Core Insights - AB Science's lead compound, masitinib, is highlighted as a potential breakthrough treatment for progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) due to its unique mechanism of action targeting mast cells and microglia [1][2][3] - Professor Patrick Vermersch, a prominent neurologist, emphasizes the significant role of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative disorders, including MS, and the importance of addressing the pro-inflammatory activity of mast and microglial cells [1][2] - Phase IIB/III trials of masitinib have shown promising results in reducing neuroinflammation and slowing disease progression, with further phase III data expected to clarify which patient groups may benefit most [3] Company Overview - AB Science, founded in 2001, specializes in the research, development, and commercialization of protein kinase inhibitors (PKIs) targeting diseases with high unmet medical needs [5][6] - The company is headquartered in Paris, France, and is listed on Euronext Paris under the ticker AB [6] - Masitinib has been registered for veterinary medicine and is being developed for human medicine in various fields, including oncology and neurological diseases [6]

Core Viewpoint - NKGen Biotech has initiated the administration of troculeucel, an autologous NK cell therapy, to a stroke patient under a compassionate use IND approved by the FDA, marking a significant step in exploring its therapeutic potential in post-stroke treatment [1][3]. Company Overview - NKGen Biotech is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing innovative autologous and allogeneic NK cell therapeutics, headquartered in Santa Ana, California [7]. Product Development - Troculeucel is a novel, patient-specific, ex vivo expanded autologous NK cell immunotherapeutic drug candidate, being developed for neurodegenerative disorders and various cancers. The WHO has assigned the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) "troculeucel" for SNK01, which is a significant milestone for the company [6]. Clinical Collaboration - NKGen is collaborating with Dr. Dimitri Sigounas and Dr. Amarendra K. Neppalli from George Washington University Medical Center to explore the potential of troculeucel in reducing chronic neuroinflammation and damage in stroke patients [3][5]. Clinical Assessment - The stroke patient receiving troculeucel will undergo regular independent assessments by Dr. Sigounas at GWU Medical Center to evaluate the treatment's effectiveness [4]. Research Insights - Neurofilament light chain (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) are identified as markers of brain injury, and previous trials have shown that troculeucel can cross the blood-brain barrier to reduce cerebrospinal fluid levels of these markers, indicating its potential to improve outcomes in stroke patients [5].