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Immune functionCXCR4 antagonist peptide

Motixafortide

Also known as: Aphexda, BL-8040, BKT140

By the Peptide Dossier Editorial TeamUpdated How we source

Motixafortide is a CXCR4-blocking peptide used with filgrastim to mobilize stem cells for autologous transplantation in multiple myeloma. Premedication and monitoring address important systemic-reaction risks.

Quick Facts

Class:CXCR4 antagonist peptide
Product status:Aphexda is approved with filgrastim for stem-cell collection before autologous transplantation in multiple myeloma.
Research context:FDA approved

A stem-cell mobilization medicine

Motixafortide is a synthetic cyclic peptide developed as BL-8040/BKT140 and sold as Aphexda. US approval in 2023 concerns collection of the patient’s own blood-forming stem cells before multiple-myeloma transplantation, not treatment of every cancer.

Releasing marrow cells into circulation

CXCR4 on stem cells binds marrow signal CXCL12, also known as SDF-1, helping retain the cells in marrow. High-affinity, long-acting CXCR4 antagonism interrupts this anchoring interaction so cells enter blood for apheresis collection. Filgrastim also mobilizes cells and is used with it. In Phase 3 GENESIS, substantially more participants reached the target CD34-positive collection in up to two apheresis sessions with the combination than filgrastim alone.

Supporting references: alone.

Sources: [1]

Combination use before autologous transplant

The 2023 FDA indication is mobilization with filgrastim for collection and subsequent autologous transplantation in multiple myeloma. Subcutaneous dosing is preceded by antihistamine and other premedication to reduce reactions. Efficient collection matters to transplant preparation, not a general stem-cell-enhancement claim.

Supporting references: approved.

Sources: [2]

Systemic reactions and other precautions

Injection pain, redness/itching, flushing, back pain and nausea are common. Serious hypersensitivity/systemic reactions require premedication and monitoring. Potential tumor-cell mobilization is a reason it is not used in leukemia. Embryo-fetal toxicity is another serious concern.

References and further reading

This reference draws on Superpower’s Peptide Library and the research linked below. Peptide Dossier’s editorial team adapted and integrated the material on .

  1. 10.1038/s41591-023-02273-zReleasing marrow cells into circulationCited in: Releasing marrow cells into circulation
  2. accessdata.fda.govCombination use before autologous transplantCited in: Combination use before autologous transplant

Frequently Asked Questions About Motixafortide

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. The information presented is based on published research and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical guidance. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol. Some peptides discussed may not be approved for human use by the FDA or equivalent regulatory bodies.