A closer look at Sjögren’s disease: How Johnson & Johnson is driving patient-informed research
This is a sponsored article written by Federico Zazetti, MD, MSc, Global Medical Affairs Lead, Director, Rheumatology, Johnson & Johnson
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A systemic approach to SjD
At Johnson & Johnson, we are currently exploring an investigational therapy for the treatment of SjD. This research is reflective of Johnson & Johnson’s ongoing commitment to better assess the pathophysiology of autoantibody-driven diseases and identify and target their underlying cause.
Prioritizing patient perspectives
Alongside scientific discovery, we also believe that progress requires listening, particularly in historically underserved disease areas like SjD. That’s why our development approach for investigational therapies is deeply informed by patient voices and lived experiences.
For example, a recent Phase 3 study, which enrolled adults with moderate to severe SjD, was carefully designed to assess both clinical and patient-reported outcome measures.
My colleagues and I worked closely with a steering committee comprised of SjD experts, key opinion leaders, patient advocacy group leaders, and patients to develop the criteria used to evaluate the study’s outcomes. This collaborative approach was essential to ensuring that real-world patient perspectives directly shaped the trial design – helping us measure what truly matters to those living with the disease.
As we learn more about the patient experience and disease pathology, we are able to better tailor our research approach. Click here to learn about the patient experience and underlying mechanisms of SjD.
[1] Beydon, M., et al. Epidemiology of Sjögren syndrome.
[2] Nat Rev Rheumatol 20, 158–169 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41584-023-01057-6
