Dr. Varga on Current Clinical Trials for Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma

Cindy Varga, MD, hematologist, Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood Disorders, Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health, discusses several exciting clinical trials at the Levine Cancer Institute for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma with acquired resistance to BCMA-directed therapy.

The phase 1/2 TAK-573-1501 trial (NCT03215030) is currently evaluating the safety and efficacy of modakafusp alfa (TAK-573), an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody fused with 2 interferon molecules. The immunosuppressant reduces off-target toxicities for patients who have previously undergone anti-CD38 therapy.

Additionally, a phase 2 study of magrolimab (NCT04892446), a monoclonal antibody targeting CD47, aims to evaluate its efficacy of in combination with other anticancer therapies in this patient population. Magrolimab disrupts the anti-phagotic signal overexpressed in tumor cells, allowing them to be identified and engulfed by macrophages in the immune system.

Researchers are also investigating methods of overcoming resistance to carfilzomib (Kyprolis) through the investigator-initiated trial of JAK/STAT inhibitor ruxolitinib (Jakafi) in the phase 1/2 CARJAK study (NCT03773107).

All of these trials are open to patients who have seen several lines of therapy and are looking for expanded options, Varga concludes.