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Baljević, Muhamed

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0630-8458

Mayo Clinic

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Citations 15

Etentamig in patients (pts) with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) with prior exposure to B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)–targeted therapy.
Chhabra, S, Searle, Emma, Popat, Rakesh, Magen, Hila , Gatt, Moshe E., Avivi, Irit, Korde, Neha, Valdes, Cesar Rodriguez , Lichtman, Eben I. , Touzeau, Cyrille, Leleu, Xavier P., Svensson, Anders, Doerr, Thomas, Yu, Jovian , (Lee), Xin (Shane) Li, Ahsan, Aarif, Rosenberg, Tanya, Talati, Chetasi, Kumar, Shaji, Chhabra, Saurabh , Searle, Emma J , Popat, Rakesh , Gatt, Moshe E. , Avivi, I., Baljević, Muhamed , Touzeau, Cyrille , Leleu, Xavier , Svensson, Anders , Doerr, Thomas, Talati, Chetasi , Kumar, Shaji

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 28, 2026 | Volume: 44 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: 7508-7508

10.1200/jco.2026.44.16_suppl.7508 Get It

7508 Background: Data on response to BCMA-targeted therapies among BCMA-exposed pts with RRMM are limited. Outcomes after sequential/subsequent anti-BCMA bispecific T-cell engagers (Bs-TCE) are vital to evaluate. Etentamig is a next-generation differentiated BCMA x CD3 Bs-TCE composed of a bivalent BCMA-binding domain with a high-avidity, low-affinity CD3-binding domain potentially reducing cytokine release syndrome (CRS), and a silenced Fc tail for extended half-life and convenient monthly (Q4W) dosing. Phase 1 results of etentamig in RRMM showed robust efficacy and potential best-in-class safety. Methods: Arm B of the open-label, Phase 1b MOVISO study (NCT05650632) evaluated etentamig in pts with RRMM with ≥2 prior lines of therapy (PLT), including triple-class and prior BCMA exposure (antibody-drug conjugate [ADC] >30 days or CAR-T >6 months [mo] after last exposure). Primary safety endpoints were CRS and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS); efficacy endpoints included objective response rate (ORR; IMWG 2016), duration of response (DoR), and progression-free survival (PFS). Pts received etentamig (60 mg IV; no step-up dosing [SUD]) on Cycle 1 Day 1 and Q4W thereafter. Results: At cutoff (June 11, 2025), 41 prior BCMA-exposed pts (CAR-T, n=24; ADC, n=17) had been treated; 24 (57%) were male, 38 (93%) were White, median (mdn) (range) age was 68 (43–89) years, 37 (88%) had ECOG PS ≤1, and 34 (81%) were triple-class refractory. Mdn (range) PLT was 6 (3–15). For 21 (51%) pts, the last PLT was BCMA directed; 23 (56%) had previously responded to anti-BCMA therapy (17/24 [71%] for CAR-T and 6/17 [35%] for ADC). Mdn (range) time from last prior CAR-T or ADC to first dose of etentamig was 15 (1–30) and 4 (1–45) mo, respectively. Mdn (range) follow-up was 5.5 (0.2–17.1) mo. Despite no SUD, CRS and ICANS were reported in 24 (57%) and 3 (7%) pts, respectively; all G1/2 events, except 1 G3 ICANS. G3/4 neutropenia and infections were reported in 15 (36%) and 17 (41%) pts, respectively. Efficacy outcomes are detailed in the Table (NE, not estimable). For pts whose last PLT was BCMA directed, MRD negativity (clonoSEQ, 10 –5 ) was seen in 2/3 (67%) evaluable pts, along with robust peak activation and proliferation of CD8+ T cells. Conclusions: Pts treated with etentamig achieved durable responses; rates were higher in pts who received CAR-T as last line. No new safety signals were observed; only low-grade CRS was seen despite no SUD. Clinical trial information: NCT05650632 . All prior BCMA (N=41) Prior BCMA CAR-T (N=24) ORR, n/n (%) [95% CI] Overall 17/36 (47) [30–65] 11/22 (50) [28–72] BCMA-directed last PLT 11/19 (58) [34–80] 7/11 (64) [31–89] Mdn DoR, mo [95% CI], No. of pts Overall 13 [7–NE], N=17 13 [7–NE], N=11 BCMA-directed last PLT 13 [7–NE], N=11 13 [7–NE], N=7 Mdn PFS, mo [95% CI], No. of pts Overall 3.4 [3–11], N=41 8.3 [2–NE], N=24 BCMA-directed last PLT 9.4 [2–NE], N=21 9.4 [2–NE], N=12
Multiple Myeloma, Version 5.2026, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines In Oncology
Kumar, Shaji K., Adekola, Kehinde , Anderson, Larry , Costello, C. L., D’Angelo, Christopher R. , Elsedawy, Noura, Godara, Amandeep , Godby, Kelly, Hillengass, J, Holmberg, Leona, Htut, Myo , Huff, Carol Ann , Hultcrantz, Malin , Kang, Yubin , Larson, Sarah, Lee, Hans Chulhee, Liedtke, Michaela , Martin, Thomas, Omel, James, Robinson, Timothy J., Rosenberg, Aaron, Sherbenou, Daniel, Suvannasankha, Attaya, Valent, Jason , Varshavsky‐Yanovsky, Asya, Ye, J Christine, Kovach, Emily, Kumar, Rashmi , Kumar, Shaji , Callander, Natalie S. , Baljević, Muhamed , Baz, Rachid , Campagnaro, Erica , Costello, Caitlin , Derman, Benjamin A. , Devarakonda, Srinivas , Hillengass, Jens, Holmberg, Leona , Kang, Yubin , Larson, Sarah, Lee, Hans C. , Rosenberg, Aaron , Sarosiek, Shayna , Schroeder, Mark A. , Sherbenou, Daniel W , Suvannasankha, Attaya , Valent, Jason Neil , Vogl, Dan T. , Kovách, E

Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network | January 8, 2026 | Volume: 24 | Issue: 1 | Pages: No page available

10.6004/jnccn.2026.0001 Get It

The treatment landscape for multiple myeloma (MM) is evolving rapidly and includes several new options. The management must be tailored to the individual. The NCCN Guidelines for MM provide a framework to base decisions regarding diagnosis, workup, treatment, and follow-up of both newly diagnosed and previously treated relapsed/refractory MM. This manuscript outlines the recommendations from NCCN Guidelines for MM specific to newly diagnosed MM (NDMM).
Correlative biomarker analyses of etentamig in patients with Relapsed/Refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) at optimal dose support its potential to maximize T-cell activity with rapid and transient proinflammatory cytokine responses
Ahsan, Aarif, Mantis, Christine, Luo, Adam , Zheng, Pingping , Liu, Wei , Zhang, Catherine, Rodriguez, Cesar, Voorhees, Peter M. , Safah, Hana, McKay, John, Korde, Neha , Vij, Ravi , Kumar, Shaji, Mian, Hira , Pothacamury, Rajvineeth Kumar, Svensson, Anders , Mian, Hira , D’Souza, Anita , Chung, Alfred , Tuchman, Sascha Alexander , Weisel, Katja C , Teipel, Raphael , Kumar, Shaji , Baljević, Muhamed , Talati, Chetasi , Ross, Jeremy A.

Blood | December 4, 2025 | Volume: 146 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 2204-2204

10.1182/blood-2025-2204 Get It

Abstract Background Etentamig is a second-generation B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) x CD3 bispecific antibody that has shown promising efficacy and a favorable safety profile in heavily pretreated patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). Etentamig possesses a unique combination of 2 high-affinity BCMA binding domains, coupled to a low-affinity CD3 binding domain that have been shown to reduce the negative impact of soluble BCMA (sBCMA), decrease risk for cytokine release syndrome (CRS), and drive sustained T-cell activation with reduced immune exhaustion in preclinical models of MM (Blood 2023;142 [suppl 1]:4666). Here, we describe correlative biomarker analyses from Phase 1 (NCT03933735) and Phase 1b (NCT05650632) clinical trials of etentamig in RRMM designed to assess the impact of sBCMA on clinical response and pharmacodynamic changes in proinflammatory cytokines, and T-cell redistribution, activation, proliferation, and exhaustion. Methods Peripheral blood and serum samples from patients with RRMM enrolled in Phase 1 and Phase 1b open-label studies who received etentamig monotherapy were collected at baseline, on treatment, and at disease progression. The Phase 1b study consisted of dose-optimization (DO) and dose-expansion (DE) phases. During DO, patients received a single step-up dose (SUD) of intravenous etentamig (2 or 4 mg) on Cycle (C) 1 Day (D) 1, followed by the target dose of 60 mg on D4. In DE, based on DO findings, patients received the recommended etentamig SUD (2 mg) on C1D1, followed by 60 mg on D4 with modified dexamethasone predosing. Samples were analyzed by flow cytometry for immune cell populations, Luminex® for cytokines, and electrochemiluminescence for sBCMA. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMC) at baseline and on-treatment were subjected to single-cell Cellular Indexing of Transcriptomes and Epitopes sequencing (scCITEseq) and single-cell T-cell receptors (scTCR) / B-cell receptors clonality analyses. Results While baseline serum sBCMA levels did not correlate with clinical response to etentamig at the selected dose level of 60 mg every 4 weeks (Q4W) with 2 mg SUD, a reduction in sBCMA levels over time was associated with best International Myeloma Working Group response. Etentamig treatment led to a rapid and transient increase of proinflammatory cytokines and promoted T-cell redistribution, activation, and proliferation. Maximum reduction in peak levels of CRS-related cytokines, including (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-8, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor–a), were observed in DE compared with DO and 60 mg Q4W without SUD. Peak induction levels of proinflammatory cytokines during C1 correlated with occurrence of CRS (≥Grade [G] 1) as well as clinical response across dose levels. A modified dexamethasone premedication schedule of 2 mg/60 mg Q4W cohort for C1 resulted in significantly reduced baseline levels of IL-6 and key macrophage-associated cytokine/chemokines (eg, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and macrophage inflammatory protein-3 beta). Incidence of CRS was lowest in the 2 mg/60 mg Q4W cohort (26% G1, 4% G2, 0% ≥G3). Higher T-cell to myeloma cell ratio in BMMCs at baseline correlated with better response to etentamig. scCITEseq and scTCR analysis revealed that at baseline, responders also had greater CD8+ T-cell cytotoxic activities, increased TCR clonality, and elevated inflammatory signatures in T-cells from both peripheral blood and bone marrow. Etentamig at a dosage of 60 mg Q4W resulted in significant clonal expansion of CD8+ effector T-cells and enhanced gene expression signatures related to activation and cytotoxicity in both CD8+ T effector and natural killer cells. Along treatment cycles, responders maintained their T-cell fitness, high clonality, and low T-cell exhaustion levels. Frequency of baseline CD4+ or CD8+ T-cell exhaustion (programmed cell death receptor 1+/ T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 +) did not impact clinical response at optimal dose level of 2 mg/60 mg Q4W etentamig. Conclusions Responses to etentamig were independent of baseline sBCMA levels and resulted in rapid and transient proinflammatory cytokine production that promoted robust T-cell redistribution, activation, and proliferation indicating that the optimal dose of etentamig (2 mg/60 mg Q4W) maximizes its clinical potential as a convenient, safe, and effective therapy for MM.
Long-term efficacy and safety of etentamig, a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) bispecific antibody in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM).
Voorhees, Peter M. , Valdes, Cesar Rodriguez , Lichtman, Eben I. , Safah, Hana, Vij, Ravi, Mian, Hira , Magen, Hila , McKay, John T., Korde, Neha , Svensson, Anders , Pothacamury, Rajvineeth Kumar, Talati, Chetasi, Doerr, Thomas, Kumar, Shaji , Mian, Hira , Baljević, Muhamed , D’Souza, Anita , Chung, Alfred , Weisel, Katja C , Searle, Emma J , McKay, John, Chhabra, Saurabh , Talati, Chetasi

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 28, 2025 | Volume: 43 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: 7527-7527

10.1200/jco.2025.43.16_suppl.7527 Get It

7527 Background: Etentamig (etenta) is a differentiated BCMA x CD3 bispecific T-cell engager composed of high avidity bivalent BCMA-binding domains, low-affinity CD3-binding domain designed to reduce cytokine release syndrome (CRS), and silenced Fc tail for extended half-life enabling convenient dosing. We present long term results from 2 ongoing Ph 1 studies evaluating efficacy and safety of etenta in patients (pts) with RRMM. Methods: Data were from a Ph 1 multicenter, open-label, dose escalation/expansion (NCT03933735) trial and Arm A of a Ph 1b, open label (NCT05650632) trial of etenta; both enrolled pts ≥18 years with RRMM, ≥3 prior lines of therapy (LoT), and triple-class exposed. Pts received 60 mg Q4W or 40 mg Q3W, both regimens with similar dose intensity, in the Ph 1 trial; pts from Arm A of the Ph 1b trial received a step-up dose (SUD) on day 1 and full dose of 60 mg Q4W on day 4. This pooled analysis assessed long-term efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Tumor response was assessed per IMWG 2016 criteria. Results: Of 146 pts with RRMM who received etenta, 87 (60%) were male, median age (range) was 68 (40–87) years, median prior LoT were 4 (3–23), and median duration of follow-up was 13 (1–48) months (mo). ORR was achieved in 96 (66%) pts and ≥VGPR in 79 (54%) pts. Response rates across subgroups are reported in the Table. Median duration of response was not reached (NR) (NR–NR) among responders; Kaplan-Meier (KM) estimate at 12 mo was 71% (58.5%–80.5%). Median PFS (mPFS) was NR (8.7–NR) mo; KM estimate at 12 mo was 55% (44.9%–63.1%). Any grade and G3/4 treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 145 (99%) pts and 116 (79%) pts. Most common G3/4 TEAEs (≥15%) were neutropenia (38%), anemia (23%), lymphopenia (25%), and thrombocytopenia (16%). Infections G3/G4 were reported in 32 (22%) pts; most common infections G3/G4 (≥5%) were pneumonia (12%) and sepsis (5%). TEAEs leading to etenta discontinuation were reported in 13 (9%) pts. Deaths from TEAEs were reported in 13 (9%) pts; 10 were not attributed to etenta treatment. In Arm A of Ph 1 study where 60mg Q4W was administered with SUD and modified dex as premedication, CRS incidence was 30% (4% G2; No ≥G3 events) with median time to CRS onset of 22.3 (5.5–29.6) hours; and median time to CRS resolution of 20.7 (1.8–131.7) hours. Conclusions: Etenta with SUD demonstrated a low CRS incidence, durable response, and tolerability in pts with heavily pretreated RRMM. Efficacy across all subgroups was comparable and maintained, suggesting therapeutic benefits among a broad population and supporting further exploration in the ongoing Ph 3 Cervino study. Subgroup ORR, n (%) ≥VGPR, n (%) mPFS, months (range) Age ≥75years 26 (72) 23 (63.9) NR (7.5–NR) Race: Black 15 (63) 13 (54.2) 13.7 (5.0–NR) High cytogenetic risk 21 (55) 18 (47.4) 7.4 (2.8–NR) 3 prior LoT 29 (64.4) 23 (51.1) 13.5 (5.6–NR) ≥4 prior LoT 67 (67) 56 (56) NR (8.3–NR)
NCCN Guidelines® Insights: Multiple Myeloma, Version 1.2025
Kumar, Shaji , Adekola, Kehinde , Anderson, Larry , Costello, Caitlin , D’Angelo, Christopher R. , Derman, Benjamin A. , Elsedawy, Noura, Godara, Amandeep , Godby, Kelly, Hillengaß, Jens , Holmberg, Leona , Htut, Myo , Huff, Carol Ann , Hultcrantz, Malin , Larson, Sarah , Liedtke, Michaela , Omel, James, Robinson, Timothy, Valent, Jason , Varshavsky‐Yanovsky, Asya, Kovách, E, Holmberg, Leona , Anderson, Larry D. , Anderson, Larry D , Derman, Benjamin A , Callander, Natalie S. , Baljević, Muhamed , Baz, Rachid , Campagnaro, Erica , Devarakonda, Srinivas , Kang, Yubin , Lee, Hans C. , Martin, Thomas G. , Rosenberg, Aaron , Schroeder, Mark A. , Sherbenou, Daniel W , Suvannasankha, Attaya , Valent, Jason Neil , Vogl, Dan T. , Kovach, Emily, Kumar, Rashmi

Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network | May 8, 2025 | Volume: 23 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 132-140

10.6004/jnccn.2025.0023 Get It

The NCCN Guidelines for Multiple Myeloma (MM) provide recommendations for diagnosis, initial workup, treatment, follow-up, and supportive care for patients with MM. These NCCN Guidelines Insights highlight the important updates and changes specific to systemic therapy for patients with newly diagnosed as well as previously treated MM included in Version 1.2025 of the NCCN Guidelines for MM.
AL Amyloidosis: Understanding the Clinical Prodrome and Delays in Diagnosis
Abdallah, Nadine , Hydren, Jay R., Barnes, Mason S., Zonder, Jeffrey A. , Landau, Heather , Hoffman, James E. , Martínez, Jorge Arturo Hurtado , Ahlstrom, Jennifer M., Gertz, Morie A., Wood, Andrew, Tuchman, Sascha Alexander , Bianchi, Giada , Baljević, Muhamed , Aldana, Ana M. Sahagun Sanchez, Gertz, Morie A.

Blood | December 6, 2024 | Volume: 144 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 5143-5143

10.1182/blood-2024-208737 Get It

Introduction: Light-chain amyloidosis (ALA) is a rare plasma cell disorder characterized by multiorgan involvement. Patients often present with non-specific symptoms, which can lead to a delay in diagnosis. This is associated with progressive organ involvement and shorter survival. Reducing the time from symptom onset to diagnosis is a critical step in improving outcomes. This study was designed to evaluate the clinical prodrome and challenges associated with the diagnosis of ALA from the patient perspective. Methods: This retrospective study surveyed patients with ALA through the online HealthTree® Cure Hub platform, which helps patients navigate their disease in a holistic way. The survey consisted of 32 questions, including 23 multiple-choice, 7 date-entry, and two free-response questions. Data on diagnosis and demographics were extracted from the electronic health record and self-reported data linked to HealthTree® Cure Hub. Results were reported as numbers and percentages, and comparisons were made by age (≥70 vs. <70 years) and sex. The following statistical methods were used: Fisher's exact test for categorical data, two-sample t-test and F-test for normally distributed continuous data, Wilcoxon rank-sum test for skewed data and Spearman correlation coefficient. Results: We surveyed 248 patients. Of those, a total of 87 patients with a self-reported diagnosis of ALA completed the questionnaire between March 12, 2023, and May 8, 2024. The median age was 66 years; 55% were female, and 91% were white. The most common initial symptoms prompting patients to seek medical evaluation were fatigue/weakness (47%), swelling (38%), shortness of breath (28%), chest pain (23%), and foamy urine (22%). Pain in hands/feet, carpal tunnel syndrome, loss of appetite, hoarseness, macroglossia, diarrhea, periorbital puffiness, nail changes, and erectile dysfunction each accounted for <10% of cases. Signs and symptoms were first detected by patients themselves in 58% of cases, by a physician in 33% and by a family member or friend for the rest. The median number of symptoms per individual was 2; 31% reported only one symptom, 37% 2-3, 18% 4-6, and 14% >6; with chest pain being the most common (39%), followed by swelling (22%), shortness of breath (13%), and foamy urine (13%); one patient reported erectile dysfunction and another reported arrhythmias as their only symptom. There was a correlation between hoarseness and nail changes (ρ=0.71), and carpal tunnel syndrome and orthostatic hypotension (ρ=0.63). Only 16% were aware of ALA as a condition prior to symptom onset. Thirty six percent presented to a general practitioner for initial evaluation; about 50% sought a specialist, including a myeloma/amyloid specialist (21%), and 14% were first evaluated in the emergency department. While most patients (45%) were diagnosed by a hematologist/oncologist, patients reported seeing a median of 3 physicians (range: 1-10) before the diagnosis was established. Among responders, 61% reported having myeloma at the time of testing. After diagnosis, about 50% were referred to a center specialized in ALA, and 72% met with a stem cell transplant specialist. Most patients reported receiving multidisciplinary care, with a median of 3 additional specialists participating in ALA care (range: 0-16). More than half of patients (59%) felt the diagnosis was delayed; among those, 42%, 24%, 24%, and 11% reported a delay of 1-6, 7-12, 13-24, and >24 months, respectively. The proportion of patients reporting >12-month delay was higher among older patients (54% vs. 27%, P=0.02). A quarter of responders felt their treatment was delayed. Half of patients felt the diagnostic delay contributed to a decrease in treatment efficacy and 48% did not feel that all medical professionals were knowledgeable about ALA. Only 38% felt the diagnostic process was simple and easy within their healthcare system. Conclusion: Most patients with AL amyloidosis initially present with non-specific symptoms, with fatigue/weakness being the most common. Over a third were evaluated first by a general practitioner, and about a third reported a diagnostic delay of >12 months. The diagnostic process is associated with high healthcare utilization, even among patients with concurrent multiple myeloma. Increasing disease awareness among patients and medical providers may shorten the time to diagnosis and contribute to improved outcomes.
Exposure-Response (ER) and Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) Analyses for Optimal Step-up Dose (SUD) Selection to Improve Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) Safety Profile of Abbv-383 in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RRMM)
Wang, Fan , Babel, Heiko, Schmitt, Vanessa , Voorhees, Peter M. , Rodriguez, Cesar, Kumar, Shaji , Mian, Hira , Svensson, Anders , Talati, Chetasi, Mensing, Sven , Menon, Rajeev , Engelhardt, Benjamin , Polepally, Akshanth R. , Mian, Hira , Babel, Heiko , Uddin, Muhammad Erfan , Baljević, Muhamed , Talati, Chetasi

Blood | December 6, 2024 | Volume: 144 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 1994-1994

10.1182/blood-2024-206054 Get It

Introduction ABBV-383 is a differentiated BCMA x CD3 bispecific antibody (fully humanized IgG4) T-cell engager composed of a bivalent BCMA binding domain with high avidity, a low-affinity CD3-binding domain, and a present but silenced-Fc tail retaining the FcRn binding allowing for an extended half-life and thereby, enabling dosing convenience. ABBV-383 monotherapy has shown promising activity and improved CRS safety profile with modified dexamethasone (Dex) premedication in patients (pts) with RRMM (NCT03933735; Rodriguez et al., JCO 2024;42[suppl 16]:7531). Here, ER and CRS PK/PD analyses supporting the selection of optimal SUD for ABBV-383 are reported. Methods ER-efficacy (N=286) and -safety (N=290) analyses were conducted using logistic regression methodology (R version 4.3.2) combining data from escalation (0.025-120 mg Q3W) and expansion (20, 40, 60 mg Q3W and 60 mg Q4W) cohorts of phase 1 study NCT03933735 and Arm A of phase 1b study NCT05650632 evaluating step-up dose (2 or 4 mg on Day 1) with a full dose (60 mg on Day 4) in pts with RRMM. Pts received modified Dex with full dose in expansion cohorts of 60 mg Q4W and 2/60 mg Q4W. In all other cohorts with or without SUD, pts received low Dex. Based on prior knowledge (JCO 2024;42[suppl 16]:7541), the safety endpoints (CRS: any-grade and ≥ G2) were modeled with Cycle 1 total (unbound + bound to soluble BCMA) Cmax, while objective response rate (ORR) was modeled with free (unbound + partially bound to soluble BCMA) Cavg. CRS ER models included a priori selected Dex (low vs. modified) and SUD (yes vs. no) as predictors. Relevant pt-specific covariates were tested in all models. CRS PK/PD analyses included total PK, IL-6, and CRS data (N=199) from the first 3 cycles of the above phase 1/1b studies. A semi-mechanistic indirect response PK/IL-6 model was developed to correlate total PK and IL-6 (NONMEM 7.5). Maximal IL-6 concentrations were derived using post hoc estimates from the PK/IL-6 model and correlated with CRS events (logistic regression; R version 4.3.2). The models included effects of time-dependent Dex (low vs. modified) and SUD (yes vs. no). The overall modeling approach was assessed by comparing observed and predicted CRS rates. Simulations were conducted for various dosing regimens, including one or two SUD and Dex premedication scenarios to support the selection of the optimal SUD. Results Consistent with clinical observations (separate abstract submission), any-grade CRS model predicted probabilities suggested two key outcomes: 1) premedication with modified Dex improves the CRS safety profile compared to the low Dex (42% vs 69% for 60 mg Q4W); 2) modified Dex with SUD further improves the CRS safety profile of ABBV-383 compared to low Dex with SUD (29% vs 43% for 2/60 mg Q4W). Consistent with prior work, no ER relationship was observed for ≥ G2 CRS (p > 0.05). The ORR model resulted in a predicted probability of 68% ORR (closely matching with overall observed 64% ORR) with no impact of SUD and modified Dex. Only soluble BCMA was selected as a covariate in the ORR ER model. The final semi-mechanistic PK/IL-6 model well captured the observed IL-6 data, and the CRS rates (predicted by the logistic regression models) closely matched with the observed data. The CRS PK/PD analyses findings were consistent with the clinical observations and ER analyses key outcomes 1 and 2. The CRS PK/PD analyses predictions comparing the 1-SUD vs 2-SUD (untested) regimens with modified Dex suggested that 1) among the 2-SUD regimens with modified Dex, the 2/3/60 mg regimen would have the maximum reduction of 4% points in any-grade CRS compared to the 2/60 mg 1-SUD regimen, however, with substantial overlap of confidence intervals and with no decrease in ≥ G2 CRS (< 0.5% point); 2) 4 mg as an intermediate SUD in a 2-SUD regimen would lead to higher any-grade and ≥ G2 CRS rates (~9% and 3% points higher, respectively), compared to the 2/60 mg Q4W regimen. Conclusions ER and CRS PK/PD analyses suggested that modified Dex and SUD improve the CRS safety profile of ABBV-383 with no impact on efficacy (ORR) in pts with RRMM. The CRS PK/PD predictions indicated that implementation of 2-SUDs provide minimal additional or no improvement in CRS safety profile compared to 1-SUD. Overall, the 1-SUD dosing regimen of 2 mg with modified premedication prior to the full dose of 60 mg Q4W showed promising results and can be considered for future evaluation and studies.
A Phase 1b Study of Step-up Dosing with ABBV-383, a B-Cell Maturation Antigen (BCMA) x CD3 Bispecific Antibody, in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Mian, Hira , Magen, Hila , Mazza, Irit Avivi, Lichtman, Eben I. , McKay, John T., Plesner, Torben , Rodríguez, César A. , Korde, Neha , Safah, Hana, Svensson, Anders , Doerr, Thomas, Pothacamury, Rajvineeth Kumar, Rosenberg, Tanya S, Polepally, Akshanth R. , Kumar, Shaji , Mian, Hira , Baljević, Muhamed , Gatt, Moshe E. , Searle, Emma J , McKay, John, Rodriguez, Cesar, Vaxman, Iuliana , Talati, Chetasi , Jin, Ziyi , Lee, Shane , Ross, Jeremy A.

Blood | December 5, 2024 | Volume: 144 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 1985-1985

10.1182/blood-2024-206912 Get It

Introduction Patients (pts) with multiple myeloma (MM) eventually become refractory to current treatments. There is an unmet need for new therapies with durable efficacy, favorable safety, and simplified dosing schedules. ABBV-383 is a unique BCMA x CD3 bispecific antibody T-cell engager comprising bivalent high-avidity BCMA binding domains, a low-affinity CD3-binding domain designed to minimize cytokine release and the risk for cytokine release syndrome (CRS), and a silenced Fc tail for extended half-life enabling dosing convenience. In an ongoing first-in-human (FIH) study (NCT03933735) in heavily pretreated pts with relapsed or refractory (RR) MM, ABBV-383 monotherapy (60 mg Q4W) resulted in deep and durable responses. Introduction of a modified dexamethasone (Dex) premedication (premed) schedule in cycle (C) 1 lowered incidence and severity of CRS (43% overall; 5% grade ≥2) vs pts treated with low Dex (71% overall; 20% grade ≥2) (JCO 2024;42[suppl 16]:7531). We now report results of Arm A of the open-label, phase 1b study (NCT05650632) evaluating 1 step-up dose (SUD) of ABBV-383 as a strategy to mitigate the risk of severe CRS and further assess ABBV-383 activity in pts with RRMM. Methods This study is enrolling pts with RRMM, ECOG performance status ≤2, and documented evidence of progression during or after the last treatment. Pts must have received ≥3 prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory drug, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. Arm A consists of a dose-optimization (DO) and a dose-expansion (DE) part. During DO, pts received a single SUD of intravenous ABBV-383 (2/4 mg) on C1 day (D) 1, followed by the target dose of 60 mg on D4. In the DE, based on DO findings, pts received the recommended ABBV-383 SUD on C1D1, followed by 60 mg on D4. The modified premed schedule that lowered incidence and severity of CRS in the FIH study was also introduced prior to target dose on C1D4. After C1, pts received 60 mg ABBV-383 Q4W on D1 of each cycle for DO and DE until disease progression, withdrawal, or discontinuation. Primary endpoint was grade ≥2 CRS events during C1. Other endpoints included any grade CRS events, treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), immune pharmacodynamics, and clinical activity. Results As of April 2024, 70 pts were enrolled in Arm A: 47 in DO (2 mg SUD, n=26; 4 mg SUD, n=21) and 23 in DE. Median age was 69 years (range: 40-84), 59% were male, and 76% were triple-class refractory. Median prior lines of therapy was 4 (range: 3-10). Median follow-up time (months [mo]) was 6.5, 7.5, and 2.8 for 2 mg DO, 4 mg DO, and DE, respectively. Any grade CRS was reported in 10 (39%) and 11 (52%) pts during DO at 2 and 4 mg SUD; CRS grade ≥2 occurred in 3 (12%) pts in the 2 mg SUD and in 6 (29%) pts in the 4 mg SUD, leading to selection of 2 mg SUD for DE. In the DE, 7 (30%) pts experienced CRS; 1 (4%) pt experienced grade 2 CRS, there were no grade ≥3 events, and only 2 (9%) pts received tocilizumab to treat CRS. Overall, median time to CRS onset and resolution was 14.7 and 9 hours, respectively; no pts had CRS after C1. Immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome occurred in 7 (10%) pts (grade 1: 4%; grade 2: 6%; grade 3: 4%). Most common TEAEs were CRS (40%), neutropenia (37%), diarrhea (29%), anemia (24%), and fatigue (20%); most common grade 3/4 TEAEs were neutropenia (31%), anemia (19%), thrombocytopenia (13%), and leukopenia (11%). Grade 5 TEAEs occurred in 5 pts; 1 event was deemed possibly related to ABBV-383 (COVID-19 pneumonia). In the efficacy-evaluable population (n=68), the objective response rate was 62% (95% CI: 49.2, 73.3); 35 (52%) pts had a VGPR or better. Median time to response was 1.1 mo (range: 1-4) and median duration of follow-up was 5.8 mo (range: 1-12). Response rates are expected to improve with longer follow-up. Maximum reduction in peak levels of CRS-related cytokines, including IL-6, were observed in DE compared with DO and 60 mg Q4W without SUD (FIH study). Peak activation and proliferation of CD8 T cells was comparable with ABBV-383 in DO, DE, and 60 mg Q4W-treated pts. Conclusions Introduction of 1 SUD of 2 mg on D1 followed by full dose of 60 mg on D4 in C1 combined with modification to the Dex premed schedule reduced the incidence and severity of CRS in pts with RRMM, further optimizing the safety profile of ABBV-383. Preliminary efficacy data show early and high response rates, consistent with outcomes from other ABBV-383 studies.
Waldenström Macroglobulinemia/Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma, Version 2.2024, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology
Kumar, Shaji , Adekola, Kehinde , Anderson, Larry D. , Costello, Caitlin, D’Angelo, Christopher R. , Derman, Benjamin A. , Elsedawy, Noura, Godby, Kelly, Hillengaß, Jens , Holmberg, Leona , Htut, Myo , Huff, Carol Ann , Hultcrantz, Malin , Larson, Sarah , Liedtke, Michaela , Omel, James, Robinson, Timothy, Sborov, Douglas W. , Valent, Jason , Varshavsky‐Yanovsky, Asya, Snedeker, Jenna, Holmberg, Leona , Anderson, Larry D , Derman, Benjamin A , Callander, Natalie S. , Baljević, Muhamed , Baz, Rachid , Campagnaro, Erica , Castillo, Jorge J. , Costello, Caitlin , Devarakonda, Srinivas , Garfall, Alfred L. , Kang, Yubin , Lee, Hans C. , Martin, Thomas G. , Rosenberg, Aaron , Schroeder, Mark A. , Sherbenou, Daniel W , Suvannasankha, Attaya , Valent, Jason Neil , Kumar, Rashmi

Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network | January 19, 2024 | Volume: 22 | Issue: 1D | Pages: 1-19

10.6004/jnccn.2024.0001 Get It

The treatment of Waldenström macroglobulinemia/lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (WM/LPL) has evolved to include several new options. The NCCN Guidelines for WM/LPL provide a framework on which to base decisions regarding diagnosis, treatment, assessment of response to treatment, and follow-up of both newly diagnosed and previously treated WM/LPL.
Multiple Myeloma, Version 2.2024, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology
Kumar, Shaji , Adekola, Kehinde , Anderson, Larry D. , Costello, Caitlin, D’Angelo, Christopher R. , Elsedawy, Noura, Godby, Kelly, Hillengaß, Jens , Holmberg, Leona , Htut, Myo, Huff, Carol Ann , Hultcrantz, Malin , Larson, Sarah , Liedtke, Michaela , Omel, James, Robinson, Timothy, Sborov, Douglas W. , Valent, Jason , Varshavsky‐Yanovsky, Asya, Snedeker, Jenna, Holmberg, Leona , Anderson, Larry D , Callander, Natalie S. , Baljević, Muhamed , Baz, Rachid , Campagnaro, Erica , Castillo, Jorge J. , Costello, Caitlin , Devarakonda, Srinivas , Garfall, Alfred L. , Htut, Myo , Kang, Yubin , Lee, Hans C. , Martin, Thomas G. , Rosenberg, Aaron , Schroeder, Mark A. , Sherbenou, Daniel W , Suvannasankha, Attaya , Valent, Jason Neil , Kumar, Rashmi

Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network | December 11, 2023 | Volume: 21 | Issue: 12 | Pages: 1281-1301

10.6004/jnccn.2023.0061 Get It

The treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (MM) has evolved to include several new options. These include new combinations with second generation proteasome inhibitors (PI); second generation immunomodulators, monoclonal antibodies, CAR T cells, bispecific antibodies, selinexor, venetoclax, and many others. Most patients with MM undergo several cycles of remissions and relapse, and therefore need multiple lines of combination therapies. Selecting treatment options for relapsed/refractory MM requires consideration of resistance status to specific classes, and patient-specific factors such as age and other comorbidities should be considered. The NCCN Guidelines for MM provide a framework on which to base decisions regarding workup, treatment, and follow-up of newly diagnosed and previously treated MM. This manuscript outlines the recommendations from NCCN Guidelines for MM specific to relapsed/refractory disease.