Nektar Therapeutics has started dosing patients in a Phase Ib clinical trial designed to investigate NKTR-358 as a treatment for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

The double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial will analyse the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and immunological effects of multiple ascending doses of NKTR-358 in around 50 SLE patients.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Premium Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

The trial will also examine the effects of NKTR-358 on disease activity in the patients.

NKTR-358 is a regulatory T cell stimulator, which is designed to selectively stimulate the proliferation and activation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the body in order to restore the body’s self-tolerance mechanisms.

"NKTR-358 has the potential to address the immune system imbalance that underlies autoimmune diseases such as lupus."

In July last year, Nektar signed a strategic collaboration with Eli Lilly and Company to develop and commercialise NKTR-358 in various autoimmune conditions.

Nektar Therapeutics Clinical Development senior vice-president and NKTR-358 programme lead Brian Kotzin said: “NKTR-358 has the potential to address the immune system imbalance that underlies autoimmune diseases such as lupus by driving the expansion and functional activity of Tregs to restore immune homeostasis in the body.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease that can impact the joints, skin, brain, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels.

It can also cause extensive inflammation and tissue damage in the affected organs.

According to The Lupus Foundation of America, 1.5 million Americans and at least five million people worldwide are estimated to have a form of lupus.

SLE is estimated to account for 70% of all cases of lupus.