51
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BCMA in Multiple Myeloma-A Promising Key to Therapy. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10184088. [PMID: 34575199 PMCID: PMC8472544 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10184088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the discoveries of numerous agents including next generation proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, and monoclonal antibodies, multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease. The field of myeloma treatment in refractory or relapsed patients after standard therapy entered a new era due to the B-cell maturation antigen (BMCA) targeted approach. BCMA is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor family with high expression in mature B-lymphocytes and plasma cells. Given the understanding of BCMA mechanism of action in MM, BCMA plays a promising role as a therapeutic target. Several clinical trials are underway to evolve the current BCMA targeted treatment concept such as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific T cell engagers (BITEs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy. Current results of representative BCMA trials may close the gap of the unmet clinical need to further improve the outcome of heavily pretreated MM patients with the potency to change the paradigm in newly diagnosed and refractory MM. This comprehensive review will give an update on various BMCA targeted treatment modalities (ADCs, BITEs, CAR T cell therapy) and its existing results on efficacy and safety from preclinical and clinical trials.
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52
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D'Souza C, Keam SP, Yeang HXA, Neeson M, Richardson K, Hsu AK, Canfield R, Bezman N, Robbins M, Quach H, Ritchie DS, Harrison SJ, Trapani JA, Prince HM, Beavis PA, Darcy PK, Neeson PJ. Myeloma natural killer cells are exhausted and have impaired regulation of activation. Haematologica 2021; 106:2522-2526. [PMID: 34011135 PMCID: PMC8409027 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2020.277525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Criselle D'Souza
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne.
| | - Simon P Keam
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Australia; Tumour Suppression and Cancer Sex Disparity Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne
| | | | - Michael Neeson
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne
| | | | - Andy K Hsu
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne
| | - Rachael Canfield
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne
| | - Natalie Bezman
- Oncology Discovery Research, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Redwood City, CA, USA. Current: Arsenal Bio, San Francisco, CA 94080
| | - Michael Robbins
- Translational Medicine, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Cambridge, MA, USA, (current: io904 LLC)
| | - Hang Quach
- Department of Hematology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne
| | - David S Ritchie
- Tumour Suppression and Cancer Sex Disparity Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Australia; Clinical Hematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne
| | - Simon J Harrison
- Tumour Suppression and Cancer Sex Disparity Laboratory, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Clinical Hematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne
| | - Joseph A Trapani
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne
| | - H Miles Prince
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Australia; Clinical Hematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne
| | - Paul A Beavis
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne
| | - Phillip K Darcy
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne
| | - Paul J Neeson
- Cancer Immunology Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne.
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53
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Bila J, Katodritou E, Guenova M, Basic-Kinda S, Coriu D, Dapcevic M, Ibricevic-Balic L, Ivanaj A, Karanfilski O, Zver S, Beksac M, Terpos E, Dimopoulos MA. Bone Marrow Microenvironment Interplay and Current Clinical Practice in Multiple Myeloma: A Review of the Balkan Myeloma Study Group. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10173940. [PMID: 34501388 PMCID: PMC8432054 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10173940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The course of multiple myeloma (MM) is influenced by a variety of factors, including the specificity of the tumour microenvironment (TME). The aim of this review is to provide insight into the interplay of treatment modalities used in the current clinical practice and TME. Bortezomib-based triplets are the standard for MM first-line treatment. Bortezomib is a proteasome inhibitor (PI) which inhibits the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. However, bortezomib is decreasing the expression of chemokine receptor CXCR4 as well, possibly leading to the escape of extramedullary disease. Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs), lenalidomide, and pomalidomide downregulate regulatory T cells (Tregs). Daratumumab, anti-cluster of differentiation 38 (anti-CD38) monoclonal antibody (MoAb), downregulates Tregs CD38+. Bisphosphonates inhibit osteoclasts and angiogenesis. Sustained suppression of bone resorption characterises the activity of MoAb denosumab. The plerixafor, used in the process of stem cell mobilisation and harvesting, block the interaction of chemokine receptors CXCR4-CXCL12, leading to disruption of MM cells’ interaction with the TME, and mobilisation into the circulation. The introduction of several T-cell-based immunotherapeutic modalities, such as chimeric-antigen-receptor-transduced T cells (CAR T cells) and bispecific antibodies, represents a new perspective in MM treatment affecting TME immune evasion. The optimal treatment approach to MM patients should be adjusted to all aspects of the individual profile including the TME niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Bila
- Clinic of Hematology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +381-638-292-992
| | - Eirini Katodritou
- Department of Hematology, Theagenio Cancer Hospital, 54639 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Margarita Guenova
- Laboratory of Haematopathology and Immunology, National Specialised Hospital for Active Treatment of Haematological Diseases, 1756 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Sandra Basic-Kinda
- Divison of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Daniel Coriu
- Centre of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant, “Fundeni” Clinical Institute, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 022328 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Milena Dapcevic
- Division of Hematology, Clinical Center of Montenegro, Podgorica 81000, Montenegro;
| | - Lejla Ibricevic-Balic
- Clinic of Hematology, University Clinical Center of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Arben Ivanaj
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Center “Mother Teresa”, 1001 Tirana, Albania;
| | - Oliver Karanfilski
- University Clinic of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Skopje, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia;
| | - Samo Zver
- Department of Hematology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Meral Beksac
- Department of Hematology, Tissue Typing Laboratory and Donor Registry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ankara, Ankara 06590, Turkey;
| | - Evangelos Terpos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.T.); (M.A.D.)
| | - Meletios Athanassios Dimopoulos
- Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.T.); (M.A.D.)
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54
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Wang S, Peng L, Xu W, Zhou Y, Zhu Z, Kong Y, Leung S, Wang J, Yan X, Mi JQ. Preclinical characterization and comparison between CD3/CD19 bispecific and novel CD3/CD19/CD20 trispecific antibodies against B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia: targeted immunotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Front Med 2021; 16:139-149. [PMID: 34463907 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-021-0835-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The CD19-targeting bispecific T-cell engager blinatumomab has shown remarkable efficacy in patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia. However, several studies showed that blinatumomab has a short plasma half-life due to its low molecular weight, and thus its clinical use is limited. Furthermore, multiple trials have shown that approximately 30% of blinatumomab-relapsed cases are characterized by CD19 negative leukemic cells. Here, we design and characterize two novel antibodies, A-319 and A-2019. Blinatumomab and A-319 are CD3/CD19 bispecific antibodies with different molecular sizes and structures, and A-2019 is a novel CD3/CD19/CD20 trispecific antibody with an additional anti-CD20 function. Our in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experiments demonstrated that A-319 and A-2019 are potent antitumor agents and capable of recruiting CD3 positive T cells, enhancing T-cell function, mediating B-cell depletion, and eventually inhibiting tumor growth in Raji xenograft models. The two molecules are complementary in terms of efficacy and specificity profile. The activity of A-319 demonstrated superior to that of A-2019, whereas A-2019 has an additional capability to target CD20 in cells missing CD19, suggesting its potential function against CD19 weak or negative CD20 positive leukemic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisi Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.,Pôle Franco-Chinois de Recherche en Sciences du Vivant et Genomique, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Lijun Peng
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.,Pôle Franco-Chinois de Recherche en Sciences du Vivant et Genomique, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Wenqian Xu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.,Pôle Franco-Chinois de Recherche en Sciences du Vivant et Genomique, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yuebo Zhou
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.,Pôle Franco-Chinois de Recherche en Sciences du Vivant et Genomique, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Ziyan Zhu
- Shanghai Blood Center, Shanghai, 200051, China
| | | | | | - Jin Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China. .,Pôle Franco-Chinois de Recherche en Sciences du Vivant et Genomique, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | | | - Jian-Qing Mi
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China. .,Pôle Franco-Chinois de Recherche en Sciences du Vivant et Genomique, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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55
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Belmontes B, Sawant DV, Zhong W, Tan H, Kaul A, Aeffner F, O'Brien SA, Chun M, Noubade R, Eng J, Ma H, Muenz M, Li P, Alba BM, Thomas M, Cook K, Wang X, DeVoss J, Egen JG, Nolan-Stevaux O. Immunotherapy combinations overcome resistance to bispecific T cell engager treatment in T cell-cold solid tumors. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/608/eabd1524. [PMID: 34433637 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abd1524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches are needed to promote T cell-mediated destruction of poorly immunogenic, "cold" tumors typically associated with minimal response to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. Bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) molecules induce redirected lysis of cancer cells by polyclonal T cells and have demonstrated promising clinical activity against solid tumors in some patients. However, little is understood about the key factors that govern clinical responses to these therapies. Using an immunocompetent mouse model expressing a humanized CD3ε chain (huCD3e mice) and BiTE molecules directed against mouse CD19, mouse CLDN18.2, or human EPCAM antigens, we investigated the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters and immune correlates associated with BiTE efficacy across multiple syngeneic solid-tumor models. These studies demonstrated that pretreatment tumor-associated T cell density is a critical determinant of response to BiTE therapy, identified CD8+ T cells as important targets and mediators of BiTE activity, and revealed an antagonistic role for CD4+ T cells in BiTE efficacy. We also identified therapeutic combinations, including ICB and 4-1BB agonism, that synergized with BiTE treatment in poorly T cell-infiltrated, immunotherapy-refractory tumors. In these models, BiTE efficacy was dependent on local expansion of tumor-associated CD8+ T cells, rather than their recruitment from circulation. Our findings highlight the relative contributions of baseline T cell infiltration, local T cell proliferation, and peripheral T cell trafficking for BiTE molecule-mediated efficacy, identify combination strategies capable of overcoming resistance to BiTE therapy, and have clinical relevance for the development of BiTE and other T cell engager therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Belmontes
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA
| | - Deepali V Sawant
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Wendy Zhong
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Hong Tan
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA
| | - Anupurna Kaul
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Famke Aeffner
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Sarah A O'Brien
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Matthew Chun
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Rajkumar Noubade
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jason Eng
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Hayley Ma
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA
| | - Markus Muenz
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Amgen Research GmbH, Munich 81477, Germany
| | - Peng Li
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Benjamin M Alba
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Melissa Thomas
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Therapeutic Discovery, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Kevin Cook
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Pharmacokinetics and Drug Metabolism, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Xiaoting Wang
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Translational Safety and Bioanalytical Sciences, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jason DeVoss
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA.,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Jackson G Egen
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA. .,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Olivier Nolan-Stevaux
- Amgen Research, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320, USA. .,Inflammation and Oncology Therapeutic Area, Amgen, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
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56
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Khattak ZE, Hashmi H, Khan SI, Aamir S, Arif U, Khan AI, Darwin A, Singh AD, Khouri J, Anwer F. Dawn of a new era of antibody-drug conjugates and bispecific T-cell engagers for treatment of multiple myeloma: a systematic review of literature. Ann Hematol 2021; 100:2155-2172. [PMID: 34318356 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-021-04599-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease with the majority of patients experiencing disease relapse despite response to initial therapy. Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and bispecific T-cell engagers are innovative immunotherapeutic approaches currently in development for the treatment of MM. This systematic review summarizes the efficacy and safety of ADCs and bispecific T-cell engagers in relapsed refractory (RR) MM patients from 2010 to date. Comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed, EMBASE, Wiley Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Clinicaltrials.gov . A total of 13 studies (n = 529) met inclusion eligibility. All studies were prospective in nature investigating ADCs or bispecific T-cell engagers in RR MM; 10 trials were phase 1 and 3 were phase 2. The median age of patients ranged from 24 to 82 years. Among trials with ADC regimens, the overall response (OR) ranged from 34 to 60% and complete response (CR) ranged from 3 to 6%. The most common non-hematologic adverse event (AE) of ADCs was keratopathy, while anemia and thrombocytopenia were the most common hematological AEs. With bispecific T-cell engagers , ORR ranged from 31 to 83%, CR ranged from 7 to 22%, and partial response (PR) ranged from 5 to 16%. The most common non-hematologic AE of bispecific T-cell engagers was cytokine release syndrome (CRS) while the most common hematological AE was neutropenia. Initial data appears to show good clinical activity and tolerable safety profiles, making ADCs and bispecific T-cell engagers promising agents for RRMM. Future studies with newer combinations and a longer follow-up are needed to determine the precise role of these novel therapies in the evolving paradigm of MM treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hamza Hashmi
- Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Sobia Aamir
- Children Hospital and Institute of Child Health, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Uroosa Arif
- Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | | | - Alicia Darwin
- University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Arun D Singh
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Faiz Anwer
- Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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57
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Targeting intracellular WT1 in AML with a novel RMF-peptide-MHC specific T-cell bispecific antibody. Blood 2021; 138:2655-2669. [PMID: 34280257 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020010477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibody-based immunotherapy is a promising strategy for targeting chemo-resistant leukemic cells. However, classical antibody-based approaches are restricted to targeting lineage-specific cell-surface antigens. By targeting intracellular antigens, a large number of other leukemia-associated targets would become accessible. In this study, we evaluated a novel T-cell bispecific (TCB) antibody, generated using CrossMab and knob-into-holes technology, containing a bivalent T-cell receptor-like binding domain that recognizes the RMFPNAPYL peptide derived from the intracellular tumor antigen Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1) in the context of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) A*02. Binding to CD3ε recruits T cells irrespective of their T-cell receptor specificity. WT1-TCB elicited antibody-mediated T-cell cytotoxicity against AML cell lines in a WT1- and HLA-restricted manner. Specific lysis of primary AML cells was mediated in ex vivo long-term co-cultures utilizing allogenic (mean specific lysis: 67±6% after 13-14 days; ±SEM; n=18) or autologous, patient-derived T cells (mean specific lysis: 54±12% after 11-14 days; ±SEM; n=8). WT1-TCB-treated T cells exhibited higher cytotoxicity against primary AML cells than an HLA-A*02 RMF-specific T-cell clone. Combining WT1-TCB with the immunomodulatory drug lenalidomide further enhanced antibody-mediated T-cell cytotoxicity against primary AML cells (mean specific lysis on day 3-4: 45.4±9.0% vs 70.8±8.3%; p=0.015; ±SEM; n=9-10). In vivo, WT1-TCB-treated humanized mice bearing SKM-1 tumors showed a significant and dose-dependent reduction in tumor growth. In summary, we show that WT1-TCB facilitates potent in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo killing of AML cell lines and primary AML cells; these results led to the initiation of a phase I trial in patients with r/r AML (NCT04580121).
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58
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Romano A, Storti P, Marchica V, Scandura G, Notarfranchi L, Craviotto L, Di Raimondo F, Giuliani N. Mechanisms of Action of the New Antibodies in Use in Multiple Myeloma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:684561. [PMID: 34307150 PMCID: PMC8297441 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.684561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed against antigen-specific of multiple myeloma (MM) cells have Fc-dependent immune effector mechanisms, such as complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP), but the choice of the antigen is crucial for the development of effective immuno-therapy in MM. Recently new immunotherapeutic options in MM patients have been developed against different myeloma-related antigens as drug conjugate-antibody, bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells. In this review, we will highlight the mechanism of action of immuno-therapy currently available in clinical practice to target CD38, SLAMF7, and BCMA, focusing on the biological role of the targets and on mechanisms of actions of the different immunotherapeutic approaches underlying their advantages and disadvantages with critical review of the literature data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Romano
- Department of Surgery and Medical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Paola Storti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Grazia Scandura
- Department of Surgery and Medical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Luisa Craviotto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesco Di Raimondo
- Department of Surgery and Medical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- U.O.C. Ematologia, A.O.U. Policlinico–San Marco, Catania, Italy
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59
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Trezise S, Nutt SL. The gene regulatory network controlling plasma cell function. Immunol Rev 2021; 303:23-34. [PMID: 34109653 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Antibodies are an essential element of the immune response to infection, and in long-term protection upon re-exposure to the same micro-organism. Antibodies are produced by plasmablasts and plasma cells, the terminally differentiated cells of the B lymphocyte lineage. These relatively rare populations, collectively termed antibody secreting cells (ASCs), have developed highly specialized transcriptional and metabolic pathways to facilitate their extraordinarily high rates of antibody synthesis and secretion. In this review, we discuss the gene regulatory network that controls ASC identity and function, with a particular focus on the processes that influence the transcription, translation, folding, modification and secretion of antibodies. We will address how ASCs have adapted their transcriptional, metabolic and protein homeostasis pathways to sustain such high rates of antibody production, and the roles that the major ASC regulators, the transcription factors, Irf4, Blimp-1 and Xbp1, play in co-ordinating these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Trezise
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Stephen L Nutt
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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60
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Alhallak K, Sun J, Jeske A, Park C, Yavner J, Bash H, Lubben B, Adebayo O, Khaskiah A, Azab AK. Bispecific T Cell Engagers for the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: Achievements and Challenges. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2853. [PMID: 34201007 PMCID: PMC8228067 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
MM is the second most common hematological malignancy and represents approximately 20% of deaths from hematopoietic cancers. The advent of novel agents has changed the therapeutic landscape of MM treatment; however, MM remains incurable. T cell-based immunotherapy such as BTCEs is a promising modality for the treatment of MM. This review article discusses the advancements and future directions of BTCE treatments for MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinan Alhallak
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis McKelvey School of Engineering, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Jennifer Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis McKelvey School of Engineering, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Amanda Jeske
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis McKelvey School of Engineering, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Chaelee Park
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
| | - Jessica Yavner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
| | - Hannah Bash
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
| | - Berit Lubben
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
| | - Ola Adebayo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
| | - Ayah Khaskiah
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Nursing and Health Professions, Birzeit University, Birzeit 627, West Bank, Palestine;
| | - Abdel Kareem Azab
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA; (K.A.); (J.S.); (A.J.); (C.P.); (J.Y.); (H.B.); (B.L.); (O.A.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis McKelvey School of Engineering, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
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Visram A, Suska A, Jurczyszyn A, Gonsalves WI. Practical management and assessment of primary plasma cell leukemia in the novel agent era. Cancer Treat Res Commun 2021; 28:100414. [PMID: 34174530 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctarc.2021.100414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Visram
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - A Suska
- Department of Hematology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 17, Krakow 31-501, Poland
| | - A Jurczyszyn
- Department of Hematology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 17, Krakow 31-501, Poland
| | - W I Gonsalves
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States.
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Nishida H. Rapid Progress in Immunotherapies for Multiple Myeloma: An Updated Comprehensive Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2712. [PMID: 34072645 PMCID: PMC8198014 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13112712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite rapid advances in treatment approaches of multiple myeloma (MM) over the last two decades via proteasome inhibitors (PIs), immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs), and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), their efficacies are limited. MM still remains incurable, and the majority of patients shortly relapse and eventually become refractory to existing therapies due to the genetic heterogeneity and clonal evolution. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic strategies with different mechanisms of action represents an unmet need to achieve a deep and highly durable response as well as to improve patient outcomes. The antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), belanatmab mafadotin, which targets B cell membrane antigen (BCMA) on plasma cells, was approved for the treatment of MM in 2020. To date, numerous immunotherapies, including bispecific antibodies, such as bispecific T cell engager (BiTE), the duobody adoptive cellular therapy using a dendritic cell (DC) vaccine, autologous chimeric antigen (CAR)-T cells, allogeneic CAR-natural killer (NK) cells, and checkpoint inhibitors have been developed for the treatment of MM, and a variety of clinical trials are currently underway or are expected to be planned. In the future, the efficacy of combination approaches, as well as allogenic CAR-T or NK cell therapy, will be examined, and promising results may alter the treatment paradigm of MM. This is a comprehensive review with an update on the most recent clinical and preclinical advances with a focus on results from clinical trials in progress with BCMA-targeted immunotherapies and the development of other novel targets in MM. Future perspectives will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Nishida
- Department of Pathology, Keio University, School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; ; Tel.: +81-3-5363-3764; Fax: +81-3-3353-3290
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal of Medicine, Keio University, School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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Xu C, Zhuo B, Rasmussen HE. Dose intra-subject escalation to an event (DIETE): A new method for phase 1 dose-finding utilizing systematic intra-subject dose escalation with application to T-cell engagers. Pharm Stat 2021; 20:1200-1215. [PMID: 34029438 DOI: 10.1002/pst.2140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
T-cell engagers are a class of oncology drugs which engage T-cells to initiate immune response against malignant cells. T-cell engagers have features that are unlike prior classes of oncology drugs (e.g., chemotherapies or targeted therapies), because (1) starting dose level often must be conservative due to immune-related side effects such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS); (2) dose level can usually be safely titrated higher as a result of subject's immune system adaptation after first exposure to lower dose; and (3) due to preventive management of CRS, these safety events rarely worsen to become dose limiting toxicities (DLTs). It is generally believed that for T-cell engagers the dose intensity of the starting dose and the peak dose intensity both correlate with improved efficacy. Existing dose finding methodologies are not designed to efficiently identify both the initial starting dose and peak dose intensity in a single trial. In this study, we propose a new trial design, dose intra-subject escalation to an event (DIETE) design, that can (1) estimate the maximum tolerated initial dose level (MTD1); and (2) incorporate systematic intra-subject dose-escalation to estimate the maximum tolerated dose level subsequent to adaptation induced by the initial dose level (MTD2) with a survival analysis approach. We compare our framework to similar methodologies and evaluate their key operating characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjia Xu
- Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Bin Zhuo
- Amgen Inc., Thousand Oaks, California, USA
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Teclistamab is an active T cell-redirecting bispecific antibody against B-cell maturation antigen for multiple myeloma. Blood Adv 2021; 4:4538-4549. [PMID: 32956453 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020002393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), a member of the tumor necrosis factor family of receptors, is predominantly expressed on the surface of terminally differentiated B cells. BCMA is highly expressed on plasmablasts and plasma cells from multiple myeloma (MM) patient samples. We developed a BCMAxCD3 bispecific antibody (teclistamab [JNJ-64007957]) to recruit and activate T cells to kill BCMA-expressing MM cells. Teclistamab induced cytotoxicity of BCMA+ MM cell lines in vitro (H929 cells, 50% effective concentration [EC50] = 0.15 nM; MM.1R cells, EC50 = 0.06 nM; RPMI 8226 cells, EC50 = 0.45 nM) with concomitant T-cell activation (H929 cells, EC50 = 0.21 nM; MM.1R cells, EC50 = 0.1 nM; RPMI 8226 cells, EC50 = 0.28 nM) and cytokine release. This activity was further increased in the presence of a γ-secretase inhibitor (LY-411575). Teclistamab also depleted BCMA+ cells in bone marrow samples from MM patients in an ex vivo assay with an average EC50 value of 1.7 nM. Under more physiological conditions using healthy human whole blood, teclistamab mediated dose-dependent lysis of H929 cells and activation of T cells. Antitumor activity of teclistamab was also observed in 2 BCMA+ MM murine xenograft models inoculated with human T cells (tumor inhibition with H929 model and tumor regression with the RPMI 8226 model) compared with vehicle and antibody controls. The specific and potent activity of teclistamab against BCMA-expressing cells from MM cell lines, patient samples, and MM xenograft models warrant further evaluation of this bispecific antibody for the treatment of MM. Phase 1 clinical trials (monotherapy, #NCT03145181; combination therapy, #NCT04108195) are ongoing for patients with relapsed/refractory MM.
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AMG 701 induces cytotoxicity of multiple myeloma cells and depletes plasma cells in cynomolgus monkeys. Blood Adv 2021; 4:4180-4194. [PMID: 32886754 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020002565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematologic malignancy that is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal plasma cells (PCs) in the bone marrow (BM). Patient outcome may be improved with BiTE (bispecific T-cell engager) molecules, which redirect T cells to lyse tumor cells. B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) supports PC survival and is highly expressed on MM cells. A half-life extended anti-BCMA BiTE molecule (AMG 701) induced selective cytotoxicity against BCMA-expressing MM cells (average half-maximal effective concentration, 18.8 ± 14.8 pM), T-cell activation, and cytokine release in vitro. In a subcutaneous mouse xenograft model, at all doses tested, AMG 701 completely inhibited tumor formation (P < .001), as well as inhibited growth of established tumors (P ≤ .001) and extended survival in an orthotopic MM model (P ≤ .01). To evaluate AMG 701 bioactivity in cynomolgus monkeys, a PC surface phenotype and specific genes were defined to enable a quantitative digital droplet polymerase chain reaction assay (sensitivity, 0.1%). Dose-dependent pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic behavior was observed, with depletion of PC-specific genes reaching 93% in blood and 85% in BM. Combination with a programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)-blocking antibody significantly increased AMG 701 potency in vitro. A model of AMG 701 binding to BCMA and CD3 indicates that the distance between the T-cell and target cell membranes (ie, the immunological synapse) is similar to that of the major histocompatibility complex class I molecule binding to a T-cell receptor and suggests that the synapse would not be disrupted by the half-life extending Fc domain. These data support the clinical development of AMG 701.
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The immunomodulatory drugs lenalidomide and pomalidomide enhance the potency of AMG 701 in multiple myeloma preclinical models. Blood Adv 2021; 4:4195-4207. [PMID: 32898244 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020002524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated here the novel immunomodulation and anti-multiple myeloma (MM) function of T cells engaged by the bispecific T-cell engager molecule AMG 701, and further examined the impact of AMG 701 in combination with immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs; lenalidomide and pomalidomide). AMG 701 potently induced T-cell-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (TDCC) against MM cells expressing B-cell maturation antigen, including autologous cells from patients with relapsed and refractory MM (RRMM) (half maximal effective concentration, <46.6 pM). Besides inducing T-cell proliferation and cytolytic activity, AMG 701 also promoted differentiation of patient T cells to central memory, effector memory, and stem cell-like memory (scm) phenotypes, more so in CD8 vs CD4 T subsets, resulting in increased CD8/CD4 ratios in 7-day ex vivo cocultures. IMiDs and AMG 701 synergistically induced TDCC against MM cell lines and autologous RRMM patient cells, even in the presence of immunosuppressive bone marrow stromal cells or osteoclasts. IMiDs further upregulated AMG 701-induced patient T-cell differentiation toward memory phenotypes, associated with increased CD8/CD4 ratios, increased Tscm, and decreased interleukin 10-positive T and T regulatory cells (CD25highFOXP3high), which may downregulate T effector cells. Importantly, the combination of AMG 701 with lenalidomide induced sustained inhibition of MM cell growth in SCID mice reconstituted with human T cells; tumor regrowth was eventually observed in cohorts treated with either agent alone (P < .001). These results strongly support AMG 701 clinical studies as monotherapy in patients with RRMM (NCT03287908) and the combination with IMiDs to improve patient outcomes in MM.
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Tian Z, Liu M, Zhang Y, Wang X. Bispecific T cell engagers: an emerging therapy for management of hematologic malignancies. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:75. [PMID: 33941237 PMCID: PMC8091790 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01084-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Harnessing the power of immune cells, especially T cells, to enhance anti-tumor activities has become a promising strategy in clinical management of hematologic malignancies. The emerging bispecific antibodies (BsAbs), which recruit T cells to tumor cells, exemplified by bispecific T cell engagers (BiTEs), have facilitated the development of tumor immunotherapy. Here we discussed the advances and challenges in BiTE therapy developed for the treatment of hematologic malignancies. Blinatumomab, the first BiTE approved for the treatment of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), is appreciated for its high efficacy and safety. Recent studies have focused on improving the efficacy of BiTEs by optimizing treatment regimens and refining the molecular structures of BiTEs. A considerable number of bispecific T cell-recruiting antibodies which are potentially effective in hematologic malignancies have been derived from BiTEs. The elucidation of mechanisms of BiTE action and neonatal techniques used for the construction of BsAbs can improve the treatment of hematological malignancies. This review summarized the features of bispecific T cell-recruiting antibodies for the treatment of hematologic malignancies with special focus on preclinical experiments and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Tian
- School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated To Shandong University, Shandong First Medical University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Lymphoma, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.,Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Ya Zhang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated To Shandong University, Shandong First Medical University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Shandong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Lymphoma, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 251006, China.
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated To Shandong University, Shandong First Medical University, No.324, Jingwu Road, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Shandong Provincial Engineering Research Center of Lymphoma, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 251006, China.
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68
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Cancer immunoediting and immune dysregulation in multiple myeloma. Blood 2021; 136:2731-2740. [PMID: 32645135 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2020006540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Avoiding immune destruction is a hallmark of cancer. Over the past few years, significant advances have been made in understanding immune dysfunction and immunosuppression in multiple myeloma (MM), and various immunotherapeutic approaches have delivered improved clinical responses. However, it is still challenging to completely eliminate malignant plasma cells (PCs) and achieve complete cure. The interplay between the immune system and malignant PCs is implicated throughout all stages of PC dyscrasias, including asymptomatic states called monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance and smoldering myeloma. Although the immune system effectively eliminates malignant PCs, or at least induces functional dormancy at early stages, malignant PCs eventually evade immune elimination, leading to progression to active MM, in which dysfunctional effector lymphocytes, tumor-educated immunosuppressive cells, and soluble mediators coordinately act as a barrier for antimyeloma immunity. An in-depth understanding of this dynamic process, called cancer immunoediting, will provide important insights into the immunopathology of PC dyscrasias and MM immunotherapy. Moreover, a growing body of evidence suggests that, together with nonhematopoietic stromal cells, bone marrow (BM) immune cells with unique functions support the survival of normal and malignant PCs in the BM niche, highlighting the diverse roles of immune cells beyond antimyeloma immunity. Together, the immune system critically acts as a rheostat that fine-tunes the balance between dormancy and disease progression in PC dyscrasias.
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69
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Bergin K, Wellard C, Moore E, McQuilten Z, Blacklock H, Harrison SJ, Ho PJ, King T, Quach H, Mollee P, Walker P, Wood E, Spencer A. The Myeloma Landscape in Australia and New Zealand: The First 8 Years of the Myeloma and Related Diseases Registry (MRDR). CLINICAL LYMPHOMA MYELOMA & LEUKEMIA 2021; 21:e510-e520. [PMID: 33785297 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2021.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Real-world multiple myeloma (MM) data are scarce, with most data originating from clinical trials. The Myeloma and Related Diseases Registry (MRDR) is a prospective clinical-quality registry of newly diagnosed cases of plasma cell disorders established in 2012 and operating at 44 sites in Australia and New Zealand as of April 2020. METHODS We reviewed all patients enrolled onto the MRDR between June 2012 and April 2020. Baseline characteristics, treatment, and outcome data were reviewed for MM patients with comparisons made by chi-square tests (categorical variables) and rank sum tests (continuous variables). Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate progression-free survival and overall survival (OS). RESULTS As of April 2020, a total of 2405 MM patients were enrolled (median age, 67 years, with 40% aged > 70 years). High-risk features were present in 13% to 31% of patients: fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH) ≥ 1 of t(4;14), t(14;16), or del(17p) 18%, International Staging System (ISS)-3 31%, and Revised ISS (R-ISS)-3 13%. Cytogenetic/FISH analyses were performed in 50% and 68% of patients, respectively, with an abnormal karyotype result in 34%. Bortezomib-containing therapy was the most common first-line therapy (79.3%, n = 1706). Patients not receiving bortezomib were older (median age, 76 vs 65 years, P < .001) with inferior performance status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≥ 2, 41% vs 18%, P < .001). Median progression-free survival and OS were 30.8 and 65.8 months, respectively. Younger patients had superior OS (76.3 vs 46.7 months, P < .001, < 70 and ≥ 70 years, respectively). R-ISS score was available in 50.7% (n = 1220) of patients, and higher R-ISS was associated with inferior OS (R-ISS-1 vs R-ISS-2 vs R-ISS-3: not reached vs 68.1 months vs 33.2 months, respectively, P < .001). CONCLUSION Clinical registries provide a more complete picture of MM diagnosis and treatment, and highlight the challenges of adhering to best practices in a real-world context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystal Bergin
- Department of Haematology, Alfred Health-Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Cameron Wellard
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Moore
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zoe McQuilten
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hilary Blacklock
- Clinical Haematology, Middlemore Hospital, Middlemore, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Simon J Harrison
- Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, Melbourne University, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Clinical Haematology, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - P Joy Ho
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, and University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tracy King
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, and University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hang Quach
- Clinical Haematology, University of Melbourne and St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Mollee
- Clinical Haematology, Princess Alexandra Hospital and University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Patricia Walker
- Clinical Haematology, Peninsula Health, Frankston, Victoria, Australia
| | - Erica Wood
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Spencer
- Department of Haematology, Alfred Health-Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Fang Y, Hou J. Immunotherapeutic strategies targeting B cell maturation antigen in multiple myeloma. Mil Med Res 2021; 8:9. [PMID: 33504363 PMCID: PMC7839214 DOI: 10.1186/s40779-021-00302-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematologic malignancy, and is characterized by the clonal expansion of malignant plasma cells. Despite the recent improvement in patient outcome due to the use of novel therapeutic agents and stem cell transplantation, all patients eventually relapse due to clone evolution. B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is highly expressed in and specific for MM cells, and has been implicated in the pathogenesis as well as treatment development for MM. In this review, we will summarize representative anti-BCMA immune therapeutic strategies, including BCMA-targeted vaccines, anti-BCMA antibodies and BCMA-targeted CAR cells. Combination of different immunotherapeutic strategies of targeting BCMA, multi-target immune therapeutic strategies, and adding immune modulatory agents to normalize anti-MM immune system in minimal residual disease (MRD) negative patients, will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Fang
- Department of Hematology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Jian Hou
- Department of Hematology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 160 Pujian Road, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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Yamamoto L, Amodio N, Gulla A, Anderson KC. Harnessing the Immune System Against Multiple Myeloma: Challenges and Opportunities. Front Oncol 2021; 10:606368. [PMID: 33585226 PMCID: PMC7873734 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.606368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable malignancy of plasma cells that grow within a permissive bone marrow microenvironment (BMM). The bone marrow milieu supports the malignant transformation both by promoting uncontrolled proliferation and resistance to cell death in MM cells, and by hampering the immune response against the tumor clone. Hence, it is expected that restoring host anti-MM immunity may provide therapeutic benefit for MM patients. Already several immunotherapeutic approaches have shown promising results in the clinical setting. In this review, we outline recent findings demonstrating the potential advantages of targeting the immunosuppressive bone marrow niche to restore effective anti-MM immunity. We discuss different approaches aiming to boost the effector function of T cells and/or exploit innate or adaptive immunity, and highlight novel therapeutic opportunities to increase the immunogenicity of the MM clone. We also discuss the main challenges that hamper the efficacy of immune-based approaches, including intrinsic resistance of MM cells to activated immune-effectors, as well as the protective role of the immune-suppressive and inflammatory bone marrow milieu. Targeting mechanisms to convert the immunologically “cold” to “hot” MM BMM may induce durable immune responses, which in turn may result in long-lasting clinical benefit, even in patient subgroups with high-risk features and poor survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leona Yamamoto
- Division of Hematologic Malignancy, Department of Medical Oncology, Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Annamaria Gulla
- Division of Hematologic Malignancy, Department of Medical Oncology, Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kenneth Carl Anderson
- Division of Hematologic Malignancy, Department of Medical Oncology, Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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CXCR5 CAR-T cells simultaneously target B cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and tumor-supportive follicular T helper cells. Nat Commun 2021; 12:240. [PMID: 33431832 PMCID: PMC7801647 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20488-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
CAR-T cell therapy targeting CD19 demonstrated strong activity against advanced B cell leukemia, however shows less efficacy against lymphoma with nodal dissemination. To target both B cell Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (B-NHLs) and follicular T helper (Tfh) cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), we apply here a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) that recognizes human CXCR5 with high avidity. CXCR5, physiologically expressed on mature B and Tfh cells, is also highly expressed on nodal B-NHLs. Anti-CXCR5 CAR-T cells eradicate B-NHL cells and lymphoma-supportive Tfh cells more potently than CD19 CAR-T cells in vitro, and they efficiently inhibit lymphoma growth in a murine xenograft model. Administration of anti-murine CXCR5 CAR-T cells in syngeneic mice specifically depletes endogenous and malignant B and Tfh cells without unexpected on-target/off-tumor effects. Collectively, anti-CXCR5 CAR-T cells provide a promising treatment strategy for nodal B-NHLs through the simultaneous elimination of lymphoma B cells and Tfh cells of the tumor-supporting TME. CAR-T cell therapy targeting CD19 is not as efficient to treat lymphoma with nodal dissemination as it is for B cell leukaemia. Here, the authors generate CAR-T cells against CXCR5 and show they inhibit tumour growth by depleting both B and follicular T helper cells in lymphoma models.
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73
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Geis M, Nowotny B, Bohn MD, Kouhestani D, Einsele H, Bumm T, Stuhler G. Combinatorial targeting of multiple myeloma by complementing T cell engaging antibody fragments. Commun Biol 2021; 4:44. [PMID: 33420283 PMCID: PMC7794243 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-020-01558-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bispecific T cell engaging antibodies (BiTEs) address tumor associated antigens that are over-expressed on cancer but that can also be found on healthy tissues, causing substantial on-target/off-tumor toxicities. To overcome this hurdle, we recently introduced hemibodies, a pair of complementary antibody fragments that redirect T cells against cancer-defining antigen combinations. Here we show that hemibodies addressing CD38 and SLAMF7 recruit T cells for the exquisite elimination of dual antigen positive multiple myeloma cells while leaving single antigen positive bystanders unharmed. Moreover, CD38 and SLAMF7 targeting BiTEs, but not hemibodies induce massive cytokine release and T cell fratricide reactions, a major drawback of T cell recruiting strategies. Together, we provide evidence in vitro and in vivo that hemibodies can be developed for the effective and highly specific immunotherapy of multiple myeloma. Geis et al. investigate the potential application of hemibodies, a pair of complementary antibody fragments that redirect T cells against cancer-defining antigen combinations, such as CD38 and SLAMF7, to target multiple myeloma. Their study provides evidence that hemibodies can be developed for effective immunotherapy against multiple myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Geis
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Hematology and Oncology, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Boris Nowotny
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Hematology and Oncology, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Marc-Dominic Bohn
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Hematology and Oncology, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Dina Kouhestani
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Hematology and Oncology, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Hematology and Oncology, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Bumm
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Hematology and Oncology, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Gernot Stuhler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Hematology and Oncology, University Clinic Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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74
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Nanoparticle T-cell engagers as a modular platform for cancer immunotherapy. Leukemia 2021; 35:2346-2357. [PMID: 33479469 PMCID: PMC8292428 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01127-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
T-cell-based immunotherapy, such as CAR-T cells and bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs), has shown promising clinical outcomes in many cancers; however, these therapies have significant limitations, such as poor pharmacokinetics and the ability to target only one antigen on the cancer cells. In multiclonal diseases, these therapies confer the development of antigen-less clones, causing tumor escape and relapse. In this study, we developed nanoparticle-based bispecific T-cell engagers (nanoBiTEs), which are liposomes decorated with anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting T cells, and mAbs targeting the cancer antigen. We also developed a nanoparticle that targets multiple cancer antigens by conjugating multiple mAbs against multiple cancer antigens for T-cell engagement (nanoMuTEs). NanoBiTEs and nanoMuTEs have a long half-life of about 60 h, which enables once-a-week administration instead of continuous infusion, while maintaining efficacy in vitro and in vivo. NanoMuTEs targeting multiple cancer antigens showed greater efficacy in myeloma cells in vitro and in vivo, compared to nanoBiTEs targeting only one cancer antigen. Unlike nanoBiTEs, treatment with nanoMuTEs did not cause downregulation (or loss) of a single antigen, and prevented the development of antigen-less tumor escape. Our nanoparticle-based immuno-engaging technology provides a solution for the major limitations of current immunotherapy technologies.
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75
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Abstract
Multiple myeloma remains an incurable disease despite great advances in its therapeutic landscape. Increasing evidence supports the belief that immune dysfunction plays an important role in the disease pathogenesis, progression, and drug resistance. Recent efforts have focused on harnessing the immune system to exert anti-myeloma effects with encouraging outcomes. First-in-class anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, daratumumab, now forms part of standard treatment regimens in relapsed and refractory settings and is shifting to front-line treatments. However, a non-negligible number of patients will progress and be triple refractory from the first line of treatment. Antibody-drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, and chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) are being developed in a heavily pretreated setting with outstanding results. Belantamab mafodotin-blmf has already received approval and other anti-B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) therapies (CARs and bispecific antibodies are expected to be integrated in therapeutic options against myeloma soon. Nonetheless, immunotherapy faces different challenges in terms of efficacy and safety, and manufacturing and economic drawbacks associated with such a line of therapy pose additional obstacles to broadening its use. In this review, we described the most important clinical data on immunotherapeutic agents, delineated the limitations that lie in immunotherapy, and provided potential insights to overcome such issues.
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76
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Stauffer A, Ray C, Hall M. A Flexible Multiplatform Bioanalytical Strategy for Measurement of Total Circulating Shed Target Receptors: Application to Soluble B Cell Maturation Antigen Levels in the Presence of a Bispecific Antibody Drug. Assay Drug Dev Technol 2020; 19:17-26. [PMID: 33232610 DOI: 10.1089/adt.2020.1024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a membrane-bound receptor that is overexpressed on multiple myeloma cells and can be targeted with biotherapeutics. Soluble shed forms of membrane-associated receptors in circulation can act as a drug sink, especially when it is present in high molar ratio compared to drug concentration, potentially derailing the intended pharmacological mechanism and impacting pharmacokinetic (PK) measurements and efficacious dose predictions. In this study, we present a bioanalytical strategy for assessing dynamic levels of total soluble BCMA before and during treatment with a bispecific antibody targeting BCMA and CD3. Implementation of a ligand binding assay was not successful due to extensive bispecific antibody interference. Instead, we explored two types of immunoaffinity (IA) liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assays, one at the protein level and one at the surrogate peptide level. Ultimately, the protein-level IA-LC-MS/MS method was optimized for use in a cynomolgus monkey PK/pharmacodynamic study. In addition, we demonstrated that the method was easily adapted for use with human samples in preparation for translation to the clinic. This work demonstrates the benefit of flexibility and agility in bioanalytical method development in early drug development. Multiplatform suitability assessments enable rapid, resource-sparing identification and qualification of clinically translatable assays. We recommend early adoption of this strategy to provide enough time for critical reagent development and assay validation for analysis of shed targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Stauffer
- Biomedicine Design, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development, and Medical, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Chad Ray
- Zoetis Incorporated, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Michael Hall
- Biomedicine Design, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development, and Medical, San Diego, California, USA
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77
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Ninkovic S, Quach H. Shaping the Treatment Paradigm Based on the Current Understanding of the Pathobiology of Multiple Myeloma: An Overview. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3488. [PMID: 33238653 PMCID: PMC7700434 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma is an incurable malignancy which despite progressive improvements in overall survival over the last decade remains characterised by recurrent relapse with progressively shorter duration of response and treatment-free intervals with each subsequent treatment. Efforts to unravel the complex and heterogeneous genomic alterations, the marked dysregulation of the immune system and the multifarious interplay between malignant plasma cells and those of the tumour microenvironment have not only led to improved understanding of myelomagenesis and disease progression but have facilitated the rapid development of novel therapeutics including immunotherapies and small molecules bringing us a step closer to therapies that no doubt will extend survival. Novel therapeutic combinations both in the upfront and relapsed setting as well as novel methods to assess response and guide management are rapidly transforming the management of myeloma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Slavisa Ninkovic
- Department of Haematology, St. Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia
| | - Hang Quach
- Department of Haematology, St. Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia
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78
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Demel I, Bago JR, Hajek R, Jelinek T. Focus on monoclonal antibodies targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) in multiple myeloma: update 2021. Br J Haematol 2020; 193:705-722. [PMID: 33216972 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Remarkable advances have been achieved in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) in the last decade, which saw targeted immunotherapy, represented by anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies, successfully incorporated across indications. However, myeloma is still considered curable in only a small subset of patients, and the majority of them eventually relapse. B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is expressed exclusively in mature B lymphocytes and plasma cells, and represents an ideal new target for immunotherapy, presented by bispecific antibody (bsAb) constructs, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells. Each of them has proved its efficacy with the potential for deep and long-lasting responses as a single agent therapy in heavily pretreated patients. As a result, belantamab mafodotin was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of relapsed/refractory MM, as the first anti-BCMA agent. In the present review, we focus on monoclonal antibodies targeting BCMA - bsAbs and ADCs. The data from preclinical studies as well as first-in-human clinical trials will be reviewed, together with the coverage of their constructs and mechanisms of action. The present results have laid the groundwork for the ongoing or upcoming clinical trials with combinatory regimens, which have always been a cornerstone in the treatment of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivo Demel
- Department of Haemato-oncology, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Julio Rodriguez Bago
- Department of Haemato-oncology, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Hajek
- Department of Haemato-oncology, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Jelinek
- Department of Haemato-oncology, University Hospital Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
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79
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Voynov V, Adam PJ, Nixon AE, Scheer JM. Discovery Strategies to Maximize the Clinical Potential of T-Cell Engaging Antibodies for the Treatment of Solid Tumors. Antibodies (Basel) 2020; 9:E65. [PMID: 33217946 PMCID: PMC7709135 DOI: 10.3390/antib9040065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell Engaging bispecific antibodies (TcEs) that can re-direct cytotoxic T-cells to kill cancer cells have been validated in clinical studies. To date, the clinical success with these agents has mainly been seen in hematologic tumor indications. However, an increasing number of TcEs are currently being developed to exploit the potent mode-of-action to treat solid tumor indications, which is more challenging in terms of tumor-cell accessibility and the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Of particular interest is the potential of TcEs as an immunotherapeutic approach for the treatment of non-immunogenic (often referred to as cold) tumors that do not respond to checkpoint inhibitors such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibodies. This has led to considerable discovery efforts for, firstly, the identification of tumor selective targeting approaches that can safely re-direct cytotoxic T-cells to cancer cells, and, secondly, bispecific antibodies and their derivatives with drug-like properties that promote a potent cytolytic synapse between T-cells and tumor cells, and in the most advanced TcEs, have IgG-like pharmacokinetics for dosing convenience. Based on encouraging pre-clinical data, a growing number of TcEs against a broad range of targets, and using an array of different molecular structures have entered clinical studies for solid tumor indications, and the first clinical data is beginning to emerge. This review outlines the different approaches that have been taken to date in addressing the challenges of exploiting the TcE mode-of-action for a broad range of solid indications, as well as opportunities for future discovery potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Voynov
- Biotherapeutics Discovery, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 900 Ridgebury Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877, USA; (A.E.N.); (J.M.S.)
| | - Paul J. Adam
- Cancer Immunology & Immune Modulation, Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG, Dr. Boehringer-Gasse 5-11, 1121 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Andrew E. Nixon
- Biotherapeutics Discovery, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 900 Ridgebury Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877, USA; (A.E.N.); (J.M.S.)
| | - Justin M. Scheer
- Biotherapeutics Discovery, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 900 Ridgebury Road, Ridgefield, CT 06877, USA; (A.E.N.); (J.M.S.)
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80
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Verkleij CP, Frerichs KA, Broekmans M, Absalah S, Maas-Bosman PW, Kruyswijk S, Nijhof IS, Mutis T, Zweegman S, van de Donk NW. T-cell redirecting bispecific antibodies targeting BCMA for the treatment of multiple myeloma. Oncotarget 2020; 11:4076-4081. [PMID: 33227097 PMCID: PMC7665238 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-targeting bispecific antibodies and bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) redirect T-cells to BCMA-expressing multiple myeloma (MM) cells. These MM cells are subsequently eliminated via various mechanisms of action including the release of granzymes and perforins. Several phase 1, dose-escalation studies show pronounced activity of BCMA-targeting bispecific antibodies, including teclistamab, AMG420 and CC-93269, in heavily pretreated MM patients. Cytokine release syndrome is the most common adverse event, which can be adequately managed with tocilizumab or steroids. Several clinical trials are currently evaluating combination therapy with a BCMA-specific bispecific antibody, based on preclinical findings showing that immunomodulatory drugs or CD38-targeting antibodies enhance the activity of bispecific antibodies. In addition, bispecific antibodies, targeting other MM cell surface antigens (i. e. GPRC5D, CD38 and FcRH5), are also evaluated in early phase clinical trials. Such bispecific antibodies, targeting other antigens, may be given to patients with low baseline BCMA expression, disease with substantial heterogeneity in BCMA expression, following prior BCMA-targeted therapy, or combined with BCMA bispecific antibodies to prevent development of antigen escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christie P.M. Verkleij
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Shared first authors
| | - Kristine A. Frerichs
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Shared first authors
| | - Marloes Broekmans
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saida Absalah
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sandy Kruyswijk
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Inger S. Nijhof
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tuna Mutis
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sonja Zweegman
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Niels W.C.J. van de Donk
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Hematology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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81
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A T-cell-redirecting bispecific G-protein-coupled receptor class 5 member D x CD3 antibody to treat multiple myeloma. Blood 2020; 135:1232-1243. [PMID: 32040549 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019003342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell-mediated approaches have shown promise in myeloma treatment. However, there are currently a limited number of specific myeloma antigens that can be targeted, and multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease. G-protein-coupled receptor class 5 member D (GPRC5D) is expressed in MM and smoldering MM patient plasma cells. Here, we demonstrate that GPRC5D protein is present on the surface of MM cells and describe JNJ-64407564, a GPRC5DxCD3 bispecific antibody that recruits CD3+ T cells to GPRC5D+ MM cells and induces killing of GPRC5D+ cells. In vitro, JNJ-64407564 induced specific cytotoxicity of GPRC5D+ cells with concomitant T-cell activation and also killed plasma cells in MM patient samples ex vivo. JNJ-64407564 can recruit T cells and induce tumor regression in GPRC5D+ MM murine models, which coincide with T-cell infiltration at the tumor site. This antibody is also able to induce cytotoxicity of patient primary MM cells from bone marrow, which is the natural site of this disease. GPRC5D is a promising surface antigen for MM immunotherapy, and JNJ-64407564 is currently being evaluated in a phase 1 clinical trial in patients with relapsed or refractory MM (NCT03399799).
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82
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Nadeem O, Tai YT, Anderson KC. Immunotherapeutic and Targeted Approaches in Multiple Myeloma. Immunotargets Ther 2020; 9:201-215. [PMID: 33117743 PMCID: PMC7569026 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s240886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The multiple myeloma (MM) therapeutic landscape has evolved significantly with the approval of numerous novel agents, including next generation proteasome inhibitors (PIs), immunomodulatory agents (IMIDs), and monoclonal antibodies (MoABs) targeting CD38 and SLAMF7. While these discoveries have led to an unprecedented improval in patient outcomes, the disease still remains incurable. Immunotherapeutic approaches have shown substantial promise in recent studies of chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR T-cell) therapy, bispecific antibodies, and antibody drug conjugates targeting B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA). This review will highlight these novel and targeted therapies in MM, with particular focus on PIs, IMIDs, MoAb and BCMA-directed immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Nadeem
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yu-Tzu Tai
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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83
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Gulla' A, Anderson KC. Multiple myeloma: the (r)evolution of current therapy and a glance into future. Haematologica 2020; 105:2358-2367. [PMID: 33054076 PMCID: PMC7556665 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2020.247015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past 20 years, the regulatory approval of several novel agents to treat multiple myeloma (MM) has prolonged median patient survival from 3 to 8-10 years. Increased understanding of MM biology has translated to advances in diagnosis, prognosis, and response assessment, as well as informed the development of targeted and immune agents. Here we provide an overview of the recent progress in MM, and highlight research areas of greatest promise to further improve patient outcome in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kenneth C. Anderson
- Division of Hematologic Neoplasia, Department of Medical Oncology, Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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84
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Bertamini L, Bonello F, Boccadoro M, Bringhen S. New drugs in early development for treating multiple myeloma: all that glitters is not gold. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:989-1004. [PMID: 32434394 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1772753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The last twenty years have introduced new therapeutic agents for multiple myeloma (MM); these include proteasome inhibitors (PIs), immunomodulatory drugs (IMDs) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). However, MM remains incurable, hence there is an unmet need for new agents for the treatment of advanced refractory disease. New agents could also be used in early lines to achieve improved, more sustained remission. AREAS COVERED We review the most promising agents investigated in early-phase trials for the treatment of MM and provide an emphasis on new agents directed against well-known targets (new PIs, IMDs and anti-CD38 mAbs). Drugs that work through distinct and numerous mechanisms of action (e.g. pro-apoptotic agents and tyrosine kinase inhibitors) and innovative immunotherapeutic approaches are also described. The paper culminates with our perspective on therapeutic approaches on the horizon for this disease. EXPERT OPINION IMD iberdomide and the export protein inhibitor selinexor demonstrated efficacy in heavily pretreated patients who had no other therapeutic options. We expect that immunotherapy with anti-BCMA BTEs and ADCs will revolutionize the approach to treating the early stages of the disease. Data on venetoclax in t(11;14)-positive patients may pave the way for personalized therapy. Not all new agents under early clinical evaluation will be investigated in regulatory phase III trials; one of the most important challenges is to identify those that could make a difference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Bertamini
- Myeloma Unit, Division of Hematology, University of Torino, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino , Torino, Italy
| | - Francesca Bonello
- Myeloma Unit, Division of Hematology, University of Torino, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino , Torino, Italy
| | - Mario Boccadoro
- Myeloma Unit, Division of Hematology, University of Torino, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino , Torino, Italy
| | - Sara Bringhen
- Myeloma Unit, Division of Hematology, University of Torino, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino , Torino, Italy
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85
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Bera TK. Anti-BCMA Immunotoxins: Design, Production, and Preclinical Evaluation. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10101387. [PMID: 33003418 PMCID: PMC7600380 DOI: 10.3390/biom10101387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a B-cell malignancy that is incurable for a majority of patients. B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a lineage-restricted differentiation protein highly expressed in multiple myeloma cells but not in other normal tissues except normal plasma B cells. Due to the restricted expression and being a cell surface membrane protein, BCMA is an ideal target for immunotherapy approaches in MM. Recombinant immunotoxins (RITs) are a novel class of protein therapeutics that are composed of the Fv or Fab portion of an antibody fused to a cytotoxic agent. RITs were produced by expressing plasmids encoding the components of the anti-BCMA RITs in E. coli followed by inclusion body preparation, solubilization, renaturation, and purification by column chromatography. The cytotoxic activity of RITs was tested in vitro by WST-8 assays using BCMA expressing cell lines and on cells isolated from MM patients. The in vivo efficacy of RITs was tested in a xenograft mouse model using BCMA expressing multiple myeloma cell lines. Anti-BCMA recombinant immunotoxins are very effective in killing myeloma cell lines and cells isolated from myeloma patients expressing BCMA. Two mouse models of myeloma showed that the anti-BCMA immunotoxins can produce a long-term complete response and warrant further preclinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapan K Bera
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Center for Cancer Research, NCI, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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86
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Abstract
Despite considerable advances in treatment approaches in the past two decades, multiple myeloma remains an incurable disease. Treatments for myeloma continue to evolve with many emerging immunotherapies. The first immunotherapy used to treat hematologic cancers, including multiple myeloma, was an allogeneic stem cell transplant. In the mid-2000s, immunomodulatory drugs thalidomide, lenalidomide, and subsequently pomalidomide were proven to be effective in multiple myeloma and substantially improved survival. The next wave of immunotherapies for multiple myeloma included the monoclonal antibodies daratumumab and elotuzumab, which were approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2015. Subsequently, a variety of immunotherapies have been developed for multiple myeloma, including chimeric antigen receptor T cells, bispecific antibodies, antibody drug conjugates, and checkpoint inhibitors. Many of these emerging treatments target the B cell maturation antigen, which is expressed on plasma cells, although several other novel receptors are also being studied. This review summarizes the evidence of these various immunotherapies, their mechanism of action, and data from clinical trials regarding the treatments' safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urvi A Shah
- Myeloma Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 530 East 74th Street, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Sham Mailankody
- Myeloma Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 530 East 74th Street, New York, NY 10021, USA
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87
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Chen Y, Nagarajan C, Tan MS, Martinelli G, Cerchione C. BCMA-targeting approaches for treatment of multiple myeloma. Panminerva Med 2020; 63:28-36. [PMID: 32955181 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.20.04121-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in treatment modalities have led to improved survival in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). However, despite these, MM remains an incurable disease. Many MM patients relapse through and become refractory to current treatment strategies or are intolerant due to toxicities arising from therapy. As such, novel strategies addressing new targets are crucial in improving care for MM patients. BCMA has emerged as a rationale therapeutic target for treatment of MM as it is preferentially expressed in mature B-lymphocytes and plasma cells with the overexpression and activation of BCMA via its ligands associated with the disease progression in multiple myeloma. Given the high expression of BCMA in malignant Plasma cells compared to those from normal healthy volunteers, targeting BCMA should reduce risks of on-target off-tumor toxicities. The main BCMA-targeting approaches currently used for treatment of MM include: 1) chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy; 2) bi- and multi- specific antibodies; and 3) monoclonal antibodies and their drug conjugates. This review will outline these therapeutic agents and present their emerging clinical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxin Chen
- Department of Hematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore - .,SingHealth Duke NUS Blood Cancer Center, Singapore, Singapore -
| | - Chandramouli Nagarajan
- Department of Hematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,SingHealth Duke NUS Blood Cancer Center, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Melinda S Tan
- Department of Hematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- Unit of Hematology, IRCCS Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST), Meldola, Forlì-Cesena, Italy
| | - Claudio Cerchione
- Unit of Hematology, IRCCS Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (IRST), Meldola, Forlì-Cesena, Italy
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88
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Dalla Palma B, Marchica V, Catarozzo MT, Giuliani N, Accardi F. Monoclonal and Bispecific Anti-BCMA Antibodies in Multiple Myeloma. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9093022. [PMID: 32961764 PMCID: PMC7565079 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9093022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, is universally expressed by normal and neoplastic plasma cells and plays a critical role in the proliferation, survival and tumor progression in multiple myeloma (MM). B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) have been recognized as proliferation ligands for BCMA in the bone marrow microenvironment. Soluble BCMA levels in the serum correlates with disease phase and tumor burden and is a predictor of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Recently, the introduction of new monoclonal antibodies against CD38 (Daratumumab and Isatuximab) and SLAM7 (Elotuzumab) has changed the therapeutic approach to MM, improving the response rate and the time to progression, both in newly diagnosed and refractory/relapsed patients. Among the surface antigens on MM cells, BCMA is a suitable target for the design of new antibody-based strategies. Experimental approaches targeting BCMA are currently being investigated and include antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) and genetically engineered T-cells with chimeric antigen receptors (CAR). In this review we summarize the more recent findings about BCMA biologic rationale as a therapeutic target and report the updated results of preclinical and clinical studies focused on ADCs and bsAbs targeting BCMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedetta Dalla Palma
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.M.); (M.T.C.); (N.G.)
- Hematology and BMT Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
- Correspondence: (B.D.P); (F.A.); Tel.: +39-052-170-3963 (B.D.P.)
| | - Valentina Marchica
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.M.); (M.T.C.); (N.G.)
| | - Maria Teresa Catarozzo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.M.); (M.T.C.); (N.G.)
| | - Nicola Giuliani
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.M.); (M.T.C.); (N.G.)
- Hematology and BMT Unit, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Accardi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (V.M.); (M.T.C.); (N.G.)
- Department of Hematology I, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti Villa Sofia-Cervello, 90146 Palermo, Italy
- Correspondence: (B.D.P); (F.A.); Tel.: +39-052-170-3963 (B.D.P.)
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89
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Yu B, Jiang T, Liu D. BCMA-targeted immunotherapy for multiple myeloma. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:125. [PMID: 32943087 PMCID: PMC7499842 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00962-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a novel treatment target for multiple myeloma (MM) due to its highly selective expression in malignant plasma cells (PCs). Multiple BCMA-targeted therapeutics, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADC), chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells, and bispecific T cell engagers (BiTE), have achieved remarkable clinical response in patients with relapsed and refractory MM. Belantamab mafodotin-blmf (GSK2857916), a BCMA-targeted ADC, has just been approved for highly refractory MM. In this article, we summarized the molecular and physiological properties of BCMA as well as BCMA-targeted immunotherapeutic agents in different stages of clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yu
- Department of Medicine, Lincoln Medical Center, Bronx, NY USA
| | - Tianbo Jiang
- Department of Medicine, New York Medical College and Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY USA
| | - Delong Liu
- Department of Medicine, New York Medical College and Westchester Medical Center, Valhalla, NY USA
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90
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Fernández de Larrea C, Staehr M, Lopez AV, Ng KY, Chen Y, Godfrey WD, Purdon TJ, Ponomarev V, Wendel HG, Brentjens RJ, Smith EL. Defining an Optimal Dual-Targeted CAR T-cell Therapy Approach Simultaneously Targeting BCMA and GPRC5D to Prevent BCMA Escape-Driven Relapse in Multiple Myeloma. Blood Cancer Discov 2020; 1:146-154. [PMID: 33089218 PMCID: PMC7575057 DOI: 10.1158/2643-3230.bcd-20-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
CAR T-cell therapy for multiple myeloma (MM) targeting B-cell maturation antigen (TNFRSF17; BCMA) induces high overall response rates; however, relapse occurs commonly. Implicated in relapse is a reservoir of MM if cells lacking sufficient BCMA surface expression (antigen escape). We demonstrate that simultaneous targeting of an additional antigen-here, G protein-coupled receptor class-C group-5 member-D (GPRC5D)-can prevent BCMA escape-mediated relapse in a model of MM. To identify an optimal approach, we compare subtherapeutic doses of different forms of dual-targeted cellular therapy. These include (1) parallel-produced and pooled mono-targeted CAR T-cells, (2) bicistronic constructs expressing distinct CARs from a single vector, and (3) a dual-scFv "single-stalk" CAR design. When targeting BCMA-negative disease, bicistronic and pooled approaches had the highest efficacy, whereas for dual-antigen-expressing disease, the bicistronic approach was more efficacious than the pooled approach. Mechanistically, expressing two CARs on a single cell enhanced the strength of CAR T-cell/target cell interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Fernández de Larrea
- Cellular Therapeutics Center, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Mette Staehr
- Cellular Therapeutics Center, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Andrea V Lopez
- Cellular Therapeutics Center, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Khong Y Ng
- Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, New York
| | - Yunxin Chen
- Cellular Therapeutics Center, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - William D Godfrey
- Cellular Therapeutics Center, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Terence J Purdon
- Cellular Therapeutics Center, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Vladimir Ponomarev
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Renier J Brentjens
- Cellular Therapeutics Center, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Eric L Smith
- Cellular Therapeutics Center, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
- Myeloma Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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91
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Zanwar S, Nandakumar B, Kumar S. Immune-based therapies in the management of multiple myeloma. Blood Cancer J 2020; 10:84. [PMID: 32829378 PMCID: PMC7443188 DOI: 10.1038/s41408-020-00350-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a clonal plasma cell malignancy affecting a predominantly elderly population. The continued development of newer therapies with novel mechanisms of action has reshaped the treatment paradigm of this disorder in the last two decades, leading to a significantly improved prognosis. This has in turn resulted in an increasing number of patients in need of therapy for relapsed/refractory disease. Immune-based therapies, including monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and most promisingly, adoptive cellular therapies represent important therapeutic strategies in these patients due to their non-cross resistant mechanisms of actions with the usual frontline therapies comprising of immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and proteasome inhibitors (PIs). The anti-CD38 antibodies daratumumab and more recently isatuximab, with their excellent efficacy and safety profile along with its synergy in combination with IMiDs and PIs, are being increasingly incorporated in the frontline setting. Chimeric antigen receptor-T cell (CART) therapies and bi-specific T-cell engager (BiTE) represent exciting new options that have demonstrated efficacy in heavily pretreated and refractory MM. In this review, we discuss the rationale for use of immune-based therapies in MM and summarize the currently available literature for common antibodies and CAR-T therapies that are utilized in MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Zanwar
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Shaji Kumar
- Division of Hematology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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92
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Xing L, Lin L, Yu T, Li Y, Cho SF, Liu J, Wen K, Hsieh PA, Kinneer K, Munshi N, Anderson KC, Tai YT. A novel BCMA PBD-ADC with ATM/ATR/WEE1 inhibitors or bortezomib induce synergistic lethality in multiple myeloma. Leukemia 2020; 34:2150-2162. [PMID: 32060401 PMCID: PMC7392808 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-020-0745-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
To target mechanisms critical for multiple myeloma (MM) plasma cell adaptations to genomic instabilities and further sustain MM cell killing, we here specifically trigger DNA damage response (DDR) in MM cells by a novel BCMA antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) delivering the DNA cross-linking PBD dimer tesirine, MEDI2228. MEDI2228, more effectively than its anti-tubulin MMAF-ADC homolog, induces cytotoxicity against MM cells regardless of drug resistance, BCMA levels, p53 status, and the protection conferred by bone marrow stromal cells and IL-6. Distinctly, prior to apoptosis, MEDI2228 activates DDRs in MM cells via phosphorylation of ATM/ATR kinases, CHK1/2, CDK1/2, and H2AX, associated with expression of DDR-related genes. Significantly, MEDI2228 synergizes with DDR inhibitors (DDRi s) targeting ATM/ATR/WEE1 checkpoints to induce MM cell lethality. Moreover, suboptimal doses of MEDI2228 and bortezomib (btz) synergistically trigger apoptosis of even drug-resistant MM cells partly via modulation of RAD51 and accumulation of impaired DNA. Such combination further induces superior in vivo efficacy than monotherapy via increased nuclear γH2AX-expressing foci, irreversible DNA damages, and tumor cell death, leading to significantly prolonged host survival. These results indicate leveraging MEDI2228 with DDRi s or btz as novel combination strategies, further supporting ongoing clinical development of MEDI2228 in patients with relapsed and refractory MM.
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Key Words
- multiple myeloma, mm
- b cell maturation antigen, bcma
- antibody drug conjugate, adc
- pyrrolobenzodiazepine, pbd
- monomethyl auristatin f, mmaf
- bortezomib, btz
- lenalidomide, len
- pomalidomide, pom
- bone marrow stromal cells, bmscs
- interleukin-6, il-6
- dna damage response, ddr
- double strand break, dsb
- ddr inhibitor, ddri
- dna repair
- ataxia-telangiesctasia mutated, atm
- atr, ataxia telangiectasia and rad3-related protein
- wee1
- drug resistance
- synthetic cytotoxicity
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijie Xing
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Hematology, Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, PR China
| | - Liang Lin
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Tengteng Yu
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yuyin Li
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- School of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, Key Lab of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of the Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tianjin, 300457, PR China
| | - Shih-Feng Cho
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jiye Liu
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth Wen
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Phillip A Hsieh
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Nikhil Munshi
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth C Anderson
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Yu-Tzu Tai
- Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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93
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Zhou X, Einsele H, Danhof S. Bispecific Antibodies: A New Era of Treatment for Multiple Myeloma. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9072166. [PMID: 32659909 PMCID: PMC7408718 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9072166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the introduction of novel agents such as proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, and autologous stem cell transplant, multiple myeloma (MM) largely remains an incurable disease. In recent years, monoclonal antibody-based treatment strategies have been developed to target specific surface antigens on MM cells. Treatment with bispecific antibodies (bsAbs) is an immunotherapeutic strategy that leads to an enhanced interaction between MM cells and immune effector cells, e.g., T-cells and natural killer cells. With the immune synapse built by bsAbs, the elimination of MM cells can be facilitated. To date, bsAbs have demonstrated encouraging results in preclinical studies, and clinical trials evaluating bsAbs in patients with MM are ongoing. Early clinical data show the promising efficacy of bsAbs in relapsed/refractory MM. Together with chimeric antigen receptor-modified (CAR)-T-cells, bsAbs represent a new dimension of precision medicine. In this review, we provide an overview of rationale, current clinical development, resistance mechanisms, and future directions of bsAbs in MM.
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94
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Foureau DM, Bhutani M, Robinson M, Guo F, Pham D, Buelow B, Steuerwald N, Rigby K, Tjaden E, Leonidas M, Paul BA, Atrash S, Ndiaye A, Symanowski JT, Voorhees PM, Usmani SZ. Ex vivo efficacy of BCMA-bispecific antibody TNB-383B in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. EJHAEM 2020; 1:113-121. [PMID: 35847733 PMCID: PMC9175895 DOI: 10.1002/jha2.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
TNB-383B is a fully human BCMA-targeting T-cell engaging bispecific monoclonal antibody (T-BsAb). We assessed ex vivo efficacy of this drug to mediate killing of bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) freshly isolated from 10 patients with relapsed multiple myeloma (MM). BMMC were treated ex vivo with TNB-383B at doses ranging from 0.001-1 μg. Plasma cell (PC) lysis, viability, BCMA expression, CTL distribution, and degranulation were assessed by flow cytometry. Cytokine response to TNB-383B was quantified by multiplex protein assay. Dose-dependent PC lysis was triggered in all cases by TNB-383B at doses as low as 0.001 μg (P = .0102). Primary MM cells varied in BCMA expression. High BCMA+ PC count correlated with increased PC lysis (P = .005) and significant CTL degranulation specific to TNB-383B treatment (P = .0153 at 1 μg). High E:T ratio in bone marrow specimens led to lower viable and higher apoptotic PC compared with low E:T ratio (P < .001). Three cytokines were significantly modulated by TNB-383B: IL-2/TNFα increased by ∼4 ± 3.5-fold average (P < .005 at 1 μg) and IP10 increased by ∼50 ± 15-fold (P < .001 at 1 μg). We conclude that TNB-383B triggers primary PC lysis and CTL degranulation in a dose-dependent fashion ex vivo with no T cell expansion and mild increase of CRS-associated cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Foureau
- Immune Monitoring Core LaboratoryLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Manisha Bhutani
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood DisordersLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Myra Robinson
- Department of Cancer BiostatisticsLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Fei Guo
- Immune Monitoring Core LaboratoryLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | | | | | - Nury Steuerwald
- Molecular Biology Core LaboratoryLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Katherine Rigby
- Hematology Oncology Translational Research LaboratoryLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Elise Tjaden
- Hematology Oncology Translational Research LaboratoryLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Marina Leonidas
- Immune Monitoring Core LaboratoryLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Barry A. Paul
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood DisordersLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Shebli Atrash
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood DisordersLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Ami Ndiaye
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood DisordersLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - James T. Symanowski
- Department of Cancer BiostatisticsLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Peter M. Voorhees
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood DisordersLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Saad Z. Usmani
- Department of Hematologic Oncology and Blood DisordersLevine Cancer Institute/Atrium HealthCharlotteNorth CarolinaUSA
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95
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Feng D, Sun J. Overview of anti-BCMA CAR-T immunotherapy for multiple myeloma and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. Scand J Immunol 2020; 92:e12910. [PMID: 32471019 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a haematological malignancy caused by malignant proliferation of plasma cells in bone marrow. In recent years, MM patients are commonly treated with chemotherapy, autologous stem cell transplantation, protease inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs and monoclonal antibodies, however most patients eventually relapse. Therefore, more effective therapies are highly needed. Anti-BCMA CAR-T therapy, a novel and efficacious method for treating MM and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), has been designed and applied in clinics. The CAR-T can specifically recognize the targeted molecule B cell maturation antigen (BCMA) and kill MM cells expressing BCMA and several clinical trials have revealed high response rates in the therapy. Herein, we summarize the developments, the current design and clinical trials, the side effects of anti-BCMA CAR-T therapy and comparison of it with other CAR-T therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deming Feng
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
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96
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Cho SF, Lin L, Xing L, Li Y, Yu T, Anderson KC, Tai YT. BCMA-Targeting Therapy: Driving a New Era of Immunotherapy in Multiple Myeloma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1473. [PMID: 32516895 PMCID: PMC7352710 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) has entered into a new era of immunotherapy. Novel immunotherapies will significantly improve patient outcome via simultaneously targeting malignant plasma cell (PC) and reversing immunocompromised bone marrow (BM) microenvironment. B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA), selectively expressed in PCs and a key receptor for A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), is highly expressed in MM cells from patients at all stages. The APRIL/BCMA signal cascades promote the survival and drug resistance of MM cells and further modulate immunosuppressive BM milieu. Impressively, anti-BCMA immunotherapeutic reagents, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) and bispecific T cell engager (BiTE) have all shown high response rates in their first clinical trials in relapse and refractory patients with very limited treatment options. These results rapidly inspired numerous development of next-generation anti-BCMA biotherapeutics, i.e., bispecific molecule, bispecific or trispecific antibodies, a novel form of CAR T/NK cells and T Cell Antigen Coupler (TAC) receptors, antibody-coupled T cell receptor (ACTR) as well as a cancer vaccine. We here highlight seminal preclinical and clinical studies on novel BCMA-based immunotherapies as effective monotherapy and discuss their potential in combination with current anti-MM and novel checkpoint drugs in earlier disease stages to further achieve durable responses in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Feng Cho
- LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics and Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA; (S.-F.C.); (L.L.); (L.X.); (Y.L.); (T.Y.); (K.C.A.)
- Division of Hematology & Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
- Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
| | - Liang Lin
- LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics and Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA; (S.-F.C.); (L.L.); (L.X.); (Y.L.); (T.Y.); (K.C.A.)
| | - Lijie Xing
- LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics and Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA; (S.-F.C.); (L.L.); (L.X.); (Y.L.); (T.Y.); (K.C.A.)
| | - Yuyin Li
- LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics and Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA; (S.-F.C.); (L.L.); (L.X.); (Y.L.); (T.Y.); (K.C.A.)
| | - Tengteng Yu
- LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics and Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA; (S.-F.C.); (L.L.); (L.X.); (Y.L.); (T.Y.); (K.C.A.)
| | - Kenneth C Anderson
- LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics and Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA; (S.-F.C.); (L.L.); (L.X.); (Y.L.); (T.Y.); (K.C.A.)
| | - Yu-Tzu Tai
- LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics and Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02138, USA; (S.-F.C.); (L.L.); (L.X.); (Y.L.); (T.Y.); (K.C.A.)
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97
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Bird SA, Jackson GH, Pawlyn C. Maintenance Strategies Post-Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma. Clin Hematol Int 2020; 2:59-68. [PMID: 34595444 PMCID: PMC8432350 DOI: 10.2991/chi.d.200502.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma, the second most common hematological malignancy worldwide, has demonstrated dramatic improvements in outcome in the last decade. In newly diagnosed patients, induction chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard of care. After ASCT, the majority of patients experience disease remission but, despite recent therapeutic developments, most will eventually relapse. In this review we consider clinical aspects of maintenance therapies that can be used post-ASCT to prolong remission duration. We discuss the evidence for the effectiveness of each of these drugs as a maintenance therapy, alongside other benefits and drawbacks to their use, for example, route of administration and potential toxicities. We discuss questions which remain unanswered around the optimal use of currently available maintenance therapies and review newer agents being considered for use as maintenance such as emerging immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Bird
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London.,The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London
| | - Graham H Jackson
- Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, England
| | - Charlotte Pawlyn
- The Institute of Cancer Research, London.,The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London
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98
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Einsele H, Borghaei H, Orlowski RZ, Subklewe M, Roboz GJ, Zugmaier G, Kufer P, Iskander K, Kantarjian HM. The BiTE (bispecific T-cell engager) platform: Development and future potential of a targeted immuno-oncology therapy across tumor types. Cancer 2020; 126:3192-3201. [PMID: 32401342 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.32909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Immuno-oncology therapies engage the immune system to treat cancer. BiTE (bispecific T-cell engager) technology is a targeted immuno-oncology platform that connects patients' own T cells to malignant cells. The modular nature of BiTE technology facilitates the generation of molecules against tumor-specific antigens, allowing off-the-shelf immuno-oncotherapy. Blinatumomab was the first approved canonical BiTE molecule and targets CD19 surface antigens on B cells, making blinatumomab largely independent of genetic alterations or intracellular escape mechanisms. Additional BiTE molecules in development target other hematologic malignancies (eg, multiple myeloma, acute myeloid leukemia, and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma) and solid tumors (eg, prostate cancer, glioblastoma, gastric cancer, and small-cell lung cancer). BiTE molecules with an extended half-life relative to the canonical BiTE molecules are also being developed. Advances in immuno-oncology made with BiTE technology could substantially improve the treatment of hematologic and solid tumors and offer enhanced activity in combination with other treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann Einsele
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hossein Borghaei
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Robert Z Orlowski
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Marion Subklewe
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Gail J Roboz
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, The New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York
| | | | - Peter Kufer
- Amgen Research (Munich) GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Hagop M Kantarjian
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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99
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Lejeune M, Köse MC, Duray E, Einsele H, Beguin Y, Caers J. Bispecific, T-Cell-Recruiting Antibodies in B-Cell Malignancies. Front Immunol 2020; 11:762. [PMID: 32457743 PMCID: PMC7221185 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) are designed to recognize and bind to two different antigens or epitopes. In the last few decades, BsAbs have been developed within the context of cancer therapies and in particular for the treatment of hematologic B-cell malignancies. To date, more than one hundred different BsAb formats exist, including bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs), and new constructs are constantly emerging. Advances in protein engineering have enabled the creation of BsAbs with specific mechanisms of action and clinical applications. Moreover, a better understanding of resistance and evasion mechanisms, as well as advances in the protein engineering and in immunology, will help generating a greater variety of BsAbs to treat various cancer types. This review focuses on T-cell-engaging BsAbs and more precisely on the various BsAb formats currently being studied in the context of B-cell malignancies, on ongoing clinical trials and on the clinical concerns to be taken into account in the development of new BsAbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaux Lejeune
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Murat Cem Köse
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Elodie Duray
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Hermann Einsele
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Yves Beguin
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.,Department of Hematology, CHU de Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jo Caers
- Laboratory of Hematology, GIGA I3, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.,Department of Hematology, CHU de Liège, Liège, Belgium
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100
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Leblay N, Maity R, Hasan F, Neri P. Deregulation of Adaptive T Cell Immunity in Multiple Myeloma: Insights Into Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities. Front Oncol 2020; 10:636. [PMID: 32432039 PMCID: PMC7214816 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has recently emerged as a promising treatment option for multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Profound immune dysfunction and evasion of immune surveillance are known to characterize MM evolution and disease progression. Along with genomic changes observed in malignant plasma cells, the bone marrow (BM) milieu creates a protective environment sustained by the complex interaction of BM stromal cells (BMSCs) and malignant cells that using bidirectional connections and cytokines released stimulate disease progression, drug resistance and enable immune escape. Local immune suppression and T-cell exhaustion are important mediating factors of clinical outcomes and responses to immune-based approaches. Thus, further characterization of the defects present in the immune system of MM patients is essential to develop novel therapies and to repurpose the existing ones. This review seeks to provide insights into the mechanisms that promote tumor escape, cause inadequate T-cell stimulation and impaired cytotoxicity in MM. Furthermore, it highlights current immunotherapies being used to restore adaptive T-cell immune responses in MM and describes strategies created to escape these multiple immune evasion mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Leblay
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ranjan Maity
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Fajer Hasan
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Paola Neri
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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