Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD) Clinical Trial Program

Dr. Kathleen Hawker, M.D., Group Medical Director, Neuroscience at Genentech discusses the recent FDA approval of Enspryng™ (satralizumab-mwge) and the findings from the clinical trial program for the treatment of adults living with anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody-positive NMOSD, a rare disabling neurological disorder often misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis. She explains the unique mechanism of action of IL-6 receptor activity (which is believed to be a clinical hallmark of NMOSD) and the novel recycling technology which allows for subcutaneous dosing every four weeks. 

Dr. Hawker has been part of the medical affairs teams for many pharmaceutical companies throughout her career, most recently at Genentech, focusing primarily on Neurology. In her role at Genentech, she contributes to the Neuroscience team to develop new research to further understand the pathogenesis and treatment of neuroimmunological diseases. Prior to working at Genentech, Dr. Hawker was a consultant for biotechnological companies, VP at EMD Serono, Senior Medical Director at Novartis and Eli Lilly.  Prior to her work in the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Hawker was an Associate Professor of Neurology, Director at The Ohio State University and Assistant Professor at University of Texas, Southwestern Medical Center and a practicing neurologist with a focus on neuroimmunological diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).  Dr. Hawker is passionate about finding new treatments for patients and skilled in clinical research, life science, strategic planning, neuroimmunology and autoimmune diseases.