DNA vaccine for peanut allergy fast-tracked | Courtesy of Shutterstock
Ruth de Jauregui | Dec 23, 2016

DNA vaccine for peanut allergy fast-tracked

Astellas Pharma Inc. and Immunomic Therapeutics Inc. recently announced the approval of Fast Track designation for ASP0892 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The DNA vaccine will be tested for its effectiveness against peanut allegories in adults. A Phase I trial is being initiated. 

"We are pleased that the FDA granted a Fast Track designation for ASP0892," Astellas President of Development Dr. Bernhardt Zeiher said. "Such designations reinforce the urgency of accelerating development programs for new treatments in these types of potentially life-threatening allergies. This milestone also reflects our commitment to addressing diseases and conditions with the highest of unmet medical needs."

Peanut allergy is a life-threatening condition that can trigger anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. There is no treatment to prevent an allergic reaction to peanuts.

Patients must avoid peanuts and carry epinephrine auto-injectors to treat allergic reactions if they are accidentally exposed to peanuts or peanut products.

"In the United States alone, over 3 million people are affected by peanut allergy," Founder and CEO of Immunomic Therapeutics Dr. William Hearl said. "We are glad that the FDA made this decision regarding the early LAMP-Vax research as applied to peanut allergy and look forward to further work from Astellas on this important effort."

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