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Ganetespib Phase 1 Clinical Trial Is Enrolling Relapsed/Refractory Myeloma Patients – The Multiple Myeloma Research Consortium is recruiting relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma patients for a Phase 1 trial of ganetespib as a single agent treatment or in combination with Velcade (bortezomib). Ganetespib, which is being developed by Synta Pharmaceuticals, belongs to a class of drugs called heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitors. Another Hsp90 inhibitor that was developed for the treatment of myeloma was tanespimycin; however, development of this drug was halted in late-stage clinical trials (see related Beacon news). Ganetespib has demonstrated anti-myeloma activity in preclinical studies and is currently also being investigated for a variety of solid tumors, including breast, rectal, and lung cancer. For more information, please see the Synta Pharmaceuticals press release or the clinical trial description.

Study Supports Further Investigation Of Activin-A Inhibitor For Treatment Of Advanced Myeloma – The results of a recent study show that circulating levels of activin-A, a protein associated with extensive bone disease and poorer survival, are elevated in patients with advanced stages of myeloma. The results also show that these levels are not affected by treatment with Revlimid (lenalidomide) and dexamethasone (Decadron). Previous preclinical studies have shown that the inhibition of activin-A may prevent both the development of bone lesions and suppression of bone formation caused by myeloma. The study investigators believe these findings warrant further investigation of activin-A inhibitors for the treatment of advanced multiple myeloma. For more information, please see the study in the Annals of Oncology (pdf).

Researchers Identify New Therapeutic Target For “Myeloma Kidney” – In a recent preclinical study, researchers designed a small protein that effectively inhibits the formation of deposits in the kidney and prevents kidney failure in rats with myeloma. Myeloma kidney, also called cast nephropathy, is a common complication of multiple myeloma in which excess protein blocks the kidneys and results in kidney failure. The formation of these protein deposits is directly related with the overproduction of free light chain (FLC) proteins, which bind to Tamm-Horsfall glycoproteins (THPs), the most abundant protein found in the urine.  The interaction between these proteins results in the production of a gel-like substance that interferes with flow in the kidneys, often leading to organ damage or failure.   The small protein tested in this study interrupts the interaction between FLC proteins and THPs, preventing these proteins from clogging the kidneys.  For more information, please see the study in The Journal of Clinical Investigation (abstract).

IMF Myeloma Workshop For Patients And Families – The International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) will be hosting a workshop for multiple myeloma patients and their families on April 21 near Kansas City, KS. Dr. Parameswaran Hari from the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Dr. Sunil Abhyankar from the University of Kansas, and nurse Nadine Baxter-Hale from the Myeloma Institute of Research and Therapy in Little Rock will present on topics including treatment options, managing side effects, and local clinical trials. For more information or to register, please visit the IMF website.

For a more detailed listing of myeloma-related events, please check the Myeloma Beacon Events Calendar.