MS Drug Clinical Trial Doesn't Excite Human Genome Stockholders

Rockville, MD (AHN) - A Maryland pharmaceutical firm is testing a lupus drug, LymphoStat-B, to treat multiple sclerosis. The medication stops a protein found in high levels in MS lesions, which contribute to the production of cells that attack healthy tissue.

Human Genome Sciences has partnered with pharmaceutical company GlaxosmithKline in testing LymphoStat-B to find a cure for MS, one of four autoimmune ailments that the two firms want to find a remedy.

HGS spokesman Jerry Parrott said the two companies plan to continue with late-stage trials using LumphoStat-B for lupus patients. By 2009 the partners are expected to finalize the data from their clinical trials as first step in submitting in early 2010 the medication to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for approval.

The news comes as the DNA company attempts to recover from word earlier this year its hepatitis C medication Albuferon had lung-related side effects. HGS, who's DNA-based research attracted $1 billion from investors in 2000, now struggles with stock hovering at $5.91 a share.

Among the drugs that HGS is developing are for treatment of hepatitis C, anthrax ailment, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and HIV/AID.