Improving Access to CAR T with Radiation in Relapsed / Refractory Multiple Myeloma

​Principal Investigator: Dr. Michael Slade

Disease: Multiple Myeloma

Research Description: CAR T therapy has significantly extended survival for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) who have already failed at least one previous treatment. To prepare the body for CAR T, RRMM patients must first receive lymphodepleting chemotherapy (LDC), a combination of different chemotherapy drugs, including fludarabine. Kidney disease is found in 20-40% of patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma. However, patients with advanced kidney disease cannot safely receive fludarabine and LDC without fludarabine results in a decreased response to CAR T therapy and poorer patient outcomes. Low-dose total body irradiation (TBI) is used as conditioning therapy prior to stem cell transplant and is safe to use in advanced kidney disease. This Phase I study is evaluating if using TBI in place of fludarabine will improve outcomes for advanced kidney disease RRMM patients receiving CAR T cell therapy. If the trial is successful, this treatment could improve survival in RRMM patients with kidney disease.

Funding Partners: Goldman Philanthropic Partnerships

Initial CWR Funding Role: Supplemental