MLN-02 for the treatment of active ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon. MLN-02 is a synthetic antibody that blocks the adhesion and migration of white blood cells into the gut, reducing intestinal inflammation. One study met criteria for review. This six-week study tested 181 people over the age of eighteen who had active ulcerative colitis. The patients received two intravenous infusions of MLN-02 (0.5mg/kg or 2mg/kg) or placebo (fake infusions). This single study suggests MLN-02 may be beneficial in patients with active ulcerative colitis. Clinical response (improvement of symptoms) was reported in 59% of patients receiving MLN-02 compared with 33% of patients receiving placebo. Clinical remission was reported in 32% of patients receiving MLN-02 compared to 14% of patients receiving placebo. The medication was generally well tolerated. The study results suggest MLN-02 is safe but further data will be needed to confirm these results. Side effects were reported in similar numbers of patients receiving MLN-02 and placebo. The most common side effects included worsening ulcerative colitis symptoms, nausea, and headache. Serious side effects were reported in 15% of patients receiving MLN-02 and 10% of patients receiving placebo, and most commonly was due to worsening of colitis. Serious infections were reported in three patients receiving MLN-02. One allergic reaction occurred in a patient receiving MLN-02. In conclusion, this study suggests MLN-02 may be an effective therapy for patients with active ulcerative colitis. Additional studies are needed to confirm these results.