Core Insights - The studies presented at the 62nd European Renal Association (ERA 2025) conference confirm the efficacy of Nefeccon (Budesonide delayed-release capsules) in protecting kidney function across various baseline eGFR levels and different pathological changes in patients with IgA nephropathy [2][3][5] Study Findings - The NefIgArd study sub-analysis demonstrated that Nefeccon significantly reduces baseline urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) regardless of the baseline eGFR level, showing protective effects on eGFR at all time points [3][6] - A second multicenter study focused on the treatment benefits for IgA nephropathy patients with different pathological manifestations, revealing that after 9 months of Nefeccon treatment, patients exhibited significant reductions in urine protein and stable eGFR, particularly in those with endothelial cell proliferation (E1) and/or crescent formation (C1) [4][10] Clinical Implications - Nefeccon is the first and only IgA nephropathy treatment approved in China, the US, and Europe that is not limited by proteinuria levels, supporting a "treat all" strategy for kidney protection in IgA nephropathy patients [2][5] - The findings provide strong evidence for early initiation of cause-targeted therapy upon diagnosis to protect kidney function and improve overall prognosis for all patients [3][10] Market Context - The prevalence of IgA nephropathy is significantly higher in Asia, with an estimated 5 million patients in China and over 100,000 new cases diagnosed annually, indicating a substantial unmet clinical need [4][5]

Core Viewpoint - The latest research presented at the ERA 2025 conference demonstrates that NefECON (budesonide delayed-release capsules) provides significant clinical benefits when used early in the treatment of IgA nephropathy, supporting a new management strategy focused on early and targeted treatment [1][2][3] Group 1: Research Findings - Eight oral presentations and one electronic poster were showcased, with two studies confirming the clinical benefits of early treatment with NefECON for IgA nephropathy [1] - A sub-analysis of the NefIgArd study indicated that budesonide significantly reduces proteinuria and protects kidney function across different diagnosis times, with more pronounced benefits in patients diagnosed within 0.6 years [2][3] - A prospective study showed that early use of budesonide not only reduces pathogenic IgA production but also may help control inflammatory responses, thereby slowing disease progression [2] Group 2: Clinical Implications - The findings emphasize the importance of early intervention in IgA nephropathy treatment, providing strong evidence for clinical practice [2] - The 2025 version of the "Clinical Practice Guidelines for Adult IgA Nephropathy and IgA Vasculitis" in China recommends budesonide as the first choice for reducing pathogenic IgA [2] - NefECON has been included in both the KDIGO and Chinese clinical practice guidelines, highlighting its significance as a treatment option [12] Group 3: Company Positioning - NefECON is the first and only drug for targeted treatment of IgA nephropathy approved in China, the US, and Europe, marking a shift in treatment standards [2][12] - The drug has shown the potential to delay kidney function decline by 66% in the Chinese population and extend the time to dialysis or kidney transplant by 12.8 years [13] - The company has secured full approval for NefECON in China, removing previous restrictions related to proteinuria levels [2]

Core Viewpoint - The release of the "Clinical Practice Guidelines for Adult IgA Nephropathy and IgA Vasculitis (Preliminary Version)" marks a significant advancement in the treatment of IgA nephropathy, with the inclusion of NEFECON as a recommended therapy for patients at risk of disease progression [1][2][3] Group 1: Guidelines and Recommendations - The guidelines emphasize the need for etiology-based treatment, early intervention, and comprehensive management strategies for IgA nephropathy patients in China [2] - For patients with proteinuria ≥0.5g/d, kidney biopsy and treatment initiation are recommended, aiming for proteinuria <0.5g/d and an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline of less than 1ml/min per year [2] - The guidelines introduce blood urine monitoring and suggest interventions targeting immune damage, including the use of NEFECON to reduce pathogenic IgA levels [2] Group 2: NEFECON's Clinical Significance - NEFECON is recognized as the only etiology-based treatment for IgA nephropathy, establishing its position as a first-line therapy in global kidney disease guidelines [3][4] - The NefIgArd study demonstrated that NEFECON significantly reduces the risk of kidney function decline, with a 50% reduction in eGFR decline compared to placebo, and up to 66% in the Chinese population [4] - NEFECON's approval by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) and its inclusion in the national medical insurance drug list further solidify its role in treating IgA nephropathy [4][5]

Core Viewpoint - NEFECON (Budesonide Delayed-Release Capsules) has been included in the "Clinical Practice Guidelines for Adult IgA Nephropathy and IgA Vasculitis (Preliminary Version)" in China, marking it as the only IgA nephropathy treatment recommended by both domestic and international guidelines, solidifying its position as a cornerstone therapy for IgA nephropathy patients [1][3]. Group 1: Treatment Guidelines - The guidelines recommend initiating treatment for patients with proteinuria ≥0.5 g/d and suggest kidney biopsy, with treatment goals aimed at reducing proteinuria to <0.5 g/d and maintaining an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline of <1 ml/min annually [2]. - New monitoring for hematuria has been introduced, and interventions targeting immune damage, including reducing pathogenic IgA, are emphasized [2]. - The guidelines advocate for early, cause-targeted, and comprehensive treatment strategies for IgA nephropathy patients, with NEFECON as the preferred treatment option [2][3]. Group 2: Clinical Significance - The inclusion of NEFECON in the guidelines is seen as a significant advancement for clinical practice in China, providing a scientifically backed treatment option for IgA nephropathy patients [3]. - NEFECON is the first and only IgA nephropathy treatment fully approved in China, the US, and Europe, demonstrating significant clinical advantages such as delaying eGFR decline and reducing proteinuria [3][5]. - The NefIgArd Phase III clinical trial showed that NEFECON significantly reduced the risk of kidney function decline by 50% compared to placebo, with a 66% reduction in the Chinese population, potentially delaying the need for dialysis or kidney transplant by 12.8 years [5].