New combo aims to boost red blood cells in MDS patients who failed standard care

This early-stage trial tests whether adding canakinumab to darbepoetin alfa can safely improve red blood cell counts in people with lower-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) who no longer respond to standard erythropoietin-stimulating agents. The study involves 13 participants and will first find the best dose of canakinumab, then measure how many patients become free from blood transfusions or have a sustained increase in hemoglobin. The goal is to reduce transfusion dependence and improve quality of life.