Japan Elaprase® Treatment (JET) study: Idursulfase enzyme replacement therapy in adult patients with attenuated Hunter syndrome (Mucopolysaccharidosis II, MPS II)

This open-label clinical study enrolled 10 adults with attenuated Mucopolysaccharidosis II and advanced disease under the direction of the Japan Society for Research on Mucopolysaccharidosis Disorders prior to regulatory approval of idursulfase in Japan. Ten male patients, ages 21-53 years, received weekly intravenous infusions of 0.5 mg/kg idursulfase for 12 months. Significant reductions in lysosomal storage and several clinical improvements were observed during the study (mean changes below). Urinary glycosaminoglycan excretion decreased rapidly within the first three months of treatment and normalized in all patients by study completion (-79.9%). Liver and spleen volumes also showed rapid reductions that were maintained in all patients through study completion (-33.2% and -31.0%, respectively). Improvements were noted in the 6-Minute Walk Test (54.5 m), percent predicted forced vital capacity (3.8 percentage points), left ventricular mass index (-12.4%) and several joint range of motions (8.1-19.0 degrees). Ejection fraction and cardiac valve disease were stable. The sleep study oxygen desaturation index increased by 3.9 events/h, but was stable in 89% (8/9) of patients. Idursulfase was generally well-tolerated. Infusion-related reactions occurred in 50% of patients and were mostly mild with transient skin reactions that did not require medical intervention. Two infusion-related reactions were assessed as serious (urticaria and vasovagal syncope). One patient died of causes unrelated to idursulfase. Anti-idursulfase antibodies developed in 60% (6/10) of patients. In summary, idursulfase treatment appears to be safe and effective in adult Japanese patients with attenuated MPS II. These results are comparable to those of prior studies that enrolled predominantly pediatric, Caucasian, and less ill patients. No new safety risks were identified. (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.