This proposal rests upon the hypothesis that mycobacterial induction of CD4+ T cell energy leads to loss of sarcoidosis pulmonary function. Use of antimycobacterial therapy normalizes expression of key mediators of CD4+ T cell function, such as p56Lck, leading to increased IL-2 and IFN? production, and restoration of lung function. The transformative nature of this proposal is that it allows us to translate molecular mechanisms identified at the bench to immune function within the host, and ultimately to a clinical endpoint associated with sarcoidosis mortality, absolute FVC. Phase I analysis of the eight subjects completing the CLEAR regimen revealed an increase in the absolute FVC of 0.42 liters, reflecting a mean increase in absolute FVC of 16% from baseline. The observed pulmonary improvement was accompanied by an increase in functional capacity and perception of dyspnea that exceeds current sarcoidosis therapeutic options, such as steroids and infliximab. These encouraging efficacy data has led us propose a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II investigation of the effects of CLEAR regimen on subjects with chronic, active pulmonary sarcoidosis. Subjects will be required to have systemic responses to ESAT-6 for study entry. The primary endpoint will be change in absolute FVC. Secondary endpoints will include investigation of steroid-sparing effects of CLEAR regimen, assessments of 6MWD, SGRQ, chest tomography (CT) radiographic changes and effects on T cell biologic function through the induction of IL-2 pathway in sarcoidosis BAL and PBMC. In addition, we will use reporter mycophages to characterize viable mycobacteria within sarcoidosis BAL. The safety profile will be assessed through detection of adverse events and abnormal lab values. The 1o and 2o endpoints will be obtained over a six month interval, laying the foundation for a definitive Phase 3 investigation.

Public Health Relevance

Sarcoidosis is a granulomatous disease of unknown etiology, whose association with mycobacteria continues to strengthen. Phase I analysis of antimycobacterial therapy reveals improvement in forced vital capacity, six minute walk distance, and quality of life assessments among sarcoidosis subjects who complete this regimen. This Phase II proposal involves testing a larger cohort of patients, as well as defining the immunologic basis for the improvement. (End of Abstract)

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
3R01HL117074-01S1
Application #
8830542
Study Section
Clinical Trials Review Committee (CLTR)
Program Officer
Eu, Jerry Pc
Project Start
2014-06-01
Project End
2016-05-31
Budget Start
2014-06-01
Budget End
2014-06-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2014
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Department
Internal Medicine/Medicine
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
City
Nashville
State
TN
Country
United States
Zip Code
37212
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