Multiple Myeloma: Innovations in Diagnosis and Treatment

Dear Colleagues,

Multiple myeloma remains incurable, even though the development of novel agents, such as proteasome inhibitors (PI), immunomodulatory drugs (IMIDs), and monoclonal antibodies (Moab), has improved survival over the last decade. In recent years, cellular therapy and the Bi-specific T-cell-engaging antibody (Bite) have been able to enhance  prognosis against novel target molecules, including B-cell mature antigen (BCMA) and G-protein-coupled receptor, family C, group 5, member D (GPRC5D).

An important aspect to account for when addressing multiple myeloma is the notion of Minimal Residual Disease (MRD). MRD status could predict clinical outcomes by employing next-generation flow cytometry, which is controversial but could be the optimal option for MRD detection.

Several novel techniques have been developed, such as next-generation sequencing, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET-CT), and mass spectrometry. The immune microenvironment around myeloma cells has been investigated, and it has been revealed that the immune system is suitable for myeloma cells to proliferate and defend against anti-myeloma therapeutics.

In addition, the immune microenvironment worsens from a monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) to smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) and symptomatic multiple myeloma. Early therapeutic intervention for early-stage myeloma may contribute to a longer survival time. Thus, eradicating MRD and the reconstitution of the immune microenvironment are both key to enhancing clinical outcomes for myeloma patients.

In this Special Issue, we welcome the submission of original, high-quality research articles and comprehensive reviews that are able to expand our understanding of multiple myeloma, including, but not limited to, cellular therapy, MRD assessment, response-adopted treatment strategy, and the microenvironment, particularly with regard to the immune system.

Dr. Kazuhito Suzuki
Dr. Ryosuke Shirasaki
Dr. Yoichi Imai
Guest Editors

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• multiple myeloma
• anti-myeloma therapeutic
• transplantation
• cellular therapy
• minimal residual disease
• immune microenvironment