Dirucotide (MBP 8298) is a synthetic myelin basic protein (MBP) peptide designed to decrease type 2 helper T cells (TH2)-mediated B-cell signalling of auto-reactive T-cells thereby reducing the production of specific antibodies that target endogenous MBP. MBP is the dominant site of attack in patients with multiple sclerosis and haplotype (HLA) DR2 or DR4. Dirucotide did not meet the primary endpoint of delaying disease progression, as measured by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), during the two-year MAESTRO-01 Phase III trial in patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS). In addition, there were no statistically significant differences between dirucotide and placebo on the secondary endpoints of the study. After disappointing trial results, development of the drug was ended in 2009.