Rgenta Therapeutics Announces Presentation at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) 2025 Annual Meeting

On March 25, 2025 Rgenta Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering the development of a new class of oral small molecules targeting RNA and RNA regulation for oncology and neurological disorders, reported that preclinical data will be presented on its lead program, RGT-61159, at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) (Free AACR Whitepaper) 2025 Annual Meeting, which will be held from April 25-30, 2025, in Chicago, IL (Press release, Rgenta Therapeutics, MAR 25, 2025, View Source [SID1234651427]).

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Title: RGT-61159, Best-in-class Oral Small Molecule Inhibitor of MYB via Selective RNA Splicing Alteration, Synergistic Anti-Tumor Activity When Combined with Standards of Care in Leukemia Disease Models Harboring AML Common Genetic Lesions and with NOTCH Inhibitors in ACC Disease Models
Authors: Norman Lu, Patricia Soulard, Kai Li, Xiubin Gu, Ibrahim Kay, Sam Hasson, Chris Yates, Zhiping Weng, Simon Xi, Travis Wager
Session category: Chemistry
Session title: Targeted Protein Degradation
Session date and time: April 30, 2025, 9:00 -12:00 PM CT
Abstract #: 7013 (Poster section 26 / Poster board #13)

About RGT-61159
RGT-61159 is an orally available small molecule designed to specifically modulate splicing of the transcription factor MYB resulting in the inhibition of the oncogenic MYB protein and potential cell death of the cancer cells that overexpress the MYB protein. MYB acts as a master regulator of cell proliferation, self-renewal, and differentiation processes and its aberrant expression has been demonstrated in multiple forms of human cancer including adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), colorectal cancer (CRC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and breast cancer. Rgenta is evaluating RGT-61159 in an ongoing multi-center, open-label Phase 1a/b clinical trial in patients with advanced relapsed or refractory ACC or CRC. The Phase 1a/b study is designed to evaluate safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and target engagement and clinical efficacy of RGT-61159 in patients with ACC or CRC. Additional information about the Phase 1a/b clinical trial can be accessed at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06462183).

AbCellera Announces Presentation of In Vivo Data on PSMA x CD3 T-Cell Engagers at AACR 2025

On March 25, 2025 AbCellera (Nasdaq: ABCL) reported an upcoming poster presentation that includes preclinical in vivo data on its PSMA x CD3 T-cell engagers at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) (Free AACR Whitepaper)Ⓡ (AACR) (Free AACR Whitepaper) 116th Annual Meeting, to be held April 25 to 30 at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois (Press release, AbCellera, MAR 25, 2025, View Source [SID1234651443]).

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Details on AbCellera’s poster presentation at AACR (Free AACR Whitepaper) are as follows:

Title: PSMA x CD3 T-cell engagers show preclinical efficacy for the treatment of prostate cancer
Abstract Number: 6012
Session: Therapeutic Antibodies, Including Engineered Antibodies 2
Date and Time: Tuesday, April 29, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. CDT
Location: Section 35, Board 7

Tempest Announces Amezalpat Poster Presentation at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting

On March 25, 2025 Tempest Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: TPST), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing first-in-classi targeted and immune-mediated therapeutics to fight cancer, reported that an abstract highlighting data supporting the immune component of amezalpat’s purported mechanism of action has been accepted for poster presentation at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) (Free AACR Whitepaper) Annual Meeting taking place April 25-30, 2025 in Chicago, IL (Press release, Tempest Therapeutics, MAR 25, 2025, View Source [SID1234651413]).

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Poster presentation details:

Title: Amezalpat, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) antagonist, inhibits suppressive macrophage development, activation and function
Abstract Number: 2171
Date & Time: Monday, April 28, 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CT
Session Category: Immunology
Session Title: Interplay between Immune System and Radio-, Chemo- and Targeted Therapies 1
Location: Poster Section 35

WuXi Biologics Reports Solid 2024 Annual Results and Expects Accelerated Growth in 2025

On March 25, 2025 WuXi Biologics (Cayman) Inc. ("WuXi Biologics" or "the Group", stock code: 2269.HK), a leading global Contract Research, Development and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO) service company offering end-to-end solutions for biologics discovery, development and manufacturing, reported its audited annual results for the year ended December 31, 2024 ("Reporting Period") (Press release, WuXi Biologics, MAR 25, 2025, View Source [SID1234651428]).

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Financial Highlights

Revenue: For the year ended December 31, 2024, the Group’s revenue grew 9.6% YoY to RMB18,675.4 million, with non-COVID revenue increasing 13.1% YoY. The growth was primarily driven by: (i) the successful execution of the Group’s "Follow and Win the Molecule" strategies, coupled with the leading technology platform, best-in-industry timeline and excellent execution track record; (ii) enlarged spectrum of services offered to the biologics industry, fast growing technology platforms including ADCs and bispecific antibodies; (iii) growth of research services revenue generated from the Group’s various cutting-edge technologies; and (iv) the utilization of existing and newly expanded capacities, including ramp-up of the manufacturing sites in Europe.

Gross Profit and Gross Profit Margin: IFRS gross profit increased 12.1% YoY to RMB7,650.8 million, while adjusted gross profit rose 9.8% YoY to RMB8,479.5 million. IFRS gross profit margin reached 41.0%, with an adjusted gross profit margin of 45.4%. The increase in gross profit and margin was primarily due to the efficiency improvements driven from WBS and digitalization, and also the improvements of the ramp-up impacts from the recently commissioned facilities in Europe and the U.S. as expected.

EBITDA and EBITDA Margin: For the year ended December 31, 2024, EBITDA grew 16.7% to RMB6,547.8 million, while adjusted EBITDA increased 14.4% YoY to RMB7,999.3 million. EBITDA margin reached 35.1%, with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 42.8%.

Net Profit and Net Profit Attributable to Owners of the Company: IFRS net profit rose 10.5% YoY to RMB3,945.4 million. Net profit attributable to owners of the Company was RMB3,356.1 million, reflecting a slight YoY decline of 1.3%.

Adjusted Net Profit: Adjusted Net Profit for the period increased 9.0% YoY to RMB5,396.9 million. Adjusted net profit margin was 28.9%.

Basic Earnings Per Share (EPS): The Group’s basic earnings per share (EPS) remained flat at RMB 0.82 for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. Diluted EPS slightly increased by 1.3% from RMB 0.77 for the year ended December 31, 2023 to RMB 0.78 for the year ended December 31, 2024.

Business Highlights

Integrated Project Wins
The Group added 151 integrated projects in 2024, bringing the total to 817. Notably, over half of the new projects originated from U.S. clients, reflecting strong client trusts and the Group’s resilience amid a dynamic environment. The Group supported 66 Phase III projects and 21 non-COVID commercial projects, strengthening its manufacturing pipeline.

During the Reporting Period, the Group continued to execute its "Win-the-Molecule" strategy, securing 20 post-IND projects, including 13 in late-phase and commercial stage, bringing total wins to 89 since 2018.

Research
By leveraging industry-leading technology platforms, the Group’s Research business has reached an inflection point following years of strategic cultivation. The Group has developed a portfolio of leading Immune Cell Engager (ICE) technologies, extending beyond traditional T-cell engagers (TCEs). Our diverse immune cell-targeting modalities—including CD3 Bispecific T Cell Engagers, Non-cytotoxic T Cell Engagers, γδ T Cell Engagers, NK Engagers, and Macrophage Engagers—are designed to unlock novel therapeutic potential in oncology and autoimmune diseases.

The Group is advancing these innovations in close collaboration with its clients and partners, driving the development of next-generation anti-tumor and autoimmune therapies. In 2024, the Group enabled seven global programs for molecule discovery and is eligible to receive approximately $140 million in near-term payments, with total potential payments exceeding $2.3 billion. To date, the Group’s Research Services has enabled 50+ programs that are potentially eligible for future milestone payments and sales royalties, establishing a consistent revenue and profit stream.

Development
The Group added 148 new development projects in 2024, further strengthening one of the industry’s largest portfolios of complex biologics. This portfolio includes 151 bispecifics & multispecifics, 194 ADCs, 80 fusion proteins and 24 vaccines. The Group continues to advance cutting-edge technology platforms that accelerate biologics development and manufacturing. Key platforms include WuXia (cell line development), WuXiDARx (drug-to-antibody ratio technology), WuXiHigh (high concentration and high-throughput DP Development), WuXiUI (ultra-intensified fed-batch platform) and WuXiUP (ultra-high productivity continuous bioprocessing platform).

Highlighting the unique advantages of its CRDMO platform and industry-leading technologies, the Group’s client, Curon Biopharmaceutical’s investigational B-cell depletion therapy, CN201, was acquired by Merck & Co., Inc. in 2024. This asset was discovered through the Group’s proprietary TCE and WuXiBody platforms, while WuXiUP effectively addresses complex CMC challenges.

The Group has shortened the development timeline for monoclonal antibody projects from DNA to IND to just nine months and successfully supported over 600 IND applications by the end of the Reporting Period. These advancements help clients accelerate development cycles and achieve cost-effective solutions across the biologics value chain.

Manufacturing
In 2024, the Group supported 66 Phase III projects and 21 non-COVID commercial manufacturing projects, completed 16 process performance qualification (PPQ) projects, with 24 scheduled for 2025. The Group also achieved a DS and DP PPQ success rate exceeding 98%, establishing a solid foundation for commercial manufacturing operations.

To further support its growing commercial pipeline and meet client needs, the Group continues to execute its "Global Dual Sourcing" strategy, providing comprehensive manufacturing services through its global network.
Ireland: All three facilities have secured GMP certification from the Irish Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and completed multiple 16,000-liter PPQ runs. The site also initiated commercial production in 2024.
Singapore: The lifting of fabricated modules for XDC’s Production Facility has been completed, with critical utilities in the final phase of design and construction. Additionally, significant progress has been made in the design of Biologics’ Production Assets.
U.S: The Group continues the expansion of MFG11 at Worcester, MA, one of the largest single-use-technology facilities in the U.S., featuring six 6,000L upstream tanks connected to a single downstream line, with high-throughput processing and extensive automation. Upon completion, MFG11 will be integrated with MFG18 (Cranbury, NJ), and Boston Research Service Center, enabling the Group to offer end-to-end capabilities in the U.S., from research, development, clinical manufacturing, to both small- and large-scale commercial manufacturing.

Asset optimization
In January 2025, the Group and MSD International GmbH entered into an agreement for the asset transfer of WuXi Vaccine’s Dundalk, Ireland facility. This transaction enables MSD International GmbH to better integrate vaccine production within its global network while enhancing the Group’s operational flexibility, asset efficiency and margins. The Group will focus on its vaccines CDMO services from WuXi Vaccines’ Suzhou, China site.

Backlog
As of December 31, 2024, total backlog stood at US$18.5 billion, comprising US$10.5 billion in service backlog and US$8.0 billion in potential milestones. Backlog within 3 years was US$3.7 billion. Following the announced asset transaction with MSD International GmbH, approximately US$3 billion in services backlog was removed. Adjusting for this divestiture, backlog grew by approximately US$0.9 billion YoY.

Quality
The Group remains committed to the highest quality standards, safeguarding the interests of clients and patients. Backed by a world-class quality system, the Group has successfully completed 42 regulatory inspections by various national regulatory agencies since 2017, including 22 by EU EMA and U.S. FDA, with no critical issues and zero data integrity findings. In Q4 2024, the Group successfully passed the HPRA inspection in Ireland with no critical observations. These regulatory milestones further validate the Group’s premier quality system, which adheres to the highest global quality standards.

Talents
People are WuXi Biologics’ greatest assets. As of December 31, 2024, the Group’s total employee count reached 12,575, including 4,383 scientists, with a key talent retention rate of 95.8%. The Group’s successful global recruitment efforts strengthened its worldwide operations, enabling it to efficiently deliver project commitments and drive continuous innovation.

WBS (WuXi Biologics Business System)
The Group has been continuously focusing on its WBS initiatives, driving operational excellence and efficiency. In 2024, the Group executed over 260 WBS Kaizen events, achieving 1-point improvement in gross profit margin through cost-savings, enhanced labor productivities, and inventory reductions. Additionally, ESG-focused Kaizen projects reduced carbon emissions, water usage, waste generation, and material consumption. The Group remains committed to establishing WBS as a lean management system, fostering continuous improvement, talent development, and further enhancing value creation for its clients.

Sustainability
The Group has integrated Sustainability as a core pillar of its business growth strategy, earning widespread recognition from leading ESG rating agencies and institutional investors. Notable achievements encompass the inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices, an AAA rating from MSCI ESG Ratings, a Platinum Medal from EcoVadis, and recognition as an ESG Industry Top-Rated and APAC Regional Top-Rated Company by Sustainalytics.

During the Reporting Period, the Group was also selected in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2024, MSCI ESG Leaders Indexes 2024, FTSE4Good Index Series, and Hang Seng ESG 50 Index.
Management Comment

Dr. Chris Chen, CEO of WuXi Biologics, stated, "In 2024, we navigated many crosscurrents in the macro environment, remained resilient and delivered a solid 9.6% YoY growth in the Group revenue. Empowered by our unique CRDMO business model and well-established ‘Follow and Win the Molecule’ strategies, we are confident in our ability to provide unparalleled support to our clients, ensuring the delivery of sustainable outcomes in 2025 and beyond."

Dr. Chen added, "Looking ahead, we anticipate accelerated and profitable growth in 2025 and beyond, driven by strong performances across all Research, Development, and Manufacturing platforms. With enhanced operational efficiencies, increasing adoption of next-generation technology platforms, and disciplined execution of our strategic initiatives, we are well-positioned to capture new opportunities and drive innovation."

Dr. Ge Li, Chairman of WuXi Biologics, concluded, "In 2024, we remained steadfast in our mission and vision – to empower anyone and any company to discover, develop and manufacture biologics from concept to commercial manufacturing. As we look ahead, we are committed to delivering exceptional value to our partners, reinforcing our position as a premier, one-stop service provider for the biologics industry, and advancing our vision that ‘every biologic can be made’."

Key Financial Ratios

(For the Twelve Months Ended Dec. 31)

Key Financial Ratio

2024

2023

Change

Revenue (In RMB million)

18,675.4

17,034.3

9.6 %

Gross Profit (In RMB million)

7,650.8

6,827.9

12.1 %

Margin (%)

41.0 %

40.1 %

Net Profit (In RMB million)

3,945.4

3,570.6

10.5 %

Margin (%)

21.1 %

21.0 %

Net Profit Attributable to Owners of
the Company (In RMB million)

3,356.1

3,399.7

(1.3 %)

Margin (%)

18.0 %

20.0 %

Adjusted Net Profit (In RMB million)

5,396.9

4,950.4

9.0 %

Margin (%)

28.9 %

29.1 %

EBITDA (In RMB million)

6,547.8

5,613.2

16.7 %

Margin (%)

35.1 %

33.0 %

Adjusted EBITDA (In RMB million)

7,999.3

6,993.0

14.4 %

Margin (%)

42.8 %

41.1 %

Adjusted Basic EPS (In RMB)

1.17

1.13

3.5 %

2seventy bio Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results

On March 25, 2025 2seventy bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: TSVT), reported financial results and recent highlights for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2024 (Press release, 2seventy bio, MAR 25, 2025, View Source [SID1234651444]).

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"2024 was a pivotal year for 2seventy as we made significant changes to our business to streamline cost structure and focus solely on Abecma," said Chip Baird, chief executive officer, 2seventy bio. "This week marks four years since Abecma received FDA approval as the first anti-BCMA CAR T cell therapy approved for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Together with BMS, we remain committed to expanding the reach of this important therapy. We launched 2seventy with the goal of providing more time to patients, and we believe with BMS’ experience and resources, we can continue to improve outcomes for people living with multiple myeloma."

On March 10, 2seventy bio announced a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS). Under the terms of the agreement, BMS will commence a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of 2seventy bio at a price of $5.00 per share in an all-cash transaction. 2seventy bio’s Board of Directors unanimously recommends that 2seventy bio stockholders tender their shares in the tender offer.

ABECMA COMMERCIAL AND REGULATORY HIGHLIGHTS

Full year Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel; ide-cel) U.S. sales, as reported by Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), were $242 million.
2seventy bio and BMS continue to focus on competitively differentiating Abecma’s safety and efficacy profile supported by the strength of the KarMMa-3 and real-world data.
The Company and BMS share equally in all profits and losses related to development, manufacturing, and commercialization of Abecma in the U.S. 2seventy bio reported share of collaboration loss of approximately $3.3 million related to the collaboration with BMS for the three months ended December 31, 2024.
SELECT FOURTH QUARTER AND FULL YEAR 2024 FINANCIAL RESULTS

Total revenues were $2.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $10.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Total revenues were $37.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $100.4 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.
Research and development expenses were $8.7 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $51.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Research and development expenses were $76.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $230.8 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.
Selling, general and administrative expenses were $8.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $16.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Selling, general and administrative expenses were $43.9 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $69.4 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.
Net loss was $19.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $56.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023. Net loss was $57.2 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, compared to $217.6 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2023.
Cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaled $183.6 million as of December 31, 2024.
Merger Agreement Details and Path to Completion
The closing of the transaction with BMS is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2025 and is subject to customary closing conditions, including the tender of a majority of the outstanding shares of 2seventy bio’s common stock and the expiration or termination of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976. Following the successful closing of the tender offer, BMS will acquire all remaining shares of 2seventy bio common stock that are not tendered in the tender offer through a second-step merger at the same price in the tender offer of $5.00 per share.

Following the completion of this transaction, 2seventy bio’s common stock will no longer be listed for trading on Nasdaq.

In connection with the execution of the merger agreement, certain stockholders of 2seventy bio owning approximately 5.3% of the outstanding shares of 2seventy bio’s common stock have entered into tender and support agreements pursuant to which they have agreed to tender all of their owned shares in the offer.

In light of the announced transaction, 2seventy will not be hosting an earnings conference call or providing financial guidance for 2025.

ABECMA U.S. INDICATION
ABECMA is a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma after two or more prior lines of therapy including an immunomodulatory agent, a proteasome inhibitor, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody.

U.S. Important Safety Information

BOXED WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME, NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES, HLH/MAS, PROLONGED CYTOPENIA and SECONDARY HEMATOLOGICAL MALIGNANCIES

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients following treatment with ABECMA. Do not administer ABECMA to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids.
Neurologic Toxicities, which may be severe or life-threatening, occurred following treatment with ABECMA, including concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution, or in the absence of CRS. Monitor for neurologic events after treatment with ABECMA. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (HLH/MAS) including fatal and life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients following treatment with ABECMA. HLH/MAS can occur with CRS or neurologic toxicities.
Prolonged Cytopenia with bleeding and infection, including fatal outcomes following stem cell transplantation for hematopoietic recovery, occurred following treatment with ABECMA.
T cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapies, including ABECMA
ABECMA is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the ABECMA REMS.
Warnings and Precautions:

Early Death: In KarMMa-3, a randomized (2:1), controlled trial, a higher proportion of patients experienced death within 9 months after randomization in the ABECMA arm (45/254; 18%) compared to the standard regimens arm (15/132; 11%). Early deaths occurred in 8% (20/254) and 0% prior to ABECMA infusion and standard regimen administration, respectively, and 10% (25/254) and 11% (15/132) after ABECMA infusion and standard regimen administration, respectively. Out of the 20 deaths that occurred prior to ABECMA infusion, 15 occurred from disease progression, 3 occurred from adverse events and 2 occurred from unknown causes. Out of the 25 deaths that occurred after ABECMA infusion, 10 occurred from disease progression, 11 occurred from adverse events, and 4 occurred from unknown causes.

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): CRS, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred following treatment with ABECMA. Among patients receiving ABECMA for relapsed refractory multiple myeloma in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies (N=349), CRS occurred in 89% (310/349), including ≥ Grade 3 CRS (Lee grading system) in 7% (23/349) of patients and Grade 5 CRS in 0.9% (3/349) of patients. The median time-to-onset of CRS, any grade, was 1 day (range: 1 to 27 days), and the median duration of CRS was 5 days (range: 1 to 63 days). In the pooled studies, the rate of ≥Grade 3 CRS was 10% (7/71) for patients treated in dose range of 460 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells and 5.4% (13/241) for patients treated in dose range of 300 to 460 x 106 CAR-positive T cells.

The most common manifestations of CRS (greater than or equal to 10%) included pyrexia (87%), hypotension (30%), tachycardia (26%), chills (19%), hypoxia (16%). Grade 3 or higher events that may be associated with CRS include hypotension, hypoxia, hyperbilirubinemia, hypofibrinogenemia, ARDS, atrial fibrillation, hepatocellular injury, metabolic acidosis, pulmonary edema, coagulopathy, renal failure, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and HLH/MAS.

Identify CRS based on clinical presentation. Evaluate for and treat other causes of fever, hypoxia, and hypotension. CRS has been reported to be associated with findings of HLH/MAS, and the physiology of the syndromes may overlap. HLH/MAS is a potentially life-threatening condition. In patients with progressive symptoms of CRS or refractory CRS despite treatment, evaluate for evidence of HLH/MAS.

Of the 349 patients who received ABECMA in clinical trials, 226 (65%) patients received tocilizumab; 39% (135/349) received a single dose, while 26% (91/349) received more than 1 dose of tocilizumab. Overall, 24% (82/349) of patients received at least 1 dose of corticosteroids for treatment of CRS. Almost all patients who received corticosteroids for CRS also received tocilizumab. For patients treated in dose range of 460 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells, 76% (54/71) of patients received tocilizumab and 35% (25/71) received at least 1 dose of corticosteroids for treatment of CRS. For patients treated in dose range of 300 to 460 x 106 CAR-positive T cells, 63% (152/241) of patients received tocilizumab and 20% (49/241) received at least 1 dose of corticosteroid for treatment of CRS.

Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following ABECMA infusion at the REMS-certified healthcare facility for signs or symptoms of CRS and monitor patients for signs or symptoms of CRS for at least 4 weeks after ABECMA infusion. At the first sign of CRS, institute treatment with supportive care, tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids as indicated. Ensure that a minimum of 2 doses of tocilizumab are available prior to infusion of ABECMA. Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS occur at any time.

Neurologic Toxicities: Neurologic toxicities, including immune-effector cell-associated neurotoxicity (ICANS), which may be severe or life- threatening, occurred concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution, or in the absence of CRS following treatment with ABECMA.

In patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity occurred in 40% (139/349), including Grade 3 in 4% (14/349) and Grade 4 in 0.6% (2/349) of patients. The median time to onset of neurotoxicity was 2 days (range: 1 to 148 days). The median duration of CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity was 8 days (range: 1 to 720 days) in all patients including those with ongoing neurologic events at the time of death or data cut off. CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity resolved in 123 of 139 (88%) patients and median time to resolution was 5 days (range: 1 to 245 days). One-hundred and thirty four out of 349 (38%) patients with neurotoxicity had CRS. The onset of neurotoxicity during CRS was observed in 93 patients, before the onset of CRS in 12 patients, and after the CRS event in 29 patients. The rate of Grade 3 or 4 CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity was 5.6% (4/71) and 3.7% (9/241) for patients treated in dose range of 460 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells and 300 to 460 x 106 CAR-positive T cells, respectively. The most frequent (greater than or equal to 5%) manifestations of CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity include encephalopathy (21%), headache (15%), dizziness (8%), delirium (6%), and tremor (6%).

At the safety update for KarMMa-3 study, one patient developed fatal neurotoxicity 43 days after ABECMA. In KarMMa, one patient had ongoing Grade 2 neurotoxicity at the time of death. Two patients had ongoing Grade 1 tremor at the time of data cutoff.

Cerebral edema has been associated with ABECMA in a patient in another study in multiple myeloma. Grade 3 myelitis and Grade 3 parkinsonism have occurred after treatment with ABECMA in another study in multiple myeloma.

Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following ABECMA infusion at the REMS-certified healthcare facility for signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicities and monitor patients for signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicities for at least 4 weeks after ABECMA infusion and treat promptly. Rule out other causes of neurologic symptoms. Neurologic toxicity should be managed with supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed. Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms occur at any time.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS): In patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, HLH/MAS occurred in 2.9% (10/349) of patients. All events of HLH/MAS had onset within 10 days of receiving ABECMA, with a median onset of 6.5 days (range: 4 to 10 days) and occurred in the setting of ongoing or worsening CRS. Five patients with HLH/MAS had overlapping neurotoxicity. The manifestations of HLH/MAS include hypotension, hypoxia, multiple organ dysfunction, renal dysfunction and cytopenia.

In KarMMa-3, one patient had Grade 5, two patients had Grade 4 and two patients had Grade 3 HLH/MAS. The patient with Grade 5 HLH/MAS also had Grade 5 candida sepsis and Grade 5 CRS. In another patient who died due to stroke, the Grade 4 HLH/MAS had resolved prior to death. Two cases of Grade 3 and one case of Grade 4 HLH/MAS had resolved.

In KarMMa, one patient treated in the 300 x 106 CAR-positive T cells dose cohort developed fatal multi-organ HLH/MAS with CRS. In another patient with fatal bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, HLH/MAS was contributory to the fatal outcome. Three cases of Grade 2 HLH/MAS resolved.

HLH/MAS is a potentially life-threatening condition with a high mortality rate if not recognized early and treated. Treatment of HLH/MAS should be administered per institutional guidelines.

ABECMA REMS: Due to the risk of CRS and neurologic toxicities, ABECMA is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the ABECMA REMS. Further information is available at www.AbecmaREMS.com or contact Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1-866-340-7332.

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Allergic reactions may occur with the infusion of ABECMA. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, may be due to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in ABECMA.

Infections: ABECMA should not be administered to patients with active infections or inflammatory disorders. Severe, life-threatening, or fatal infections occurred in patients after ABECMA infusion.

In all patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, infections (all grades) occurred in 61% of patients. Grade 3 or 4 infections occurred in 21% of patients. Grade 3 or 4 infections with an unspecified pathogen occurred in 12%, viral infections in 7%, bacterial infections in 4.3%, and fungal infections in 1.4% of patients. Overall, 15 patients had Grade 5 infections (4.3%); 8 patients (2.3%) with infections of pathogen unspecified, 3 patients (0.9%) with fungal infections, 3 patients (0.9%) with viral infections, and 1 patient (0.3%) with bacterial infection.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection before and after ABECMA infusion and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic, pre-emptive, and/or therapeutic antimicrobials according to standard institutional guidelines.

Febrile neutropenia was observed in 38% (133/349) of patients after ABECMA infusion and may be concurrent with CRS. In the event of febrile neutropenia, evaluate for infection and manage with broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluids, and other supportive care as medically indicated.

Viral Reactivation: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection resulting in pneumonia and death has occurred following ABECMA administration. Monitor and treat for CMV reactivation in accordance with clinical guidelines. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, and death, can occur in patients treated with drugs directed against plasma cells. Perform screening for CMV, HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in accordance with clinical guidelines before collection of cells for manufacturing. Consider antiviral therapy to prevent viral reactivation per local institutional guidelines/clinical practice.

Prolonged Cytopenias: In patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, 40% of patients (139/349) experienced prolonged Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia and 42% (145/349) experienced prolonged Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia that had not resolved by Month 1 following ABECMA infusion. In 89% (123/139) of patients who recovered from Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia after Month 1, the median time to recovery from ABECMA infusion was 1.9 months. In 76% (110/145) of patients who recovered from Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, the median time to recovery was 1.9 months. Five patients underwent stem cell therapy for hematopoietic reconstitution due to prolonged cytopenia. The rate of Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was 62% (44/71) and 56% (135/241) for patients treated in dose range of 460 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells and 300 to 460 x 106 CAR-positive T cells, respectively.

Monitor blood counts prior to and after ABECMA infusion. Manage cytopenia with myeloid growth factor and blood product transfusion support according to local institutional guidelines.

Hypogammaglobulinemia: In all patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, hypogammaglobulinemia was reported as an adverse event in 13% (46/349) of patients; laboratory IgG levels fell below 500 mg/dL after infusion in 37% (130/349) of patients treated with ABECMA.

Hypogammaglobulinemia either as an adverse reaction or laboratory IgG level below 500 mg/dL after infusion occurred in 45% (158/349) of patients treated with ABECMA. Forty-one percent of patients received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) post-ABECMA for serum IgG <400 mg/dL.

Monitor immunoglobulin levels after treatment with ABECMA and administer IVIG for IgG <400 mg/dl. Manage appropriately per local institutional guidelines, including infection precautions and antibiotic or antiviral prophylaxis.

Use of Live Vaccines: The safety of immunization with live viral vaccines during or after ABECMA treatment has not been studied. Vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least 6 weeks prior to the start of lymphodepleting chemotherapy, during ABECMA treatment, and until immune recovery following treatment with ABECMA.

Secondary Malignancies: Patients treated with ABECMA may develop secondary malignancies. In KarMMa-3, myeloid neoplasms (four cases of myelodysplastic syndrome and one case of acute myeloid leukemia) occurred in 2.2% (5/222) of patients following treatment with ABECMA compared to none in the standard regimens arm at the time of the safety update. The median time to onset of myeloid neoplasm from ide-cel infusion was 338 days (Range: 277 to 794 days). Three of these five patients have died following the development of myeloid neoplasm. One out of the five cases of myeloid neoplasm occurred after initiation of subsequent antimyeloma therapy.

T cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapies, including ABECMA. Mature T cell malignancies, including CAR-positive tumors, may present as soon as weeks following infusion, and may include fatal outcomes.

Monitor life-long for secondary malignancies. In the event that a secondary malignancy occurs, contact Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1‑888‑805‑4555 for reporting and to obtain instructions on collection of patient samples for testing of secondary malignancy.

Effects on Ability to Drive and Operate Machinery: Due to the potential for neurologic events, including altered mental status or seizures, patients receiving ABECMA are at risk for altered or decreased consciousness or coordination in the 8 weeks following ABECMA infusion. Advise patients to refrain from driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities, such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery, during this initial period.

Adverse Reactions: The most common nonlaboratory adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 20%) include pyrexia, CRS, hypogammaglobulinemia, infections – pathogen unspecified, musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, febrile neutropenia, hypotension, tachycardia, diarrhea, nausea, headache, chills, upper respiratory tract infection, encephalopathy, edema, dyspnea and viral infections.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNINGS and Medication Guide.