our science
Scientific rigor with a clear purpose
We pursue science with rigor and intention, asking bold questions to challenge the status quo and reshape outcomes. Our research is guided by our conviction that understanding the deeper truths of disease is the first step toward changing what’s possible for patients. We leverage deep understanding of key disease mechanisms and intervention points, aiming to develop medicines that empower physicians to help address the root causes of disease.
our pipeline
A pipeline grounded in expertise and designed for areas of high patient need
Our research begins with understanding the fundamental mechanisms that drive disease and then designing therapeutic strategies to help address these pathways effectively. We are committed to advancing our programs through rigorous clinical evidence, where patient needs are significant and where we can make an impact.
Atacicept
IgAN
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Preclinical
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Phase 1
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Phase 2
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Phase 3
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Approval
- Preclinical
- Phase 1
- Phase 2
- Phase 3
- Approval
IgAN
IgAN is a chronic, autoimmune kidney disease characterized by the formation of immune complexes that deposit in the glomeruli and trigger inflammation and progressive kidney injury. These immune complexes are composed of an autoantigen and autoantibody produced by B cells, which are activated by two cytokines called BAFF and APRIL.1
Atacicept
pMN, FSGS, MCD
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Preclinical
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Phase 1
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Phase 2
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Phase 3
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Approval
- Preclinical
- Phase 1
- Phase 2
- Phase 3
- Approval
pMN, FSGS, MCD
B-cell activity leading to autoantibody production is thought to be implicated in the pathophysiology of pMN, FSGS, and MCD.2,3
MAU868
BKV
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Preclinical
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Phase 1
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Phase 2
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Phase 3
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Approval
- Preclinical
- Phase 1
- Phase 2
- Phase 3
- Approval
BKV
BKV is a common viral infection that can reactivate and have significant consequences in kidney transplant recipients.4 MAU868 is designed to neutralize the virus by blocking its ability to attach to host cells.5
VT-109
B-cell-mediated diseases
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Preclinical
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Phase 1
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Phase 2
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Phase 3
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Approval
- Preclinical
- Phase 1
- Phase 2
- Phase 3
- Approval
B-cell-mediated diseases
VT-109 is a novel, next generation fusion protein targeting BAFF and APRIL with wide therapeutic potential across the spectrum of B-cell-mediated diseases.
APRIL, a proliferation-inducing ligand; BAFF, B-cell activating factor, also known as BLyS (B lymphocyte stimulator); BKV, BK virus; FSGS, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis; IgAN, IgA nephropathy; MCD, minimal change disease; pMN, primary membranous nephropathy.
Moving from uncertainty to clarity
Our pipeline is currently focused on autoimmune kidney disease, where our dual expertise in B-cell biology and clinical nephrology positions us to potentially reshape treatment approaches.
Research that moves the field forward
We are committed to contributing to the scientific community through peer-reviewed publications. Explore our latest publications to learn how our research is expanding the understanding of immune-mediated kidney diseases.
References
- Cheung CK, Barratt J, Liew A, Zhang H, Tesar V, Lafayette R. The role of BAFF and APRIL in IgA nephropathy: pathogenic mechanisms and targeted therapies. Front Nephrol. 2024;3:1346769. Published 2024 Feb 1. doi:10.3389/fneph.2023.1346769
- Beck LH Jr, Bonegio RG, Lambeau G, et al. M-type phospholipase A2 receptor as target antigen in idiopathic membranous nephropathy. N Engl J Med. 2009;361(1):11-21. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa0810457
- Hengel FE, Dehde S, Lassé M, et al. Autoantibodies Targeting Nephrin in Podocytopathies. N Engl J Med. 2024;391(5):422-433. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2314471
- Ambalathingal GR, Francis RS, Smyth MJ, et al. BK Polyomavirus: Clinical Aspects, Immune Regulation, and Emerging Therapies. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2017;30(2):503-528. doi:10.1128/CMR.00074-16
- Kovacs SJ, Abend JR, Xu X, et al. A first-in-human study of MAU868, a novel neutralizing antibody against BK virus: PO2455. JASN. 2020;31(10S):746. doi:10.1681/ASN.20203110S1746a