Phase 2 Trial of Litifilimab for SLE Shows Some Promise

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by higher levels of an immune system molecule known as interferon (IFN). Normally, IFN helps activate the immune system in cases of infection, but in those with autoimmunity, it may exacerbate disease progression. A recent Phase 2 trial was published in the New England Journal of Medicine titled, “Trial of Anti-BDCA2 Antibody Litifilimab for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus”, that discusses one method aimed at lowering IFN levels in SLE patients. 

In this study, scientists administered either a placebo or an antibody known as litifilimab to SLE patients as part of a phase 2 trial. Litifilimab targets a specific immune system cell called a plasmacytoid dendritic cell, which is responsible for making large amounts of IFN. The trial results were mixed: those who received litifilimab had less swollen and tender joint areas than the placebo. However, many of the other metrics did not see significant improvement between placebo and litifilimab group. 

Nevertheless, these results were sufficient for the group to proceed to a phase 3 trial, which will help clarify the extent of the benefit of litifilimab treatment.