Skip to main content

Need Immediate Care?

Find Urgent Care Locations

Discover Renown Health’s First Rheumatology Study

By:
  • Kristen Gurnea
January 27, 2025
A researcher works on clinical research study findings in the lab.

Renown Health is excited to announce participation in our first rheumatology clinical trial, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing medical research and improving patient care. The study, led by rheumatologist and site-level Principal Investigator Dr. Kennedy Ukadike, focuses on evaluating the safety and efficacy of the experimental drug litifilimab in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

About the Study

This groundbreaking study is titled "A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 3 Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Litifilimab (BIIB059) in Adult Participants With Active Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Receiving Background Nonbiologic Lupus Standard of Care." The study will focus on participants who have the disease and are already taking standard medications. The main goal of the study is to learn about the effect litifilimab has on lowering the activity of the disease. Participants will be randomized to receive either a high or low dose of the drug, or a placebo, with the treatment period lasting 52 weeks and a follow-up safety period of up to 24 weeks.

Physician and Leadership Perspectives

Dr. Kennedy Ukadike shared his enthusiasm for the study: “This clinical trial represents a pivotal step in our efforts to better understand and treat systemic lupus erythematosus. We are hopeful that the findings will lead to more effective therapies and improved quality of life for our patients.

“Launching our first rheumatology study is a testament to Renown’s dedication to pioneering research and delivering cutting-edge treatments to our community. This initiative not only enhances our research capabilities but also brings hope to patients and families affected by SLE,” said Kristen Gurnea, the Director of Clinical Research at Renown Health.

Clinical Trials & Research

The Clinical Research team connects patients to promising new treatments through safe, compassionate clinical trials.
See If You Qualify
A provider high-fives her patient

Learn More or Get Involved

Renown Health invites patients who are interested in joining this important study or learning about other clinical trial opportunities available to you to contact the Renown Office of Clinical Research (OCR) at Renown-CRD@renown.org or 775-982-3646.

To contribute to Renown’s research initiatives, visit this link and select Renown Clinical Research.

Related Blogs

View All Blogs
Foundation team members and speakers pose for photo

Elevate Your Philanthropy: Charitable Giving Strategies and the New Tax Law

As northern Nevada’s only not-for-profit academic health system, Renown relies on the generosity of donors to save lives, nurture minds and provide exceptional care for all people. Because of the essential role of philanthropy at Renown Health, Renown Health Foundation offers many opportunities to learn more about estate and charitable gift planning.

Related Events

View All Classes & Events
ER Wait Times

How are wait times calculated?

Our estimated ER wait times reflect the average time from check-in to being seen by a medical professional during triage, where patients are prioritized based on the severity of their condition.