Industry Symposium 36

Session Title: Emerging Therapies in IgA Nephropathy: Innovations in B-Cell Modulation and Dual BAFF/APRIL Inhibition
Organized by: Vera Therapeutics

Session Description:
IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide and a leading cause of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. Despite advances in supportive care, many patients remain at high risk for progressive renal decline. Recent research has identified the B-cell activating cytokines BAFF and APRIL as central drivers of IgAN pathogenesis, leading to the development of novel targeted therapies.
This symposium will provide a comprehensive overview of the unmet clinical needs in IgAN, the evolving understanding of disease mechanisms, and the latest advances in therapeutic strategies. International experts will discuss the role of BAFF and APRIL in B-cell biology and IgAN, review clinical trial data for emerging therapies—including dual BAFF/APRIL inhibition with atacicept—and explore the implications for patient care.
Attendees will gain insights into the pathophysiology of IgAN, the rationale for targeting B-cell pathways, and the clinical evidence supporting new treatment paradigms. The session will conclude with a panel discussion, offering practical perspectives on integrating these advances into clinical practice and future research directions.

Learning Objectives:
· Describe the epidemiology, clinical burden, and unmet needs in IgA nephropathy.
· Explain the roles of BAFF and APRIL in the pathogenesis of IgAN and their significance as therapeutic targets.
· Summarize the latest clinical evidence for dual BAFF/APRIL inhibition (e.g., atacicept) and other emerging therapies in IgAN.
· Discuss practical considerations for integrating novel therapies into patient management and clinical practice guidelines.