Novartis announced successful outcomes from two phase 3 trials of ianalumab, a B-cell-depleting antibody targeting BAFF-R, in treating systemic autoimmune Sjögren's syndrome. The Neptunus 1 and 2 studies, enrolling 779 patients, demonstrated statistically significant improvements in disease activity according to the EULAR Sjögren's syndrome disease activity index at 52 weeks. The drug showed a favorable safety profile and represents the first global phase 3 success in this indication. Novartis plans regulatory submissions following data presentations at upcoming medical conferences.