Current Studies

These studies are underway at the MS Center at Evergreen:


Study
Maestro MBP 8298

Principle Investigator
James D Bowen, MD

Brief Description
A study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of MBP8298 in subjects with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis

Study Medication Information
MBP8298 is made to be like a small protein called a peptide that has the same amino acid sequence as a part of a much larger protein called myelin basic protein (MBP).  MBP is found in myelin which is a protective membrane found in the brain.  Myelin is found in large quantities in the brain of all people.  However in multiple sclerosis this myelin sheath, the protective material that surrounds nerve cells, is damaged.  Inflammation damages the myelin, leaving multiple areas of scar tissue (sclerosis).  The inflammation occurs when the body’s own immune cells attack the myelin in the brain.  MBP8298 was designed to reduce this myelin attack in those patients who have particular genetic tissue types called HLA-DR2 and/or HLA-DR4.

For more information, please contact Study Coordinator
Shalom Kilcup
425-899-5369
sekilcup@evergreenhealthcare.org

Study
FTY720

Principle Investigator
James D. Bowen, MD

Brief Description
A 24-month study comparing the efficacy and safety of oral medication fingolimod (in two dose levels) vs. placebo in patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis.

Study Medication Information
Fingolimod (FTY-720) is an oral medication that blocks a receptor found on white blood cells (S1P receptor). This receptor is involved in the movement of white blood cells out of the lymph nodes and into the tissues. Fingolimod blocks this movement, preventing white blood cells from moving into the brain. This study is a phase III study looking at the safety and effectiveness of the medicine in MS.

For more information, please contact Study Coordinator
Yuriko Courtney
425-899-5370
ymcourtney@evergreenhealthcare.org

Principle Investigator
James D. Bowen, MD

Brief Description
Evaluate the safety profile of a single intraveneous (IV) dose of RTL1000 and determine the maximum tolerated dise (MTD) of RTL1000 given as a single IV dose.

Study Medication Information
RTL 1000 RTL 1000 is a small protein that resembles the T cell receptor protein. This receptor protein is on the surface of T cells (a type of white blood cell), and it binds to the target that the T cell is attacking. RTL 1000 causes the T cell to alter its behavior so that it is less activated and thus less likely to cause an autoimmune reaction. This is a phase I study to investigate the safety and effectiveness of the medication in people with MS.

For more information, please contact Study Coordinator
Kathleen Butler
425-899-5373
kbutler@evergreenhealthcare.org

Study
Tovaxin

Principle Investigator
Jeffrey E. Dunn, MD

Brief Description
52 week study of subcutaneous Tovaxin in subjects CIS or relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis.

Study Medication Information
Tovaxin is a novel vaccine for MS patients. White blood cells that react to myelin basic protein (the most common protein in myelin) are taken from a blood sample. These cells are then altered and reinjected into the patient. The altered cells are then able to block the formation of immune cells that are directed against myelin. This phase II study will look at the safety and effectiveness of the drug in people with MS.

For more information, please contact Study Coordinator
Shalom Kilcup
425-899-5369
sekilcup@evergreenhealthcare.org

Study
Choice

Principle Investigator
Jeffrey E. Dunn, MD

Brief Description
72 week placebo-controlled, dose ranging study: SC Daclizimab/placebo add-on to patient’s pre-existing multiple sclerosis treatment.

Study Medication Information
Daclizumab (Zenapax) is an antibody engineered to block the IL-2 receptor (CD25). This receptor is an important switch for the immune system that increases immune activity. By blocking the receptor, the immune system activity is decreased. This study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of daclizumab in slowing the progression of MS.

For more information, please contact Study Coordinator
Shalom Kilcup
425-899-5369
sekilcup@evergreenhealthcare.org