Novel Drug Zetomipzomib Yields Encouraging Results in People with Lupus Nephritis

Newly released Phase 2 clinical trial findings from Kezar Life Sciences demonstrate that the drug zetomipzomib can lead to clinically meaningful improvement in lupus nephritis (LN, lupus-related kidney disease) as well as other lupus disease-activity measures. Additionally, the treatment was found to be safe, well-tolerated and steroid-sparing (meaning it allowed for the reduced use of corticosteroid drugs).

Zetomipzomib is an immunomodulatory drug rather than an immunosuppressive drug, which means the treatment can target the immune system and reduce inflammation without inhibiting immune response all together.

A total of 17 people with active LN completed the 24-week Phase 2 trial. Key results include:

• More than half (11 people) had a clinically meaningful reduction in proteinuria (protein in the urine) at the end of the treatment period – the primary treatment goal.
• After four weeks post-treatment, nearly all (16 people) had a clinically meaningful reduction in proteinuria, suggesting that the kidneys may continue to heal after use of the drug due to the absence of inflammation.
• Average daily corticosteroid dose requirements decreased by 53% by the end of the treatment period.

For more breaking news on zetomipzomib and other drug development updates, follow the Lupus Foundation of America (LFA). And, learn more about medications used to treat lupus.

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