CMSC 2022 | Cellular therapy in MS
Ahmed Obeidat, MD, PhD, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, is very optimistic about the future of cellular therapy in multiple sclerosis (MS). The evolution of this technology is evident through its advancement in clinical trials. Several approaches are under investigation, including the use of stem cells for autologous transplantation (BEAT-MS; NCT04047628), for regeneration/restoration, and the newer T-cell based targeted therapy, whereby cytotoxic T-cells are employed to target and eliminate B-cells infected with the Epstein Barr virus (EMBOLD; NCT03283826). Although we still do not have full efficacy and safety results of these therapies, Dr Obeidat excitedly awaits these results from large-scale, promising studies in the near future.This interview took place at the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC) congress 2022 in Maryland.
Disclosures
Dr Obeidat received personal compensation for participation in scientific advisory boards, steering committees, and/or for speaking engagements from Alexion pharmaceuticals, Biogen, Biologix, Bristol Myers Squibb, Celgene, EMD Serono, Genentech, GW Pharma, Horizon pharmaceuticals, Novartis (local and global), Sanofi/Genzyme, TG therapeutics, Viela Bio. Consultant fee for serving as a scientific reviewer for Exploration-Hypothesis Development Award (EHDA) peer review panel of the 2020 Multiple Sclerosis Research Program (MSRP) for the Department of Defense Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP). Honoraria from Medscape, WebMD, and MJH Life Sciences.
Dr Obeidat serves as a site PI for studies funded (directly paid to MCW) by National MS Society/PCORI; Atara biotherapeutics, Biogen, Celgene, Bristol Myers Squibb, EMD Serono, Genentech, GW pharma, Jazz Pharma, and Novartis. Sub-I on studies funded by AbbVie and Sanofi/Genzyme. Dr Obeidat received research funds from Central for immunology, Research Affairs committee and Neuroscience research center. Dr Obeidat holds unpaid positions: the editorial board of the International Journal of MS care – IJMSC, the board of governors of the Consortium of MS centers – CMSC, the board of directors of Global Music and Wellness – GMW, as the Chair for MS professionals in Training special interest group through the CMSC, and the steering committee for Artists working in Education.
