Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) is a rare disease where maternal antibodies (or alloantibodies), produced in a pregnant person’s immune system, cross the placenta and attack fetal red blood cells — causing fetal hemolysis, leading to anemia.
The severe form of HDFN, which is categorized as an ultra-rare disease, can lead to hydrops – a condition in which large amounts of fluid buildup in a fetus’ tissues and organs causing extensive swelling (edema) - and can even be life threatening.
According to the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, in the U.S., up to 80 out of every 100,000 pregnancies are affected by HDFN every year. These patients need effective, non-surgical options that have a demonstrated safety profile to help address the serious health consequences of HDFN.
Up to 80 out of every 100,000 pregnancies are affected by HDFN every year.”
J&J’s approach to hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN)
Despite advances in prenatal and neonatal care, people affected by an HDFN-pregnancy still experience a high treatment burden, and babies may still require medical intervention after birth.
Johnson & Johnson is pursuing clinical research of investigational treatments for pregnant adults at risk for severe HDFN that may change the course of HDFN in the future. This involves an understanding of the transplacental journey of maternal IgG alloantibodies during a pregnancy.
Johnson & Johnson is advancing a potential therapy to disrupt the transport of immunoglobin (IgG) alloantibodies in pregnant adults with HDFN potentially without broad immunosuppression of the pregnant person’s or developing fetus’ immune systems.
