Human-derived cell lines in vitro; in vivo studies in cynomolgus monkeys only
“Because ocrelizumab binds only to human and non-human primate CD20, in vitro studies were conducted using human-derived cell lines and in vivo studies were conducted in cynomolgus monkey.”
✓ VerifiedFDA pharmacology/toxicology review, p. 30Source ↗
Why that model
Ocrelizumab binds human and nonhuman primate CD20 but not rodent CD20
“Ocrelizumab specifically binds CD20 in humans and nonhuman primates. It does not bind CD20 in rodents. Therefore, cynomolgus monkey was selected as the relevant species for nonclinical investigation.”
✓ VerifiedFDA pharmacology/toxicology review, p. 23Source ↗
Reviewer's view of the efficacy data
EMA: nonclinical PD studies support mode of action as a reversible B-cell depleting antibody
“The non-clinical studies presented by the Applicant to demonstrate the pharmacodynamic properties of ocrelizumab support its mode of action as a reversible B-cell depleting molecule.”