A new clinical trial has started for patients with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, that no longer responds to standard treatments. The trial, called the KOALA study, is testing a new type of therapy called PMCC-COE-KMA, which is a type of CAR-T therapy. CAR-T therapy works by collecting, modifying, and reinfusing a patient’s own immune cells to help them fight the cancer more effectively.
This therapy specifically targets Kappa Myeloma Antigen, a protein found on myeloma cancer cells but not on healthy immune cells. This means it may attack the cancer more precisely, potentially reducing side effects compared to other treatments.
The first patient in the trial has now received this investigational therapy, which was developed by the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre’s Centre of Excellence in Cellular Immunotherapy and licensed by the company HaemaLogiX. The therapy was manufactured by Cell Therapies at their specialized facility, which is located near the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. This close collaboration allows for a smooth process from research to patient treatment.
Dr. Bev Menner, CEO of Cell Therapies, shared her excitement about this milestone, saying, “The successful treatment of the first patient in the KOALA trial is a major achievement. It shows how combining top-quality research, clinical expertise, and advanced manufacturing can lead to new treatments for patients.” She also expressed pride in supporting the development of this Australian innovation for multiple myeloma patients.
Professor Simon Harrison, Director of the Centre of Excellence, explained that this therapy aims to be more targeted, potentially reducing side effects that are often difficult to manage. He said, “The first patient receiving this treatment is a significant step forward. We will continue enrolling more patients and studying how well this therapy works.”
Dr. Rosanne Dunn, Chief Scientific Officer at HaemaLogiX, added, “We are very happy with the safe and successful treatment of the first patient. Moving forward to treat the next patient with a higher dose of this therapy is a promising sign for our immunotherapy programs.”
The trial is led by Dr. Mark Dowling, and more patients are being enrolled to further test the safety and effectiveness of this new approach.