Could a new therapy improve walking for stiff person syndrome?
Kyverna Therapeutics has begun the process of submitting a Biologics License Application to the FDA for miv-cel, a new treatment aimed at stiff person syndrome, an autoimmune disorder. This move could make miv-cel the first CAR-T therapy approved for autoimmune conditions. The FDA has indicated that data from the KYSA-8 trial, which showed significant improvements in patients’ walking ability, will support the application. The company is aiming for a priority review and expects to complete the submission by late 2026.
This development is significant for people affected by stiff person syndrome, as current treatment options have shown limited effectiveness over the years. In the KYSA-8 trial, 26 patients experienced a median improvement of 46% in their walking ability after 16 weeks. Notably, two-thirds of patients who initially needed walking aids no longer required them after treatment. This suggests that miv-cel could provide a much-needed breakthrough for those struggling with this debilitating condition.
The research is still in the early stages, as the FDA has requested additional analyses of existing data rather than new studies. The KYSA-8 trial results are promising but have not yet been fully validated in a larger population. Kyverna is working closely with the FDA to finalize the submission requirements and is optimistic about the potential for miv-cel to reach the market soon.
As Kyverna moves forward, it’s important to stay informed about new treatments for autoimmune diseases like stiff person syndrome. If you or someone you know is affected, consider discussing these developments with a healthcare provider to explore potential options as they become available.
Source: fiercebiotech.com