Fingolimod may slow the degeneration of the motor nerves by reducing neuroinflammation. A sphigosine 1 phosphate receptor agonist, fingolimod blocks the infiltration of T cells into the nervous system by reducing their circulation in the blood. Fingolimod, marketed by Novartis under the name Gilenya, is FDA-approved to treat certain forms of multiple sclerosis.
Preclinical testing of Gilenya showed a positive trend on ALS progression and survival. Therefore, we decided to advance this drug into a phase II clinical trial. This trial will not measure efficacy of Gilenya. Rather, it is designed to determine whether Gilenya can be given to ALS patients safely. Results and any next steps will be announced when determined.
A phase IIA trial asks whether Gilenya might have the potential to slow ALS by reducing T cell-mediated inflammation.
Clinicians weigh in on the latest potential treatments for ALS being tested in clinics today.
The scientific rationale for fingolimod in ALS.
ALS TDI answers key questions about the phase IIA clinical trial
Learn more about the phase IIA clinical trial - including eligibility criteria and site locations.
ALS TDI’s Steve Perrin and MGH’s Merit Cudkowicz discuss the upcoming phase IIA clinical trial.
Fingolimod boosts populations of certain Tregs in the PNS.
Fingolimod blocks the infilitration of certain T lymphocytes and monocytes into the PNS.
Fingolimod reduces circulation of certain lymphocytes in the blood.
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