Zn-DDC to Target Hypoxia-NFkappaB-CSCs Pathway in Multiple Myeloma
This study aims to investigate a drug called Zn-DDC, also known as Imuthiol, for treating multiple myeloma and other blood cancers. Previous studies suggest Imuthiol is effective against cancer stem cells and has a good safety record. The goal is to see how Imuthiol, by itself and in combination with existing drugs like Lenalidomide (Revlimid) and Pomalidomide (Pomalyst), affects cancer cells in laboratory settings. Modern cancer treatments are improving outcomes but can be very expensive. Researchers hope that Imuthiol could provide an affordable and effective treatment, potentially in combination with other drugs. This initial laboratory work will help determine if these drugs are promising enough to move into trials with patients in the future, with the aim of quickly developing new treatments for blood cancers.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is looking for new ways to treat multiple myeloma and other blood cancers. These conditions can be very challenging, and while new treatments have emerged, they often come with significant costs. This study is focusing on a drug called Zn-DDC, which you might also hear referred to as Imuthiol. Early studies have suggested that Imuthiol is good at targeting and getting rid of specific cancer cells known as cancer stem cells, and it has been used safely in previous human trials when given intravenously (into a vein).
The researchers want to explore if Imuthiol, either by itself or combined with other drugs you might be familiar with, like Lenalidomide (Revlimid) and Pomalidomide (Pomalyst), could be an effective and affordable treatment option. Before these drugs can be tested in patients, it's crucial to understand how they work at a cellular level. Therefore, this study will take place in a laboratory, where scientists will examine how cancer cells react to these different drug combinations.
The main goal is to see if these drugs can effectively control or kill cancer cells in a dish. If the results are promising, it could pave the way for faster development of new, effective, and potentially more affordable treatments for people with blood cancers in the future. This initial step is vital for guiding future decisions about which drug combinations to take forward for clinical trials with patients.
Key takeaways
- Exploring new, potentially affordable treatments for multiple myeloma and other blood cancers.
- Investigating drug Zn-DDC (Imuthiol) alone and in combination with existing drugs.
- This is a laboratory study, not a patient treatment trial.
- Participation involves donating a small additional bone marrow sample during a routine procedure.
- Aims to pave the way for future clinical trials and better patient outcomes.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you would need to be an adult (age 18 or older) who has been diagnosed with a blood cancer, such as multiple myeloma or acute leukaemia.
Crucially, you must also be willing and able to understand the study information and provide your agreement to take part. This process is called giving ‘informed consent’.
If you are pregnant, you would not be able to participate in this study.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with multiple myeloma or another blood cancer (like acute leukaemia)?
- Are you able and willing to understand information about the study and give your consent to participate?
- Are you not pregnant?
What does participation involve?
If you are eligible and agree to take part, your involvement would be straightforward and integrated into your routine care. You would be asked to donate a small extra amount (2-3ml) of bone marrow sample. This sample would be collected at the same time you are already having a bone marrow aspirate as part of your standard medical tests for diagnosis or when your condition is being re-assessed (at relapse).
This extra sample would then be sent to the University of Wolverhampton for laboratory analysis. The research team would also collect some routine information from your medical records, such as the date you were diagnosed, the stage of your disease, your age, sex, and any previous treatments you’ve had. This clinical information will be kept securely at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust until your sample has been analysed. Once the laboratory results are ready, this clinical information will be shared to help the researchers understand how the lab findings relate to your condition. There are no additional visits, medication, or follow-up appointments required specifically for this study.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- The Royal Wolverhampton NHS TrustVerified postcodeWolverhampton, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is Zn-DDC (Imuthiol)?
It's a drug being studied for blood cancers, which has shown promise in fighting cancer stem cells and has been safely used in past trials.
Will I receive treatment as part of this study?
No, this is a lab-based study using donated samples, not a treatment trial for patients.
What is the purpose of collecting bone marrow samples?
The samples help researchers understand how cancer cells react to different drugs in a laboratory setting before testing them in people.
Is my personal information kept private?
Yes, your clinical information will be kept confidential and managed securely by the hospital and researchers, only being used for study purposes.
What happens if I change my mind about participating?
You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your medical care or treatment.
How to find out more
Supratik Basu
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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