MorphoSys presents preclinical RA drug data

Germany's MorphoSys has presented preclinical data from its drug development program for MOR103, a HuCAL antibody for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, at the Human Antibodies and Hybridomas conference, held in New York, USA.

The data show that MOR103 inhibits the signs and symptoms of RA in a dose-dependent manner in established streptococcal cell wall-induced arthritis model rats. The antibody was administered in a range of concentrations, and brought about significant reduction of knee joint swelling and improvement in joint histopathology in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, significantly-reduced cytokine levels and white blood cell influx were observed in the synovium surrounding the joints. No relevant toxicity effects were observed in a standard repeat dose rhesus monkey study, according to the firm.

MOR103 is currently being tested in a Phase I, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single-ascending dose study conducted in seven groups with nine healthy volunteers in each cohort. The dosing of all volunteers has been completed and follow-up analysis is ongoing, with final data expected in the second quarter of 2009.