Telitacicept for childhood HSPN: A prospective self-controlled study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nephrology
• Immunology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Henoch-Schönlein Purpura Nephritis (HSPN) is a common vasculitis affecting children, characterized by kidney inflammation.
• Current treatments for HSPN often have limitations, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic agents.
• Telitacicept (RC18) is an emerging biologic agent with potential immunomodulatory effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Telitacicept (RC18) in pediatric patients diagnosed with HSPN.
• To assess the impact of Telitacicept on key clinical and laboratory markers of HSPN.
• To explore the potential mechanisms of action of Telitacicept in HSPN treatment.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, self-controlled study involving children with HSPN.
• Treatment with Telitacicept (RC18) administered over a 1-4 month follow-up period.
• Monitoring of 24-hour urine total protein (UTP), urinary red blood cell (RBC) count, renal function, and safety parameters.

Main Results:

• Telitacicept demonstrated a 100% response rate for 24-hour UTP and a 66.7% response rate for urine RBC count.
• Significant reductions in 24-hour UTP and urinary RBC count were observed post-treatment (P<0.01).
• Renal function remained stable, and no serious adverse reactions were reported, though minor biochemical and injection site reactions occurred.

Conclusions:

• Telitacicept (RC18) is effective in reducing proteinuria and hematuria in children with HSPN.
• The treatment shows a favorable safety profile, making it a promising option for pediatric HSPN.
• Preliminary findings suggest Telitacicept may modulate lymphocyte populations and Gd-IgA1 levels in HSPN.