Benzinga | May 6, 2021 08:34AM EDT

Horizon Therapeutics Highlights New Analysis Of UPLIZNA For Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder Published In 'Neurology Neuroimmunology & Neuroinflmmation'

Horizon Therapeutics plc (NASDAQ:HZNP) today announced the publication of a new analysis of the pivotal Phase 2/3 N-MOmentum trial for UPLIZNA (inebilizumab-cdon), assessing the potential for reduced risk of worsening disability in those living with NMOSD. These data are published in the May issue of Neurology Neuroimmunology & Neuroinflammation. UPLIZNA is the first and only FDA-approved anti-CD19 B-cell depleting humanized monoclonal antibody for the treatment of adult patients with anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody positive NMOSD.

A separate analysis of the Phase 2/3 N-MOmentum trial published in the Annals of Neurology highlights a potential new biomarker of disease activity in NMOSD. Currently there is no blood test that can effectively monitor disease activity, severity of attacks or treatment impact for NMOSD patients. But research has indicated that serum glial fibrillary acidic protein (sGFAP) may be a relevant biomarker for the disease.

"Over the past few years, there has been remarkable progress in the scientific understanding and treatment of NMOSD that has improved patient outcomes," said Quinn Dinh, M.D., vice president, medical affairs, Horizon. "These two publications assess the clinical impact of UPLIZNA on the challenging, progressive effects of NMOSD. Through continued research, we have an opportunity to further enhance our knowledge and ability to support the NMOSD community."