Bortezomib-based induction before ASCT improves VEGF response and PFS

Li et al. (2021) reported that bortezomib-based induction therapy (VCD or VRD) prior to autologous stem cell transplant achieved VEGF response in 85% of patients before transplant. Pre-transplant VEGF normalization was associated with superior 5-year PFS compared to transplant without bortezomib induction, establishing bortezomib-based debulking as standard pre-transplant care.