The compound, MLN1202, is designed to block CCR2 chemokine receptors and prevent the infiltration of immune cells into inflammatory sites. The CCR2 chemokine pathway is believed to play a central role in a number of inflammatory conditions, including MS. This proof-of-concept study will assess the safety and tolerability of the drug in approximately 40 patients.
“MS remains a significant area of unmet medical need and we are hopeful that the novel mechanism of action of MLN1202 could provide patients with a new treatment option,” said Dr Nancy Simonian, senior vice president of clinical, regulatory and medical affairs, Millennium.