Talquetamab for Multiple Myeloma
(MonumenTAL-1 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment called talquetamab (also known as Talvey) to determine its effectiveness and safety for people with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, who haven't responded to other treatments. Participants will receive talquetamab in different groups based on their previous treatments. Those who have had multiple myeloma for a while and have tried at least three other treatments, including specific drugs or therapies, might be suitable for this trial. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering a chance to contribute to important medical advancements.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it mentions that any side effects from previous cancer treatments should be resolved to a certain level before starting the study drug.
Is there any evidence suggesting that talquetamab is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that talquetamab is well-tolerated by patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Studies have demonstrated high response rates even in patients who had already received several treatments. The FDA granted talquetamab accelerated approval in August 2023 due to its promising safety and effectiveness.
In terms of safety, the treatment was tested in people with multiple myeloma who had undergone many previous therapies. Most patients tolerated talquetamab well, though some experienced side effects, such as cytokine release syndrome, where the immune system overreacts. This condition can be managed with tocilizumab. Thus, while potential side effects exist, they are known and manageable under medical supervision.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for multiple myeloma?
Talquetamab is unique because it targets a protein called GPRC5D, which is highly expressed on multiple myeloma cells but not on most normal cells. This is different from the standard treatments like proteasome inhibitors, immunomodulatory drugs, and CD38 monoclonal antibodies that target other pathways. By focusing on GPRC5D, talquetamab offers a novel mechanism of action that could potentially overcome resistance to existing therapies. Researchers are excited about this approach as it provides a fresh avenue for attacking the cancer cells while sparing healthy ones, potentially leading to more effective and safer treatment options for patients with multiple myeloma.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for multiple myeloma?
Studies have shown that talquetamab holds promise for treating multiple myeloma, particularly in patients who have tried other treatments. In one study, talquetamab helped shrink or eliminate cancer in 73% of patients. Another study found that about 85% of patients maintained their positive results for at least nine months. Talquetamab works by enabling the body's immune cells, called T-cells, to attack cancer cells. Early results suggest it can be effective even for those who have undergone many previous treatments. Participants in this trial will receive talquetamab in different cohorts, each designed to assess its effectiveness and safety in various patient populations.12456
Who Is on the Research Team?
Janssen Research & Development, LLC Clinical Trial
Principal Investigator
Janssen Research & Development, LLC
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with multiple myeloma that has come back or hasn't responded to treatment. They must be able to follow the study rules, have a certain level of physical ability (ECOG score 0-2), and women who can have children need a negative pregnancy test. People can't join if they've had a stroke or seizure recently, certain previous cancer treatments, unresolved side effects from past therapies (except hair loss or mild nerve pain), or recent high doses of steroids.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive talquetamab subcutaneously at a recommended Phase 2 dose, with biweekly dosing and tocilizumab prophylaxis for CRS in some cohorts
Open-label extension (OLE)
Participants transition to OLE phase and continue to receive study treatment
Long-term extension (LTE)
Participants transition to LTE phase and continue to receive study treatment upon approval of amendment 19
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Talquetamab
Talquetamab is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
- Relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Janssen Research & Development, LLC
Lead Sponsor
Joaquin Duato
Janssen Research & Development, LLC
Chief Executive Officer since 2022
MBA from ESADE, Master of International Management from Thunderbird School of Global Management
Dr. Jijo James, MD
Janssen Research & Development, LLC
Chief Medical Officer since 2014
MD from St. Johns Medical College, MPH from Columbia University