Elotuzumab: a novel immune-stimulating therapy to treat multiple myeloma.

INTRODUCTION: Multiple myeloma (MM), constantly remains debilitating disease, consequently leading to death. Clinical trials involving drugs with different mechanisms of action, carry the expectancy for improvement of treatment outcomes. The results of the currently published studies on the monoclonal antibodies, in particular elotuzumab confirm previous expectations of improving treatment outcomes of such therapy in MM patients.

AREAS COVERED: This humanized monoclonal antibody targeting surface glycoprotein CS1, expressed commonly on plasma cells and certain cells of the immune system, stimulates the immune system to fight against MM cells. Elotuzumab in the combination with len/dex has been approved by the FDA for treatment of relapsed/refractory MM patients who have received one to three prior therapies. Expert commentary: This review summarizes the chemistry, mechanism of action and preclinical and clinical studies, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, safety and toxicity of elotuzumab in terms of MM treatment and its potential application in the future.