Immunic Inc (NASDAQ:IMUX) chief scientific officer Dr Hella Kohlhof talked with Proactive's Stephen Gunnion about the company’s research and clinical progress in treating multiple sclerosis (MS) with its lead compound, vidofludimus calcium.
Kohlhof highlighted the significance of discussing MS research on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, emphasising the long-term impact the disease has on young adults. She noted that one of the primary challenges for patients is the gradual loss of independence due to ongoing disease progression.
Kohlhof said: "Multiple sclerosis gradually takes away your ability...like walking, remembering, focusing on things and managing everyday tasks." She stressed the importance of shifting focus from managing short-term relapses to addressing long-term disability progression.
Immunic’s lead compound, vidofludimus calcium, aims to protect nerve cell function in the brain and spinal cord. According to Kohlhof, the therapy has shown encouraging clinical readouts, including signs of slowing or halting disease progression — even in the absence of relapses.
Kohlhof outlined three potential levels of treatment success: delaying progression, halting worsening, and improving patients' abilities. Notably, some patients in Immunic’s trials showed improvement in function over time, with long-term data suggesting the compound may reduce the risk of confirmed disability worsening over five and a half years of treatment.
Kohlhof concluded by expressing optimism about the future, stating that progress in understanding MS biology is bringing the field closer to better long-term treatment outcomes. She added, "Only what you understand, you can really fight."
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