University of Leicester

Atacicept, a dual BAFF/APRIL inhibitor, demonstrated sustained reductions in galactose-deficient IgA1, hematuria, and urine protein to creatinine ratio in a 96-week ORIGIN trial for IgA nephropathy, potentially slowing kidney decline to a rate similar to physiological aging.

Biogen's Phase 2 IGNAZ study of felzartamab in IgA Nephropathy showed 50% proteinuria reduction through month 24, stable kidney function, and effects lasting over 18 months post-treatment. Felzartamab, an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, selectively reduced IgA levels while maintaining IgG and IgM. The treatment was well-tolerated, prompting Phase 3 planning.

Felzartamab, an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, showed substantial reductions in proteinuria and stabilized kidney function in IgA nephropathy patients, with sustained effects over 18 months post-treatment.

Vera Therapeutics announces 96-week data from ORIGIN Phase 2b trial of atacicept in IgAN showing stabilized kidney function, published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Atacicept demonstrated reductions in Gd-IgA1, hematuria, and proteinuria, with a favorable safety profile. The company plans to announce Phase 3 ORIGIN 3 trial results in Q2 2025 and submit a BLA to the FDA.

96-week ORIGIN trial data shows atacicept's potential in treating IgA nephropathy, with sustained reductions in Gd-IgA1 levels, hematuria, and UPCR, and a minimal decline in eGFR. Atacicept's weekly self-administered injection and ongoing phase 3 trials could redefine treatment outcomes.

Alton College launched a new space and satellite hub on Oct 7, funded by the North Hampshire and Surrey Local Skills Improvement Fund. The hub aims to prepare students for space industry jobs, transforming the Beacon Science Building into a hi-tech learning environment. The launch event featured keynote speaker Professor Suzie Imber praising the initiative for addressing the space sector's skills gap.

Digital pathology accelerates precision medicine by automating slide analysis, reducing human error, and enabling remote access. Five startups—Clarapath, Ibex Medical Analytics, Paige, PathAI, and Proscia—are leading this transformation, leveraging AI to enhance cancer diagnostics and treatment development. The global digital pathology market is projected to grow from $1.15 billion in 2024 to $3.86 billion in 2032.

Empathy experts advocate for increased patient involvement in medical education to improve care and well-being for both patients and doctors. Published in the BMJ, their paper highlights the lack of patient input in curriculum development despite regulatory requirements. They propose a seven-step process for patient involvement and call for dedicated funding and clearer requirements from regulatory bodies.

Night-time aircraft noise near airports disrupts sleep quality and sleep/wake cycles, increasing health risks, according to a study involving 80,000 people near British airports.

Vera Therapeutics to host R&D Day in NY on Oct 2, 2024, featuring experts discussing atacicept R&D beyond ORIGIN Phase 2b/3. Event precedes 96-week ORIGIN study data presentation in Q4 2024. Atacicept received FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for IgAN treatment.