Ipsen has completed the acquisition of Memo Therapeutics AG, a late-stage biotech company focused on potravitug, an anti-BK polyomavirus monoclonal antibody.

Potravitug is a first-in-class monoclonal antibody targeting BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) reactivation in kidney transplant recipients. It has shown promising results in clinical trials, demonstrating a significant anti-viral response and resolution of BKPyV associated nephropathy. These findings are based on the phase 2 SAFE KIDNEY 2 trial, the largest placebo-controlled study conducted in this patient population, with additional analyses presented at leading international renal and transplant congresses further supporting its clinical profile and the next stages of clinical development.

BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) is a common virus that most people are exposed to in childhood and usually remains inactive in the body. However, in people with a weakened immune system, including kidney transplant recipients taking anti-rejection medication, the virus can reactivate and multiply.

Around 90 percent of kidney transplant recipients are positive for BKPyV serotype, and high levels of BKPyV in the blood affect approximately 30 percent of patients within the first year after transplant indicating reactivation of the virus. BK polyomavirus reactivation and associated nephropathy (BKVAN) can have serious consequences, including an increased risk of graft loss and the need for dialysis or re-transplantation.

There are currently no approved targeted therapies for BKPyV and clinical management is focused on balancing graft protection with BKPyV control through reducing the immunosuppression. Over 100,000 kidney transplants are performed each year worldwide, and in the US >28,000 are performed each year, with a further >90,000 patients on the waiting list for a transplant.