Study summary
A telomerase blocker kept 4 in 10 people transfusion-free for at least 8 weeks
40%transfusion-free for 8+ weeks, vs 15% with placebo
What was tested
Imetelstat, the first drug that blocks telomerase (an enzyme that lets abnormal blood stem cells keep dividing), against placebo, for lower-risk MDS no longer helped by red-cell boosters.
What they found
- 40% were transfusion-free for at least 8 weeks vs 15% on placebo; responses lasted about a year.
- Low blood counts were common (severe neutropenia 68%, low platelets 62%) but manageable.
What it means
A new way of treating MDS that may change the disease itself, not just the anemia.
Last reviewed 2026-11-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team.
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