Suzanne Lentzsch, MD, PhD
Dr. Suzanne Lentzsch is Professor of Medicine and Director of the Multiple Myeloma and
Amyloidosis Service at Columbia University. For over two decades, her clinical and
translational research has focused on developing novel, patient-centered therapies for
plasma cell disorders, particularly multiple myeloma and AL amyloidosis.
Dr. Lentzsch’s groundbreaking work led to the first-in-human trial of the monoclonal
antibody Cael-101, which targets amyloid fibrils and improves organ function in patients
with AL amyloidosis. She co-founded Caelum Biosciences, served as its Chief Scientific
Advisor and a member of the Board of Directors, and helped guide Cael-101 into
international Phase 3 trials. This project exemplifies her ability to translate laboratory
discoveries into impactful therapies that improve patient outcomes.
In multiple myeloma, her research has identified novel pathways in myeloma bone disease,
immunosuppression, and RAS-driven oncogenesis, supported by continuous NIH, LLS,
MMRF, and CRI funding. Her translational studies have directly influenced clinical trial
design and drug development, including investigator-initiated studies with venetoclax and
bendamustine.
Dr. Lentzsch is Co-Chair of the NCI Myeloma Steering Committee and of the International
Myeloma Society (IMS) Career Development Committee. As co-chair, she developed the IMS
Career Development Award, which has shaped the careers of several rising translational
researchers in the field. Her highest passion remains the mentorship and training of the
next generation of translational and clinician-scientists in myeloma.
She serves on the ASH Scientific Committee for Plasma Cell Neoplasia, the ASCO
Hematologic Malignancies Program Committee, the SOHO and SWOG Myeloma Working
Groups, and on the Scientific Advisory Boards of the MMRF and Nexcella, Inc. She is
Associate Editor for JCO and sits on the Editorial Board of Blood Cancer Discoveries.
Dr. Lentzsch has authored over 180 publications in journals such as Nature
Communications, JCI, Blood, Leukemia, and JCO. A long-standing IMS member, she is deeply
committed to advancing global standards of care, mentorship, and the translation of science
into therapies for patients with myeloma and amyloidosis.
