The Targeted Pulse: Top Oncology News of the Week

This week in oncology has brought forth a series of significant developments, from regulatory decisions impacting established therapies to groundbreaking research and new treatment submissions. Our top articles highlight advancements in multiple myeloma, ovarian cancer, and renal cell carcinoma, offering new hope and expanded options for patients and clinicians alike.

One of the most discussed topics this week was the FDA's Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) meeting concerning belantamab mafodotin (Blenrep) in multiple myeloma. In a pivotal vote, the ODAC determined that the risks of belantamab mafodotin outweighed its benefits in multiple myeloma. The committee's decision was primarily driven by notable ocular toxicities associated with the treatment and a perceived lack of optimized dosing strategies, prompting a reevaluation of its clinical utility. Read more about this significant decision here: FDA ODAC Votes Belantamab Mafodotin Risks Outweigh Benefits in Myeloma

Furthering our understanding of complex cancers, new research has unveiled a crucial connection in ovarian cancer. Our report on PD-L1 and HRD correlation showcased its prognostic value in ovarian cancer, indicating that PD-L1 expression can significantly enhance survival rates in advanced cases. This research highlights the intricate link between PD-L1 and homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), opening doors for more personalized treatment approaches. Discover the full insights here: PD-L1 and HRD Correlation Shows Prognostic Value in Ovarian Cancer

Promising early-phase results emerged this week for a novel therapy in renal cell carcinoma. Samer Srour, MD, presented encouraging phase 1 results for ALLO-316 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The findings indicated a promising 25% response rate and a rapid treatment turnaround, suggesting that ALLO-316 could represent a significant step forward for patients with advanced ccRCC. These positive early outcomes set the stage for further pivotal studies. Learn more about these promising results here: Dr Srour Presents Promising Phase 1 Results for ALLO-316 in ccRCC

In regulatory news, a new application promises to enhance treatment outcomes for a challenging ovarian cancer subset. The NDA for relacorilant in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer has been submitted to the FDA. This submission is backed by data demonstrating promising survival benefits when relacorilant is used in combination with standard chemotherapy, offering a potential new avenue for patients facing this aggressive disease. Read the full details of this important submission here: NDA for Relacorilant in Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer Submitted to FDA

Finally, expanding treatment accessibility and options, the FDA-approved denosumab biosimilars are set to expand oncology options in the US. Celltrion USA has launched two denosumab biosimilars, Stoboclo and Osenvelt, which are approved for various indications including osteoporosis and cancer-related skeletal events. This introduction is a significant step toward increasing the availability of crucial therapies and potentially reducing health care costs. Find out more about these new biosimilars here: FDA-Approved Denosumab Biosimilars Expand Oncology Options in US

This week's news underscores the relentless pursuit of better outcomes in oncology, from innovative drug developments to regulatory advancements and expanded treatment access. Stay tuned for more updates as these stories continue to evolve.