Bristol Myers Squibb Discontinues Multiple Myeloma Bispecific Antibody Months After Filing for Phase 3 Trial ###

Discontinuation of Bispecific Antibody::
Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) has discontinued its multiple myeloma bispecific antibody program just months after filing to initiate a phase 3 trial.

Clinical Development::
The decision to discontinue the program highlights the challenges and uncertainties in clinical development, where promising treatments can be halted due to various factors such as efficacy, safety, or strategic priorities.

Bispecific Antibodies in Multiple Myeloma::
Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) have shown significant promise in treating multiple myeloma, particularly in heavily pretreated patients. These antibodies target specific antigens on cancer cells and redirect T-cells to attack them.

Alternative Targets::
Recent research has focused on novel BsAbs targeting alternative antigens such as GPRC5D and FcRH5, in addition to the commonly targeted BCMA. These new targets offer potential for treating patients who have developed resistance to BCMA-targeting therapies.

Toxicity and Side Effects::
While BsAbs have demonstrated substantial activity, they are associated with side effects like cytokine release syndrome, cytopenias, and infections. Specific toxicities related to GPRC5D-targeting BsAbs include skin and nail disorders and loss of taste.

Ongoing Research and Development::
Despite the discontinuation of BMS's program, ongoing studies are exploring combination therapies, fixed-duration treatments, and the use of BsAbs in earlier lines of therapy to improve patient outcomes.

Abecma Approval::
BMS and 2seventy bio's CAR T-cell therapy, Abecma, has been approved for the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, offering a one-time infusion with meaningful treatment-free intervals for responding patients.