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A promising new combo for aggressive lymphoma: Rocbrutinib added to standard R-CHOP chemotherapy achieved a 100% overall response rate in all efficacy-evaluable patients with previously untreated non-GCB diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and mantle cell lymphoma. Most patients achieved a complete response, and no disease progression or deaths were reported. The phase 1b findings were presented at the 2026 ESMO Congress.
A phase 1b trial has delivered encouraging early results for rocbrutinib — a next-generation BTK inhibitor — when combined with the standard R-CHOP chemoimmunotherapy regimen in patients with previously untreated non-germinal center B-cell (non-GCB) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). Every efficacy-evaluable patient responded to the combination, with the majority achieving a complete response. Responses came quickly, with a median time to response of just over one month.
The safety profile was manageable, with no dose-limiting toxicities, atrial fibrillation, major bleeding, or treatment-related deaths observed. Neutropenia was the most common side effect, occurring in the majority of patients but largely managed with standard supportive care. Researchers note that longer follow-up and a randomized trial are needed to confirm durable benefit.
By the Numbers
Why it matters: Frontline treatment for non-GCB DLBCL remains challenging, with many patients relapsing after standard therapy. These early results suggest rocbrutinib could deepen initial responses and potentially reduce relapse risk — a meaningful step forward if confirmed in larger, randomized trials.
