Preclinical Characterization of ASP2713, a Novel Igβ and FcγRIIB Cross-Linking Antibody, for Prediction of Human Pharmacokinetics and Clinically Effective Dose

Abstract

Previously, we reported the fundamental pharmacological characteristics of a novel Igβ and Fc gamma receptor IIB cross-linking antibody, ASP2713, as a new treatment option for systemic lupus erythematosus. The aims of the present study were to investigate ASP2713’s characteristics with regard to pharmacological effect, pharmacokinetics (PK), and receptor occupancy, and to predict its human PK and clinically effective dose. The relationship between the concentration and receptor occupancy of ASP2713 for Igβ of B cell receptors was examined using whole blood B cells. Calculated EC50 values in cynomolgus monkeys and healthy volunteers were 0.35 and 0.058 μg/mL, respectively. Dose-dependent inhibition of anti-tetanus toxoid (TTx) antibody production, PK, and receptor occupancy of ASP2713 in TTx-sensitized cynomolgus monkeys suggested a minimally effective dose of 1 mg/kg by single intravenous (IV) administration. Scaling-up of monkey PK parameters to humans by allometric scaling predicted a clinically effective dose of 0.4 mg/kg IV administration at 4-week intervals to maintain a trough concentration in humans which achieved the same receptor occupancy expected at the effective dose in monkeys. This study aids in understanding the characteristics of ASP2713 and can be used as a basis for clinical dose setting.