Dr. Dhakal on Early Data With BiTEs in Multiple Myeloma

Binod Dhakal, MD, assistant professor, Medical College of Wisconsin, discusses early data with bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE) antibody constructs in multiple myeloma.

There are 2 BiTEs candidates under investigation: AMG 420 and AMG 330. Phase I data on both constructs were presented at the 2018 ASH Annual Meeting, indicating preliminary efficacy, says Dhakal. Regarding AMG 420, 3 patients who received the maximum tolerated dose of 400 µg/day achieved a complete response. Another ongoing trial is examining a long-acting BiTE. This BiTE, as opposed to other earlier constructs, is given weekly as opposed to an every 2-week cycle.

BiTE constructs, as opposed to CAR T cell therapy, are exciting because they offer the ability to receive more timely therapy, explains Dhakal. These products do not take as long to cultivate, and as such are often termed to be “off-the-shelf,” he says. Investigators are hopeful that these products may be able to be brought into earlier lines of treatment as well as used in combination with other therapies.