Blin

Blinatumomab is a bi-specific T-cell engager (BiTE) monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of certain types of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It is marketed under the trade name Blincyto.

Mechanism of Action

Blinatumomab is a bi-specific monoclonal antibody that targets both CD19 and CD3 antigens. CD19 is a protein expressed on the surface of B cells, while CD3 is a component of the T cell receptor complex on T cells. By binding to both CD19 and CD3, blinatumomab brings T cells into close proximity with B cells, facilitating the T cell-mediated killing of B cells. This mechanism is particularly useful in targeting B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells, which express CD19.

Indications

Blinatumomab is indicated for the treatment of:

• Philadelphia chromosome-negative relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia in adults and children.
• Minimal residual disease (MRD)-positive B-cell precursor ALL in adults and children.

Administration

Blinatumomab is administered via continuous intravenous infusion. The treatment is typically given in cycles, with each cycle lasting 28 days. The dosage and duration of treatment may vary based on the patient's weight, age, and specific condition.

Side Effects

Common side effects of blinatumomab include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Peripheral edema
• Nausea
• Hypokalemia
• Rash

Serious side effects may include:

• Cytokine release syndrome
• Neurotoxicity
• Infections

Pharmacokinetics

Blinatumomab has a short elimination half-life of approximately 2.1 hours, necessitating continuous infusion to maintain therapeutic levels. It is primarily metabolized by proteolytic enzymes.

Contraindications

Blinatumomab is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of its components. Caution is advised in patients with a history of severe cytokine release syndrome or neurological disorders.

Monitoring

Patients receiving blinatumomab should be closely monitored for signs of cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. Regular blood tests are recommended to monitor blood cell counts and liver function.

Research and Development

Blinatumomab was developed by Amgen and received accelerated approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2014 for the treatment of relapsed or refractory B-cell precursor ALL. Ongoing research is exploring its use in other hematological malignancies and in combination with other therapies.

See Also

• Monoclonal antibody therapy
• Bi-specific T-cell engager
• Acute lymphoblastic leukemia

External Links

• Official Blincyto website