30 for 3 months Get StartedThen $39/month
Annual
$399
Save 15%
$399/year Get StartedSave 15%
11+ Users
Custom
Savings start at 25%!
Request A Quote Request A QuoteSavings start at 25%!
2-10 Users
$300
Annually per user
$300/year Get Started$300 Annually per user
View All Plans
Get unlimited access to award-winning journalism and exclusive events.
Subscribe Log InNext article： How one medical school became remarkably diverse
