Dermatologists have compared the current market for vitiligo to that of psoriasis 30 years ago, which grew from one with a dearth of therapies to one worth about $8bn.

A better understanding of heme trafficking could lead to drug targets in metabolic diseases, anemias, porphyrias, hemolytic diseases such as sickle cell disease – even parasitic infections.

Almost 50 novel agents are already under review at FDA for potential 2020 approval. Candidates are notably diverse, with concentrations in established strongholds (oncology, neuroscience), popular programs (breakthrough), and powerhouse sponsors (keep an eye on Bristol-Myers Squibb right out of the gate).

Genentech reports that Rituxan yields better results over 52 weeks in pemphigus patients than off-label use of CellCept. Principia, meanwhile, unveils positive Phase II data for its pemphigus candidate.