The therapy’s effectiveness is being tested in a Phase 2 clinical trial
By Somi Igbene, PhD 
The experimental therapy MT-7117 reduces lung inflammation, skin fibrosis (scarring), and blood vessel impairment in a mouse model of systemic sclerosis (SSc), a study found.
“MT-7117 demonstrates disease-modifying effects in preclinical models of SSc,” the researchers wrote. “The results of the present study suggest that MT-7117 is a potential therapeutic agent for SSc.” The effectiveness and tolerability of MT-7117, developed by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, are currently being investigated in a Phase 2 clinical trial (NCT04440592). Recruitment is ongoing in the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
The study, “Dersimelagon, a novel oral melanocortin 1 receptor agonist, demonstrates disease-modifying effects in preclinical models of systemic sclerosis,” was published in Arthritis Research & Therapy.