The CAR-T cancer therapy called Abecma reduced the risk of multiple myeloma relapse by half compared to standard treatment, according to results of a Phase 3 clinical trial published Friday.
The positive study outcome could lead to Abecma being used earlier in the course of treatment for patients with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer affecting cells in the bone marrow. More patients benefiting from the personalized cell therapy would also mean higher sales for its makers, Bristol Myers Squibb and 2Seventy Bio, a biotech company.
Abecma is made from white blood cells taken from a patient and genetically engineered to recognize and kill blood cancer cells expressing a protein target called BCMA. It was approved in 2021 based on a single-arm study that showed a tumor response in 72% of enrolled patients with multiple myeloma no longer responsive to four or more prior treatments.
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus daily coverage and analysis of the biotech sector — by subscribing to STAT+.
Already have an account? Log in
Already have an account? Log in
To submit a correction request, please visit our Contact Us page.
STAT encourages you to share your voice. We welcome your commentary, criticism, and expertise on our subscriber-only platform, STAT+ Connect