New MS Treatment Shows Promise in Clinical Trials
Trial data for fenebrutinib suggests potential new options for adults with relapsing multiple sclerosis.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Stroke
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Genentech has shared new clinical trial results for its investigational drug fenebrutinib, which showed progress in managing multiple sclerosis. At nearly two years, three-quarters of treated patients demonstrated no evidence of disease activity.
Why it matters
Managing multiple sclerosis requires addressing both active relapses and ongoing neuroinflammation. This new data suggests a potential shift in how clinicians might target chronic disease progression in patients with relapsing forms of the condition.
In a Phase III trial, fenebrutinib reduced the volume of slowly expanding lesions by 30% and paramagnetic rim lesions by 62% in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis. The treatment also slowed annual brain volume loss by 23% compared to the control group.
The players
Genentech
A biotechnology company focused on research, development, and manufacturing of medicines for serious diseases including multiple sclerosis.
The details
Fenebrutinib is a reversible, non-covalent Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor designed to cross the blood-brain barrier. By targeting both B cells and microglia, the medication aims to curb both the acute inflammation that drives relapses and the chronic neuroinflammation associated with long-term disability progression. The company also reported trial data for Ocrevus, a monoclonal antibody that targets CD20-positive B cells.
Timeline
October 21-23, 2026: Results were presented at the MSToronto2026 meeting in Toronto.
January 2027: An FDA decision is expected regarding the use of Enspryng for MOGAD.
Health Landscape
The development of fenebrutinib represents a focused effort to improve upon the current standard of care for multiple sclerosis by addressing chronic neuroinflammation. It sits among a wave of emerging therapies aiming to limit disability progression beyond what traditional B-cell depletion has achieved.
Patients currently managing multiple sclerosis should discuss these trial developments with their neurologist to understand how evolving research might influence future treatment options. It is important to note that these results are from a controlled trial setting and specific care decisions should be made with a physician.
The takeaway
Ongoing research into BTK inhibitors may offer new pathways for slowing brain volume loss and lesion progression in multiple sclerosis. Patients should maintain regular checkups with their care team to stay updated on emerging therapies that may align with their specific disease profile.
Further reading
For more information on managing neurological conditions, visit the Stroke section.
More information
For additional corporate and research details, visit the Genentech company information website.
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