Objective:

The October 15, 2026, Dana-Farber Research News newsletter highlights recently published research in which Dana-Farber faculty are listed as first or senior authors. This issue covers papers published from September 16 through 30.

Approach:

• PKMYT1 in multiple myeloma: Researchers integrated patient-cell RNA sequencing with genetic dependency data from myeloma cell lines to investigate PKMYT1 as a target in del(17p) disease.
• Venetoclax plus inotuzumab in ALL/LBL: A phase 1 trial evaluated venetoclax with standard-dose inotuzumab ozogamicin in adults with relapsed or refractory CD22-positive ALL/LBL.
• IL-12 CAR-NK cells: Researchers engineered CAR natural killer cells with matrix-tethered IL-12 and tested them in ovarian and pancreatic cancer models.
• IL-21 mimic in pancreatic cancer: Mouse models of KRAS-inhibitor response and relapse were used to study an IL-21 cytokine mimic; human pancreatic cancer specimens were also treated ex vivo.

Key Findings:

• PKMYT1 suppression or inhibition with RP-6306 triggered DNA damage and preferential cell death in del(17p) myeloma cells while largely sparing del(17p)-negative myeloma and healthy cells. RP-6306 reduced tumor burden and extended survival in xenograft and TP53-deficient syngeneic models.
• In the phase 1 trial, 21 of 22 evaluable patients achieved complete remission, including 19 after one cycle. MRD cleared in 16 of 18 patients assessed by flow cytometry and 14 of 19 assessed by next-generation sequencing. Fourteen patients proceeded to transplantation, and four developed sinusoidal obstructive syndrome.

Interpretation:

The reported studies identify experimental therapeutic strategies across multiple myeloma, relapsed or refractory ALL/LBL, and solid tumors. The findings include preclinical results, a phase 1 clinical trial, and ex vivo human-specimen observations.

Limitations:

• The PKMYT1 findings are from cell and animal models; the source does not report clinical efficacy in patients.
• The venetoclax–inotuzumab study was a phase 1 trial that enrolled 23 patients; 22 were evaluable for response.
• The CAR-NK findings are from ovarian and pancreatic cancer models; the source does not report clinical outcomes.

Conclusion:

The newsletter reports preclinical findings on PKMYT1 inhibition in del(17p) myeloma and matrix-anchored IL-12 CAR-NK cells, alongside phase 1 results for venetoclax plus inotuzumab in relapsed or refractory ALL/LBL.

Sources:

• Dana-Farber Research News, October 15, 2026 (article context supplied)