DISC-0974 for IBD and Anemia

This trial tests the safety and effectiveness of a new treatment called DISC-0974 for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who also have anemia due to inflammation. The study includes two groups: one receiving the actual treatment and another receiving a placebo for comparison. Suitable participants have been diagnosed with IBD and experience symptoms from anemia, such as fatigue or shortness of breath, despite stable IBD treatment for the past three months. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.

The trial requires a 2-day break from oral iron supplements before certain lab tests and a 30-day break from treatments like blood transfusions, EPO-stimulating agents, or IV iron before screening. Other medications are not specifically mentioned, so it's best to discuss with the study team.

Research has shown that DISC-0974 has been safe and well-tolerated in earlier studies. For instance, when tested in smaller doses, participants experienced manageable side effects.

DISC-0974 is an experimental treatment targeting a protein called hemojuvelin, which influences iron levels in the body. By increasing iron levels, it helps treat anemia (a low red blood cell count) caused by inflammation.

Additionally, the FDA granted DISC-0974 Fast Track status for treating anemia related to chronic kidney disease, indicating it as a promising treatment option.

Most treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and anemia focus on reducing inflammation or supplementing iron. But DISC-0974 works differently, targeting a protein involved in regulating iron in the body. This innovative approach could help improve iron levels without the need for traditional iron supplements, which often come with side effects. Researchers are excited because DISC-0974 is administered subcutaneously every 28 days, providing a potentially more convenient and better-tolerated option compared to current treatments.

Research shows that DISC-0974, which participants in this trial may receive, may help treat anemia linked to inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Anemia occurs when there aren't enough healthy red blood cells. In earlier studies, DISC-0974 lowered levels of hepcidin, a protein that can cause anemia if elevated. Lowering hepcidin benefits the body by promoting the production of more red blood cells. Animal studies also demonstrated that DISC-0974 improved anemia in conditions similar to IBD. Previous trials in other types of anemia found that DISC-0974 was safe and well-tolerated. These results suggest it could help people with anemia related to IBD.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹