Harnessing BION-1301: Advancing Targeted Therapy for Multiple Myeloma

A study has highlighted the role of a protein called APRIL in certain cancers. Elevated levels of APRIL in the blood are linked to multiple myeloma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and colorectal cancer, and are associated with a worse prognosis. An antibody that targets APRIL has been shown to hinder the survival of leukemia cells and to reduce abnormal cell growth in mice. APRIL is produced by various cells in the bone marrow and is crucial for the growth and survival of myeloma cells. It also contributes to drug resistance and an immunosuppressive state in cancer cells.

Researchers have developed a humanized antibody, BION-1301, which binds to APRIL and fully blocks its interaction with its receptors, BCMA and TACI. This antibody has been engineered for improved stability and has demonstrated the ability to suppress APRIL-induced effects both in the lab and in animal models. It has also been shown to block the immunosuppressive effects of APRIL on cancer cells.

The development of BION-1301 as a potential therapy for myeloma is supported by the creation of quantitative assays that can measure APRIL levels in human blood samples. These assays have overcome previous limitations and can reliably quantify APRIL.

The study concludes that BION-1301, a novel APRIL-neutralizing antibody, has been successfully characterized and may be developed as a standalone treatment or in combination with other drugs. It is anticipated that BION-1301 will enter clinical trials. Several of the authors have disclosed financial interests in Aduro Biotech Inc., and some have connections with other pharmaceutical companies.