Core Insights - Biogen and Stoke Therapeutics have initiated the global Phase 3 EMPEROR study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of zorevunersen for treating Dravet syndrome, a rare genetic disease with no currently approved disease-modifying treatments [1][2][10] Company Overview - Biogen is a leading biotechnology company founded in 1978, focused on innovative science to deliver new medicines and create value for shareholders [5] - Stoke Therapeutics specializes in RNA medicine, aiming to restore protein expression and is developing zorevunersen as a potential treatment for Dravet syndrome [7] Study Design and Objectives - The EMPEROR study is a double-blind, sham-controlled trial involving children aged 2 to 18 with a confirmed SCN1A gene variant, randomized to receive either zorevunersen or a sham for a 52-week treatment period [10] - The primary endpoint is the change in major motor seizure frequency at week 28, with key secondary endpoints including improvements in behavior and cognition measured by Vineland-3 subdomains at week 52 [5][10] Disease Background - Dravet syndrome is characterized by severe, recurrent seizures and significant cognitive and behavioral impairments, primarily caused by mutations in the SCN1A gene [8] - Over 90% of patients continue to experience seizures despite existing anti-seizure medications, highlighting the urgent need for effective treatments [8] Mechanism of Action - Zorevunersen is designed to increase NaV1.1 protein production in brain cells, potentially reducing seizure frequency and improving neurodevelopment, cognition, and behavior [9] - The drug has received orphan drug designation from the FDA and EMA, as well as rare pediatric disease and Breakthrough Therapy Designations for Dravet syndrome [9]