A pivotal study of the rheumatoid arthritis (RA) candidate sirukumab in patients whose needs aren’t met by standard RA therapies has shown that a year of treatment with the anti-interleukin (IL)-6 antibody improved the signs and symptoms of moderate to severe RA. The results help lay further groundwork for an anticipated FDA approval and launch of the medicine later this year. Janssen-Cilag International NV and its partner, Glaxosmithkline plc, initiated the phase III program for sirukumab in August 2012. The candidate’s lineage dates back to Janssen precursor Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. (See BioWorld Today, Aug. 24, 2012.)