Sphingosine 1-phosphate Receptor Modulator Research Articles

Humoral responses after second and third SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders on immunosuppressants: a cohort study

BackgroundDisease-specific studies have reported impaired humoral responses after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders treated with specific immunosuppressants. Disease-overarching studies, and data on recall responses and third vaccinations are scarce. Our primary objective was to investigate the effects of immunosuppressive monotherapies on the humoral immune response after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with prevalent immune-mediated inflammatory disorders.MethodsWe did a cohort study in participants treated in outpatient clinics in seven university hospitals and one rheumatology treatment centre in the Netherlands as well as participants included in two national cohort studies on COVID-19-related disease severity. We included patients aged older than 18 years, diagnosed with any of the prespecified immune-mediated inflammatory disorders, who were able to understand and complete questionnaires in Dutch. Participants with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders who were not on systemic immunosuppressants and healthy participants were included as controls. Anti-receptor binding domain IgG responses and neutralisation capacity were monitored following standard vaccination regimens and a three-vaccination regimen in subgroups. Hybrid immune responses—ie, vaccination after previous SARS-CoV-2 infection—were studied as a proxy for recall responses.FindingsBetween Feb 2 and Aug 1, 2021, we included 3222 participants in our cohort. Sera from 2339 participants, 1869 without and 470 participants with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection were analysed (mean age 49·9 years [SD 13·7]; 1470 [62·8%] females and 869 [37·2%] males). Humoral responses did not differ between disorders. Anti-CD20 therapy, sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor (S1P) modulators, and mycophenolate mofetil combined with corticosteroids were associated with lower relative risks for reaching seroconversion following standard vaccination (0·32 [95% CI 0·19–0·49] for anti-CD20 therapy, 0·35 [0·21–0·55] for S1P modulators, and 0·61 [0·40–0·90] for mycophenolate mofetil combined with corticosteroids). A third vaccination increased seroconversion for mycophenolate mofetil combination treatments (from 52·6% after the second vaccination to 89·5% after the third) but not significantly for anti-CD20 therapies (from 36·8% to 45·6%) and S1P modulators (from 35·5% to 48·4%). Most other immunosuppressant groups showed moderately reduced antibody titres after standard vaccination that did not increase after a third vaccination, although seroconversion rates and neutralisation capacity were unaffected. In participants with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were boosted after vaccination, regardless of immunosuppressive treatment.InterpretationHumoral responses following vaccination are impaired by specific immunosuppressants. After standard vaccination regimens, patients with immune-mediated inflammatory disorders taking most immunosuppressants show similar seroconversion to controls, although antibody titres might be moderately reduced. As neutralisation capacity and recall responses are also preserved in these patients, this is not likely to translate to loss of (short-term) protection. In patients on immunosuppressants showing poor humoral responses after standard vaccination regimens, a third vaccination resulted in additional seroconversion in patients taking mycophenolate mofetil combination treatments, whereas the effect of a third vaccination in patients on anti-CD20 therapy and S1P modulators was limited.FundingZonMw (The Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development).

Risk of COVID-19 infection and severe disease in MS patients on different disease-modifying therapies

BackgroundThe risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and severity with disease modifying therapies (DMTs) in multiple sclerosis (MS) remains unclear, with some studies demonstrating increased risks of infection with B-cell-depleting (anti-CD20) therapies and severity, while others fail to observe an association. Most existing studies are limited by a reliance on ‘numerator’ data (i.e., COVID-19 cases) only. ObjectiveTo assess the risks of COVID-19 by DMT, this study aimed to assess both ‘numerator’ (patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection) and ‘denominator’ data (all patients treated with DMTs of interest) to determine if any DMTs impart an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection or disease severity. MethodsWe systematically reviewed charts and queried patients during clinic encounters in the NYU MS Comprehensive Care Center (MSCCC) for evidence of COVID-19 in all patients who were on the most commonly used DMTs in our clinic (sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor (S1P) modulators (fingolimod/siponimod), rituximab, ocrelizumab, fumarates (dimethyl fumarate/diroximel fumarate), and natalizumab). COVID-19 status was determined by clinical symptoms (CDC case definition) and laboratory testing where available (SARS-CoV-2 PCR, SARS-CoV-2 IgG). Multivariable analyses were conducted to determine predictors of infection and severe disease (hospitalization or death) using SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals per DMT group and all individuals on a given DMT as denominator. ResultsWe identified 1,439 MS patients on DMTs of interest, of which 230 had lab-confirmed (n = 173; 75.2%) or suspected (n = 57; 24.8%) COVID-19. Infection was most frequent in those on rituximab (35/138; 25.4%), followed by fumarates (39/217; 18.0%), S1P modulators (43/250; 17.2%), natalizumab (36/245; 14.7%), and ocrelizumab (77/589; 13.1%). There were 14 hospitalizations and 2 deaths. No DMT was found to be significantly associated with increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Rituximab was a predictor of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection among patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR 6.7; 95% CI 1.1-41.7) but did not reach statistical significance when the entire patient population on DMT was used (OR 2.8; 95% CI 0.6-12.2). No other DMT was associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19. ConclusionsAnalysis of COVID-19 risk among all patients on the commonly used DMTs did not demonstrate increased risk of infection with any DMT. Rituximab was associated with increased risk for severe disease.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulators versus interferon beta for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: findings from randomized controlled trials.

As one kind of disease-modifying therapies, sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor (S1PR) modulators such as fingolimod, ozanimod, and siponimod have been approved or are being developed to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). Several randomized controlled trials (RCT) have been implemented to compare the efficacy and safety of S1PR modulators versus interferon beta in the treatment of people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). We searched RCTs which were implemented from January 2010 to June 2020 by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library databases, and the Central Register of Controlled Trials. Finally, five RCTs were included in our study after carefully choosing. We pooled 4304 patients from 5 RCTs. The primary outcome was the annualized relapse rate. We found that the annualized relapse rate in the S1PR modulator group is 20% less than that in the interferon beta group (95%CI, - 0.32 to - 0.07, P = 0.002). S1PR modulators led to a significant reduction in number of new or enlarging T2 lesions per scan and number of gadolinium-enhancing lesions compared with interferon beta. Moreover, S1PR modulators can also improve 54-item multiple sclerosis quality of life (MSQOL-54) physical health composite score (P = 0.0005). S1PR modulators exhibited good efficacy and safety for the treatment of RRMS compared with interferon beta. According to follow-up trials, S1PR modulators can improve MSQOL-54 physical health composite score so that it may be beneficial to neurological recovery which need more research to confirm.

Ponesimod in the Treatment of Relapsing Forms of Multiple Sclerosis: An Update on the Emerging Clinical Data.

Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptors are bioactive lipid metabolites that bind five different types of receptors expressed ubiquitously in human body and mediate a broad range of biological functions. Targeting S1P receptors is nowadays a well-established pharmacological strategy to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the adverse events associated with the ancestor (fingolimod), especially in terms of heart conduction and slow reversibility of its pharmacodynamics effect on lymphocytes, have stimulated a search for a S1P modulator with greater selectivity for S1P1 (the most important immune mechanism to prevent MS-related neuroinflammation). Ponesimod is a second-generation, orally active, directly bioavailable, highly selective, and rapidly reversible modulator of the S1P1 receptor. Gradual 14-day up-titration of ponesimod mitigates its first-dose effects on heart rate and facilitates its use over fingolimod, as it does not require first-dose cardiac monitoring. Ponesimod is rapidly eliminated within 1 week of discontinuation, thereby representing a more manageable approach in case of vaccination, pregnancy, or adverse events. However, the fast reversibility of ponesimod may also raise concerns about the possibility of a rapid reactivation of disease activity following its discontinuation. Ponesimod was recently approved for the treatment of relapsing MS forms on the basis of a Phase III, double-blind, double-dummy, randomized clinical trial (OPTIMUM) that demonstrated the superiority of ponesimod over teriflunomide on disease activity markers, without unexpected safety concerns. This review summarizes the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic characteristics of ponesimod, and the main Phase II and III studies that led to its approval. Comparisons of ponesimod with other S1P receptor modulators currently available for MS (fingolimod, ozanimod, siponimod) are also provided.

COVID-19 in a Neuroimmunological Outpatient Cohort: The Bernese Experience

The COVID-19 pandemic specifically affects the management and treatment of patients with autoimmune neurological disorders. Major concerns include potentially higher risks of infection or severe disease course under certain immunotherapies used to treat those disorders and the influence of COVID-19 on the underlying disease. We present data of the neuroimmunological outpatient department of the University Hospital of Bern (Switzerland). 24 cases were analyzed, 19 of them suffered from Multiple Sclerosis. Of these 24 patients, 6 were hospitalized, 2/6 were treated in the Intensive Care Unit. Possible risk factors for severe course (defined as need for hospitalization) observed in our cohort included cardiovascular risk factors, treatment with B-cell depleting agents, Sphingosine-1 Phosphate Receptor Modulators, and oral steroid therapies. These data are based on a small, retrospective observational cohort and should be interpreted with caution, although they are in line with several other cohort studies.

Sphingosine 1-phosphate modulation and immune cell trafficking in inflammatory bowel disease.

Immune cell trafficking is a critical element of the intestinal immune response, both in homeostasis and in pathological conditions associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This process involves adhesion molecules, chemoattractants and receptors expressed on immune cell surfaces, blood vessels and stromal intestinal tissue as well as signalling pathways, including those modulated by sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P). The complex biological processes of leukocyte recruitment, activation, adhesion and migration have been targeted by various monoclonal antibodies (vedolizumab, etrolizumab, ontamalimab). Promising preclinical and clinical data with several oral S1P modulators suggest that inhibition of lymphocyte egress from the lymph nodes to the bloodstream might be a safe and efficacious alternative mechanism for reducing inflammation in immune-mediated disorders, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Although various questions remain, including the potential positioning of S1P modulators in treatment algorithms and their long-term safety, this novel class of compounds holds great promise. This Review summarizes the critical mediators and mechanisms involved in immune cell trafficking in IBD and the available evidence for efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of S1P receptor modulators in IBD and other immune-mediated disorders. Further, it discusses potential future approaches to incorporate S1P modulators into the treatment of IBD.

POPULATION PHARMACOKINETICS AND PHARMACODYNAMICS OF OZANIMOD IN ULCERATIVE COLITIS

Abstract BACKGROUND Ozanimod is an oral small molecule sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator approved for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS) and moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) and under development for Crohn’s disease. Ozanimod and its major active metabolites CC112273 and CC1084037 block lymphocyte egress from lymphoid tissues, reducing the absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) in blood. To characterise the influence of patient characteristics on ALC response, a population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis was conducted. METHODS A nonlinear mixed-effects Emax model described the ALC time course and relationship to CC112273 concentrations in healthy subjects and patients with UC or RMS. The analysed data included 34,449 ALC values obtained from 4122 subjects enrolled in 11 Phase 1, 2, and 3 clinical studies. The effect of age, sex, smoking status, disease type, body weight, total bilirubin, and baseline ALC on the maximum ALC reduction (Emax) and half-maximal concentration (EC50) were investigated. Simulations of typical ALC reductions for healthy subjects and patients with UC or RMS receiving 0.5 or 1 mg ozanimod were conducted to explore the influence of smoking and assess the time for ALC recovery. RESULTS Increasing CC112273 concentrations were associated with reductions in ALC to a maximum of 74% from baseline, with an estimated EC50 of 2.8 nM CC112273. Healthy subjects, females, and higher body weights were associated with larger ALC Emax (Figure 1), while healthy subjects, increased age, nonsmokers and higher baseline ALC were associated with an increased EC50 (Figure 2). UC patients receiving 0.5 mg and 1 mg ozanimod HCl are predicted to have mean ALC reductions of 46.1% and 57.2%, respectively, with similar reductions for RMS patients of 48.0% and 57.4%. Smoking was associated with a 27.2% reduction in the ALC EC50, which partially offsets the reduced plasma CC112273 concentrations in smokers. Simulations show that 1 mg ozanimod has comparable ALC reductions of 57.4% in nonsmokers and 52.7% in smokers. Upon discontinuing ozanimod 1 mg in UC patients, a mean recovery time to normal (1 x 109/L ALC count) of 32.8 days was predicted, with 90% of the population recovering in 3 months. Overall results were consistent with findings from clinical trials. CONCLUSION Population analysis demonstrated a similar PK/PD relationship for ALC reductions in patients with RMS and UC. Smoking was not associated with substantial difference in ALC, consistent with no loss of efficacy in smokers. Upon discontinuation of ozanimod treatment, the majority of UC and RMS patients will recover lymphocyte counts to normal within 3 months.

POPULATION PHARMACOKINETICS OF OZANIMOD AND ACTIVE METABOLITE CC112273 IN PATIENTS WITH ULCERATIVE COLITIS

Abstract BACKGROUND Ozanimod is an oral small molecule sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator approved for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS) and moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) and under development for Crohn’s disease (CD). Following multiple dosing of ozanimod in healthy subjects, ozanimod and two of the active metabolites CC112273 and CC1084037 represent approximately 6%, 73%, and 15% of circulating total active drug exposure, respectively. Two separate pharmacokinetic (PK) models were developed for the most prominent metabolite CC112273 and ozanimod. CC1084037 was not modeled due to the high correlation between CC112273 and CC1084037 plasma concentrations. Therefore, this analysis aims to characterize the PK of ozanimod and the major metabolite CC112273 in UC and RMS population. METHODS Subjects from 11 studies (Phase 1 to Phase 3) in healthy volunteers, RMS, and UC patients were included in this population PK analysis. The analyses included a total of 18901 concentrations from 2890 subjects for CC112273 and 18834 PK concentrations from 2977 subjects for ozanimod. A 2-compartment model was used to describe the concentration-time profiles of both ozanimod and CC112273, separately. The influence of weight, age, sex, race, disease, or smoking status and hepatic function on the PK of ozanimod and CC112273 were explored. The impact of concomitant corticosteroids on CC112273 PK were evaluated post hoc. RESULTS While the overall apparent clearance of ozanimod was 7% lower in RMS patients compared to UC, similar exposures were observed in both populations. The most influential covariate on ozanimod PK was body weight, with a modest 23% increase in apparent clearance for a 102-kg subject relative to a 70-kg subject (Figure 1). The apparent clearance of CC112273 was 16% greater in RMS patients compared to UC patients, resulting in a slightly higher exposure for UC patients. Increasing body weight had a modest reduction in clearance, while smoking had the largest influence on CC112273 PK of approximately 108% increased clearance (Figure 2). Post-hoc results showed no impact of concomitant prednisone or prednisolone on the PK of CC112273. Other factors, including age, race, sex, or hepatic impairment did not impact the PK of ozanimod or CC112273 PK. CONCLUSION The population PK model of CC112273 indicates that covariates with the largest effect on CC112273 PK parameters were body weight and smoking status. However, no covariate impacted clearance by more than 25%. The PK of ozanimod and CC112273 were not meaningfully impacted by age including in the elderly, body weight, race, sex, hepatic function, or concomitant prednisone or prednisolone. Overall, the PK of ozanimod and CC112273 were comparable in UC and RMS patients.

Targeting Chronic Inflammation of the Digestive System in Cancer Prevention: Modulators of the Bioactive Sphingolipid Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Pathway

Simple SummaryObesity, an ongoing global pandemic, is a major contributor to inflammation and cancers of the digestive system. High saturated fat diets and being overweight are associated with chronic inflammation and increased cancer risk. Signalling molecules made from saturated fats known as bioactive sphingolipids play essential roles in healthy gastrointestinal immunity. In excess, these sphingolipid molecules can compromise our immune system leading to chronic, low-grade inflammation within the digestive system preceding many metabolic diseases including cancer. Sphingosine-1-phosphate is a bioactive sphingolipid and, in excess, contributes to chronic inflammation. Drugs that block sphingosine-1-phosphate activity have the potential to prevent chronic inflammation and reduce gastrointestinal cancer risk. We review how disruption of the sphingosine-1-phosphate pathway contributes to gastrointestinal inflammation and cancer. We also discuss the use of modulators of the sphingospine-1-phosphate pathway in clinical trials and in the clinic as therapeutics for inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases with the benefit of reducing cancer risk.Incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) cancers is increasing, and late-stage diagnosis makes these cancers difficult to treat. Chronic and low-grade inflammation are recognized risks for most GI cancers. The GI mucosal immune system maintains healthy homeostasis and signalling molecules made from saturated fats, bioactive sphingolipids, play essential roles in healthy GI immunity. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a bioactive sphingolipid, is a key mediator in a balanced GI immune response. Disruption in the S1P pathway underlies systemic chronic metabolic inflammatory disorders, including diabetes and GI cancers, providing a strong rationale for using modulators of the S1P pathway to treat pathological inflammation. Here, we discuss the effects of bioactive sphingolipids in immune homeostasis with a focus on S1P in chronic low-grade inflammation associated with increased risk of GI carcinogenesis. Contemporary information on S1P signalling involvement in cancers of the digestive system, from top to bottom, is reviewed. Further, we discuss the use of novel S1P receptor modulators currently in clinical trials and their potential as first-line drugs in the clinic for chronic inflammatory diseases. Recently, ozanimod (ZeposiaTM) and etrasimod have been approved for clinical use to treat ulcerative colitis and eosinophilic oesophagitis, respectively, which may have longer term benefits in reducing risk of GI cancers.

DOP43 Rapidity of ozanimod-induced symptomatic response and remission in patients with moderately to severely active Ulcerative Colitis: Results from the induction period of True North

Abstract Background Ozanimod, a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator selectively targeting S1P1 and S1P5, is approved in the US for the treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC). In the pivotal phase 3 True North randomised controlled trial in moderate-to-severe UC, significantly more patients (pts) achieved clinical response and remission with ozanimod vs placebo (PBO) at week (wk) 10 of the induction period. Here, we report the rapidity of ozanimod-induced symptomatic response and remission in pts from True North (NCT02435992). Methods In True North, pts were randomised to once-daily ozanimod 0.92 mg (equivalent to ozanimod HCl 1 mg) or PBO (Cohort 1) or received open-label ozanimod (Cohort 2) during induction. This analysis evaluated symptomatic response (defined as ≥1 point and ≥30% decrease from baseline in adapted partial Mayo score and ≥1 point decrease from baseline in rectal bleeding score [RBS] or absolute RBS ≤1) and symptomatic remission (defined as RBS of 0 and stool frequency score [SFS] ≤1 point and ≥1 point decrease from baseline at each study visit from wk 2 through 10. Results During induction, 645 pts were randomised to ozanimod (n=429) or PBO (n=216) in Cohort 1, and 367 pts received open-label ozanimod in Cohort 2. Baseline demographics and clinical characteristics were well balanced across groups. Differences in symptomatic response were observed between ozanimod and PBO recipients in Cohort 1 as early as 2 wk after ozanimod initiation (1 wk post-titration) for the overall population (36.1% vs 26.4%; difference: 9.6% [95% CI, 2.1–17.0]; Figure 1) and tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi)-naïve pts (38.5%, n=301 vs 29.1%, n=151; difference: 9.4% [95% CI, 0.2–18.5]), and as early as 4 wk for TNFi-exposed pts (42.2%, n=128 vs 27.7%, n=65; difference: 15.8% [95% CI, 1.8–29.8]). Differences in symptomatic remission were observed between ozanimod and PBO recipients in Cohort 1 as early as 5 wk after ozanimod initiation (4 wk post-titration) for the overall population (26.3% vs 16.7%; difference: 8.6% [95% CI, 1.8–15.4] Figure 2), as early as 4 wk for TNFi-naïve pts (27.2% vs 17.9%; difference: 9.4% [95% CI, 1.5–17.4]), and as early as 8 wk for TNFi-exposed pts (22.7% vs 12.3%; difference: 11.7% [95% CI, 1.3–22.1]). Rates of symptomatic response and remission in pts receiving open-label ozanimod (Cohort 2) were similar to those in pts receiving randomised ozanimod (Cohort 1). Conclusion In the overall population, ozanimod was associated with higher rates of symptomatic response and remission vs PBO as early as 2 and 5 wk, respectively, after treatment initiation. Both clinical endpoints were more rapidly achieved in TNFi-naïve vs TNFi-exposed pts.

P562 A Phase 1 Study Evaluating the Effect of Coadministration of Etrasimod on the Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of a Monophasic Oral Contraceptive in Healthy Female Volunteers

Abstract Background Etrasimod (ETR) is a once-daily (QD), oral, selective sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator in clinical development for immune-mediated inflammatory disorders including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and atopic dermatitis. At diagnosis, ~50% of patients with IBD are <35 years old. Oral contraceptives (OC) are the most common birth control among women in the US. It’s important to ensure an IBD therapy does not impact the pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) performance of the OC. This study evaluated the effect of coadministration of ETR on the PK/PD performance of a monophasic OC. Methods This open-label Phase 1 study enrolled 21 premenopausal healthy female adults (18–40 years). On Days 1–21 of Period 1 (Days 1–28), participants received OC containing 30mcg ethinylestradiol (EE) and 50mcg levonorgestrel (LVG). On Day 23, participants initiated ETR 2mg QD such that steady-state concentrations were achieved by Day 28 and thereafter. On Days 29–49 of Period 2 (Days 29–50), the OC was coadministered with ETR 2mg QD. Samples for measuring the pharmacologically active components of the OC (EE and LVG) were collected over 24 hours on Days 21 and 49. Log-transformed primary PK parameters were calculated and compared using analysis of variance with treatment as fixed effect and participant as random effect. PD markers (follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH], luteinizing hormone [LH], estradiol, progesterone) were measured at baseline (Days 1 and 29) and throughout Periods 1 and 2. Largest ovarian follicle size measured by transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS), sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG) levels, and Hoogland score were measured on Days 1 (before OC dosing), 11, 29 (before OC+ETR dosing), and 39. Safety and tolerability were also evaluated. Results Only minor-to-mild increases in EE and LVG Cmax,ss and AUCtau,ss exposure measures were observed when the OC was coadministered with ETR vs when the OC was administered alone (Table). These changes were not considered clinically relevant. Markers of ovarian activity (FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, SHBG, TVUS/Hoogland score) demonstrated no clinically relevant impact of coadministration of ETR on the PD performance of the OC. All treatments were generally well tolerated. Most treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) were mild or moderate; 2 participants had severe AEs. No abnormalities in laboratory parameters, vital signs, or 12-lead electrocardiogram assessments were noted. Conclusion The PK/PD performance of the monophasic OC was not altered to a clinically relevant extent; thus contraceptive efficacy was maintained during coadministration with ETR. ETR and the monophasic OC, administered alone or in combination, were generally well tolerated.

OP27 A Phase 1 Study Evaluating the Bioequivalence of the Proposed Commercial and Clinical Formulations of Etrasimod 2mg, and the Effect of Food on the Pharmacokinetics of the Proposed Commercial Formulation in Healthy Volunteers

Abstract Background Etrasimod (ETR) is a once-daily, oral, selective sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator in clinical development for immune-mediated inflammatory disorders including ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, eosinophilic esophagitis, and atopic dermatitis. This study evaluated the single-dose bioequivalence of the proposed commercial and clinical formulations of ETR 2mg in the fasted state, and the effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of the proposed commercial formulation. Methods This 3-treatment, 3-period crossover Phase 1 study enrolled 18 healthy adults (18–55 years: 10 males/8 females). Participants were randomized to 6 treatment sequences (3 participants/sequence: ABC, BCA, CAB, ACB, BAC, CBA) consisting of Treatment A (single-dose ETR 2mg clinical formulation, fasted), Treatment B (single-dose ETR 2mg proposed commercial formulation, fasted), and Treatment C (single-dose ETR 2mg proposed commercial formulation, fed). Treatments were administered on Days 1, 10, and 19 to allow 8-day washout periods between treatments. In the fed state (Treatment C), all participants received an FDA-standard high-fat, high-calorie meal. Blood samples for determination of ETR concentration were collected at prespecified timepoints to 168 hours post dose. Analysis of variance was performed on log-transformed Cmax, AUC0-last, and AUC0-∞ values to determine geometric least squares mean ratios (GLSMR) of Test/Reference and associated 90% confidence intervals (CI) to assess bioequivalence and food effects. Safety and tolerability of ETR were also evaluated. Results Bioequivalence: The 90% CI for the GLSMR of ETR Cmax and AUC plasma exposure measures, comparing the proposed commercial vs clinical formulations, were within the accepted 80%–125% range (GLSMR and 90% CI) for establishing bioequivalence (Table 1). Median Tmax for Treatments A and B were both 4 hours. Food Effect: The 90% CI for the GLSMR of ETR Cmax and AUC plasma exposure measures, comparing the proposed commercial formulation under fed vs fasted conditions, were within the accepted 80%–125% range for establishing no food effect (Table 2). Median Tmax for Treatment C was 6 hours. Safety and Tolerability: All treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) were mild (except 1 moderate AE [headache]). One participant had an AE leading to study drug discontinuation. There were no serious AEs or deaths. Conclusion Based on results from this study, the proposed commercial and clinical formulations of ETR 2mg were bioequivalent in terms of rate and extent of absorption. No significant differences were demonstrated in ETR exposure for the proposed commercial formulation under fed and fasted conditions. All treatments were generally safe and well tolerated.

POPULATION PHARMACOKINETICS AND PHARMACODYNAMICS OF OZANIMOD IN ULCERATIVE COLITIS

Ozanimod is an oral small molecule sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator approved for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS) and moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) and under development for Crohn’s disease. Ozanimod and its major active metabolites CC112273 and CC1084037 block lymphocyte egress from lymphoid tissues, reducing the absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) in blood. To characterise the influence of patient characteristics on ALC response, a population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis was conducted. A nonlinear mixed-effects Emax model described the ALC time course and relationship to CC112273 concentrations in healthy subjects and patients with UC or RMS. The analysed data included 34,449 ALC values obtained from 4122 subjects enrolled in 11 Phase 1, 2, and 3 clinical studies. The effect of age, sex, smoking status, disease type, body weight, total bilirubin, and baseline ALC on the maximum ALC reduction (Emax) and half-maximal concentration (EC50) were investigated. Simulations of typical ALC reductions for healthy subjects and patients with UC or RMS receiving 0.5 or 1 mg ozanimod were conducted to explore the influence of smoking and assess the time for ALC recovery. Increasing CC112273 concentrations were associated with reductions in ALC to a maximum of 74% from baseline, with an estimated EC50 of 2.8 nM CC112273. Healthy subjects, females, and higher body weights were associated with larger ALC Emax (Figure 1), while healthy subjects, increased age, nonsmokers and higher baseline ALC were associated with an increased EC50 (Figure 2). UC patients receiving 0.5 mg and 1 mg ozanimod HCl are predicted to have mean ALC reductions of 46.1% and 57.2%, respectively, with similar reductions for RMS patients of 48.0% and 57.4%. Smoking was associated with a 27.2% reduction in the ALC EC50, which partially offsets the reduced plasma CC112273 concentrations in smokers. Simulations show that 1 mg ozanimod has comparable ALC reductions of 57.4% in nonsmokers and 52.7% in smokers. Upon discontinuing ozanimod 1 mg in UC patients, a mean recovery time to normal (1 x 109/L ALC count) of 32.8 days was predicted, with 90% of the population recovering in 3 months. Overall results were consistent with findings from clinical trials. Population analysis demonstrated a similar PK/PD relationship for ALC reductions in patients with RMS and UC. Smoking was not associated with substantial difference in ALC, consistent with no loss of efficacy in smokers. Upon discontinuation of ozanimod treatment, the majority of UC and RMS patients will recover lymphocyte counts to normal within 3 months.Figure 2Population PK/PD ALC Full Model Covariate Effects on EC50View Large Image Figure ViewerDownload Hi-res image Download (PPT)

POPULATION PHARMACOKINETICS OF OZANIMOD AND ACTIVE METABOLITE CC112273 IN PATIENTS WITH ULCERATIVE COLITIS

Ozanimod is an oral small molecule sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator approved for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS) and moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) and under development for Crohn’s disease (CD). Following multiple dosing of ozanimod in healthy subjects, ozanimod and two of the active metabolites CC112273 and CC1084037 represent approximately 6%, 73%, and 15% of circulating total active drug exposure, respectively. Two separate pharmacokinetic (PK) models were developed for the most prominent metabolite CC112273 and ozanimod.

Locomotor and histological changes in a cuprizone-induced animal model of multiple sclerosis: comparison between alpha-tocopherol and fingolimod.

Background and purpose:Fingolimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). Alpha-tocopherol (AT) has been found to improve motor function in an animal model of MS. In the present study, the effects of AT and fingolimod on the locomotor function and histological evidence of demyelination were compared in a cuprizone-induced rat model of MS.Experimental approach:Female Sprague-Dawley rats (8 weeks) were fed with 0.2% (w/w) cuprizone diet for 5 weeks followed by intraperitoneal injections of fingolimod (3 mg/Kg; group F, n = 10) and alpha- tocopherol (100 mg/Kg; group A, n = 10). Vehicle-treated rats (group V, n = 10) were treated intraperitoneally with 1% ethanol in saline on weeks 6 and 7. Open field and beam walking tests were carried out every 10 days. The mean area of demyelination in the corpus callosum was quantified using Luxol fast blue stained histological sections of the forebrain.Findings/Results:The mean speed of movement was increased by 54% and 50% in groups F and A compared to group V. Total distance moved was increased by 61% and 52.7% in groups F and A compared to group V. Mean time to walk the beam was reduced in group A by 52% compared to group V. Mean frequency of crossing lines from the inner squares to outer squares was reduced in groups A and F compared to group V. Mean area of demyelination in corpus callosum showed 62% reduction in group A compared to group V.Conclusion and implications:Both fingolimod and AT treatments improved the locomotor function. However, AT treatment reduced the areas of demyelination in higher proportion and improved motor coordination and exploratory behavior.

Immunoglobulin G immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in people living with multiple sclerosis within Multiple Sclerosis Partners Advancing Technology and Health Solutions

Background: The impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) on SARS-CoV-2 vaccination response is uncertain. Methods: Post-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination blood samples across multiple DMTs were tested for SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) response. Results: Three hundred twenty-two people with MS were included; 91.9% received an mRNA vaccine. Post-vaccination reactive IgG rates (IgG index > 1) were 40% for anti-CD20 (32/80 patients); 41% for sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators (S1PRM, 16/39); and 100% for all other classes, including the no DMT group. Conclusion: Anti-CD20 therapies and S1PRMs reduce IgG response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination; IgG response is preserved with other DMTs.

Ponesimod inhibits astrocyte-mediated neuroinflammation and protects against cingulum demyelination via S1P1 -selective modulation.

Ponesimod is a sphingosine 1‐phosphate (S1P) receptor (S1PR) modulator that was recently approved for treating relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). Three other FDA‐approved S1PR modulators for MS—fingolimod, siponimod, and ozanimod—share peripheral immunological effects via common S1P1 interactions, yet ponesimod may access distinct central nervous system (CNS) mechanisms through its selectivity for the S1P1 receptor. Here, ponesimod was examined for S1PR internalization and binding, human astrocyte signaling and single‐cell RNA‐seq (scRNA‐seq) gene expression, and in vivo using murine cuprizone‐mediated demyelination. Studies confirmed ponesimod’s selectivity for S1P1 without comparable engagement to the other S1PR subtypes (S1P2,3,4,5). Ponesimod showed pharmacological properties of acute agonism followed by chronic functional antagonism of S1P1. A major locus of S1P1 expression in the CNS is on astrocytes, and scRNA‐seq of primary human astrocytes exposed to ponesimod identified a gene ontology relationship of reduced neuroinflammation and reduction in known astrocyte disease‐related genes including those of immediate early astrocytes that have been strongly associated with disease progression in MS animal models. Remarkably, ponesimod prevented cuprizone‐induced demyelination selectively in the cingulum, but not in the corpus callosum. These data support the CNS activities of ponesimod through S1P1, including protective, and likely selective, effects against demyelination in a major connection pathway of the brain, the limbic fibers of the cingulum, lesions of which have been associated with several neurologic impairments including MS fatigue.

S1P receptor modulators and the cardiovascular autonomic nervous system in multiple sclerosis: a narrative review.

What is the cardiovascular effect of S1P receptor modulator therapy in multiple sclerosis? Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor (S1PR) modulators are among the most efficient therapies for multiple sclerosis. As small molecules, they are not only acting on the immune but on cardiovascular and nervous systems as well. Short-term effects of S1PR modulators on the cardiovascular system have already been extensively described, while long-term effects are less known. Our review describes the mechanisms of action and the short- and long-term effects of these therapeutic agents on the cardiovascular system in different clinical trials. We systematically reviewed the literature that had been published by January 2022. One hundred seven articles were initially identified by title and abstract using targeted keywords, and thirty-nine articles with relevance to cardiovascular effects of S1PR therapy in multiple sclerosis patients were thereafter considered, including their references for further accurate clarification. Studies on fingolimod, the first S1PR modulator approved for treating multiple sclerosis, primarily support the safety profile of this therapeutic class. The second-generation therapeutic agents along with a different treatment initiation approach helped mitigate several of the cardiovascular adverse effects that had previously been observed at the start of treatment. The heart rate may decrease when initiating S1PR modulators and, less commonly, the atrioventricular conduction may be prolonged, requiring cardiac monitoring for the first 6 h of medication. Continuous therapy with S1PR modulators can increase blood pressure values; therefore, the presence of arterial hypertension should be checked during long-term treatment. Periodic surveillance of the cardiovascular and autonomic functions can help predict cardiac outcomes and prevent possible adverse events in S1PR modulators treatment. Further studies with longer follow-ups are needed, especially for the second-generation of S1PR modulators, to confirm the safety profile of this therapeutic class.

Structural basis of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 activation and biased agonism.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) is a master regulator of lymphocyte egress from the lymph node and an established drug target for multiple sclerosis (MS). Mechanistically, therapeutic S1PR1 modulators activate the receptor yet induce sustained internalization through a potent association with β-arrestin. However, a structural basis of biased agonism remains elusive. Here, we report the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of Gi-bound S1PR1 in complex with S1P, fingolimod-phosphate (FTY720-P) and siponimod (BAF312). In combination with functional assays and molecular dynamics (MD) studies, we reveal that the β-arrestin-biased ligands direct a distinct activation path in S1PR1 through the extensive interplay between the PIF and the NPxxY motifs. Specifically, the intermediate flipping of W2696.48 and the retained interaction between F2656.44 and N3077.49 are the key features of the β-arrestin bias. We further identify ligand-receptor interactions accounting for the S1PR subtype specificity of BAF312. These structural insights provide a rational basis for designing novel signaling-biased S1PR modulators.

Pfizer to acquire biotech firm Arena for $6.7 billion

Seeking to add firepower to its efforts to develop autoimmune disease drugs, Pfizer will acquire Arena Pharmaceuticals for about $6.7 billion. Arena’s portfolio includes several development-stage drug candidates, including lead candidate etrasimod, an oral, selective sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator currently in Phase 3 clinical trials for ulcerative colitis and a Phase 2/3 trial for Crohn’s disease. Analysts say the deal will boost Pfizer’s pipeline in inflammation and immunology drugs and diversify the firm beyond Janus kinase inhibitors, inflammation drugs that have come under increasing scrutiny. The US Food and Drug Administration requires new heart safety and cancer warnings for several drugs in the category, including one from Pfizer. Pfizer’s agreement to pay $100 per share for Arena, double its previous closing price, is reasonable, especially given prospects for etrasimod, according to a note from stock analysts at Mizuho Securities. The price premium is mitigated by Pfizer’s profits from the COVID-19