BMS reports positive mid-stage results for arlo-cel in heavily pre-treated myeloma patients

BMS said its CAR T therapy arlo-cel, formally arlocabtagene autoleucel, achieved positive results in a registrational mid-stage study for relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma.

The open-label, single-arm QUINTESSENTIAL trial enrolled patients who had received four prior lines of therapy, including a proteasome inhibitor, an anti-CD38 agent and an immunomodulatory drug. The study reported notable gains in overall and complete response rates.

BMO Capital Markets described the data as a key derisking event for BMS, noting it could reduce competition with Gilead Sciences' investigational CAR T, which is still pending potential approval later this year.

BMS did not disclose detailed numbers in its press release but said full data will be presented at an upcoming congress.