Hot on the trail of MRD

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biopearl123
Posts: 1665
Joined: Fri Jul 20, 2018 5:13 pm

Hot on the trail of MRD

Post by biopearl123 » Fri Nov 11, 2022 5:14 pm

Kmall astutely pointed out the importance of the preclinical study abstract by Dr. Claudia Bruedigam, PhD et.al., with contributions from a world wide team from Australia, Germany, the UK and the US. This abstract rated an oral prevention slot at upcoming ASH and is a very sophisticated bench study that looks at the specific reasons for cell resistance to Imetelstat. Recall that it is fairly “easy” to induce remission (I say that advisedly) but the disease returns because of “hidden” minimal residual disease (MRD). As treatment progresses, selection of more treatment resistant clones emerge (clonal drift or clonal selection) analogous to what happens with certain antibiotics and emergence of resistant bacteria. This study asks and suggests answers to what specific genetic factors are involved that result in some cells being resistant to Imetelstat and suggests potential future drug combinations that may address this issue by targeting malignant clones that do not suppress with Imetelstat alone. Clearly the future is in combinations with Imetelstat having a potential central role in treatment. Very interesting. A read of the abstract shows the enormous complexities and pains taken to understand these processes. When Drs. Mascarenhas and Lane talk about potential cure, or at least better control and improved OS, studies like this may point out the road to be taken. Be advised that this is a non oncologists kindergarten interpretation of a very involved and important preclinical study. Remember our veterans today (and every day.). Best Regards to all, bp

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