Treatment Efficacy and Safety of Bortezomib Combined with Dexamethasone and Lenalidomide Chemotherapy Regimen for Multiple Myeloma

Objective:To analyze the effect of bortezomib combined with dexamethasone and lenalidomide in the treatment of multiple myeloma.Methods:60 cases of multiple myeloma patients admitted to our hospital from January 2022 to December 2023 were selected randomly,with 30 cases in each group.Bortezomib combined with dexamethasone was administered in the control group,and bortezomib combined with dexamethasone and lenalidomide was given to the observation group,and the treatment effect was analyzed.Results:After treatment,CD^(3+)and CD^(4+)of the observation group were higher than that of the control group,CD^(8+)was lower than that of the control group,and the total treatment efficiency was higher,which was statistically significant(P<0.05),and there was no difference in the total incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups(P>0.05).Conclusion:Bortezomib combined with dexamethasone and lenalidomide is effective in the treatment of multiple myeloma as it regulates the immune function and is safe,thus it can be promoted in clinical practice.

Development of a cell adhesion-based prognostic model for multiple myeloma:Insights into chemotherapy response and potential reversal of adhesion effects

Multiple myeloma(MM)is a hematologic malignancy notorious for its high relapse rate and development of drug resistance,in which cell adhesion-mediated drug resistance plays a critical role.This study integrated four RNA sequencing datasets(CoMMpass,GSE136337,GSE9782,and GSE2658)and focused on analyzing 1706 adhesionrelated genes.Rigorous univariate Cox regression analysis identified 18 key prognosis-related genes,including KIF14,TROAP,FLNA,MSN,LGALS1,PECAM1,and ALCAM,which demonstrated the strongest associations with poor overall survival(OS)in MM patients.To comprehensively evaluate the impact of cell adhesion on MM prognosis,an adhesion-related risk score(ARRS)model was constructed using Lasso Cox regression analysis.The ARRS model emerged as an independent prognostic factor for predicting OS.Furthermore,our findings revealed that a heightened cell adhesion effect correlated with tumor resistance to DNA-damaging drugs,protein kinase inhibitors,and drugs targeting the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.Nevertheless,we identified promising drug candidates,such as tirofiban,pirenzepine,erlotinib,and bosutinib,which exhibit potential in reversing this resistance.In vitro,experiments employing NCIH929,RPMI8226,and AMO1 cell lines confirmed that MM cell lines with high ARRS exhibited poor sensitivity to the aforementioned candidate drugs.By employing siRNA-mediated knockdown of the key ARRS model gene KIF14,we observed suppressed proliferation of NCIH929 cells,along with decreased adhesion to BMSCs and fibronectin.This study presents compelling evidence establishing cell adhesion as a significant prognostic factor in MM.Additionally,potential molecular mechanisms underlying adhesion-related resistance are proposed,along with viable strategies to overcome such resistance.These findings provide a solid scientific foundation for facilitating clinically stratified treatment of MM.

Identification of TNFRSF1A as a novel regulator of carfilzomib resistance in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma(MM)is a hematological tumor with high mortality and recurrence rate.Carfilzomib is a new-generation proteasome inhibitor that is used as the first-line therapy for MM.However,the development of drug resistance is a pervasive obstacle to treating MM.Therefore,elucidating the drug resistance mechanisms is conducive to the formulation of novel therapeutic therapies.To elucidate the mechanisms of carfilzomib resistance,we retrieved the GSE78069 microarray dataset containing carfilzomib-resistant LP-1 MM cells and parental MM cells.Differential gene expression analyses revealed major alterations in the major histocompatibility complex(MHC)and cell adhesion molecules.The upregulation of the tumor necrosis factor(TNF)receptor superfamily member 1A(TNFRSF1A)gene was accompanied by the downregulation of MHC genes and cell adhesion molecules.Furthermore,to investigate the roles of these genes,we established a carfilzomib-resistant cell model and observed that carfilzomib resistance induced TNFRSF1A overexpression and TNFRSF1A silencing reversed carfilzomib resistance and reactivated the expression of cell adhesion molecules.Furthermore,TNFRSF1A silencing suppressed the tumorigenesis of MM cells in immunocompetent mice,indicating that TNFRSF1A may lead to carfilzomib resistance by dampening antitumor immunity.Furthermore,our results indicated that TNFRSF1A overexpression conferred carfilzomib resistance in MM cells and suppressed the expression of MHC genes and cell adhesion molecules.The suppression of MHC genes and cell adhesion molecules may impair the interaction between immune cells and cancer cells to impair antitumor immunity.Future studies are warranted to further investigate the signaling pathway underlying the regulatory role of TNFRSF1A in MM cells.

Plasmacytosis mimicking multiple myeloma in angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma:A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND Angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma(AITL)is a common subtype of peripheral T-cell lymphoma.Approximately half of patients with AITL may concurrently present with hypergammaglobulinemia.Increased numbers of plasma cells in the bone marrow are commonly observed at diagnosis.These tumors mimic plasma cell myelomas,hindering a conundrum of clinical diagnoses and potentially delaying appropriate treatment.CASE SUMMARY A 78-year-old woman experienced poor appetite,weight loss of 5 kg,fatigue 2 months before presentation,and shortness of breath 2 d before presentation,but no fever or night sweats.Physical examination revealed splenomegaly and many palpable masses over the bilateral axillary regions,approximately>2 cm in size,with rubbery consistency and no tenderness.Blood tests revealed anemia and thrombocytopenia,lactate dehydrogenase level of 153 U/L,total protein level of 10.9 g/dL,albumin to globulin ratio of 0.2,and immunoglobulin G level more than the upper limit of 3000 mg/dL.The free kappa and lambda light chain concentrations were 451 and 614 mg/L,respectively.A pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of AITL.The initial treatment was the cyclophosphamide,epirubicin,vincristine,and prednisolone regimen.Following this treatment,pleural effusion was controlled,and the patient was discharged in a stable condition and followed up in our outpatient department.CONCLUSION This report highlights the importance of differentiating reactive plasmacytosis from plasma cell myeloma in patients with hypergammaglobulinemia.A precise diagnosis of AITL requires a comprehensive evaluation,involving clinical,immunophenotypic,and histological findings conducted by a multidisciplinary team to ensure appropriate treatment.

Gene signatures to therapeutics:Assessing the potential of ivermectin against t(4;14)multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND Multiple myeloma(MM)is a terminal differentiated B-cell tumor disease characterized by clonal proliferation of malignant plasma cells and excessive levels of monoclonal immunoglobulins in the bone marrow.The translocation,(t)(4;14),results in high-risk MM with limited treatment alternatives.Thus,there is an urgent need for identification and validation of potential treatments for this MM subtype.Microarray data and sequencing information from public databases could offer opportunities for the discovery of new diagnostic or therapeutic targets.AIM To elucidate the molecular basis and search for potential effective drugs of t(4;14)MM subtype by employing a comprehensive approach.METHODS The transcriptional signature of t(4;14)MM was sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus.Two datasets,GSE16558 and GSE116294,which included 17 and 15 t(4;14)MM bone marrow samples,and five and four normal bone marrow samples,respectively.After the differentially expressed genes were identified,the Cytohubba tool was used to screen for hub genes.Then,the hub genes were analyzed using Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis.Using the STRING database and Cytoscape,protein–protein interaction networks and core targets were identified.Potential small-molecule drugs were identified and validated using the Connectivity Map database and molecular docking analysis,respectively.RESULTS In this study,a total of 258 differentially expressed genes with enriched functions in cancer pathways,namely cytokine receptor interactions,nuclear factor(NF)-κB signaling pathway,lipid metabolism,atherosclerosis,and Hippo signaling pathway,were identified.Ten hub genes(cd45,vcam1,ccl3,cd56,app,cd48,btk,ccr2,cybb,and cxcl12)were identified.Nine drugs,including ivermectin,deforolimus,and isoliquiritigenin,were predicted by the Connectivity Map database to have potential therapeutic effects on t(4;14)MM.In molecular docking,ivermectin showed strong binding affinity to all 10 identified targets,especially cd45 and cybb.Ivermectin inhibited t(4;14)MM cell growth via the NF-κB pathway and induced MM cell apoptosis in vitro.Furthermore,ivermectin increased reactive oxygen species accumulation and altered the mitochondrial membrane potential in t(4;14)MM cells.CONCLUSION Collectively,the findings offer valuable molecular insights for biomarker validation and potential drug development in t(4;14)MM diagnosis and treatment,with ivermectin emerging as a potential therapeutic alternative.

Lactate Decreases Bortezomib Sensitivity and Predicts Poor Clinical Outcomes of Multiple Myeloma

Objective:Metabolic disorders are regarded as hallmarks of multiple myeloma(MM)and are responsible for rapid cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth.However,the exact biological roles of metabolites in MM cells have not been fully explored.This study aimed to explore the feasibility and clinical significance of lactate for MM and investigate the molecular mechanism of lactic acid(Lac)in the proliferation of myeloma cells and cell sensitivity to bortezomib(BTZ).Methods:Metabolomic analysis of the serum was carried out to obtain metabolites expression and clinical characteristics in MM patients.The CCK8 assay and flow cytometry were used to detect cell proliferation,apoptosis,and cell cycle changes.Western blotting was used to detect the potential mechanism and apoptosis-and cycle-related protein changes.Results:Lactate was highly expressed in both the peripheral blood and bone marrow of MM patients.It was significantly correlated with Durie-Salmon Staging(DS Staging)and the International Staging System(ISS Staging)and the serum and urinary involved/uninvolved free light chain ratios.Patients with relatively high lactate levels had a poor treatment response.Moreover,in vitro experiments showed that Lac could promote the proliferation of tumor cells and decrease the proportion of G0/G1-phase cells,which was accompanied by an increased proportion of S-phase cells.In addition,Lac could decrease tumor sensitivity to BTZ by disrupting the expression of nuclear factor kappa B subunit 2(NFκB2)and Re1B.Conclusion:Metabolic changes are important in MM cell proliferation and treatment response;lactate could be used as a biomarker in MM and as a therapeutic target to overcome cell resistance to BTZ.

Interaction between age and gender on survival outcomes in extramedullary multiple myeloma over the past two decades

BACKGROUND Extramedullary multiple myeloma(MM)(EMM)is a rare and aggressive subentity of MM that can be present at diagnosis or develop anytime during the disease course.There is a paucity of data on the clinical characteristics and overall epidemiology of EMM.Furthermore,there is a scarcity of data on how the interaction of age and gender influences the survival of EMM.AIM To evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients with EMM over the past 2 decades and to identify epidemiologic characteristics that may impact overall prognosis.METHODS A total of 858 patients diagnosed with EMM,between 2000 and 2017,were ultimately enrolled in our study by retrieving the Surveillance,Epidemiology,and End Results database.We analyzed demographics,clinical characteristics,and overall mortality(OM)as well as cancer-specific mortality(CSM)of EMM.Variables with a P value<0.1 in the univariate Cox regression were incorporated into the multivariate Cox model to determine the independent prognostic factors,with a hazard ratio(HR)of greater than 1 representing adverse prognostic factors.RESULTS From a sample of 858 EMM,the male gender(63.25%),age range 60-79 years(51.05%),and non-Hispanic whites(66.78%)were the most represented.Central Nervous System and the vertebral column was the most affected site(33.10%).Crude analysis revealed higher OM in the age group 80+[HR=6.951,95%confidence interval(95%CI):3.299-14.647,P=0],Non-Hispanic Black population(HR=1.339,95%CI:1.02-1.759,P=0.036),Bones not otherwise specified(NOS)(HR=1.74,95%CI:1.043-2.902,P=0.034),and widowed individuals(HR=2.107,95%CI:1.511-2.938,P=0).Skin involvement(HR=0.241,95%CI:0.06-0.974,P=0.046)and a yearly income of$75000+(HR=0.259,95%CI:0.125-0.538,P=0)had the lowest OM in the crude analysis.Crude analysis revealed higher CSM in the age group 80+,Non-Hispanic Black,Bones NOS,and widowed.Multivariate cox proportional hazard regression analyses only revealed higher OM in the age group 80+(HR=9.792,95%CI:4.403-21.774,P=0)and widowed individuals(HR=1.609,95%CI:1.101-2.35,P=0.014).Multivariate cox proportional hazard regression analyses of CSM also revealed higher mortality of the same groups.Eyes,mouth,and ENT involvement had the lowest CSM in the multivariate analysis.There was no interaction between age and gender in the adjusted analysis for OM and CSM.CONCLUSION EMM is a rare entity.To our knowledge,there is a scarcity of data on the clinical characteristics and prognosis factors of patients with extramedullary multiple myeloma.In this retrospective cohort,using a United States-based population,we found that age,marital status,and tumor site were independent prognostic factors.Furthermore,we found that age and gender did not interact to influence the mortality of patients with EMM.

Current treatment paradigm and survival outcomes among patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma in China:a retrospective multicenter study

Objective:Evidence on the prognostic value of autologous stem cell transplantation(ASCT)and minimal residual disease(MRD)dynamics of patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma(NDMM)in China is limited.Our objective in the current study was to understand the current care paradigm and outcomes of these patients.Methods:This longitudinal cohort study used historical data from three top-tier hematologic disease care hospitals that contributed to the National Longitudinal Cohort of Hematological Diseases-Multiple Myeloma.Treatment regimens[proteasome inhibitor(PI)-,immunomodulatory drug(IMiD)-,PI+IMiD-based,and conventional],post-induction response,ASCT and MRD status,and survival outcomes[progression-free survival(PFS)and overall survival(OS)]were evaluated.Results:In total,454 patients with NDMM were included(median age,57 years;59.0%males)with a median follow-up of 58.7 months.The overall response rate was 91.0%,83.9%,90.6%,and 60.9%for PI-,IMiD-,PI+IMiD-based,and conventional regimens,respectively.Patients with ASCT during first-line therapy(26.2%)had a longer PFS and OS than patients who did not receive ASCT[median PFS,42.9 vs.21.2 months,P<0.001;median OS,not reached(NR)vs.65.8 months,P<0.001].The median OS was NR,71.5,and 56.6 months among patients with sustained MRD negativity,loss of MRD negativity,and persistent MRD,respectively(P<0.001).Multivariate analysis revealed that the lactic dehydrogenase level,International Staging System stage,extra-medullary disease,and upfront ASCT were independent factors in predicting OS among NDMM patients.Conclusions:Our study showed that novel agent-based regimens,first-line ASCT,and sustained MRD negativity were associated with a superior outcome for patients with NDMM in China(Identifier:NCT04645199).

PLAGL1 Is Identified as a Potential Diagnostic Marker for Co-Occurrence with Osteoporosis and Multiple Myeloma

Background: Osteoporosis (OP) is a common clinical manifestation of multiple myeloma (MM). The aim of this study was to investigate the possible molecular pathways and shared genes in the co-occurrence of OP and MM. Methods: The Gene Expression Omnibus database was used to retrieve gene expression information. Use WGCNA and differential analysis to screen out Hub genes. The GENEMANIA was used to build protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. Enrichment analyses were performed to explore the functions. Validation datasets were selected to verify the diagnostic marker reliability of PLAGL1. The immune microenvironment of diseases was analyzed by immune infiltration analyses. Results: We confirmed a hub gene called PLAGL1, which is significantly under-expressed in both OP and MM. We found hub genes were associated with glucose and energy metabolism. Subsequently, the reliability of PLAGL1 for diagnosing OP and MM was verified using ROC curves, with all areas under the curve > 0.75. Moreover, PLAGL1 regulates t lymphocytes and may participate in the occurrence of OP in MM through immune pathways. Conclusions: PLAGL1 is a hub gene for the co-occurrence of OP and MM. It can regulate T-lymphocyte involvement in disease development. PLAGL1 may be a novel diagnostic marker for the co-occurrence of OP and MM.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of daratumumab in the treatment of multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND The treatment of multiple myeloma has significantly progressed over the past half-century.The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis in order to explore the efficacy and safety of daratumumab in treating multiple myeloma.AIM To explore the efficacy and safety of daratumumab in treating multiple myeloma.METHODS A systematic literature search was performed using Chinese and English databases,including the China National Knowledge Infrastructure,Wanfang,China Biology Medicine,VIP,the Cochrane Library,Embase,and PubMed.The search encompassed studies in treating multiple myeloma with daratumumab,spanning from the inception of the database to June 2023.Revman 5.1 software was used for analysis.RESULTS Our analysis included eight English articles and one Chinese article of high quality.The meta-analysis results indicated that compared to other therapies,daratumumab could improve the overall response rate(ORR)[odds ratio(OR)=2.67,95%confidence interval(CI)=2.01,3.53,Z=6.85,P<0.00001],complete remission(CR)(OR=2.87,95%CI=2.16,3.83,Z=7.23,P<0.00001)and progression-free survival(PFS)time(hazard ratio=0.48,95%CI=0.38,0.60,Z=6.54,P<0.00001)in patients with multiple myeloma.These differences were statistically significant.Additionally,these results suggested that daratumumab increases the risk of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia with minimal effect on the incidences of anemia and upper respiratory tract infections.CONCLUSION Daratumumab can improve ORR,CR rate,and PFS in patients with multiple myeloma.It also increases the risk of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia,necessitating careful monitoring during its clinical application.

Communication between bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and multiple myeloma cells:Impact on disease progression

Multiple myeloma(MM)is a hematological malignancy characterized by the accumulation of immunoglobulin-secreting clonal plasma cells at the bone marrow(BM).The interaction between MM cells and the BM microenvironment,and specifically BM mesenchymal stem cells(BM-MSCs),has a key role in the pathophysiology of this disease.Multiple data support the idea that BM-MSCs not only enhance the proliferation and survival of MM cells but are also involved in the resistance of MM cells to certain drugs,aiding the progression of this hematological tumor.The relation of MM cells with the resident BM-MSCs is a two-way interaction.MM modulate the behavior of BM-MSCs altering their expression profile,proliferation rate,osteogenic potential,and expression of senescence markers.In turn,modified BM-MSCs can produce a set of cytokines that would modulate the BM microenvironment to favor disease progression.The interaction between MM cells and BM-MSCs can be mediated by the secretion of a variety of soluble factors and extracellular vesicles carrying microRNAs,long non-coding RNAs or other molecules.However,the communication between these two types of cells could also involve a direct physical interaction through adhesion molecules or tunneling nanotubes.Thus,understanding the way this communication works and developing strategies to interfere in the process,would preclude the expansion of the MM cells and might offer alternative treatments for this incurable disease.

Reduction rate of monoclonal protein as a useful prognostic factor in standard-risk group of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma

BACKGROUND Multiple myeloma(MM)is a common hematologic malignancy that originates from a malignant clone of plasma cells.Solitary plasmacytoma,history of diabetes,and platelet count are considered as prognostic factors for MM.But some patients are still associated with much worse outcomes without any prognostic predictors.This study aimed to observe the reduction rate of monoclonal protein(M protein)after the first and fourth chemotherapy cycles,which is considered as a new prognostic factor for progression-free survival(PFS)in standard-risk group of newly diagnosed MM patients.AIM To investigate the reduction rate of M protein after first and fourth cycle chemotherapy as a useful prognostic factor.METHODS A total of 316 patients diagnosed with MM for the first time between 2010 and 2019 at the Lishui Municipal Central Hospital were included.All patients were diagnosed according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network(NCCN)2020.V1 diagnostic criteria.The risk assessment was performed by the Mayo Stratification for Macroglobulinemia and Risk-Adapted Therapy guidelines.After diagnosis,164 patients were evaluated and underwent treatment with four to eight courses of continuous induction chemotherapy.The patients with no response after induction treatment were administered additional therapy following the NCCN 2020.V1 criteria.The following baseline data from the patients were collected:Gender,age at diagnosis,Durie-Salmon stage,glutamicpyruvic transaminase,glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase,catabolite activator protein,albumin/globulin ratio,lactate dehydrogenase,translocation(t)(6;14),t(11;14),maintenance regimen,total cholesterol(TC),triglyceride,and phosphorous.All baseline data and the reduction rate of M protein after each chemotherapy cycle from the first to fourth were assessed by univariate analysis.The factors influencing the overall survival and PFS were then assessed by multivariate analysis.We found the first cycle(C1)reduction rate and the fourth cycle(C4)reduction rate as predictors of PFS.Then,PFS was compared between patients with a C1 reduction rate of M protein of≥25%vs<25%and≥50%vs<50%,and between patients with a C4 reduction rate of≥25%vs<25%,≥50%vs<50%,and≥75%vs<75%.RESULTS Multivariate analysis revealed age[hazard ratio(HR):1.059,95%confidence interval(95%CI):1.033-1.085,P≤0.001],International Staging System stage(HR:2.136,95%CI:1.500-3.041,P≤0.001),autotransplantion(HR:0.201,95%CI:0.069-0.583,P=0.019),TC(HR:0.689,95%CI:0.533-0.891,P=0.019),C1 reduction rate(HR:0474,95%CI:0.293-0.767,P=0.019),and C4 reduction rate(HR:0.254,95%CI:0.139-0.463,P=0.019)as predictors of PFS.The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and the log-rank tests revealed that a higher reduction rate of M protein after first cycle(≥50%)and fourth cycle(≥75%)chemotherapy was associated with a longer PFS than the lower one.CONCLUSION Higher reduction rates of M protein after the first and fourth chemotherapy cycles can act as advantageous prognostic factors for PFS in standard-risk group of MM patients during initial diagnosis.

Once-versus Twice-weekly Bortezomib Induction Therapy with Dexamethasone in Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma

In this study,we administered a modified schedule of weekly intravenous Bortezomib at 1.6 mg/m 2 with dexamethasone(BD) and compared it to the standard 1.3 mg/m 2 twice-weekly BD regimen in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma(MM).We assessed the difference in efficacy,safety profile and survival between the once-weekly and twice-weekly cohorts(13 vs.24 patients).The over response rate was similar with both arms of the study,being 77% in the once-weekly schedule and 74.9% in the twice-weekly schedule(P=0.690).The median overall survival was not reached in either schedule.Also,the median progression-free survival and duration of response of the once-weekly schedule did not significantly differ from those of the twice-weekly schedule(8 months vs.10 months,P=0.545 and 6 months vs.7 months,P=0.467 respectively).Peripheral sensory neuropathy and grade 3/4 hematologic toxic effects were more frequently reported in the twice-weekly schedule than the once-weekly schedule,but there was no statistically significant difference.This preliminary experience in Chinese patients with newly diagnosed MM indicated that once-weekly infusion of Bortezomib plus dexamethasone may improve safety without affecting outcome.

Advances in Biomarkers for Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma(MM)is the second most common malignancy in hematology.MM is characterized by the malignant proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow,accompanied by the secretion of monoclonal immunoglobulin,mainly occurring in the elderly.The clinical manifestations of MM include renal dysfunction,bone destruction,infection,anemia,hemorrhage,hypercalcemia,and hyperviscosity syndrome.The recent discovery of biomarkers related to the diagnosis or prognosis of MM provides an important basis for the diagnosis and treatment of MM.This paper reviews the research progress of biomarkers expressed in tissues and peripheral blood at home and abroad.

Determining the optimal time for bortezomib-based induction chemotherapy followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant in the treatment of multiple myeloma

In our study, we determined the efficacy of bortezomib-based induction therapy followed by autologous stem cell transplant （ASCT） in newly diagnosed and relapsed/refractory （R/R） multiple myeloma （MM） patients and compared the advantages of early versus late transplant. We used a retrospective analysis to examine 62 patients, including 46 cases of newly diagnosed MM （early transplant group） and 16 cases of relapsed/refractory MM （late transplant group）. All of these patients received bortezomib-based induction therapy followed by ASCT. The efficacy and side effects of the treatment regimen were analyzed. Patients＇ overall survival （OS） and progression-free survival （PFS） times were determined. The ratio of complete remission to near-complete remission （CR/nCR） was 69.5% versus 56.2% （P=0.361）, respectively, for the early transplant group versus the late transplant group, respectively, after receiving bortezomib-based induction therapy; the overall response rates of the two group were 91.3 % and 81.2 %, respectively （P=0.369）. After receiving ASCT, the CR/nCR of the two groups increased to 84.8% and 81.3%, respectively. The median time required for neutrophil engraftment of the early transplant group and the late transplant group was 11 and 14.5 days, respectively （P=0.003）; the median time required for platelet engra^nent was 13 and 21.5 days （P=0.031）, respectively. There were no significant differences in the toxic side effects observed during induction therapy and ASCT between the two groups. The OS of the two groups was not statistically different （P=0.058）. The PFS of the early transplant group and the late transplant group was 41.6 and 26.5 months, respectively （P=0.008）. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the time of receiving ASCT, the types of M protein, and the International Staging System （ISS） stage were all independent factors that influenced PFS. In conclusion, patients in a suitable condition for ASCT should be recommended to have an early ASCT immediately after diagnosis.

Bortezomib, dexamethasone plus thalidomide for treatment of newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients with or without renal impairment

Objective： To investigate the efficacy and safety of the treatment of the newly diagnosed multiple myeloma （MM） with or without renal impairment receiving the therapy of bortezomib, dexamethasone plus thalidomide （BTD） regimen in order to analyze the effects of BTD regimen on the prognosis of the MM patients with renal impairment compared with the patients without renal impairment. Methods： Seventy-two newly diagnosed MM patients entered into our study and all the patients belonged to International Stage System （ISS） 3 in which transplantation patients were excluded or the patients refused receiving transplantation therapy. According to the level of serum creatinine （Scr）, the patients were divided into two groups including group 1 （n=42） （Scr 〈2 mg/dL） and group 2 （n=30） （Scr ≥2 mg/dL）. All the patients received the therapy of BTD regimen as induction therapy, and the median treatment time was 5 （range, 2-8） cycles. The outcome was analyzed retrospectively. Results： The overall remission （OR） rates were 81.0% （group 1） and 80.0% （group 2）. There was no statistical difference between the two groups （P〉0.05）. In group 2, 10 patients （33.3%） got renal function reversal, 14 patients （46.7%） got improved renal function and the median time to renal function reversal was 1.4 （range, 0.7-3.0） months. Among 12 patients with hemodialysis at diagnosis, 8 patients got rid of hemodialysis after median 4 cycles of therapy （range, 3-6 cycles）. After a median follow-up period of 16 （range, 2-31） months, 5 patients （11.9%） in group 1 died and 9 patients （30.0%） in group 2 died （P=0.056）. The 2-year estimate of overall survival was 77.3% in group 1 and 63.8% in group 2, respectively （P=0.188）. During a median follow-up time of 13.0 months （range, 2-25 months）, 15 patients （35.7%） in group 1 progressed and 13 patients （43.3%） in group 2 progressed （P=0.513）. The 2-year estimate of response duration was 50.6% in group 1 and 42.1% in group 2, respectively （P=1）. The main toxicities in the two groups included thrombocytopenia, peripheral neuropathy （PN）, infection, herpes zoster and so on. The incidence of grade 3 and 4 adverse events was low. Conclusions： BTD regimen may become the front-line therapy for the newly diagnosed MM patients with renal impairment because BTD regimen can improve the prognosis of the patients with renal impairment as good as the patients without renal impairment.

Subcutaneous versus Intravenous Bortezomib Administration for Multiple Myeloma Patients：a Meta-analysis

Bortezomib,the first potent therapeutic proteasome inhibitor,has been suggested as a standard care in patients with newly diagnosed and relapsed multiple myeloma（MM）.However,evidence bearing on the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous（SC） versus intravenous（IV） administration of bortezomib for MM patients is controversial.Randomised controlled trials（RCTs） and observational studies were enrolled in our meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and safety of bortezomib via SC vs.IV administration on MM patients.Sixteen trials with a total of 2575 patients with MM（SC,n=1191;IV,n=1384） were included in our meta-analysis.There were no significant differences between these two arms regarding overall response rate（ORR）,complete response（CR）,or very good partial response（VGPR）.The pooled RRs for rate of adverse events（AEs）,such as thrombocytopenia and bortezomib-induced peripheral neuropathy（BIPN）,were 0.79（95% CI：0.68–0.92） and 0.63（95% CI：0.51–0.79）,respectively.Moreover,there was much more largely decreased incidence of grade 3 and higher thrombocytopenia and BIPN in bortezomib SC administration than IV route.In general,alternative SC administration should be considered instead of IV administration in use of bortezomib for patients with MM.

Guillain-Barré syndrome in a patient with multiple myeloma after bortezomib therapy: A case report

BACKGROUND Bortezomib is a first-line drug approved for patients with multiple myeloma (MM) and has significantly increased their overall survival. However, bortezomib-induced peripheral neuropathy (PN) remains a significant side effect that has led to its discontinuation in some patients. Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is recognized as an immune-mediated PN characterized by the involvement of multiple nerve roots and peripheral nerves and albuminocytologic dissociation in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tests. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasmapheresis are effective. CASE SUMMARY A 45-year-old man diagnosed with stage III MM (λ type) was treated with bortezomib and dexamethasone. Fourteen days after the second course, he complained of intense burning sensation in the lower limbs and hands, loss of tactile sensation, and pain in the distal area of both thighs and in the distal part of both wrist joints. Neurological examination revealed absence of knee and ankle reflexes. CSF examination revealed albuminocytologic dissociation. Nerve conduction studies indicated sensory nerve action potential amplitudes, conduction velocity decrease, and F wave latency prolongation. He was diagnosed as MM complicated with GBS. Subsequently, he was treated with high-dose IVIG (400 mg/kg/d for five days). His symptoms fully resolved without relapse at the 6-month follow-up. CONCLUSION Our case highlights the differential diagnosis and management of complications after bortezomib treatment in MM.

Effects of Bortezomib and Dexamethasone combination on treating senile multiple myeloma and influence on immune suppressed factors and immune cell levels

Objective:To investigate the effects of Bortezomib and Dexamethasone combination on treating senile multiple myeloma and influence on immune suppressed factors and immune cell levels.Methods:A total of 80 cases of patients with multiple myeloma treated in our hospital from Oct 2013 to Jul 2015 were selected as investigate subjects. They were randomly divided to be observation group consisted of 43 cases and control group consisted of 37 cases. For observation group, treatment of Bortezomib and Dexamethasone combination was provided. For control group, Vincristine + Epirubicin + Dexamethasone treatment was provided. After three courses, effects on two groups of patients were compared, and immune suppressed factors and immune cell levels before and after treatment in different periods were compared.Results:After three courses of treatment, the total effective rate in observation group was significantly higher than control group. Before treatment, IL-6, IL-17, TGF-β, CD3+CD4+, CD3+CD8+ and CD3+CD4+/CD3+CD8+ between the two group of patients were compared, no significant difference showed;After treatment for 6 weeks, IL-6, IL-17 levels in observation group were significantly decreased comparing with the same group before treatment;After treatment for 12 weeks, IL-6, IL-17 and TGF-β levels in observation group were significantly decreased comparing with the same group before treatment;After treatment, IL-6, IL-17 levels in observation group were significantly lower than control group at the same phase. After treatment for 12 weeks, CD3+CD4+, CD3+CD4+/CD3+CD8+ in observation group were significantly higher than the same group before treatment, and significantly higher than control group at the same phase;CD3+CD8+ in observation group was significantly lower than the same group before treatment, and significantly lower than control group at the same phase. Conclusion:Compared with Vincristine + Epirubicin + Dexamethasone treatment, Bortezomib and Dexamethasone combination on treating senile multiple myeloma had more significant effects, which deserves further clinical researches.

Effect of Bortezomib on immune function, inflammatory response and renal function in patients with multiple myeloma

Objective:In this study, the effects of bortezomib and vincristine combined with dexamethasone and thalidomide on immune function, inflammatory response, renal function, myeloma cells and plasma cells in patients with multiple myeloma were compared.Methods:68 patients with multiple myeloma treated in our hospital from May 2009 to Nov. 2018 were selected and divided into control group and observation group according to the drugs used in chemotherapy. The control group was treated with vincristine combined with dexamethasone and thalidomide, while the observation group was treated with bortezomib combined with dexamethasone and thalidomide. Immunocytes, inflammatory cytokines, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, myeloma cells and plasma cells were detected before and after treatment in the two groups.Results: There was no significant difference in each index between the two groups before treatment (P>0.05). After three courses of chemotherapy, CD3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+ and Treg in the observation group were significantly better than those in the control group, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P<0.05). The levels of inflammatory cytokines CRP, TNF-α, myeloma cells and M protein were significantly decreased in the observation group (P<0.05). Renal function indexes in the observation group were significantly higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in clinical efficacy and adverse reactions between the two groups (P<0.05).Conclusion: Bortezomib combined with dexamethasone and thalidomide can effectively reduce the inflammatory response, M protein and myeloma cells in patients with MM, significantly improve the immune function and renal function in patients, which has certain clinical application value.