Vera Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: VERA) has been granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation by the FDA for atacicept in the treatment of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). This designation highlights the potential of atacicept to substantially improve kidney function compared to existing therapies, offering hope for patients with this debilitating autoimmune disease.
Atacicept, Vera Therapeutics' primary product candidate, is a fusion protein administered via subcutaneous injection once weekly. It is designed to block both B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), thereby inhibiting the stimulation of B cells and plasma cells. This mechanism reduces the production of autoantibodies that contribute to autoimmune diseases such as IgAN and lupus nephritis.
The FDA's decision was supported by promising results from the Phase 2b ORIGIN clinical trial. Data from this trial demonstrated atacicept's potential to modify disease progression in IgAN patients. The trial showed consistent and sustained reductions in Gd-IgA1, hematuria, and UPCR, along with stable eGFR over 72 weeks. These findings suggest a significant impact on key indicators of kidney function and disease activity.
"The Breakthrough Therapy Designation underscores the potential of atacicept to address a critical unmet need in IgAN treatment," said a Vera Therapeutics spokesperson. "We are committed to advancing atacicept through our ongoing Phase 3 trial and bringing this innovative therapy to patients as quickly as possible."
Vera is currently evaluating atacicept in the pivotal Phase 3 ORIGIN 3 trial, which aims to further assess its efficacy and safety in a larger cohort of IgAN patients. The company retains global developmental and commercial rights to atacicept.
In addition to atacicept, Vera is also developing MAU868, a monoclonal antibody designed to neutralize BK virus (BKV) infections, which are particularly problematic in kidney transplant patients. Vera retains global developmental and commercial rights to MAU868, further strengthening its position in the biopharmaceutical market.
Vera Therapeutics reported a net loss of $28.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024, but maintains sufficient cash reserves to fund operations through the potential approval and U.S. launch of atacicept. The company has also established strategic partnerships and secured funding to support its research and development initiatives.
About IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)
IgAN, also known as Berger’s disease, is a serious autoimmune disease of the kidney characterized by the production of immunogenic Gd-IgA1 and progressive kidney damage. It is a leading cause of kidney failure, affecting a significant number of individuals worldwide. Current treatments are limited, highlighting the urgent need for more effective therapies.
Atacicept Mechanism of Action
Atacicept's unique mechanism of action, targeting both BAFF and APRIL, offers a novel approach to treating IgAN by directly addressing the underlying autoimmune processes that drive the disease. By inhibiting B-cell and plasma cell stimulation, atacicept aims to reduce the production of pathogenic autoantibodies and prevent further kidney damage.
