Promising Results from Antibody-Drug Conjugate in Treating Rare Blood Cancer
A novel antibody-drug conjugate shows high response rates and safety in treating the rare and aggressive blood cancer BPDCN, potentially offering a new standard of care.
A recent study has showcased encouraging safety profiles and response rates of a novel antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), pivekimab sunirine (PVEK), in patients with blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN). Led by researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Phase I/II trial demonstrated significant efficacy, especially in newly diagnosed patients. Out of 33 newly diagnosed BPDCN cases, the treatment achieved an overall response rate of 85%, with 70% achieving complete remission and a median overall survival of approximately 16.6 months.
BPDCN is a rare, aggressive blood cancer that often involves the skin, bone marrow, and lymph nodes, and currently has limited therapeutic options. The study data, presented at the 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting, suggest that PVEK might soon become a new standard of care. Compared to the existing treatment, tagraxofusp-erzs—which targets the CD123 protein present on BPDCN cells—PVEK offers a targeted approach by delivering cytotoxic drugs directly to cancer cells, leading to their death.
The global multi-center trial enrolled 84 adult patients with CD123-positive BPDCN, including both newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory cases. Participants received the treatment intravenously every 21 days on an outpatient basis. The most common side effect was reversible peripheral edema, which was manageable.
Researchers are optimistic about the potential of combining PVEK with other therapies to enhance treatment outcomes further. The trial received support from pharmaceutical company AbbVie, with researchers also serving on advisory boards and as consultants.
Overall, these promising results indicate that PVEK could revolutionize treatment strategies for BPDCN, offering hope for improved patient outcomes in this challenging disease.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-antibody-drug-conjugate-safety-response.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Significant Reduction in Heart Attacks and Strokes Possible Through Better Use of Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs
A new study suggests that millions of preventable heart attacks and strokes could be avoided in the U.S. through increased use of cholesterol-lowering medications like statins, with significant health and economic benefits.
Self-Delivered HPV Tests Significantly Boost Cervical Cancer Screening Rates
Self-collection HPV testing by mail more than doubles cervical cancer screening rates, offering a promising solution to reduce disparities and improve early detection among underserved women.
Impact of Overturned Abortion Rights on Contraception Access After Three Years
Three years after the Dobbs v. Jackson decision overturned abortion rights, access to contraception is increasingly at risk due to legal, political, and healthcare system challenges across the U.S.
Reducing Cysteine Intake Promotes Fat Burning and Weight Loss
New research shows that lowering cysteine levels in the diet triggers fat browning and promotes weight loss through brain-driven thermogenesis, offering promising avenues for obesity management and health improvement.