TOP-FLOR – A chemo-free approach for follicular lymphoma
Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a slow-growing blood cancer affecting the lymphatic system. As patients are often older and may require treatment several times during the course of their disease, new treatment approaches that maintain or improve effectiveness while reducing toxicity are highly desirable.
Follicular Lymphoma (FL) is a slow-growing blood cancer affecting the lymphatic system. As patients are often older and may require treatment several times during the course of their disease, new treatment approaches that maintain or improve effectiveness while reducing toxicity are highly desirable.
The TOP-FLOR trial, led by the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI) — affiliated with La Trobe University as its School of Cancer Medicine — in collaboration with Bristol Myers Squibb, is evaluating rituximab and golcadomide, with or without nivolumab, in patients with previously untreated follicular lymphoma. The Phase II study enrolled 40 participants.
Primary results presented by Professor Eliza Hawkes at the European Hematology Association Congress in June 2026 showed a complete metabolic response in 82.5% of participants overall, with the study meeting its primary endpoint in both treatment arms. Toxicity was considered manageable, and no deaths had occurred on study at the time of analysis.
Participants remain in active treatment and follow-up, with further translational research planned once biospecimen collection is complete. The study continues to assess longer-term outcomes, and a Phase III study is planned, providing a pathway toward determining whether these treatment combinations could offer an effective future option for people with follicular lymphoma.