CD40 Ligand in Neuroinflammation & Neurodegenerative Diseases: Clinical Insights & Therapeutic Advances
- CD40L-CD40 interactions are instrumental in activating microglia and other immune cells in the CNS, contributing to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Inhibition of this pathway may reduce neuroinflammation and subsequent neuronal damage
- Sanofi’s investigational anti-CD40L monoclonal antibody, frexalimab, has demonstrated a 41% reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels, a biomarker of nerve cell damage, in patients with relapsing MS after 48 weeks of treatment. These findings support its potential as a high-efficacy, diseasemodifying treatment for MS
- Studies have indicated that blocking CD40L is generally safe and well-tolerated. For instance, a phase I trial involving a humanized anti-CD40L monoclonal antibody in patients with relapsing-remitting MS reported no serious adverse events and an increase in anti-inflammatory cytokine profiles.
- While targeting CD40L shows promise, challenges remain, including potential risks of immunosuppression and the need for careful patient selection. Further studies are essential to establish long-term safety and efficacy profiles