Episode 66. International Myeloma Society 2025 Annual Meeting Updates with Dr. Alfred Garfall: The Bispecific Bonanza

This episode provides comprehensive coverage of key clinical trial updates from the 2025 International Myeloma Society (IMS) Annual Meeting in Toronto, with special focus on bispecific antibodies and novel immunotherapies across the multiple myeloma disease continuum—from smoldering disease through relapsed/refractory settings. Dr. Alfred Garfall provides expert commentary on study design, efficacy, safety considerations, and clinical implications.

Topics Covered

1. SMOLDERING MULTIPLE MYELOMA

LINKER-SMM1

Phase 2, open-label study of linvoseltamab monotherapy (200 mg) in patients with high-risk smoldering multiple myeloma by 20/2/20 or PETHEMA criteria, with 2-year treatment duration.

Discussion Points:

Appropriateness of 2-year treatment duration for precursor conditionEfficacy and MRD-negative ratesSafety considerations in asymptomatic populationPatient selection if available today

2. NEWLY DIAGNOSED MULTIPLE MYELOMA

MajesTEC-5

Phase 2 trial evaluating three teclistamab-daratumumab-based induction regimens in 49 transplant-eligible NDMM patients, followed by auto-transplant and fixed-duration Tec-Dara maintenance.

Discussion Points:

Post-induction MRD-negativity rates with Tec-DR and Tec-DVRGrade 3-5 infection rates and infection-related deathsQuestionable utility of bortezomib and need for ASCT with 100% MRD-negativityHigh infection prophylaxis requirements