![](\"https://cdn.healthbook.network/pim/2024/11/7be01277-a9de-48bb-9f44-fe1a1d439502.jpeg\")
![](\"https://cdn.healthbook.network/pim/2025/9/059d1b50-cfaf-4d7a-9bec-3a04e4616418.jpg\")
The healthbook Award on CAR T, Bispecifics and Targeted Therapies which is supported by Gilead Kite, BeOne, and Bristol Myers Squibb is now drawing to a close. The submission period has officially ended, 16 articles were submitted all together and are considered for the award.
We extend our sincere thanks to all authors and experts who contributed their outstanding work in CAR T, bispecific, and targeted therapies for lymphoma, myeloma, and leukemia. Every entry has been evaluated by our esteemed Scientific Steering Committee of hemato-oncology specialists, to whom we also express our deep gratitude for their dedication and expertise.
The three winners will be announced at the 16th Swiss Summit on Hemato-Oncology (SSHO) on September 4, 2025 in Bellinzona – this year’s Main Center – and streamed live to 10 Satellite Centers and the participants across Switzerland. The SSHO connects all centers via video conference, enabling real-time discussions as leading experts present the latest ground-breaking studies in hemato-oncology.
If you have not yet registered, secure your place now and be part of this inspiring scientific gathering.
We look forward to welcome you at the SSHO.
\n
\n
\nThis submission is currently undergoing evaluation and peer review.
\n
Click here to access the manuscript >>>
\n\n\n
\nThis submission is currently undergoing evaluation and peer review.
\n
Click here to access the manuscript >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nThe phase II L-MIND study demonstrated that treatment with tafasitamab in combination with lenalidomide yielded high complete response rates in patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Patients with primary refractory DLBCL relapsing within three months of frontline therapy (later amended to six months) and double-hit lymphoma were excluded. In this case report, we present the clinical course of an 85-year-old woman with primary refractory, double-hit DLBCL who was successfully treated with tafasitamab plus lenalidomide following disease progression on the R-mini-CHOP regimen.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nDespite significant recent advances in treatment with small molecules, inhibitors, antibodies and immunotherapy, multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable malignancy characterized by high rates of relapse. Alkylating agents, a cornerstone of MM treatment, function by inducing DNA cross-linking, disrupting the cell cycle and promoting apoptosis. Melflufen, a novel peptide-drug conjugate, exploits the elevated aminopeptidase activity in MM cells to deliver the melphalan “warhead” intracellularly, thus enhancing efficacy and reducing systemic toxicity by sparing non-malignant tissue. Clinical trials have demonstrated the promising therapeutic potential of melflufen, with combination regimens enhancing response rates and clinical benefit compared with standard therapies including absence of alopecia, decreased mucositis and reduced rates on infection. Ongoing research is focused on optimizing the use of melflufen in personalized and combination as part of treatment strategies in relapsed refractory disease, underscoring its potential to address critical gaps in the current management of MM. This review explores therapeutic strategies for MM, with a particular emphasis on the evolving role of alkylating agents and the emerging role of melflufen, including its mechanisms of action, preclinical efficacy and outcomes from clinical trials.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nThis mini review explores the evolution of FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) inhibitor therapy and the current treatment landscape for FLT3-mutated acute myeloid leukemia (AML), summarizing insights from the 66th Annual ASH Meeting and Exposition 2024. It highlights the transition from first-generation therapies such as midostaurin to second-generation agents such as gilteritinib, crenolanib and quizartinib. Midostaurin, the first FLT3-targeting therapy approved for newly diagnosed FLT3-mutated AML, laid the foundation for FLT3 inhibition by demonstrating survival benefits when combined with chemotherapy. Gilteritinib has emerged as a standard for relapsed/refractory (R/R) AML, crenolanib shows efficacy in post-transplant maintenance and quizartinib demonstrates promise in reducing frontline relapse risk. These advancements are transforming FLT3-mutated AML into a more manageable disease while emphasizing the need for ongoing innovation to tackle relapse and resistance.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nMultiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy that accounts for 1% of all cancers. It is characterized by the accumulation of clonal plasma cells within the bone marrow, which can lead to the disruption of normal hematopoiesis and abnormal production of immunoglobulins. Although significant therapeutic advancements have been made with the introduction of immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), immunoconjugates, bispecific antibodies and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, MM remains an incurable disease marked by repeated episodes of remission and relapse. This review article discusses recent data on some emerging treatments for MM, including CD38-targeting mAbs daratumumab and isatuximab, bispecific antibody cevostamab and antibody-drug conjugate belantamab mafodotin, presented at the European Hematology Association (EHA) Hybrid Congress 2024 and the 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition, including updates from the IMROZ, BENEFIT, GMMG-HD7, CASSIOPEIA, PERSEUS, DREAMM-7, DREAMM-8 and CAMMA 2 clinical trials.\n
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nThe 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition was held on December 7–10, 2024, in San Diego, California. This review article provides highlights of the meeting, focusing on studies with significant clinical implications that have the potential to influence treatment paradigms and improve patient outcomes in lymphoproliferative disorders. These include the AMPLIFY trial investigating fixed-duration venetoclax plus acalabrutinib in treatment-naïve chronic lymphocytic leukemia; the TRIANGLE trial that evaluated ibrutinib-based therapies in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL); the ENRICH study that established ibrutinib plus rituximab as a superior frontline regimen for older MCL patients; the GHSG HD21 study, which validated positron emission tomography (PET)-guided BrECADD in older patients with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma; and the inMIND trial investigating the combination of tafasitamab with rituximab and lenalidomide in relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma.\n
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nSmoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) is a precursor to symptomatic multiple myeloma (MM), characterized by its asymptomatic yet progressive nature and significant risk of progression. The management of SMM has evolved considerably in recent years with the introduction of targeted therapies. While the traditional \"watch and waitˮ strategy remains the standard approach for low-risk cases, early treatment for high-risk SMM has become increasingly favored, backed by clinical trials highlighting its ability to delay the progression to MM and reduce related complications. The AQUILA trial, a phase III multicenter study, evaluated subcutaneous daratumumab as a monotherapy for high-risk SMM compared to active monitoring. With 390 participants, the trial demonstrated a significant reduction in the progression to MM or death, with a 51% risk reduction and favorable safety results. By validating daratumumab monotherapy as an effective and safe early intervention for high-risk SMM, the AQUILA trial underscores a pivotal shift in disease management. These findings complement existing evidence from trials, such as QUIREDEX and E3A06, emphasizing the value of proactive treatment strategies. AQUILA also highlights the need for continued research into dynamic risk stratification, biomarker-driven approaches, and innovative therapies, paving the way for precision medicine in SMM care.\n
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nChimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is an innovative technology that has fundamentally changed approaches to treating certain forms of oncological diseases. The anticipated development of CAR T cell-based therapies in the near future is expected to broaden the range of therapeutic targets and holds the potential to decrease treatment costs, thereby expanding accessibility for a broader patient population. This review article provides an overview of the practical applications of CAR T-cell therapy in clinical settings, describes the global market for commercial CAR T-cell products and offers insights into the future landscape of CAR T-cell therapy. We focus on emerging therapies, novel targets and strategic approaches to improve treatment efficacy and reduce costs. Furthermore, we discuss the progress of CAR T-cell therapy in Russia, where this type of therapy is in the early stages of development but already demonstrates promising potential.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nMantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and often aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that predominantly affects older adults and presents significant treatment challenges due to its clinical complexity and poor prognosis. Current frontline chemoimmunotherapy approaches frequently fail to provide long-term disease control. However, incorporating acalabrutinib, a second-generation Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor, into standard chemoimmunotherapy regimens shows promise in reducing disease progression and improving outcomes in older and unfit MCL patients.
\nThe ECHO study evaluates the efficacy of acalabrutinib in combination with bendamustine plus rituximab (BR) in older MCL patients, aiming to provide a more effective and better-tolerated treatment option. Primary results demonstrate a significant improvement in progression-free survival and increased response rates with the acalabrutinib plus BR regimen compared with BR alone. While overall survival data are still maturing, early data show a modest trend favoring the acalabrutinib combination, indicating potential long-term benefits for this patient population.
\nPromising findings from the ECHO trial suggest that integrating acalabrutinib with standard therapy could set a new standard for frontline treatment in older/unfit MCL patients. This approach offers hope for improved outcomes and reduced toxicity, thereby addressing the unmet needs of this vulnerable population. Further research and exploration of this treatment paradigm hold promise for advancing the care and prognosis of patients with MCL.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nBruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) plays a vital role in B-cell functions, including differentiation, proliferation and survival, and has emerged as a critical therapeutic target of several generations of kinase inhibitors. Approved covalent BTK inhibitors such as ibrutinib, acalabrutinib and zanubrutinib have demonstrated remarkable antitumor activity, resulting in regulatory approvals for treating various hematological malignancies. However, these drugs are associated with off-target toxicities and the development of resistance. To address these challenges, newer noncovalent BTK inhibitors, such as pirtobrutinib, have been developed. Pirtobrutinib has shown promising efficacy in many B-cell malignancies, including mantle cell lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Waldenström macroglobulinemia and marginal zone lymphoma. This article summarizes recent updates from clinical studies evaluating pirtobrutinib in patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nOver the past two decades, significant progress has been made in the management of multiple myeloma (MM), leading to the development of novel therapeutic approaches and treatment regimens to improve patient outcomes. In patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM), the introduction of anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies daratumumab and isatuximab has significantly extended patient survival while maintaining a manageable toxicity profile and building upon the success of highly active triplet combinations incorporating immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors and dexamethasone. Treatment strategies based on the assessment of minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity, a strong prognostic marker for durable responses, allow for improved decision making in MM management. Active ongoing research aims to assess how novel therapies may improve outcomes in both frontline and maintenance settings. This review article discusses recent advances in NDMM therapy, with a focus on quadruplet versus triplet anti-CD38 mAb-based regimens and MRD-driven approaches, as well as emerging alternative therapeutic strategies, including transplant-sparing approaches to meaningfully improve patient outcome. Ongoing trials are also outlined, including the data presented at the 65th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting & Exposition, the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, the 2024 European Hematology Association (EHA) Congress and the 21st International Myeloma Society (IMS) Annual Meeting 2024.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nChimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has proven to be an effective treatment option for various hematological malignancies. Despite the enormous potential of CAR T-cell therapy, there are still challenges to be addressed, including the management of significant toxicities associated with the treatment. The most frequent adverse events associated with CAR T-cell infusion are cytokine release syndrome (CRS), a systemic inflammatory response triggered by rapid CAR T-cell activation and expansion, and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) caused by peripheral immune overactivation, blood–brain barrier dysfunction, and central nervous system (CNS) inflammation. We recently reported on a spectrum of rare side effects of CAR T cells, specifically, toxicities caused by cellular infiltrations and local inflammation in critical sites and damage to neuronal structures or functions. This review article focuses on the less common toxicities of CAR T-cell products, including those related to cardiovascular and hematological complications, as well as other rare side effects. Efforts to understand the underlying mechanisms driving these toxicities and develop strategies to predict, prevent and manage them are crucial for optimizing the safety and efficacy of CAR T-cell therapy in clinical practice.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nIn recent years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies have revolutionized hemato-oncology. They have greatly improved outcomes of patients with B-cell malignancies and, with some challenges still existing, their potential continues to be explored in novel modalities and indications. The sixth European CAR T-cell Meeting convened in Valencia, Spain, drawing over 1,200 international experts, researchers and clinicians, underscored the expanding impact and future potential of this transformative treatment modality. Discussions focused on overcoming the challenges related to resistance and optimizing design and manufacturing. Furthermore, they highlighted the pivotal role of CAR T-cell therapy in hematologic malignancies, exploring key themes such as its efficacy in multiple myeloma and novel approaches to treat acute leukemia, alongside their potential in new frontiers, such as solid tumors and autoimmunity.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nMultiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematological malignancy of the plasma cells. Most patients with MM are older than 65 years. Therefore, it is highly important to perform a frailty assessment to identify which patients are especially vulnerable and at risk of complications. Frailty assessment also allows referral to several specialists (physical therapy, nutrition, neuropsychologist) and can eventually improve patient’s tolerance to therapy. It is especially important to offer elderly patients the best MM drugs upfront, as most of them will receive only one line of therapy. However, risk-adapted therapy dosing is recommended at diagnosis in order to reduce toxicities and early deaths. Since a large proportion of older adults seen in clinical practice would not have been included in most clinical trials, more studies focusing on frail and very frail patients with MM are needed. This article provides an overview of methodologies for frailty evaluation, discusses existing therapeutic modalities and offers insights into current treatment perspectives for older patients with newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory MM.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nChimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for various types of cancers. Although it has shown remarkable effectiveness, this therapy is also associated with significant toxicity, which can limit its use. The most common adverse events associated with CAR T-cell infusion include cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). This review focuses on the less common toxicities of CAR T-cell products, including those related to cellular infiltration and inflammation in critical locations, toxicities affecting neuronal structures or functions and other rare side effects observed in clinical practice.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n
Prof. Dr Caroline Arber‑Barth
Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV)
Dr Federico Simonetta
Geneva University Hospital (HUG)
Prof. Dr Dr Dominik Schneidawind
University Hospital Zurich (USZ)
Erik Aerts
University Hospital Zurich (USZ)
Prof. Dr Andreas Holbro
University Hospital Basel (USB)
Provided by
\n![](\"https://cdn.healthbook.network/public/24973e78-5a3f-4a55-a519-3ebd4d0a4733.png\")
\n
Supported by
Platinum Sponsor:
![](\"https://cdn.healthbook.network/pim/2024/10/fe1b806e-4e9a-4d44-b7b4-d3827695c9a7.png\")
Gold Sponsors:
\n![](\"https://cdn.healthbook.network/pim/2025/6/38cb58ed-0535-48ee-acce-c9ea121a25e4.png\")
![](\"https://cdn.healthbook.network/pim/2024/5/48af9f7a-4eef-4e40-acbd-0b1462da680d.jpg\")
Prof. Dr Caroline Arber‑Barth
Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV)
Dr Federico Simonetta
Geneva University Hospital (HUG)
Prof. Dr Dr Dominik Schneidawind
University Hospital Zurich (USZ)
Erik Aerts
University Hospital Zurich (USZ)
Prof. Dr Andreas Holbro
University Hospital Basel (USB)
Provided by
\n\n
Supported by
Platinum Sponsor:
Gold Sponsors:
\nThe healthbook Award on CAR T, Bispecifics and Targeted Therapies which is supported by Gilead Kite, BeOne, and Bristol Myers Squibb is now drawing to a close. The submission period has officially ended, 16 articles were submitted all together and are considered for the award.
We extend our sincere thanks to all authors and experts who contributed their outstanding work in CAR T, bispecific, and targeted therapies for lymphoma, myeloma, and leukemia. Every entry has been evaluated by our esteemed Scientific Steering Committee of hemato-oncology specialists, to whom we also express our deep gratitude for their dedication and expertise.
The three winners will be announced at the 16th Swiss Summit on Hemato-Oncology (SSHO) on September 4, 2025 in Bellinzona – this year’s Main Center – and streamed live to 10 Satellite Centers and the participants across Switzerland. The SSHO connects all centers via video conference, enabling real-time discussions as leading experts present the latest ground-breaking studies in hemato-oncology.
If you have not yet registered, secure your place now and be part of this inspiring scientific gathering.
We look forward to welcome you at the SSHO.
\n
\n
\nThis submission is currently undergoing evaluation and peer review.
\n
Click here to access the manuscript >>>
\n\n\n
\nThis submission is currently undergoing evaluation and peer review.
\n
Click here to access the manuscript >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nThe phase II L-MIND study demonstrated that treatment with tafasitamab in combination with lenalidomide yielded high complete response rates in patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Patients with primary refractory DLBCL relapsing within three months of frontline therapy (later amended to six months) and double-hit lymphoma were excluded. In this case report, we present the clinical course of an 85-year-old woman with primary refractory, double-hit DLBCL who was successfully treated with tafasitamab plus lenalidomide following disease progression on the R-mini-CHOP regimen.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nDespite significant recent advances in treatment with small molecules, inhibitors, antibodies and immunotherapy, multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable malignancy characterized by high rates of relapse. Alkylating agents, a cornerstone of MM treatment, function by inducing DNA cross-linking, disrupting the cell cycle and promoting apoptosis. Melflufen, a novel peptide-drug conjugate, exploits the elevated aminopeptidase activity in MM cells to deliver the melphalan “warhead” intracellularly, thus enhancing efficacy and reducing systemic toxicity by sparing non-malignant tissue. Clinical trials have demonstrated the promising therapeutic potential of melflufen, with combination regimens enhancing response rates and clinical benefit compared with standard therapies including absence of alopecia, decreased mucositis and reduced rates on infection. Ongoing research is focused on optimizing the use of melflufen in personalized and combination as part of treatment strategies in relapsed refractory disease, underscoring its potential to address critical gaps in the current management of MM. This review explores therapeutic strategies for MM, with a particular emphasis on the evolving role of alkylating agents and the emerging role of melflufen, including its mechanisms of action, preclinical efficacy and outcomes from clinical trials.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nThis mini review explores the evolution of FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) inhibitor therapy and the current treatment landscape for FLT3-mutated acute myeloid leukemia (AML), summarizing insights from the 66th Annual ASH Meeting and Exposition 2024. It highlights the transition from first-generation therapies such as midostaurin to second-generation agents such as gilteritinib, crenolanib and quizartinib. Midostaurin, the first FLT3-targeting therapy approved for newly diagnosed FLT3-mutated AML, laid the foundation for FLT3 inhibition by demonstrating survival benefits when combined with chemotherapy. Gilteritinib has emerged as a standard for relapsed/refractory (R/R) AML, crenolanib shows efficacy in post-transplant maintenance and quizartinib demonstrates promise in reducing frontline relapse risk. These advancements are transforming FLT3-mutated AML into a more manageable disease while emphasizing the need for ongoing innovation to tackle relapse and resistance.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nMultiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy that accounts for 1% of all cancers. It is characterized by the accumulation of clonal plasma cells within the bone marrow, which can lead to the disruption of normal hematopoiesis and abnormal production of immunoglobulins. Although significant therapeutic advancements have been made with the introduction of immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), immunoconjugates, bispecific antibodies and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, MM remains an incurable disease marked by repeated episodes of remission and relapse. This review article discusses recent data on some emerging treatments for MM, including CD38-targeting mAbs daratumumab and isatuximab, bispecific antibody cevostamab and antibody-drug conjugate belantamab mafodotin, presented at the European Hematology Association (EHA) Hybrid Congress 2024 and the 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition, including updates from the IMROZ, BENEFIT, GMMG-HD7, CASSIOPEIA, PERSEUS, DREAMM-7, DREAMM-8 and CAMMA 2 clinical trials.\n
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nThe 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition was held on December 7–10, 2024, in San Diego, California. This review article provides highlights of the meeting, focusing on studies with significant clinical implications that have the potential to influence treatment paradigms and improve patient outcomes in lymphoproliferative disorders. These include the AMPLIFY trial investigating fixed-duration venetoclax plus acalabrutinib in treatment-naïve chronic lymphocytic leukemia; the TRIANGLE trial that evaluated ibrutinib-based therapies in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL); the ENRICH study that established ibrutinib plus rituximab as a superior frontline regimen for older MCL patients; the GHSG HD21 study, which validated positron emission tomography (PET)-guided BrECADD in older patients with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma; and the inMIND trial investigating the combination of tafasitamab with rituximab and lenalidomide in relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma.\n
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nSmoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) is a precursor to symptomatic multiple myeloma (MM), characterized by its asymptomatic yet progressive nature and significant risk of progression. The management of SMM has evolved considerably in recent years with the introduction of targeted therapies. While the traditional \"watch and waitˮ strategy remains the standard approach for low-risk cases, early treatment for high-risk SMM has become increasingly favored, backed by clinical trials highlighting its ability to delay the progression to MM and reduce related complications. The AQUILA trial, a phase III multicenter study, evaluated subcutaneous daratumumab as a monotherapy for high-risk SMM compared to active monitoring. With 390 participants, the trial demonstrated a significant reduction in the progression to MM or death, with a 51% risk reduction and favorable safety results. By validating daratumumab monotherapy as an effective and safe early intervention for high-risk SMM, the AQUILA trial underscores a pivotal shift in disease management. These findings complement existing evidence from trials, such as QUIREDEX and E3A06, emphasizing the value of proactive treatment strategies. AQUILA also highlights the need for continued research into dynamic risk stratification, biomarker-driven approaches, and innovative therapies, paving the way for precision medicine in SMM care.\n
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nChimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is an innovative technology that has fundamentally changed approaches to treating certain forms of oncological diseases. The anticipated development of CAR T cell-based therapies in the near future is expected to broaden the range of therapeutic targets and holds the potential to decrease treatment costs, thereby expanding accessibility for a broader patient population. This review article provides an overview of the practical applications of CAR T-cell therapy in clinical settings, describes the global market for commercial CAR T-cell products and offers insights into the future landscape of CAR T-cell therapy. We focus on emerging therapies, novel targets and strategic approaches to improve treatment efficacy and reduce costs. Furthermore, we discuss the progress of CAR T-cell therapy in Russia, where this type of therapy is in the early stages of development but already demonstrates promising potential.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nMantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare and often aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that predominantly affects older adults and presents significant treatment challenges due to its clinical complexity and poor prognosis. Current frontline chemoimmunotherapy approaches frequently fail to provide long-term disease control. However, incorporating acalabrutinib, a second-generation Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor, into standard chemoimmunotherapy regimens shows promise in reducing disease progression and improving outcomes in older and unfit MCL patients.
\nThe ECHO study evaluates the efficacy of acalabrutinib in combination with bendamustine plus rituximab (BR) in older MCL patients, aiming to provide a more effective and better-tolerated treatment option. Primary results demonstrate a significant improvement in progression-free survival and increased response rates with the acalabrutinib plus BR regimen compared with BR alone. While overall survival data are still maturing, early data show a modest trend favoring the acalabrutinib combination, indicating potential long-term benefits for this patient population.
\nPromising findings from the ECHO trial suggest that integrating acalabrutinib with standard therapy could set a new standard for frontline treatment in older/unfit MCL patients. This approach offers hope for improved outcomes and reduced toxicity, thereby addressing the unmet needs of this vulnerable population. Further research and exploration of this treatment paradigm hold promise for advancing the care and prognosis of patients with MCL.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nBruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) plays a vital role in B-cell functions, including differentiation, proliferation and survival, and has emerged as a critical therapeutic target of several generations of kinase inhibitors. Approved covalent BTK inhibitors such as ibrutinib, acalabrutinib and zanubrutinib have demonstrated remarkable antitumor activity, resulting in regulatory approvals for treating various hematological malignancies. However, these drugs are associated with off-target toxicities and the development of resistance. To address these challenges, newer noncovalent BTK inhibitors, such as pirtobrutinib, have been developed. Pirtobrutinib has shown promising efficacy in many B-cell malignancies, including mantle cell lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Waldenström macroglobulinemia and marginal zone lymphoma. This article summarizes recent updates from clinical studies evaluating pirtobrutinib in patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell malignancies.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nOver the past two decades, significant progress has been made in the management of multiple myeloma (MM), leading to the development of novel therapeutic approaches and treatment regimens to improve patient outcomes. In patients with newly diagnosed MM (NDMM), the introduction of anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies daratumumab and isatuximab has significantly extended patient survival while maintaining a manageable toxicity profile and building upon the success of highly active triplet combinations incorporating immunomodulatory drugs, proteasome inhibitors and dexamethasone. Treatment strategies based on the assessment of minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity, a strong prognostic marker for durable responses, allow for improved decision making in MM management. Active ongoing research aims to assess how novel therapies may improve outcomes in both frontline and maintenance settings. This review article discusses recent advances in NDMM therapy, with a focus on quadruplet versus triplet anti-CD38 mAb-based regimens and MRD-driven approaches, as well as emerging alternative therapeutic strategies, including transplant-sparing approaches to meaningfully improve patient outcome. Ongoing trials are also outlined, including the data presented at the 65th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting & Exposition, the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, the 2024 European Hematology Association (EHA) Congress and the 21st International Myeloma Society (IMS) Annual Meeting 2024.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nChimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has proven to be an effective treatment option for various hematological malignancies. Despite the enormous potential of CAR T-cell therapy, there are still challenges to be addressed, including the management of significant toxicities associated with the treatment. The most frequent adverse events associated with CAR T-cell infusion are cytokine release syndrome (CRS), a systemic inflammatory response triggered by rapid CAR T-cell activation and expansion, and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) caused by peripheral immune overactivation, blood–brain barrier dysfunction, and central nervous system (CNS) inflammation. We recently reported on a spectrum of rare side effects of CAR T cells, specifically, toxicities caused by cellular infiltrations and local inflammation in critical sites and damage to neuronal structures or functions. This review article focuses on the less common toxicities of CAR T-cell products, including those related to cardiovascular and hematological complications, as well as other rare side effects. Efforts to understand the underlying mechanisms driving these toxicities and develop strategies to predict, prevent and manage them are crucial for optimizing the safety and efficacy of CAR T-cell therapy in clinical practice.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nIn recent years, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies have revolutionized hemato-oncology. They have greatly improved outcomes of patients with B-cell malignancies and, with some challenges still existing, their potential continues to be explored in novel modalities and indications. The sixth European CAR T-cell Meeting convened in Valencia, Spain, drawing over 1,200 international experts, researchers and clinicians, underscored the expanding impact and future potential of this transformative treatment modality. Discussions focused on overcoming the challenges related to resistance and optimizing design and manufacturing. Furthermore, they highlighted the pivotal role of CAR T-cell therapy in hematologic malignancies, exploring key themes such as its efficacy in multiple myeloma and novel approaches to treat acute leukemia, alongside their potential in new frontiers, such as solid tumors and autoimmunity.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nMultiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematological malignancy of the plasma cells. Most patients with MM are older than 65 years. Therefore, it is highly important to perform a frailty assessment to identify which patients are especially vulnerable and at risk of complications. Frailty assessment also allows referral to several specialists (physical therapy, nutrition, neuropsychologist) and can eventually improve patient’s tolerance to therapy. It is especially important to offer elderly patients the best MM drugs upfront, as most of them will receive only one line of therapy. However, risk-adapted therapy dosing is recommended at diagnosis in order to reduce toxicities and early deaths. Since a large proportion of older adults seen in clinical practice would not have been included in most clinical trials, more studies focusing on frail and very frail patients with MM are needed. This article provides an overview of methodologies for frailty evaluation, discusses existing therapeutic modalities and offers insights into current treatment perspectives for older patients with newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory MM.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n\n
ABSTRACT
\nChimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for various types of cancers. Although it has shown remarkable effectiveness, this therapy is also associated with significant toxicity, which can limit its use. The most common adverse events associated with CAR T-cell infusion include cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). This review focuses on the less common toxicities of CAR T-cell products, including those related to cellular infiltration and inflammation in critical locations, toxicities affecting neuronal structures or functions and other rare side effects observed in clinical practice.
\n
Click here to access the full publication >>>
\n\n