Development of a novel tool for individual treatment trials in mucopolysaccharidosis

Abstract

Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) encompasses a group of genetic lysosomal storage disorders, linked to reduced life expectancy and a significant lack of effective treatment options. Immunomodulatory drugs could have the potential to be a relevant medical approach, as the accumulation of undegraded substances initiates an innate immune response, which leads to inflammation and clinical deterioration. However, immunomodulators are not licensed for this indication. Consequently, we aim to provide evidence advocating fast access to innovative individual treatment trials (ITTs) with immunomodulatory drugs and high-quality evaluation of drug effects by implementing a risk–benefit model tailored for MPS. The iterative methodology of our novel decision analysis framework (DAF) involves three key steps: (i) literature review on promising treatment targets and immunomodulators in MPS; (ii) quantitative risk–benefit assessment (RBA) of selected molecules; (iii) assigning phenotypic profiles and quantitative evaluations. The results facilitate a personalized application of the model and are based on published evidence as well as interdisciplinary experts' consensus and patient perspectives. Four promising immunomodulators have been identified: adalimumab, abatacept, anakinra, and cladribine. An improvement in mobility is most likely with adalimumab, while anakinra is anticipated as a treatment of choice for neuronopathic MPS patients. Nevertheless, a comprehensive RBA should always be completed on an individual basis. Our evidence-based DAF tool for ITTs directly addresses the substantial unmet medical need in MPS and characterizes an initial stride toward precision medicine with immunomodulators.