Multiple Myeloma Research: Collaborative Study by Dana-Farber & San Raffaele Institutes

Multiple myeloma, a cancer of plasma cells, is a challenging disease, but research continues to advance understanding and treatment options. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Massachusetts, is at the forefront of this research, participating in numerous clinical trials and collaborations aimed at improving outcomes for patients with both active myeloma and its precursor condition, smoldering myeloma (SMM).

Ongoing Research and Clinical Trials

Dana-Farber currently has dozens of studies and clinical trials underway focused on multiple myeloma. The institution is a founding member of the Multiple Myeloma Research Consortium (MMRC), a collaborative effort bringing together leading researchers from various academic institutions to accelerate the translation of research findings into clinical practice. This collaborative approach is crucial for efficiently developing and testing new therapies.

One specific clinical trial, identified as NCT02441686, is a Phase II study evaluating the efficacy and safety of a combination therapy – lenalidomide, subcutaneous bortezomib, and dexamethasone – for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. This trial is sponsored by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, with Jacob Laubach, MD, serving as the responsible party.

Collaboration to Advance Smoldering Myeloma Research

In December 2020, the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) and Dana-Farber announced a groundbreaking collaboration specifically focused on smoldering myeloma. SMM is a precursor condition to active multiple myeloma, meaning that not everyone with SMM will develop the full-blown cancer, but they are at an increased risk. This collaboration aims to identify markers that indicate which SMM patients are at highest risk of progression and to develop strategies to delay or prevent the development of active myeloma.

Daniel Auclair, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of the MMRF, explained that recent research, driven by the MMRF and its partners, has identified potential genomic and immune markers that may influence myeloma risk and progression. He stated, “This collaboration with Dana-Farber will accelerate and enhance our knowledge of risk factors, allowing us to more precisely identify those patients at higher risk of progression to active disease, and laying the groundwork for future transformative, and possibly curative, clinical trials.”

Leveraging Existing Studies and Data

The collaboration leverages existing studies conducted by Dana-Farber, specifically the PROMISE and PCROWD studies. These studies are designed to actively screen for and study individuals with myeloma precursor diseases, helping researchers understand how these diseases progress and identify potential therapeutic targets. As part of the collaboration, 500 SMM patients enrolled in the PROMISE or PCROWD studies will now have the opportunity to participate in the MMRF CureCloud study, contributing their blood samples and medical records for research purposes.

The Importance of Identifying High-Risk SMM

Identifying patients with high-risk SMM is a critical step in improving outcomes. Currently, not all SMM patients require immediate treatment, as many may never progress to active myeloma. However, for those who are at higher risk, early intervention could potentially delay or even prevent the development of the more aggressive cancer. The MMRF-Dana-Farber collaboration seeks to refine the ability to accurately assess risk and tailor treatment strategies accordingly.

Dana-Farber’s Commitment to Multiple Myeloma Research

The research conducted at Dana-Farber involves a multidisciplinary team of experts from the Department of Medical Oncology, Functional Genomics of Cancer Unit, and other specialized departments. Researchers like Francesca Cottini, Teru Hideshima, Paul G. Richardson, and Kenneth C. Anderson, along with Giovanni Tonon, are actively involved in these efforts. The Ludwig Center at Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center also contributes to the research, highlighting the institution’s comprehensive approach to cancer research.

The ongoing investment in multiple myeloma research, as evidenced by the $40.3 million investment by a leading cancer organization, underscores the importance of continued efforts to find cures for this disease. The collaborative spirit between institutions like Dana-Farber and the MMRF, combined with the dedication of researchers and clinicians, offers hope for improved outcomes for patients with multiple myeloma and smoldering myeloma.

While these research efforts are promising, it’s important to remember that clinical trials are essential for evaluating the safety and effectiveness of new treatments. Patients interested in learning more about clinical trials for multiple myeloma or smoldering myeloma should consult with their healthcare providers and explore resources like ClinicalTrials.gov and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute website.