Roche(US:RHHBY) Globenewswire·2025-12-09 06:00Core Viewpoint - Roche's Gazyva®/Gazyvaro® (obinutuzumab) has received European Commission approval for treating adult patients with active Class III or IV lupus nephritis, potentially establishing a new standard of care in Europe [1][2][7]. Approval and Clinical Significance - The approval is based on positive results from phase II NOBILITY and phase III REGENCY studies, showing that 46.4% of patients on Gazyva/Gazyvaro achieved a complete renal response compared to 33.1% on standard therapy alone [2][7]. - Gazyva/Gazyvaro may help delay or prevent progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), which affects a significant portion of lupus nephritis patients [2][3][7]. Patient Impact - Lupus nephritis predominantly affects women of color and childbearing age, with an estimated 135,000 individuals in the European Union currently living with the condition [3][10]. - Current treatments lead to up to one-third of patients progressing to ESKD within 10 years, highlighting the need for effective new therapies [3][9]. Previous Approvals and Future Research - Gazyva/Gazyvaro was previously approved by the US FDA for the same indication in October 2025, indicating a growing recognition of its therapeutic potential [4]. - Ongoing investigations include studies in children and adolescents with lupus nephritis and adults with membranous nephropathy, aiming to expand its application in immune-mediated diseases [5][6]. Mechanism of Action - Gazyva/Gazyvaro is a humanized monoclonal antibody designed for direct B cell death, enhancing antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) [6]. Study Details - The REGENCY study involved 271 participants and was designed to reflect the real-world population of lupus nephritis patients, reinforcing the robustness of the findings [8].