Keenova Reports Successful Phase 3 Results for XIAFLEX® in Treating Plantar Fibromatosis
Keenova Therapeutics plc has made headlines with the release of promising findings from its Phase 3 clinical trial of XIAFLEX® (collagenase clostridium histolyticum), specifically for the treatment of plantar fibromatosis. This condition, characterized by the formation of nodules composed mainly of excess collagen in the connective tissue supporting the arch of the foot, presents significant challenges for those affected. As the trial results affirm, there is newfound hope emerging for individuals suffering from this chronic ailment, as conventional treatments have often been limited to symptom relief or surgical options.
The pivotal trial, which met its primary endpoint effectively, demonstrated that patients receiving XIAFLEX experienced statistically significant pain reduction compared to those given a placebo. This pain alleviation was quantified using the Average Daily Pain Intensity measured on the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and aligns with the observed improvements in key secondary endpoints. These secondary endpoints encompassed factors relating to the difficulty of daily activities, assessed through the Foot Function Index (FFI) scale. Moreover, notable enhancements were recorded in other important measures, such as patient global assessments concerning improvement, overall disease severity, treatment satisfaction, and nodule characteristics.
The safety profile associated with XIAFLEX in this study matched the established profile seen in previous approvals. Adverse events during the trial were primarily categorized as mild to moderate, with no serious events being attributed directly to the treatment.
Dr. Marek Honczarenko, Executive Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer at Keenova, expressed enthusiastic sentiment regarding the trial's outcomes. "We are excited to share the positive outcome for our Phase 3 clinical trial of plantar fibromatosis, a disease for which limited treatment options exist beyond symptom relief measures or surgery," he stated. This array of successful results sets the stage for Keenova to file an application with the FDA later this year, intending to broaden the use of XIAFLEX and effectively address significant patient needs.
Looking forward to 2028, Keenova estimates that approximately 300,000 individuals will seek medical assistance for plantar fibromatosis, which emphasizes the potential market impact of XIAFLEX, set to launch in the same year for this indication.
The EN3835-309 study was a rigorous double-blind, placebo-controlled trial intended to measure the overall reduction of foot pain intensity attributed to XIAFLEX in treating plantar fibromatosis. A total of 436 participants with this condition, evidenced by at least one palpable fibrous nodule, were enrolled. These participants were randomly allocated into treatment groups, either receiving XIAFLEX or placebo, with up to two treatments administered spaced 28 days apart.
Daily assessments of pain intensity were conducted via the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), while various other questionnaires designed to capture treatment satisfaction and functional performance, including the Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGIS) and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC), were completed during predetermined follow-up visits. This multifaceted approach provided a comprehensive overview of the treatment's efficacy.
Also referred to as Ledderhose disease, plantar fibromatosis involves a hyperproliferative fibrous tissue disorder that generates collagen nodules along the plantar fascia, contributing to chronic and progressive pain and mobility impairment. Currently, there is an absence of approved pharmacological therapies for this condition. As such, current management strategies primarily focus on symptomatic relief, emphasizing orthotic solutions, topical treatments, pain medications, radiation therapy, steroid injections, and, consequently, surgical intervention.
Keenova Therapeutics operates from its base in Dublin, Ireland, focusing on branded therapeutics aimed at addressing rare or underserved medical conditions, paving the way for enhanced patient care across various specialty areas, including rheumatology, ophthalmology, and orthopedics. With its robust US manufacturing capabilities, Keenova is poised to make meaningful contributions in the healthcare landscape. To stay informed about the company's advancements and initiatives, its website serves as a pivotal resource for investors, healthcare professionals, and patients alike.