Ocrelizumab

Ocrelizumab is a humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody. It targets mature B lymphocytes and hence is an immunosuppressive drug candidate. It is under development by Hoffmann–La Roche's subsidiary Genentech, and Biogen Idec.

It had reached Phase III clinical trials for rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus, and Phase II for multiple sclerosis and hematological cancer.

In March 2010, Roche announced the suspension of clinical trials in rheumatoid arthritis and lupus erythematosus. This step followed excess deaths due to opportunistic infections. Development for multiple sclerosis continues.

In October 2010 Roche announced 24 week results fro the PhII study in relapse remitting MS. The drug demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in disease activity as measured by brain lesions (measured by MRI scans) and relapse rate compared to placebo. Both doses (200 mg & 600 mg) were well tolerated.