In July of 2009, Human Genome Sciences (HGS) and partner GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), makers of the alli diet drug, announced that their lupus drug candidate Benlysta was effective and safe in the later stages of a clinical trial, raising hopes for a genuine treatment for the disease.

“Benlysta could be the first true disease-modifying therapy for lupus patients,” said stock analyst Joseph P. Schwartz of Leerink Swann.

Benlysta is a human monoclonal antibody. It blocks the B-lymphocyte stimulator, a protein required for a type of white blood cell to age into plasma B cells, which produce antibodies. HGS made the amazing discovery of the B-lymphocyte stimulator in 1999. With the help of Cambridge Antibody Technology, now part of AstraZeneca, they developed a monoclonal antibody that stems the stimulator’s role in an overactive immune system.

When HGS came out with the news of the effectiveness of their drug, Sandra C. Raymond, CEO of the Lupus Foundation of America, called it a “historic day.” “These results provide hope that this complex chronic autoimmune disease can be brought under control and that, eventually, a cure can be found for the estimated 1.5 million Americans and more than 5 million people worldwide living with lupus,” she said in her official statement upon announcement of the trial results. On the same “historic day,” HGS’s stock price more than quadrupled.

GlaxoSmithKline is the second largest drug company in world, creating a wide range of products such as anti-infectives, and central nervous system, respiratory, gastro-intestinal/metabolic, and oncology drugs. The company is a leading manufacturer of vaccines. GlaxoSmithKline also manufactures oral healthcare products, nutritional drinks, and many over the counter medicines.

GlaxoSmithKline’s mission is improving the quality of life through innovative medicines and products that help people feel better and live longer. GlaxoSmithKline is a leading researcher in the fight against AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria, which are three top priorities for the World Health Organization (WHO). GlaxoSmithKline is also committed to distributing discounted medicines to areas where the need is greatest.

GlaxoSmithKline focuses on six major areas: asthma, virus control, infections, mental health, diabetes and digestive conditions. GlaxoSmithKline’s products include:

• Over-the-counter medicines Gaviscon and Panadol
• Dental products Aquafresh and MacLeans
• Smoking control products Nicorette/Niquitin
• Nutritional health care drinks Lucozade and Horlicks
• Weight control drug alli

• Heartburn expert gives extensive information on Gaviscon
• President Barack Obama uses Nicorette to quit smoking, credits wife Michelle with helping him quit
• Alli side effects are outlined by eMedTV.com
• Alli diet plan encompasses a community of people seeking to lose weight and adopt a healthy lifestyle