#China #Shanghai #IASO Biotherapeutics #Equecabtagene Autoleucel #BCMA CAR-T

A Revolutionary Step in Autoimmune Disease Treatment

IASO Biotherapeutics, led by its innovative research team, has made headlines with the publication of pivotal study results in Cell, demonstrating the effectiveness of their fully human anti-BCMA CAR-T cell therapy, known as Equecabtagene Autoleucel (Eque-cel). This therapy aims to help patients suffering from progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease characterized by significant neurological impairments.

Breakthrough on an International Stage

On October 16, 2025, from multiple locations including Shanghai, Nanjing, and Pleasanton, California, IASO Bio proudly announced the study results confirming the safety and efficacy of Eque-cel for treating progressive MS. It marks the first successful application of CAR-T therapy targeting BCMA for an autoimmune disease, representing a substantial breakthrough in this emerging field.

The clinical trial, conducted by Professor Wei Wang at Tongji Hospital, involved five patients with progressive MS, comprising different subtypes of the disease. The encouraging results showed that patients experienced notable improvements across various neurological assessments following a single infusion of Eque-cel, including enhanced performance on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and other functional tests.

Efficacy and Safety Profile

Among the patients studied, all showed improvements post-infusion, with the removal of oligoclonal bands from cerebrospinal fluid and a significant reduction in kappa free light chain (κFLC) levels. Notably, follow-up MRI scans revealed no new lesions, a promising sign for disease progression.

The safety profile was also favorable; while cytokine release syndrome (CRS) was observed in 80% of cases, it remained manageable with no severe levels reported, and no signs of immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) were noted.

A New Hope for MS Patients

Professor Wei Wang commemorated this achievement, acknowledging how this research paves the way for future exploration in CAR-T therapies for both MS and refractory neuroimmune disorders. More than 83% of the participating patients achieved long-term clinical remission without ongoing medication, showcasing the potential of this therapy to transform treatment protocols in multiple sclerosis.

In light of these findings, IASO Bio is extending research to other autoimmune conditions like neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and myasthenia gravis, where early clinical trials have already shown promising results.

The Broader Implications for Autoimmune Diseases

Jinhua Zhang, the CEO of IASO Biotherapeutics, articulated excitement over the publication in such a prestigious journal and reiterated the company’s commitment to pioneering advancements in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. With ongoing clinical trials approved in both China and the United States, the objective remains focused on improving therapeutic options and patient outcomes worldwide.

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis affects millions worldwide and poses a severe risk of disability for young adults. Characterized by myelin destruction in the central nervous system, MS leads to a range of debilitating symptoms including visual disturbances, motor impairment, and cognitive challenges. Given its prevalence and substantial impact on quality of life, innovative treatments like Eque-cel represent a significant advancement in addressing this challenging condition.

The implications for future MS therapies, particularly those targeting immune responses, emphasize the importance of continued research and clinical development. As IASO Bio expands its study horizons, the promise of CAR-T therapy marks a momentous leap toward enhancing treatment strategies in autoimmune diseases, reinforcing hope for patients globally.

In summary, the findings from IASO Bio's study not only set a new standard for treatment protocols but also open avenues for further investigation into novel therapies that could transform the lives of many living with MS.