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Orally available therapy for rheumatoid arthritis
RhuDex® targets autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. T-cell activation is pivotal in the onset of autoimmune diseases. It is triggered by interaction between
specific proteins on immune cell surfaces. The so-called CD80 protein plays a key role in this process. Its interaction with the CD28 protein, a receptor on the surface of T cells, is a
critical step in the activation of T cells. RhuDex® has the ability to bind to CD80, thus preventing interaction with CD28 and, in doing so, interrupting an important
signaling pathway of T-cell activation.
Preliminary clinical trials of RhuDex® have already been conducted. In January 2012, MediGene initiated a clinical formulation study to continue clinical development of
RhuDex®. The trial objective is to develop an optimized oral formulation of the active substance suitable for the treatment of chronic diseases.
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Outlook
The results of the formulation study are expected midyear 2012.
MediGene intends to out-license this immunological drug candidate once proof of concept has been established if not earlier.
RhuDex® acting as an anti-inflammatory agent
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T-cell activation by certain immune cells in the diseased joint is a key step in the onset rheumatoid arthritis.
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T-cell activation requires interaction between the surface proteins CD80 and CD28 |
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RhuDex®  prevents the interaction between CD80 and
CD28, thus acting as an anti-inflammatory agent |
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RhuDex® is a trademark of MediGene AG. |
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