The effect lasted for nearly a week. Another observation was that patients had increases in immune cytokines and a general increase in T cell counts. Even more encouraging was a rise in the number of leukemic specific T cells. The study is small, and the clinical effects and the long-term efficacy of the treatment are not known. Yet the researchers believe these findings are compelling enough to continue clinical investigation.
Plans are already underway for a phase II multicenter trial.
In the new trial, researchers hope to give patients injections of the gene therapy once every 2 weeks for a total of five to ten injections. Dr. Kipps pointed out that other malignancies have CD40 protein alterations, and the treatment theoretically may be useful for myeloma too. The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.