Autologous ATA188: Interim Ph I data

Interim data from 6 patients with PPMS or SPMS in a Phase I trial showed that 4 escalating doses of autologous ATA188 given over 6 weeks improved MS symptoms in 3 patients as measured by patient-reported and objective clinical evaluations. Patients were followed for an additional 20 weeks after the last dose. No patient experienced progression of disability. In 1 patient with SPMS and a cytotoxic T lymphocyte reactivity against target EBV antigens score of 47% (EBV reactivity), ATA188 improved Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score from 6.5 points at baseline to 6 points following treatment; improved walking distance with walker from 100 meters at baseline to 1,500 meters; reduced fatigue on the fatigue severity scale (FSS) from 60 points at baseline to 9 points; reduced nocturia episodes by 80%; and improved lower extremity muscle tone. In a second patient with SPMS and EBV reactivity of <1%, ATA188 eliminated gadolinium-enhancing lesions present at baseline and reduced intrathecal IgG levels. In 1 patient with PPMS and EBV reactivity of 15%, ATA18 improved color vision and visual acuity; reduced nocturia episodes by 75%; improved lower extremity spasms; and resolved vertigo and clonus with sudden movement. Of the 3 patients without clinically observed improvements, 2 had EBV reactivity of <1% and the third patient had EBV reactivity of 10%. The trial is enrolling 10 patients. Data were presented at the American Academy of Neurology meeting in Boston...