Takeda Pharmaceuticals has recently awarded XOMA Corporation $2 million for reaching the next milestone in the development of mezagitamab, a treatment for myasthenia gravis (MG). According to Biospace, XOMA has recently dosed the first patient in their Phase 2 trial.
About Myasthenia Gravis (MG)
Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune, neuromuscular disorder that is characterized by weakness and fatigue in the voluntary muscles that worsens with physical activity. In affected individuals, the body mistakenly attacks itself, specifically the proteins that are needed for communication between the nerves and muscle cells. Although there is no cure, doctors can treat MG with steroids, surgery to remove the thymus gland, and plasmapheresis. Other therapies may be necessary to manage symptoms as well.
Common symptoms of MG include:
- Drooping eyelids
- Issues with chewing and swallowing
- A change in gait
- Weakness and fatigue in the neck and limbs
- Double vision
- Slurred speech
About the Milestone
The $2 million from Takeda was awarded for the first dosing of XOMA’s Phase 2 trial, which intends to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of mezagitamab. The anti-CD38 antibody is the result of a collaboration between the two companies that began back in 2006. In the future, XOMA could receive as much as $16 million as rewards for milestones.
Hopefully any future research and collaboration is positive, as a new viable treatment options for myasthenia gravis are needed.
