The FDA on Thursday approved the immunotherapy zopapogene imadenovec (Papzimeos) for adults with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP), a rare chronic disease driven by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

This first approved medical therapy for RRP generates an immune response against the causative HPV strains. It uses adenovirus vectors to stimulate the expression of a fusion antigen with selected regions of HPV 6 and 11 proteins, according to a statement by developer Precigen.

"This approval has the potential to transform the treatment landscape for RRP and offer lasting relief for patients who previously faced repeated surgeries to control symptoms of their disease," Vijay Kumar, MD, acting director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER)

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