"These results demonstrate the significant role of IL-1 beta inhibition in preventing adverse cardiac remodeling in this animal model," said Antonio Abbate, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine at the VCU Pauley Heart Center at Virginia Commonwealth University, principal investigator for the study. "Today our group at VCU also presented the first clinical results demonstrating that anakinra, an approved IL-1 targeting agent, reduced adverse cardiac remodeling following acute cardiac events. If further studies of IL-1 targeting support these early results, patients may ultimately benefit from reduced post-heart attack complications and improved recovery."

"Despite many recent advances in prevention and treatment, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, demonstrating the ongoing need for new therapies," said Steven Engle, XOMA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "In addition to this study of the positive effects of IL-1 beta modulation on cardiac remodeling in this mouse model, other preclinical studies with XOMA 052 have demonstrated promising results in models of atherosclerosis and dyslipidemia. We are delighted that XOMA 052 continues to demonstrate positive results in both Type 2 diabetes and in cardiovascular diseases."