Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant induces the molecular aging of T-cells in multiple myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable hematologic malignancy diagnosed primarily in older adults. As the population ages, myeloma incidence is expected to increase at a higher rate than many other malignancies.1 Approved chemotherapy and targeted regimens for older adults with MM are numerous and exhibit distinct toxicities. The physiological heterogeneity of older adults makes it challenging for physicians to identify the most effective, yet best tolerated regimen, for each MM patient. As such, use of a two-drug regimen, three-drug regimen, or intensive autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (AHSCT) is often subjective. Consequently, AHSCT eligibility is subjectively applied and more objective measures are warranted to better understand health status in older adults. We believe that objective markers of physiological age will improve treatment stratification and will be an additional tool in understanding how treatment and transplant have an impact on health status.