CMSC 2022 | BTK inhibitors in treating the spectrum of MS
Ahmed Obeidat, MD, PhD, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, delves into details of the second-generation Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors currently in clinical trials for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS). These second-generation inhibitors have both; 1) improved desired, on-target effects, like the modulation of B-cell activity, and 2) less off-target effects, such as bleeding. With a variety of BTK inhibitors available, Dr Obeidat mentions that it is still unknown which ones are more favorable as we await results of Phase III trials. These results will be particularly important because the missing piece in MS treatment is how to tackle progressive MS. The hope is that the BTK inhibitors will prevent the neurodegenerative process in progressive MS in addition to effectively reducing relapses. Understanding the effect of BTK inhibitors on microglia and other cell types within the central nervous system will bring researchers closer to where they want to be in the therapeutic landscape of MS. 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.
