Early promise for rheumatoid arthritis drug

Edwin Moses, chief exective of Ablynx

A new drug for rheumatoid arthritis – ALX-0061 – is showing early promise in clinical trials, according to the Belgian biotech firm behind it. Ablynx is hoping to combine forces with a bigger company to further develop the drug.

“We are now investigating the various possibilities through which we can progress the development of ALX-0061, including discussions with potential partners and other paths which will allow us to maximise the value of this asset,” says chief executive Edwin Moses.

The drug was well tolerated in the trial, which saw 37 people taking it for 24 weeks, and had positive results.