ASH 2025: Breakthroughs in In Vivo CAR-T Data from Kelonia; Phase 3 Wins for Lilly, J&J, and Novartis

Kelonia Therapeutics reported the first-in-human data for their novel in vivo anti-BCMA CAR-T candidate KLN-1010 in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma at ASH 2025. All initial patients achieved MRD-negative responses, with robust CAR-T cell expansion and persistent memory phenotype observed. Importantly, these results were seen without the need for lymphodepleting chemotherapy, apheresis, or ex vivo cell manufacturing, demonstrating the potential for broader access to CAR-T treatments3.

KLN-1010 leverages Kelonia’s iGPS® (in vivo Gene Placement System) technology, which uses a modified lentiviral vector for direct in vivo gene delivery, streamlining treatment and reducing barriers associated with traditional CAR-T manufacturing2 3.

Kelonia has entered into a strategic collaboration with Johnson & Johnson to further advance in vivo CAR-T cell therapies, aiming to expand indications and accessibility for CAR-T across more patient populations2 6.

Major pharmaceutical companies including Eli Lilly, Johnson & Johnson, and Novartis used the ASH 2025 meeting to highlight Phase 3 victories in hematologic malignancies, reinforcing their leadership in cell therapy and antibody-based approaches4 9.

Johnson & Johnson (via Janssen) presented new research on CARVYKTI® (BCMA-targeting CAR-T), including paradigm-shifting data in multiple myeloma, further cementing their leadership in the CAR-T space4.

Novartis featured pivotal data underscoring scientific innovation in hematology and oncology, including advances in CAR-T, bispecifics, and other targeted therapies9.