Experimental Therapy Targeting Cells Infected with Epstein-Barr Virus Fails to Show Benefit, Says Company
November 13, 2023
Atara Biotherapeutics, Inc. announced that its experimental therapy called ATA188 failed to reverse disability for people with progressive MS after a 12-month phase 2 clinical trial. The treatment also showed no benefits on MRIs or other tests. The company had anticipated that targeting and eliminating immune cells infected with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) would change the course of progressive MS and reduce disability.
According to a press release, the company continues to review the trial data to understand why the phase 2 results did not match the benefits seen in the phase 1 trials. They will also analyze why a higher percentage (16%) of people on inactive placebo showed improvements compared to those on the active therapy (6%). Further details of the trial have not yet been released.
More research is ongoing worldwide to understand the role of EBV as a trigger for MS and possibly as a catalyst for ongoing disease activity.
Read more about EBV and MS
Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system. Currently there is no cure. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include disabling fatigue, mobility challenges, cognitive changes, and vision issues. An estimated 1 million people live with MS in the United States. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to minimize disability. Significant progress is being made to achieve a world free of MS.
The National MS Society, founded in 1946, is the global leader of a growing movement dedicated to creating a world free of MS. The Society funds cutting-edge research for a cure, drives change through advocacy and provides programs and services to help people affected by MS live their best lives. Connect to learn more and get involved: nationalMSsociety.org, Facebook, X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or 1-800-344-4867.