PI-0824 Peptide Immunotherapy
Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune disorder caused by the formation of auto-antibodies to desmoglein 3, a protein found in normal healthy skin. The antibodies produce a reaction that leads to separation of the epidermal (skin) cells. Those afflicted suffer from burn-like lesions and blisters all over their body.
PI-0824 is a peptide immunotherapy and is designed to reduce auto-antibodies to desmoglein 3 in pemphigus vulgaris patients. PI-0824 is expected to have a superior efficacy and safety profile compared to current immunosuppresive agents for the treatment of pemphigus vulgaris.
Mechanism of Action
PI-0824 is intended to re-establish a tolerant state in the subset of CD4+ cells that recognize the immunodominant pemphigus epitope from desmoglein 3 by inducing a regulatory immune response to suppress the PV auto-reactive T helper cells. By suppressing auto-reactive T-cells, the undesirable stimulation of pathogenic B-cells to proliferate and produce antibody will be arrested. PI-0824 is highly specific and should selectively suppress the production of anti-DSg3 antibodies.
Clinical Development
PI-0824, Peptimmune's peptide immunotherapy for pemphigus vulgaris, has completed a Phase I/II clinical trial in patients with stable pemphigus vulgaris. PI-0824 was shown to be safe and well tolerated. PI-0824 is currently in phase II clinical development in France, with dosing to be initiated in 2009.
PI-0824 is partnered with Orphan Europe for Europe, Middle East, and Africa.
