Lipum

The data from 263 subjects show that patients with recent-onset RA (n=174) have significantly higher BSSL levels in the circulation compared to healthy controls (n=89), and that BSSL levels correlate with disease activity, measured by the 28-joint disease activity score (DAS28) and inflammation measured by CRP and ESR. The results strengthen the rationale for Lipum’s lead candidate, SOL-116, a first-in-class humanized antibody designed to neutralize BSSL and reduce chronic inflammation in RA.

"These results confirm our long-standing hypothesis that BSSL is not only present in blood samples from patients with inflammatory disorders but is also linked to disease activity. This adds valuable support to our ongoing clinical development of SOL-116", said Susanne Lindquist, CSO of Lipum. 

The results form part of Lipum’s expanding clinical and translational research program and will be used to strengthen the clinical development of SOL-116. In parallel, BSSL analyses will be included across all patients in the clinical trial program going forward to support stratification and provide further insights into its role as a biomarker.

"Our upcoming phase II study will give us the opportunity to further explore the therapeutic potential of targeting BSSL in patients with active RA, while also collecting valuable data on BSSL levels in chronic inflammatory diseases”, said Ola Sandborgh, CEO of Lipum.