Dr. Noa Biran of Hackensack University joins HealthTree Podcast for Multiple Myeloma to discuss a completely new approach targeting CD38, which is found on most myeloma cells. The drug called modafakusp alpha (formerly known as TAK-573) uses a new method of targeting CD38 by combining a monoclonal antibody with interferon. Early trial results are showing that this treatment option could also work for patients who relapsed after anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies like daratumumab and isatuximab. 

Inteferon is a human hormone that has been previously used in myeloma care because it can both kill the myeloma cells directly and engage the immune system to fight the myeloma, but it had many intolerable side effects. In this new form combined with modafakusp alpha, the side effects are significantly reduced. This new drug is now in clinical trials being tested with common myeloma therapies like dexamethasone, daratumumab, proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulators. Learn about this new treatment option in this informative show. 

Having new treatment options, especially after patients have relapsed after the three most common drug classes (proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulators and anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies) is a blessing for relapsed or refractory patients.