CRISPR Therapeutics' Zugo-cel shows clinical response in 5 of 6 systemic sclerosis patients receiving standard lymphodepletion
CRSP•CRISPR Therapeutics reported clinical responses in 5 of 6 systemic sclerosis patients receiving standard lymphodepletion in a Phase 1 trial of zugo-cel. Across 21 patients as of October 15, 2026, the therapy was well tolerated, with no dose-limiting toxicities or deaths reported.
1. Systemic sclerosis results
Preliminary Phase 1 results for investigational CAR-T therapy zugo-cel showed clinical responses in 5 of 6 systemic sclerosis patients receiving standard lymphodepletion. All responders maintained improvement.
2. Other trial results
All nine inflammatory myopathy patients improved, and two of three evaluable lupus patients maintained drug-free remission through at least nine months. Across 21 patients as of October 15, 2026, zugo-cel was well tolerated, with no dose-limiting toxicities or deaths reported. Dose escalation remains ongoing across the rheumatology trial.
