The Future of CML Care: From TKIs to Treatment-Free Remission

Update: 2025-09-16

Description

In this episode of MD Newsline, Dr. Andreas Hochhaus, Professor of Internal Medicine, Hematology, and Oncology at the Comprehensive Cancer Center in Jena, Germany, shares his expertise on the evolution of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) therapies. He reflects on decades of progress in CML treatment, from interferon to targeted TKIs, and highlights the importance of tolerability, patient-centered care, and innovative trial data shaping the future of CML management.

Episode Highlights

The Evolution of CML Therapy
Dr. Hochhaus outlines the transformation of CML treatment, from interferon to imatinib, and the development of second- and third-generation TKIs. He emphasizes advances in efficacy while acknowledging the persistent challenge of drug resistance.

Managing Tolerability and Side Effects
Toxicities such as cardiovascular, hepatic, and renal complications remain key concerns. Dr. Hochhaus discusses how improving tolerability is central to optimizing patient quality of life.

Enliven-01 Trial
He highlights the unique pharmacologic profile of Enliven-01, with fewer off-target effects and encouraging safety data, underscoring its potential as a novel therapeutic option.

ASCIMINIB as a New Standard
Comparing ASCIMINIB with nilotinib, Dr. Hochhaus explains its superior tolerability and efficacy, positioning it as a game-changer in frontline CML therapy.

Patient-Centered Care and Future Directions
Dr. Hochhaus stresses the importance of shared decision-making, molecular monitoring, and pathways to treatment-free remission, while also pointing to challenges such as additional gene mutations and resistance mechanisms.

Key Takeaway

The future of CML treatment lies in balancing efficacy, safety, and patient quality of life. With emerging therapies like Enliven-01 and ASCIMINIB, clinicians can provide more personalized and effective care while expanding opportunities for treatment-free remission.