Episode 55. ASH 2024 Myeloma Updates with Dr. Rakesh Popat
Jan 11, 2025
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Dr. Rakesh Popat, a consultant hematologist and associate professor at UCL, shares insights from ASH 2024 on myeloma and amyloidosis. He discusses the AQUILA trial, highlighting daratumumab's benefits for high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma. The conversation also covers the promising early data of Anito-Cel, a novel CAR T therapy, and updates on survival outcomes for cilta-cel in relapsed myeloma. Additionally, he reviews long-term advancements in treatment strategies for AL amyloidosis and ultra-high-risk myeloma patients.
The AQUILA trial demonstrated that daratumumab significantly reduces the risk of progression in high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma patients, highlighting the complexity of treatment decisions amidst evolving risk assessments.
The introduction of Anito-Cel showed remarkable efficacy in heavily treated patients with relapsed multiple myeloma, potentially setting a new standard in CAR-T therapies while maintaining a favorable safety profile.
Deep dives
Recent Advances in Smoldering Multiple Myeloma Treatment
A significant focus of this discussion was the AQUILA trial, a phase three study examining the efficacy of daratumumab in high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma. The trial showcased that patients receiving daratumumab experienced a 51% reduction in the risk of progression to multiple myeloma compared to those undergoing active monitoring, with a hazard ratio of 0.49 at the 60-month mark. However, it is essential to interpret these results within the current context of risk assessment criteria; the study's population was slightly different from those classified under today's guidelines. Additionally, the trial's findings have prompted conversations about the balance between treatment interventions and the associated risks, such as increased infections, highlighting the evolving landscape of managing high-risk patients.
Innovations in CAR-T Therapy for Relapsed Myeloma
The conversation shifted toward the introduction of an_etocel, a novel BCMA CAR-T cell therapy, which demonstrated promising efficacy and a tolerable safety profile in a heavily pretreated patient population. Results from the phase two Imagine 1 trial indicated an impressive response rate of around 98% without reports of significant neurotoxicity, contrasting favorably against established therapies like siltacel. Nonetheless, careful consideration is necessary when evaluating these findings within the context of previous CAR-T studies since patient populations and treatment protocols have evolved. Overall, this development signals a critical advancement in addressing the challenging landscape of relapsed multiple myeloma.
Breakthroughs in AL Amyloidosis Treatment
The Andromeda trial results highlighted a compelling advancement in the treatment of AL amyloidosis, showcasing the superiority of DARA-VCD over standard VCD therapy. Notably, patients receiving DARA-VCD exhibited a five-year overall survival rate of 76%, compared to 65% for those in the control group, indicating a substantial survival advantage even after a significant number crossed over to receive daratumumab. The primary driver for the observed survival benefit appears to be the improved outcomes in cardiac and renal responses, which are crucial in this patient population. This trial not only reinforces the efficacy of DARA-VCD as a frontline option but also underscores the importance of early intervention in managing organ involvement.
Exciting New Therapeutic Approaches on the Horizon
Discussion around emerging treatments for multiple myeloma included a variety of promising agents, with particular interest in the BCMA CD38 tri-specific antibody. This innovative therapy harnesses dual targeting capabilities, achieving high response rates even among patients previously treated with BCMA and CD38 targeting therapies. The thoughtful engineering of this tri-specific approach mitigates previously expected toxicities, making it a compelling avenue for future research. As the field progresses, advancements in this area could provide crucial benefits, offering new hope for patients with refractory disease.
In this episode, we dive into the hottest updates in myeloma and amyloidosis at ASH 2024 annual meeting with Dr. Rakesh Popat. Here are the abstracts we discussed:
1. AQUILA Trial in High-Risk SMM
Overview of the AQUILA trial testing single-agent daratumumab for high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma (HR-SMM) versus active monitoring.
Discussion on patient characteristics, primary endpoints, and results showing significant progression-free survival (PFS) benefit with Dara.
Insights into modes of progression, adequacy of active surveillance, and post-protocol therapy in control arm.
Five-year follow-up of a tailored approach for ultra-high-risk newly diagnosed myeloma patients with continuous therapy incorporating multiple active agents.
Subgroup outcomes highlighting both challenges and exceptional results.