Pilot, Open-Label, Single-Arm Study of Autologous BCMA-Directed CAR-T Cells in Patients With Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma in Pakistan
The treatment options for multiple myeloma have evolved significantly over the years, providing patients with a range of therapies tailored to their specific circumstances. The choice of treatment often hinges on various factors, including the aggressiveness of the disease, individual prognostic indicators like genetic markers, the overall physical condition of the patient, and any pre-existing health issues that may affect treatment decisions. Current therapeutic strategies include several classes of drugs, each working through different mechanisms. Proteasome inhibitors (PIs) disrupt the protein degradation process within myeloma cells, thereby promoting their death. Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) modulate the immune system and inhibit tumor growth by enhancing the body's natural anti-cancer responses. Monoclonal antibodies specifically target cancer cells, marking them for destruction by the immune system. In cases where patients are eligible, autologous stem cell transplantation remains a viable option, offering the potential for long-term remission by replacing damaged bone marrow with healthy stem cells from the patient's own body. Despite these advancements, multiple myeloma continues to present significant challenges, as it often recurs even after initial successful treatment and remains an incurable disease. This highlights the urgent need for innovative therapeutic strategies that can effectively address resistance to existing treatments, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes and survival rates.
• Male and female participants of age 18 years and above.
• Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of multiple myeloma according to IMWG diagnostic criteria.
• Received at least 3 prior multiple myeloma treatment lines of therapy or are double refractory to an IMiD and PI (refractory multiple myeloma as defined by IMWG consensus criteria). Note: induction with or without hematopoietic stem cell transplant and with or without maintenance therapy is considered a single line of therapy.
• Measurable disease at Screening as per IMWG criteria.
• ECOG Performance Status grade of 0 to 2.
• Adequate organ function: ANC/platelets thresholds (unless cytopenias attributable to MM), LVEF ≥45%, adequate oxygenation; hepatic/renal criteria specified in Section 10.
• Negative pregnancy test for women of childbearing potential; agreement to effective contraception.
• Patients giving written informed consent to participate in the study after a full understanding of the implications and constraints of the study protocol.
• Understand the content of the ICF, and voluntarily sign the ICF (If the participant is unable to sign the ICF on their own due to illiteracy, an impartial witness is needed).
⁃ The subject can understand the research process and is willing and able to comply with all research proposals and other requirements of the study.
⁃ Willing and able to adhere to the prohibitions and restrictions specified in this protocol.