Background

An exciting study is being carried out at the MD Anderson Cancer Centre in Texas where they have studied the feasibility of adding a new compound (BL8040) in combination with immunosuppressive treatment. This compound blocks the progression and travel of immune T cells to the bone marrow compartment, in a first in human, phase 1 trial. 

Findings

It is very early days yet, and this is only to establish the safety of this compound. However, preliminary analysis shows this is well tolerated without any major issues. In principle, it should augment the effects of Treg (beneficial cells at suppressing inflammation in the bone marrow) and remains a very exciting line of enquiry and study into aplastic anaemia.