A unique investigational treatment called LEA29Y may represent a novel, less toxic way to preserve transplanted kidney function and improve patient outcomes, according to new data to be presented at the American Transplant Congress. More than 20 leading transplant centers in the U.S., Canada and Europe, including Emory University, participated in a Phase II study comparing LEA29Y, also known as BMS-224818, to a similar regimen containing standard therapy with cyclosporine. Study results showed that six months following kidney transplant, LEA29Y was as effective as standard therapy with cyclosporine in preventing acute rejection. However, LEA29Y-treated patients demonstrated significant improvement in kidney function, blood pressure and total cholesterol levels compared to patients receiving cyclosporine.
