Stem Cell Transplantation for Multiple Myeloma
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if reducing certain immune cells (regulatory T-cells) is possible and safe for people with multiple myeloma during a stem cell transplant. Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer, and the study will test three approaches: standard stem cell transplant, removing these immune cells after the transplant, and removing them before. People diagnosed with symptomatic multiple myeloma and who are candidates for stem cell transplants may be eligible.
As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the chance to be among the first to receive this innovative approach.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial requires that you do not use systemic immunosuppressive medications, including corticosteroids and certain other drugs. If you are taking these, you would need to stop them to participate.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
A previous study found that using basiliximab to lower the number of regulatory T-cells (a type of immune cell) after stem cell transplants was very safe. Patients experienced fewer infections, particularly viral ones, which is crucial since infections are a common concern after these procedures.
Research shows that removing these cells before the transplant is feasible and significantly delays the return of T-cells after the procedure. This delay helps control the immune response, which can benefit patients with multiple myeloma.
Both methods of reducing T-cells remain in early testing stages, with a primary focus on safety. While these studies suggest safety, researchers are closely monitoring the treatments for any side effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for multiple myeloma because they explore a novel approach to managing the disease. Unlike the standard of care, which typically includes chemotherapy, radiation, and standard autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), these investigational treatments focus on manipulating the immune system by reducing regulatory T-cells (Tregs). By using basiliximab to deplete Tregs after ASCT or a special cell sorting machine to remove Tregs before ASCT, these treatments aim to enhance the body's ability to fight cancer by potentially allowing a more robust immune response. This innovative strategy could offer a new way to improve outcomes for multiple myeloma patients beyond what current therapies can achieve.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for multiple myeloma?
Research shows that certain cells in the immune system, called regulatory T-cells (Tregs), play an important role in multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. These Tregs can weaken the body's ability to fight myeloma cells, potentially allowing the cancer to grow. Studies have found that lowering the number of Tregs can boost the immune system's ability to combat myeloma. In this trial, participants will be assigned to different treatment arms to explore this approach. One group will undergo standard autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT), while another group will receive treatment to deplete Tregs after ASCT using basiliximab. A third group will have Tregs removed from their blood before ASCT using a special cell sorting machine. Targeting Tregs could be a promising way to improve treatment results for people with multiple myeloma.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Michael Bishop, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Chicago
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 21-70 with symptomatic multiple myeloma who are candidates for stem cell transplantation. They must have a life expectancy over 12 weeks, be HIV negative, not have active hepatitis B or C, and no major organ issues. Pregnant women, those on immunosuppressants or with autoimmune diseases cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) with or without regulatory T-cell depletion
Recovery and Monitoring
Monitoring of regulatory T cell depletion and recovery, and incidence of autologous graft-versus-host disease
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Regulatory T-cell reduction
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Chicago
Lead Sponsor