Inside the Issue: The Current and Future Role of CD20 x CD3 Bispecific Antibodies in the Management of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Sep 14, 2023
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Experts Dr Martin Hutchings and Dr Loretta Nastoupil discuss the current and future role of CD20 x CD3 bispecific antibodies in the management of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Topics include different agents, efficacy, tolerability, dose step up, treatment duration, challenges in generating order sets, patient experience, comparing immunotherapies, and side effect profiles.
Bi-specific antibodies, such as CD20, CD3 by-specific antibodies, are playing a significant role in the treatment of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) by targeting both CD20 and CD3 to eliminate malignant B cells.
Bi-specific antibodies, such as Epcoritamab and Glofitamab, have shown efficacy in the treatment of follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) with manageable side effects like cytokine release syndrome (CRS).
Combining bi-specific antibodies with other therapies, like chemotherapy and immunomodulatory drugs, is being explored to enhance their efficacy in lymphoma treatment.
Deep dives
Bi-specific antibodies in the management of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Bi-specific antibodies, such as CD20, CD3 by-specific antibodies, are playing a significant role in the treatment of non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). They work by targeting both CD20 and CD3, engaging and activating T cells to eliminate malignant B cells. While different bi-specific antibodies are available, some like Inotuzumab have a short half-life and require continuous infusion. Others, such as Epcoritamab and Glofitamab, have longer half-lives and can be dosed less frequently. The efficacy of bi-specific antibodies is comparable to CAR-T therapy, and they are better tolerated with manageable side effects like cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Clinical trials are ongoing to explore combinations with chemotherapy, antibody-drug conjugates, and other immunotherapies. Bi-specific antibodies can be used in different treatment lines, depending on the patient's specific circumstances and disease characteristics.
Efficacy and Safety of Bi-specific Antibodies in Different Lymphomas
Bi-specific antibodies, such as Epcoritamab and Glofitamab, have shown efficacy in the treatment of follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL). In FL, bi-specific antibodies can be used in second-line treatment after chemotherapy and have the potential to provide durable complete responses. In DLBCL, bi-specific antibodies have demonstrated comparable efficacy to CAR-T therapy, with high overall response rates and complete responses. The side effects of bi-specific antibodies are manageable, mainly cytokine release syndrome, which can be mitigated with supportive care. The optimal timing for the introduction of bi-specific antibodies depends on individual patient characteristics and available treatment options, but they have shown promise as effective and tolerable treatments.
Combination Strategies and Future Directions for Bi-specific Antibodies
Combining bi-specific antibodies with other therapies, like chemotherapy, antibody-drug conjugates, or immunomodulatory drugs, is being explored to enhance their efficacy in lymphoma treatment. Clinical trials are investigating the safety and efficacy of these combination regimens. Combinations with frontline chemo-immunotherapy may be considered in patients who are not eligible for intensive therapy or have specific disease characteristics. Future directions for bi-specific antibodies focus on identifying patient-specific factors that predict response and exploring optimal treatment sequencing. Additionally, efforts are being made to manage side effects, such as cytokine release syndrome, and refine dosing strategies to maximize clinical benefits. The field of bi-specific antibodies holds promise for improved outcomes in lymphoma treatment.
Plateau of Responses and Potential for Cure
Patients treated with bi-specific antibodies, particularly those who achieve complete responses (CR), have shown promising long-term outcomes, though the plateau effect seen with CAR-T therapy is less pronounced. In follicular lymphoma, patients in CR following treatment with bi-specific antibodies have demonstrated durable responses that suggest the potential for cure. Similarly, in diffuse large B cell lymphoma, patients achieving a CR with bi-specific antibodies show prolonged disease control and potential for long-term remission. While the plateau effect is less evident with bi-specific antibodies compared to CAR-T therapy, durable responses in CR provide hope for achieving cure in select patients.
Future Applications and Considerations
The future of bi-specific antibodies in lymphoma treatment holds promise for expanded applications and improved outcomes. Ongoing research aims to optimize treatment sequencing, identify predictive biomarkers, and refine combination strategies to enhance efficacy. Additionally, efforts are being made to minimize side effects and improve patient selection. The optimal timing and combination approaches for using bi-specific antibodies in different lymphoma subtypes will continue to evolve as more data becomes available. Overall, bi-specific antibodies offer an exciting therapeutic option and have the potential to significantly impact the treatment landscape for lymphoma patients.
Dr Martin Hutchings from Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Dr Loretta Nastoupil from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, discuss the current and future role of CD20 x CD3 bispecific antibodies in the management of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
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