Monoclonal Antibody Shows Promise in Cardiogenic Shock
Monoclonal Antibody Shows Promise in Cardiogenic Shock
Published: July 24, 2025 – Medscape
Key Notes:
1. New Treatment Tested
• A monoclonal antibody called procizumab was tested for the first time in humans with cardiogenic shock.
• The drug targets DPP3, an enzyme linked to high death rates in shock by disrupting heart and kidney function.
2. Case Report in Germany
• Three critically ill patients with septic and cardiogenic shock were treated under compassionate use.
• All had high DPP3 levels and failed standard treatments.
• After a single dose of procizumab, all 3 showed:
• Lower need for norepinephrine
• Better oxygen levels
• Drop in DPP3 activity and lactate
3. Outcomes
• Only one patient survived and was discharged to rehab.
• The other two died within two weeks from unrelated complications.
• Still, the treatment showed rapid improvements in hemodynamics.
4. Experts React
• Experts called the findings “impressive but early.”
• The treatment is still experimental and needs larger trials (Phase 2 and 3) to confirm safety and benefit.
5. What’s Next?
• A Phase 1b trial (PROCARD 1b) is underway, aiming to enroll 130 patients with cardiogenic shock and high DPP3.
• Researchers believe careful patient selection based on DPP3 levels will be key to success.
