Dr. Lonial on Novel Mechanisms in Multiple Myeloma

Sagar Lonial, MD, chief medical officer at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, discusses novel mechanisms of agents used for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma.

The monoclonal antibody elotuzumab (Empliciti) works through activation of natural killer cells, Lonial explains. Daratumumab (Darzalex), another monoclonal antibody, induces antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity and also works through direct signaling inhibition. Antibodies that are in development include CD138-targeted agents and PD-1/PD-L1 agents.

Next steps with these agents include investigating them in earlier lines of therapy, Lonial adds. Incorporating these antibodies as an upfront treatment approach and in combination with other therapies will likely be part of future treatment paradigms. Secondly, novel ways of administering agents such as panobinostat and filanesib should also be researched, Lonial says.