BMT with Bendamustine + Cyclophosphamide for Leukemia

This trial explores a new method to treat leukemia and other blood cancers using a bone marrow transplant. Researchers are testing whether replacing cyclophosphamide with bendamustine, a chemotherapy medication, after the transplant is safe. The study targets individuals with certain high-risk blood cancers, such as acute leukemia or lymphoma, who require a transplant but lack a fully matched donor. Participants should have a partially matched family member available to donate bone marrow. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to receive this new approach.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor to get a clear answer based on your specific situation.

Previous studies have generally shown that bendamustine is well-tolerated. It has been used successfully to treat other blood cancers, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Most people handle it well, though some may experience side effects like low blood cell counts, fever, or nausea.

Cyclophosphamide is a common cancer treatment with a well-known safety record. It can also cause low blood cell counts, along with side effects like hair loss and nausea.

Researchers are excited about using Bendamustine and Cyclophosphamide for leukemia treatment because these drugs offer a unique approach compared to standard treatments like chemotherapy with Cytarabine or Anthracyclines. Bendamustine has a distinctive mechanism of action; it not only causes DNA damage but also inhibits the repair of DNA, which might make cancer cells more susceptible to treatment. Cyclophosphamide, when combined with Bendamustine, has the potential to enhance this effect, potentially leading to better outcomes. This combination could offer a new avenue for patients who have not responded well to existing treatments.

Research has shown that bendamustine effectively treats certain blood cancers, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It has received approval for these uses, demonstrating its ability to target cancer cells. In this trial, participants will receive a combination of bendamustine and cyclophosphamide. Studies have found that this combination can be more effective for some blood cancers than standard treatments. Cyclophosphamide, commonly used in cancer treatment, is known for stopping cancer cells from growing. Together, these drugs offer hope for better results in patients with leukemia and other blood cancers.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰