Equillium's Itolizumab Reduces Urine Protein In Lupus Patients

Equillium Inc EQ announced additional data from the Type A portion of the EQUALISE Phase 1b study of itolizumab in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis (LN).
The new data showed that patients without a diagnosis of LN but with elevated urine protein/creatine ratio (UPCR) experienced a mean decrease from baseline in UPCR of 33% and 42% at Days 29 and 57, respectively.
Additionally, patients with elevated albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) achieved a mean decrease from baseline in ACR of 22% and 53% at Days 29 and 57, respectively.
Equillium also amended the Type B portion of the study to include newly diagnosed patients in addition to refractory patients.
The study will evaluate up to 20 patients.
Interim data from the Type B portion is expected by the end of 2021.
Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its tissues, causing inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organs. Lupus nephritis is a severe complication of SLE, reducing kidney function over time.
Itolizumab is an anti-CD6 monoclonal antibody that selectively targets the CD6-ALCAM pathway that plays a central role in modulating T cells that drive several immuno-inflammatory diseases.
Price Action: EQ shares closed at $6.11 on Wednesday.