Myeloma Research Update

provided by USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Clinic

Plasma cells develop from B lymphocytes (B cells), a type of white blood cell that is made in the bone marrow. Normally, when bacteria or viruses enter the body, some of the B cells will change into plasma cells. The plasma cells make a different antibody to fight each type of bacteria or virus that enters the body, to stop infection and disease.

Plasma cell neoplasms are diseases in which there are too many plasma cells, or myeloma cells, that are unable to do their usual work in the bone marrow. When this happens there is less room for healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This condition may cause anemia or easy bleeding, or make it easier to get an infection. The abnormal plasma cells often form tumors in bones or soft tissues of the body. The plasma cells also make an antibody protein, called M protein that is not needed by the body and does not help fight infection. These antibody proteins build up in the bone marrow and can cause the blood to thicken or can damage the kidneys.

Multiple Myeloma

In multiple myeloma, abnormal plasma cells (myeloma cells) build up in the bone marrow, forming tumors in many bones of the body. These tumors may prevent the bone marrow from making enough healthy blood cells. Normally, the bone marrow produces stem cells (immature cells) that develop into three types of mature blood cells:

•                      Red blood cells that carry oxygen and other materials to all tissues of the body.
•                      White blood cells that fight infection and disease.
•                      Platelets that help prevent bleeding by causing blood clots to form.

Since 1973, the USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center has emerged as a major regional and national resource for cancer research, treatment, prevention and education. Building upon strengths in basic and population-based research, the center's members have developed a strong, peer-reviewed funded research programs focused on cancers of major consequence.

Clinical Research

At the USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, clinical research focuses on testing new therapies for cancer, optimizing existing treatments, discovering prevention methods and developing ways to improve the quality of life for both healthy individuals and those living with cancer. Clinical trials - research studies that involve volunteer patients - represent a crucial step in advancing care and developing potentially life-saving drugs and treatments. Deciding to participate in a clinical trial is a personal choice. Making this decision may involve research about the trial and consultation with the physician or primary researcher, family and friends.   At any time, there may be more than 300 clinical trials taking place at USC/Norris. These investigational therapies offer additional hope to those whose cancer is in late stages or difficult to manage.

Clinical trials most often focus on improving diagnostic tools or treatment options - including evaluating new surgical methods, chemotherapy agents, radiation techniques, hormone treatments and testing personally-tailored therapies and novel combinations of these treatment options.

Basic Cancer Research

USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center leaders have long been committed to a strong basic science research program. USC/Norris scientists investigate cell signaling, genetic mutations associated with specific types of cancer, how tumors evade the body's immune system and many other genetic, cellular and physiological questions.

Translational Research

The goal of translational research is to shorten the time it takes for a lab discovery to reach a patient's bedside as a new therapy or tool. Examples of promising treatments still under investigation by basic and clinical scientists at USC/Norris include immunotherapy, gene therapy and anti-angiogenesis drugs.

In addition, USC/Norris scientists blending basic and clinical approaches have made huge progress in immunotherapeutic research in cancer, with the development of tumor antibodies as therapeutic tools, and the use of novel cytokines administered via inhalation. Of particular importance has been the study of vaccines for patients with malignant melanoma or cervical cancer, as well as the utility of bio-specific antibodies to target prostate cancer cells.

For more information please visit:

http://uscnorriscancer.usc.edu