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B cell suppressor shows positive results in MS |
Ocrelizumab, an antibody that suppresses B cells has shown positive results in a phase 2 study. Enhancing MRI lesions were decreased 89% by a 600mg dose and 96% by a 2000mg dose. Both doses were also superior to Avonex. There was also a decrease in relapse rate by 80% for the 600mg dose and 73% for the 2000mg dose compared to placebo. The 600mg dose reduced the relapse rate 64% and the 2000mg dose 53% compared to Avonex. (Lancet, Volume 378, Issue 9805, Pages 1779 - 1787, 19 November 2011) Link to article
Comment: Rituximab is an antibody that binds to a protein on the surface of B cells, causing them to be eliminated from the body. B cells are types of white blood cells that perform a number of functions in the immune system including making antibodies and participation in regulation of other cells. B cells play an important role in causing some of the damage in MS. Rituximab has shown promise in treating MS. However, rituximab can cause allergic reactions. Two similar medicines are being developed which are similar to rituximab, but which have a much lower risk of allergic reactions: ocrelizumab and ofatumumab (see below). The study described above looked at four different treatments: placebo, 600mg ocrelizumab, 2000mg ocrelizumab and Avonex. The doses of ocrelizumab were given intravenously in two doses two weeks apart. This dosing was repeated once a year. Phase 2 studies in MS usually measure changes in MRI activity. Medications that look promising on phase 2 studies then go on to phase 3 studies that look more closely at patient clinical measures including relapse rate and disability. Currently, additional studies are underway for both ocrelizumab and ofatumumab. |
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MS Center Highlight | |
Rehabilitation Psychology: People with multiple sclerosis have a number of psychological challenges such as coping with a chronic disease, stress, relationships with others, depression and anxiety. Our rehabilitation psychologist, Dr. Michelle Toshima, specializes in the psychology of multiple sclerosis. She helps patients or family members cope with the disease and assists in developing management strategies for addressing with the disease, treating depression or anxiety, or helping families understand what their loved ones are going through. There is help for stress management, counseling and making positive health behavior changes. Individual counseling is available as well as group therapy, couples counseling and family counseling. Appointments are often made on the same day as other MS Center visits to neurology or rehabilitation physicians or therapists. Appointments are made through the main MS Center number at 206-320-2200. |
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MS Center Research | |
B cell studies: The MS Center is involved in several studies of two new agents that are directed against B cells. The OPERA study is a phase 3 investigation of ocrelizumab compared to interferon in patients with relapsing MS. Another study, the GEN414 study, is a phase 2 investigation of ofatumumab in patients with relapsing MS. It will investigate the effects of the medication on MRI.
Few studies of medications for primary progressive MS have been done. The ORATORIO study is a phase 3 investigation that will look at ocrelizumab in those with primary progressive disease.
Patients interested in any of our research studies can contact the main clinic number at (206) 320-2200 and ask to be connected to the research department. |
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Construction Progress on Swedish MS Center |
Construction began on the new MS Center on November 7. The new center will still be located in the Jefferson Tower, where it will occupy the entire A floor (between 1st and ground floors). The demolition phase is now complete and work is progressing on installing electrical, ventilation and plumbing. The picture shows what it looked like during demolition.
You can support the new center by making a gift to help people living with MS in the Puget Sound region. To support the expanded MS Center, contact Kate Purcell, Director, Major Gifts; Direct line: 206-386-3194; Email: kate.purcell@swedish.org |
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Multiple Sclerosis News Digest | |
MS and vitamin D gene: The gene CYP27B1 is one of many that help regulate vitamin D levels in the body. A rare variant of this gene has been linked to MS. Few people with MS have this variant of the gene, so it is not the cause of the disease. However, it suggests that vitamin D may play a role in the disease as one of many factors that influence the risk of getting MS. Link for more information
Third phase 3 study on Gilenya: Preliminary results of the third phase 3 study of Gilenya were released last week. These results confirm the effectiveness of the medicine. Safety and side effects were broadly consistent with prior studies. Link for more information |
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Multiple Sclerosis Center Events | |
Eastern Washington Clinic Days: The clinic has designated days especially for patients visiting from Eastern Washington. This makes it easier to share the trip with friends or carpool.
Annual Swedish MS Center Art Show: The third annual MS Center Art Show is planned for May/June 2012. Artists, start planning your artwork for the event!
MS Roadshow visits Olympia: The MS Center, in conjunction with the National MS Society, will present the MS Roadshow on 2/25/12 from 12:45 to 5:00PM at the Red Lion Hotel in Olympia. Link for details |
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