SYMPOSIUM OVERVIEW

The purpose of this symposium is to educate physicians about the CXCR4 receptor, which was first identified as a factor in HIV pathogenesis but is now known to have a critical role in cellular migration and movement. Inhibition of the receptor might prevent metastasis and sensitize neoplastic cells to chemotherapy, while engagement of the receptor could mobilize normal stem cells, with the potential to augment the success of autologous and allogeneic transplantations by increasing CD34+ cell yield. The latter function would have an immediate therapeutic value for transplantation protocols in both non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and multiple myeloma (MM) since reduced stem cell procurement is a common problem due to the immunosuppressed nature of these patients. The objective of this symposium is to meet the need of physicians and fellows in training to learn about the CXCR4 receptor pathway, the rationale behind ongoing trials targeting the receptor to enhance stem cell mobilization, and the effect of CXCR4 antagonists on chemosensitization and the inhibition of neoplastic cell migration.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This symposium is directed primarily toward medical oncologists, hematologists, and others with an interest in the treatment of patients with hematologic malignancies. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology are required for successful participation in this activity. Fellows, nurses, and pharmacists in hematologic oncology are also invited to attend.

CME ACCREDITATION AND DESIGNATION

Physicians’ Education Resource is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Physicians’ Education Resource designates this educational activity for a maximum of 3.25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the conclusion of this symposium, you should be able to:

• Review the biology of the CXCR4 receptor and identify its role in the normal development of the immune system
• Discuss the rationale for targeting CXCR4 to optimize stem cell mobilization in the transplantation setting as well as to sensitize cells to cytotoxic therapies
• Evaluate the efficacy of AMD3100 as a stem cell mobilizer in patients undergoing transplantation for myeloma or lymphoma in the autologous and allogeneic settings
• Assess the impact of inhibiting CXCR4 concomitantly with the administration of chemotherapy for leukemic cell lines in preclinical models

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This activity is supported by an educational grant from:

AnorMED