The FDA decision on Eiger BioPharmaceuticals Inc.’s (EIGR) Zokinvy, proposed for the treatment of Progeria and Progeroid Laminopathies, is slated for November 20, 2020.Progeria, also known as Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS), is an ultra-rare and fatal genetic condition of accelerated aging in children. Progeria is caused by a mutation in the lamin A (LMNA) gene, yielding the farnesylated aberrant protein, progerin.It is estimated that 400 children worldwide have Progeria. Currently, there are no treatments for Progeria. Progeroid Laminopathies are genetic conditions of accelerated aging caused by a constellation of mutations in the lamin A and/or Zmpste24 genes yielding farnesylated proteins that are distinct from progerin. The worldwide prevalence of Progeroid Laminopathies is similar to Progerin.Zokinvy, known generically as Lonafarnib, works by inhibiting farnesyltransferase, an enzyme that stimulates the development of progerin.In clinical trials, Zokinvy demonstrated a survival benefit and reduced the risk of mortality by 77% compared to no treatment.If approved, Zokinvy would be the first FDA approved therapy for the treatment of progeria and progeroid laminopathies.EIGR closed Friday’s (Oct.23, 2020) trading at $10.09, up 1.31%.