Injectable immunotherapy yields high remission rates in patients with B-cell ALL
MD Anderson Research Highlight June 24, 2025
Some patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) are unable to receive chemotherapy and have limited alternative treatment options. Blinatumomab is a type of immunotherapy that simultaneously engages T cells and leukemia cells to eliminate the cancer cells. The treatment currently is approved as a continuous infusion over 28 days, though a subcutaneous injection would offer a simpler administration. In an international Phase I/II trial led by , researchers evaluated two injectable doses of blinatumomab in 88 adult patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant B-ALL. Over 75% of patients experienced remission within two cycles using either dose. The most common serious side effects included low white blood cells, immune-related reactions and neurological issues, though no deaths linked to treatment were reported. Based on both safety and effectiveness observed in the trial, the lower dose was recommended for future studies, and researchers continue to evaluate the duration of responses. Learn more in .
Subcutaneous blinatumomab trials have shown promising superior efficacy in a more convenient and friendly way. This could be transformative once assessed in the frontline setting.