MPN highlights at ASH 2022: novel agents, combinations & the role of immunotherapy
Jan 26, 2023
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Experts Aaron Gerds and Lucia Masarova discuss key updates in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) presented at ASH 2022, including the MOMENTUM trial, combination approaches, and novel agents like calreticulin-targeting antibodies. They also explore advancements in fibrosis treatment, the role of immunotherapies in eliminating malignant clones, and challenges in MPN treatment for accelerated and blast phase diseases.
The Momentum trial showed positive outcomes in myelofibrosis patients, with maintained responses at week 48 and no new safety signals, supporting the use of Momelotinib and Danazol combination therapy.
Combination therapies in MPNs, such as Pelobrescib and Ruxillotnib, are being explored to assess their benefits beyond spleen volume response, emphasizing the need to evaluate the trade-off between side effects and positive results.
Deep dives
Key Updates from the Momentum Trial
The Momentum trial, a Phase 3 randomized trial comparing Momolotnib and Danazal in patients with myelofibrosis, demonstrated positive outcomes. The week 24 data, which assessed primary outcomes, showed maintained responses at week 48 in terms of transfusion independence, spleen volume response, and symptom burden improvement. Some non-responders at week 24 became responders by week 48, suggesting the need for longer treatment duration. The updated data also indicated no new safety signals, addressing concerns regarding safety of combination therapies.
Combination Approaches in MPNs
Combination therapies in MPNs, such as Pelobrescib and Ruxillotnib, are being explored to assess whether they provide benefits beyond spleen volume response and symptom burden improvement. The key factor in choosing between upfront combination therapy and novel Jack inhibitors is evaluating the trade-off between side effects and positive results. Assessing selective markers of response to different therapies is crucial for sequencing treatments and determining individual patient benefits.
Novel Agents and Future Directions
The field of MPNs is witnessing the emergence of novel agents and innovative treatment approaches. Monoclonal antibodies, targeting calreticulin mutations, demonstrated positive results with good tolerability. Future directions include exploring bi-specific antibodies and engineered T-cells to target malignant clones. Additionally, ongoing research focuses on understanding the impact of TP53 mutations and developing therapeutic approaches. The aim is to transform disease management, particularly in lower-risk MPNs, by turning back the clock and achieving long-lasting control.
The 64th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition took place on December 10-13, 2022, in New Orleans, LA, and saw leading experts from all over the world gather to showcase the latest research in hematological malignancies.
In this podcast, you will hear from experts Aaron Gerds, MD, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, and Lucia Masarova, MD, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, who discuss key updates in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) presented at this year’s meeting. Topics covered include updates from the MOMENTUM trial (NCT04173494), the importance of combination approaches, and novel agents being explored, including calreticulin (CALR)-targeting antibodies.