Enlivex Therapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ: ENLV) has announced the dosing of the first patient in its Phase I clinical trial evaluating the safety, tolerability, and potential therapeutic effect of Allocetra™ in patients with psoriatic arthritis. The trial, conducted in Israel, aims to assess Allocetra™'s impact on affected joints in individuals who have not responded adequately to conventional therapies.
Trial Design and Objectives
The Phase I trial plans to enroll six patients with psoriatic arthritis. The primary endpoint focuses on evaluating the frequency and severity of adverse events and serious adverse events. Secondary endpoints include assessing changes from baseline in pain levels and other parameters of disease activity for up to 12 months following Allocetra™ administration.
Allocetra™: A Macrophage Reprogramming Immunotherapy
Allocetra™ is a universal, off-the-shelf cell therapy designed to reprogram macrophages into their homeostatic state. By resetting non-homeostatic macrophages, the therapy aims to rebalance the immune system and resolve life-threatening and debilitating conditions. This approach may offer a novel immunotherapeutic strategy for critical illnesses lacking effective treatments.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Market and Unmet Needs
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that typically affects individuals with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. PsA can affect any joint in the body, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. The global market for PsA treatments is substantial, with projections estimating it will reach $20.5 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4% from 2024 to 2032. The current treatment landscape faces challenges such as limited efficacy, side effects, high costs, and long-term safety concerns, highlighting the need for more effective, safer, and affordable treatments.
Management Commentary
Dr. Oren Hershkovitz, CEO of Enlivex, commented, "Complementing our ongoing clinical trial in osteoarthritis, which is a low-grade chronic inflammatory joint disease, this new study provides an opportunity to assess Allocetra™ in a high-grade inflammatory joint disease such as psoriatic arthritis, which is another indication with poor treatment alternatives that we believe potentially presents a substantial market opportunity for Enlivex."
