Multiple Myeloma

Here at the Center of Excellence has allowed expert scientists and physicians to combine their efforts to accomplish our mission: finding a cure for multiple myeloma and related diseases (MGUS, Waldenstrom's Macroglobulenemia, amyloidosis) . In addition to innovative clinicalstudies offered to more than 300 multiple myeloma patients, we have launched a major endeavor to address fundamental questions regarding the biology and molecular pathogenesis of multiple myeloma.We are currently acruing patients to the following trials

Our center has established a comprehensive program for the study and treatment of myeloma by forming one of the largest translational research teams in the nation. Unlike other centers, we are the only non-for-profit institution in the greater New York area that bas been recognized by a peer-reviewed translational program-project (from the bed-side to the bench and back). Through the support of several peer reviewed awards such as the Specialized Center of Research grant from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, R01 and K awards, we have been able to gather basic scientists and clinicians to study fundamental questions in the biology of disease and its direct application to patient care. 

The Program counts now with an extensive portfolio of clinical studies all supported by our laboratories, in order to provide state of the art treatment to the relapse and refractory group. Active protocols exploring the use of novel agents such as CARFILZOMIB (a proteasome inhibitor that does not cause neuropathy), MLN9708 (the first oral proteasome inhibitor given once a week) are open to accrual and we have received approval to start trials with POMALIDOMIDE (for patients resistant to lenalidomide).

We have established a program for high risk patients, such as t(4: 14), t(14; 16), del 17p with protocols focusing on the cell cycle such as the first in class CDK 4-6 inhibitor among other molecules.

We continue our efforts towards a new drug development program. These consist of a series of trials using innovative therapeutic agents such as the histone deacetylase inhibitor vorinostat and VEGF trap. We are actively exploring immune approaches for the treatment of the disease such as monoclonal antibodies.

Stem cell transplant, remains at the core of myeloma management and we have a team of experts on the field leading our efforts in this arena. We have three investigator-initiated protocols for transplant  eligible patients either in the frontline or relapse setting.

We will be starting a new (1-2 punch) induction protocol based on our extensive experience with BIRD followed by Bortezomib and cyclophosphamide. It is intended for patients naive to treatment who require prompt therapy. In order to facilitate accrual, any eligible patient can be registered at our institution and continue their follow-up and basic care (ie bisphosphonates, growth factors) with their local oncologist.