Developing Therapies for C3 Glomerulopathy: Report of the Kidney Health Initiative C3 Glomerulopathy Trial Endpoints

Carla Nester1, Dima A Decker2, Matthias Meier3

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Nephrology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa.

Insights

Experts reviewed trial endpoints for C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) treatments. While specific thresholds remain undefined, positive effects on proteinuria, eGFR, and histopathology are considered compelling for complement pathway therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Complement Biology
  • Clinical Trial Design

Background:

  • C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is a rare glomerular disease.
  • Novel agents targeting the alternative complement pathway are in clinical trials for C3G.
  • Standardized trial endpoints are needed to assess treatment efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess data supporting prespecified trial endpoints for clinical benefit in C3G.
  • To define compelling efficacy findings for C3G treatments in native kidneys.
  • To address knowledge gaps in C3G clinical trial endpoint evaluation.

Main Methods:

  • Convened a panel of C3G experts and a Trial Endpoints Work Group.
  • Reviewed evidence and uncertainties linking proteinuria, eGFR, and histopathology to outcomes.
  • Group discussions and feedback on subpanel summaries of endpoint data.

Main Results:

  • Experts agreed on the characterization of data and uncertainties supporting the chosen endpoints.
  • A minimum clinically meaningful threshold for endpoint changes could not be defined due to data limitations.
  • A favorable treatment effect on all three endpoints (proteinuria, eGFR, histopathology) would be convincing evidence of efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • A treatment may be considered effective with meaningful proteinuria reduction and stable/improved eGFR, even without complete endpoint alignment.
  • Data sharing between academic and industry partners is crucial to address knowledge gaps.
  • Further research is needed to establish definitive clinical benefit thresholds for C3G therapies.