Povetacicept, an Enhanced Dual <scp>APRIL</scp>/<scp>BAFF</scp> Antagonist That Modulates B Lymphocytes and Pathogenic Autoantibodies for the Treatment of Lupus and Other B Cell–Related Autoimmune Diseases

Abstract

Enhanced APRIL and BAFF inhibition by povetacicept led to greater inhibition of B cell populations critical for autoantibody production compared to WT TACI-Fc and CD20-, APRIL-, or BAFF-selective inhibitors. Potent, dual inhibition by povetacicept has the potential to significantly improve clinical outcomes in autoantibody-related autoimmune diseases.