Anifrolumab moves into phase 3 for systemic lupus erythematosus treatment

AstraZeneca has announced it will move MedImmune’s anifrolumab into a phase 3 trial this year for the treatment of moderate-to-severe systemic lupus erythematosus, according to a company press release and quarterly report.The type 1 interferon inhibitor met its primary endpoint of a reduction global disease activity score in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) after 6 months in a phase 2B trial. It is believed anifrolumab binds to subunit 1 of the type 1 interferon receptor, which inhibits activity at the receptor. Data from the trial are expected to be presented at an unspecified scientific meeting later in the year, the release stated.