Human Genome jumps on Benlysta data

Human Genome Sciences Inc. (NASDAQ:HGSI) gained $9.19 (277%) to $12.51 on Monday after Benlysta belimumab met the primary endpoint of a significant improvement in patient response rate at week 52 compared with standard of care alone in the Phase III BLISS-52 trial in 865 serologically active systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Response rate in the double-blind, international study was a composite of three measures: at least a four-point reduction in SELENA SLEDAI flare index score, no clinically significant worsening in Physician's Global Assessment and no clinically significant worsening in BILAG A and B domain scores. The 1 and 10 mg/kg doses of Benlysta (formerly LymphoStat-B) resulted in response rates of 51.7% and 57.6%, respectively, vs. 43.6% for placebo (p=0.011 and p=0.0006). ...