"These results continue to validate the importance of phase 2 studies to identify the appropriate patient, dose and endpoint in order to optimize our phase 3 study design. Specifically, the PEARL-SC SRI response using larger improvements in SELENA-SLEDAI appear substantially better than the SRI-5 data. In fact, the SRI-8 data, representing an improvement in SELENA-SLEDAI of eight points or greater achieves statistical significance at multiple time points including at 24 weeks. Due to the consistently better effects at higher thresholds, it appears that if a blisibimod patient responds, they respond very well," said Colin Hislop, MD, Anthera's Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer. "As well, additional clinical data suggest positive trends in time to severe flare, flare rates, proteinuria, and steroid utilization."