bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First-line (1L) nivolumab (NIVO) plus chemotherapy (chemo) versus chemo in advanced gastric cancer/gastroesophageal junction cancer/esophageal adenocarcinoma (GC/GEJC/EAC): Expanded efficacy and safety data from CheckMate 649.
Authors: Moehler Markus H. , Shitara Kohei , Garrido Marcelo , Salman Pamela , Shen Lin , Wyrwicz Lucjan , Yamaguchi Kensei , Skoczylas Tomasz , Campos Bragagnoli Arinilda Silva , Liu Tianshu , Schenker Michael , Yanez Patricio Eduardo , Tehfe Mustapha , Li Mingshun , Cullen Dana , Memaj Arteid , Lei Ming , Xiao Hong , Janjigian Yelena Y. , Ajani Jaffer A.
Published: June 2021

4002

Background: CheckMate 649 is the largest randomized, global phase 3 study of 1L programmed death (PD)-1 inhibitor–based therapy in GC/GEJC/EAC. 1L NIVO + chemo demonstrated superior overall survival (OS) vs chemo, with progression-free survival (PFS) benefit and an acceptable safety profile in pts whose tumors expressed PD-ligand (L)1 at combined positive score (CPS) ≥ 5 and ≥ 1, and in all randomized pts (Moehler et al. Ann Oncol 2020). We report additional data for all randomized pts. Methods: Eligible pts had previously untreated, unresectable advanced or metastatic GC/GEJC/EAC. Known HER2-positive pts were excluded. Pts were randomized to receive NIVO (360 mg Q3W or 240 mg Q2W) + chemo (XELOX Q3W or FOLFOX Q2W), NIVO + ipilimumab, or chemo. Dual primary endpoints for NIVO + chemo vs chemo were OS and PFS by blinded central review in PD-L1 CPS ≥ 5 pts. Hierarchically tested secondary endpoints were OS in PD-L1 CPS ≥ 1 and all randomized pts. Results: At 12-month minimum follow-up for 1581 randomized pts, NIVO + chemo had a statistically significant OS benefit vs chemo (HR 0.80 [99.3% CI 0.68–0.94; P = 0.0002]) in all randomized pts; PFS benefit was also seen (HR 0.77 [95% CI 0.68–0.87]). OS benefit was observed in multiple prespecified subgroups, consistent with the primary population. Grade 3–4 treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were reported in 59% (NIVO + chemo) and 44% (chemo) of pts. TRAEs with potential immunologic etiology (select TRAEs; sTRAEs) are shown in the table. Pts in the NIVO + chemo arm had decreased risk of symptom deterioration on treatment vs those in the chemo arm (HR 0.77 [95% CI 0.63–0.95; P = 0.0129]). Tolerability as measured by the FACT-Ga GP5 item was similar in both treatment groups. Conclusions: The addition of NIVO to chemo demonstrated improved OS and PFS benefit in all randomized pts, along with an acceptable safety profile and maintained tolerability as well as QoL, providing further support for NIVO + chemo as a standard 1L treatment for advanced GC/GEJC/EAC. Clinical trial information: NCT02872116. [Table: see text]
Neo-AEGIS (Neoadjuvant trial in Adenocarcinoma of the Esophagus and Esophago-Gastric Junction International Study): Preliminary results of phase III RCT of CROSS versus perioperative chemotherapy (Modified MAGIC or FLOT protocol). (NCT01726452).
Authors: Reynolds John V. , Preston Shaun R. , O'Neill Brian , Lowery Maeve Aine , Baeksgaard Lene , Crosby Thomas , Cunningham Moya , Cuffe Sinead , Griffiths Gareth Owen , Roy Rajarshi , Falk Stephen , Hanna George , Bartlett Frederick R. , Parker Imelda , Alvarez-Iglesias Alberto , Nilsson Magnus , Piessen Guillaume , Risum Signe , Ravi Narayanasamy , McDermott Raymond S.
Published: June 2021

4004

Background: The optimum combination curative approach to locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the esophagus and esophago-gastric junction (AEG) is unknown. A key question is whether neoadjuvant multimodal therapy, specifically CROSS (carboplatin/paclitaxel, 41.4Gy radiation therapy), is superior to optimum peri-operative chemotherapeutic regimens including modified MAGIC (epirubicin, cisplatin (oxaliplatin), 5-FU (capecitabine)) and more latterly FLOT (docetaxel, 5-FU, leucovorin, oxaliplatin). Neo-AEGIS was designed as the first randomised controlled trial to address this question. Methods: 377 patients with cT2-3N0-3M0 AEG were randomly assigned to CROSS or peri-operative chemotherapy (ECF/ECX/EOF/EOX pre-2018, FLOT option 2019/20) at 24 sites (Ireland, UK, Denmark, France, Sweden). The primary outcome was overall survival. The initial power calculation was based on CROSS superiority of 10%. This was modified after the first futility analysis (70 events) to a non-inferiority margin of 5%. Secondary end points included toxicity, pathologic measures of response, and postoperative complications as per the Esophageal Complications Consensus Group (ECCG) definitions and Clavien-Dindo severity grade. Results: Of 362 evaluable patients, 178 CROSS, 184 MAGIC/FLOT (157/27), 90% were male, median (range) age 64 (35-83), 84% were cT3, and 58% cN1. At a median (range) follow up of 24.5 (1-92) months, at the second futility analysis (60% of planned events), there were 143 deaths, 70 CROSS and 73 MAGIC/FLOT arm, with 3-year estimated survival probability of 56% (95% CI 47,64) and 57% (95% CI 48,65), respectively [(HR 1.02 (95%CI. 0.74-1.42))]. Based on the absence of futility evidenced in this data the DSMB recommended closure of recruitment in December 2020. Conclusions: This RCT reveals no evidence that peri-operative chemotherapy is unacceptably inferior to multimodal therapy, notwithstanding greater proxy markers of local tumour response in the CROSS arm. Oncologic and operative outcomes were consistent with optimum modern benchmarks. These data strongly suggest non-inferiority and support equipoise in decision making in modern practice. Clinical trial information: NCT01726452. [Table: see text]
Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy of oxaliplatin plus fluorouracil versus sorafenib in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A biomolecular exploratory, randomized, phase 3 trial (The FOHAIC-1 study).
Authors: Lyu Ning , Zhao Ming
Published: June 2021

4007

Background: Advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with mega liver masses and macrovascular invasion were commonly observed at the first diagnosis, while with less extrahepatic metastases (77.5% vs. 37.9%). However, in clinical trials IMbrave150, SHARP, and Asia-Pacific SHARP, the percentage of extrahepatic metastases reached 63%, 53%, and 68.7%, respectively, while macrovascular invasion only accounted for 38%, 36%, and 36%. Unlike the previous and ongoing phase 3 clinical trials exploring the optimal systemic medication in the first-line treatment of advanced HCC, this study mainly focused on a population with a heavy intrahepatic tumor burden. Methods: In this open-label, phase 3 trial, patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to undergo hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) of FOLFOX regimens (HAIC-FO) or sorafenib treatment. Patients in the HAIC-FO group were recommended to receive tumor and normal tissue biopsy to search for the potential genomic biomarkers in predicting the response to treatment. Results: Between May 2017 and May 2020, 551 patients were recruited. Two hundred sixty eligible patients were randomly assigned to receive HAIC-FO (n = 130) or sorafenib (n = 132) and were included in the intention-to-treatment population. Macrovascular invasion with or without extrahepatic metastasis was present in 82.8% of patients (84.6% and 81.1%; P = 0.446). The median tumor diameter was 11.7 cm (IQR 8.3-14.0) of the HAIC-FO group and 10.8 cm (8.7-13.6) of the sorafenib group (P = 0.439). The percentage of patients with > 50% tumor volume involvement of the liver was 41.5% and 39.4%, respectively (P = 0.724). At the time of data cutoff (Oct 31, 2020, at 190 deaths [79 of HAIC-FO and 111 of sorafenib]), patients receiving HAIC-FO had a median overall survival of 13.9 months (95%CI 10.6-17.2), compared with 8.2 months (7.5-9.0) for those receiving sorafenib (HR 0.408 [95%CI 0.301-0.552], P < 0.001). Tumor downstaging occurred in 16 (12.3% of 130) patients of the HAIC-FO group, including 15 (93.8%) receiving curative surgery or ablation and finally achieving a median overall survival (progression-free survival) of 20.8 (16.4) months (95%CI 9.1-32.5 [7.5-25.3]) with a 1-year rate of 93.8% (68.8%). Analyses of predictive biomarkers based on the whole genome sequencing were ongoing in the HAIC-FO group. Conclusions: This randomized phase 3 study proved that HAIC-FO had superior efficacy and survival outcome than sorafenib in the first-line treatment of primary diagnostic, advanced HCC, indicating that patients with heavy intrahepatic tumor burden, HAIC-FO monotherapy might be a better strategy than sorafenib. Clinical trial information: NCT03164382.
Neoadjuvant transarterial infusion chemotherapy with FOLFOX could improve outcomes of resectable BCLC stage A/B hepatocellular carcinoma patients beyond Milan criteria: An interim analysis of a multi-center, phase 3, randomized, controlled clinical trial.
Authors: Li Shaohua , Zhong Chong , Li Qiang , Zou Jingwen , Wang Qiaoxuan , Shang Changzhen , Cheng Yuan , Cao Mingrong , Huang Huakun , Mei Jie , Lu Lianghe , Zhao Rongce , Lin Wenping , Wen Yuhua , Guo Zhixing , Ling Yihong , Zheng Lie , Wei Wei , Guo Rongping
Published: June 2021

4008

Background: The efficacy of operation, as the only radical option for resectable BCLC stage A/B hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients beyond Milan criteria, is still unsatisfactory. This study aimed to investigate to efficacy and safety of preoperative neoadjuvant transarterial infusion chemotherapy (TAI) with FOLFOX regimen for these patients. Methods: In this multi-center, prospective, phase 3, randomized, open-labeled, controlled clinical trial, resectable BCLC stage A/B HCC patients beyond Milan criteria were randomly assigned (1:1) before hepatectomy to receive either neoadjuvant TAI (NT group) or operation directly without any neoadjuvant treatment (OP group). The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), the secondary endpoints are progression-free survival (PFS), recurrence free survival (RFS), and safety. Results: Between March, 2016 and July, 2020, 208 patients enrolled from five Chinese hospitals were randomly assigned to NT group (n=104) or OP group (n=104)， with 99 patients in NT group and 100 patients in OP group included in the efficacy and safety analysis. Clinicopathological characteristics were balanced between the two groups. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year OS rates for NT group were 92.9%, 78.6%, and 63.5%, and were 79.5%, 62.0%, and 46.3% for OP group, respectively. The 6-, 12-, and 18-month PFS rates for NT group were 77.6%, 50.4%, and 47.4%, and were 52.7%, 42.8%, and 34.8% for OP group, respectively. The OS and PFS were significantly better in NT group than in OP group (p=0.016 and 0.017, respectively). The 6-, 12-, and 18-month RFS rates for NT group were 63.8%, 47.3%, and 47.3%, and were 52.7%, 42.8%, and 34.8% for OP group, respectively. The RFS between the two group had no difference (p=0.385). No patients in NT group experienced grade 3 or more severe TAI related adverse events. The operation related adverse events were similar between two groups (p=0.300). Conclusions: Neoadjuvant TAI before hepatectomy may bring survival benefits for resectable BCLC stage A/B HCC patients beyond Milan criteria. Trial number: NCT03851913. Clinical trial information: NCT03851913.
High CXCR4 expression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma as characterized by an inflammatory tumor phenotype with potential implications for an immunotherapeutic approach.
Authors: Seeber Andreas , Kocher Florian , Pircher Andreas , Puccini Alberto , Baca Yasmine , Xiu Joanne , Zimmer Kai , Haybaeck Johannes , Spizzo Gilbert , Goldberg Richard M. , Grothey Axel , Shields Anthony Frank , Salem Mohamed E. , Marshall John , Hall Michael J. , Korn Wolfgang Michael , Nabhan Chadi , Battaglin Francesca , Lenz Heinz-Josef , Wolf Dominik Georg Friedrich
Published: June 2021

4021

Background: Immunotherapy is considered ineffective in the majority of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a consequence of a highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). However, treatment induced inhibition of CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) and programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) in the COMBAT trial caused T cell infiltration and tumor regression in a subset of PDAC patients. Elucidating a phenotype that predicts response is clinically relevant. We performed a comprehensive molecular landscape study in PDAC evaluating CXCR4 RNA expression. Methods: 3,647 PDAC specimens were centrally analysed. NextGen DNA sequencing (NextSeq, 592 gene panel or NovaSeq, whole-exome sequencing), whole-transcriptome RNA sequencing (NovaSeq) and immunohistochemistry (Caris Life Sciences, Phoenix, AZ) were performed. Gene expression is reported as TPM (Transcripts per million). Pathway gene enrichment analyses were done using GSEA (Subramaniam 2015, PNAS). Immune cell fraction was calculated by QuantiSeq (Finotello 2019, Genome Medicine). The cohort was stratified in quartiles according to CXCR4 RNA expression status. Results: Overall, CXCR4 expression was higher in primary tumors compared to distant metastasis (38 vs. 28 TPM, p < 0.0001). CXCR4-high (top quartile: > 59 TPMs), when compared to CXCR4-low (bottom quartile: < 17 TPM) PDACs, were characterized by a high prevalence of mutations in signal transduction pathway genes (e.g. GNAS: 3.6 vs. 0.5%), an increased infiltration of immune cells (e.g. CD8+ T cells, M1 macrophages), and a higher expression of HLA-DRA and HLA-E (all p < 0.0001). We detected an upregulation of CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL12, CCL5, IDO1 and LAG3 in CXCR4-high compared to CXCR4-low tumors. In contrast, lower PD-L1 expression (17.4 vs. 13.1%, p = 0.02), genomic loss of heterozygosity (17.4 vs. 10.8%), and a lower frequency of gene amplifications in ERBB2 (2.1 vs. 0.1%), TNFRSF14 (2.0 vs. 0.1%), and TP53 (82 vs. 73%, all p < 0.0001) were observed. Moreover, CXCR4-high expression was associated with a better survival (HR: 1.417, 95% CI [1.168-1.72], p < 0.001). Conclusions: This is the first study comprehensively investigating the molecular landscape of PDACs according to CXCR4 RNA expression. High CXCR4 expression is associated with an improved survival and a pro-inflammatory phenotype that may identify a subset of tumors with greater responsiveness to immunotherapeutic approaches.
Identification and prognostic impact of PBRM1 mutations in biliary tract cancers: Results of a comprehensive molecular profiling study.
Authors: Zimmer Kai , Kocher Florian , Untergasser Gerold , Puccini Alberto , Xiu Joanne , Wolf Dominik , Spizzo Gilbert , Goldberg Richard M. , Grothey Axel , Shields Anthony Frank , Marshall John , Hall Michael J. , Korn Wolfgang Michael , Nabhan Chadi , Battaglin Francesca , Lenz Heinz-Josef , El-Deiry Wafik S. , Amann Arno , Hsiehchen David , Seeber Andreas
Published: June 2021

4022

Background: The prognosis of biliary tract cancers (BTC) remains dismal and novel treatment strategies are needed to improve survival. Polybromo-1 ( PBRM1) is a subunit of the PBF chromatin-remodeling complex and preclinical studies suggest induction of synthetic lethality by PARP inhibitors in PBRM1-mutated cancers. Therefore, we aimed to describe the molecular landscape in BTC harboring PBRM1 mutations. Methods: 1,848 BTC samples were included in this study. Specimens were analyzed using NextGen DNA sequencing (NextSeq, 592 gene panel or NovaSeq, whole-exome sequencing), whole-transcriptome RNA sequencing (NovaSeq) and immunohistochemistry (Caris Life Sciences, Phoenix, AZ). Pathway gene enrichment analyses were done using GSEA (Subramaniam 2015, PNAS). Immune cell fraction was calculated by QuantiSeq (Finotello 2019, Genome Medicine). Survival was calculated from time of tissue collection to last contact using Kaplan-Meier estimates. Results: PBRM1 mutations were identified in 8.1% (n = 150) of BTC tumors and were more prevalent in intrahepatic BTC (9.9%) than in gallbladder cancer (6%, p = 0.0141) and in extrahepatic BTC (4.5%, p = 0.008). In PBRM1-mutated tumors, we found a higher rate of MSI-H/dMMR (8.7% vs. 2.1%, p < 0.0001) and a higher median TMB (4 vs. 3 mt/MB, p < 0.0001). When compared to PBRM1-wildtype cancers higher rates of co-mutations in chromatin-remodeling genes (e.g. ARID1A, 31% vs. 16% , p < 0.0001) and DNA damage repair pathway (e.g. ATRX, 4.4% vs. 0.3%, p < 0.0001) were detected. Within PBRM1-mutated tumors, a significant higher frequency of infiltrating M1 macrophages was observed (p < 0.0001). Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that genes associated with tumor inflammation (e.g. HLA-DRA, HLA-DRB1, IFNGR1) were enriched in PBRM1-mutated tumors (NES = 2.02, FDR = 1.3%, p < 0.0001). Overall survival analysis showed that PBRM1 mutations were associated with a favorable outcome (HR 1.502, 95% CI [1.013-2.227], p = 0.041). This relationship was also present in MSS subgroup (HR: 1.667, [1.026-2.71], p = 0.037). Conclusions: This is the largest and most extensive molecular profiling study focusing on PBRM1-mutated BTC. Co-mutations in chromatin-remodelling and DNA damage repair genes might set the stage for clinical testing of PARP inhibitors in PBRM1-mutated BTC. Moreover, a distinct tumor microenvironment characterized by high M1 macrophages infiltration and an enrichment of inflammatory genes suggest a potential benefit of immunotherapy.
Multimodal profiling of biliary tract cancers to detect potentially actionable biomarkers and differences in immune signatures between subtypes.
Authors: Mody Kabir , Azad Nilofer Saba , Jain Prerna , El-Refai Sherif , Shroff Rachna T. , Kelley Robin Kate , El-Khoueiry Anthony B. , Lau Denise , Lesinski Gregory B. , Yarchoan Mark
Published: June 2021

4023

Background: Biliary tract cancers (BTC) are increasingly subtyped by molecular alterations, but little is known about the relationship between gain-of-function mutations and the RNA transcript expression of immune-related pathways. Methods: A sample of retrospective, clinicogenomic and transcriptomic data from de-identified records of patients with BTC in the Tempus database was selected. We then investigated the relationship between the mutational landscape and immune-related RNA signatures of different anatomic and genomic BTC subtypes. Results: The cohort included 455 samples of intrahepatic bile duct (IH) (n=267), gallbladder (GB) (n=153), and extrahepatic bile duct (EH) (n=35) cancer subtypes. Across all subtypes, we detected alterations in TP53 (43.8%), ARID1A (19.8%), KMT2C (18.2%), BAP1 (14.6%), KRAS (12.7%), TERT (12.0%), IDH1 (11.4%), KMT2D (11.0%), LRP1B (11.0%), and PBRM1 (10.7%), along with FGFR2 fusions (2.6%). Potentially actionable biomarkers ( FGFR2 and NTRK1-3 fusions, IDH1 and BRAFV600E mutations, tumor mutational burden [TMB]>10, HER2 expression, and/or microsatellite instability) were identified in 21.1% of all BTC and 28.6% of IH samples. Mutually exclusive alterations observed between subtypes were TP53 & BAP1, KRAS & BAP1, TP53 & IDH1, KRAS & IDH1, and SMAD4 & BAP1 ( P < 0.001 for all). GB was more inflamed based on RNA signatures and classical immune biomarkers, including PD-L1 and TMB. RNA signature analyses revealed a higher expression of immune-related pathways in GB than IH ( P = 0.001) with no differences in comparison with EH. PD-L1 expression and continuous TMB were elevated in GB versus the other anatomical subtypes. Significant associations were noted between particular genetic mutations and immune profiling features (table). Conclusions: BTC subtypes are diverse in DNA alterations, RNA inflammatory signatures, and immune markers. Notably, potentially actionable biomarkers were identified in a sizable portion of the cohort and varied significantly between subtypes. These results provide guidance for targeted therapy development and support the use of multimodal immune profiling for BTC. For example, GB-specific clinical trials may be considered due to the relative increase in immune-related biomarkers observed in GB and the historically limited success of BTC trials.[Table: see text]
Camrelizumab plus chemotherapy as neoadjuvant therapy for resectable, locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (NIC-ESCC2019): A multicenter, open-label, single-arm, phase 2 study.
Authors: Li Jingpei , Liu Jun , Li Zhuoyi , Cui Fei , Zeng Yuan , Liang Wenhua , Liang Hengrui , Wang Wei , Xu Ke , Cai Weipeng , Fu JunHui , He Jianxing
Published: June 2021

4028

Background: Despite multidisciplinary therapies, prognosis of pts with resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains poor. Combining PD-1 blockade to neoadjuvant chemotherapy might be a feasible and effective strategy. Camrelizumab (an anti-PD-1 antibody) was approved for advanced or metastatic ESCC in the second-line setting and showed improved anti-tumor activity and survival benefit when combined with chemotherapy in multiple advanced tumors. Methods: In this NIC-ESCC2019 phase 2 study, histologically or cytologically confirmed ESCC pts (stage II-IVA) were enrolled to receive two cycles of neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy (NIC) with camrelizumab (200 mg on day 1) plus nab-paclitaxel (260 mg/m² in total on day 1 and day 8) and cisplatin (75 mg/m² in total on days 1-3) of each 21-day cycle, followed by esophagectomy. The primary endpoint was complete pathologic response (CPR) rate in the primary tumor. Besides, we also explored the relationship between the tumor genomic profile or primary-tumor microenvironment and the pathological response. Results: Between Jan 17, 2020 and Dec 8, 2020, 56 pts were enrolled. 51 pts underwent surgical resection, and all had complete tumor resection. CPR was achieved in 18 (35.3%; 95% CI, 21.7%-48.9%) pts; 12 (23.5%) pts had major pathologic response (MPR), and 21 (41.2%) had incomplete pathological response (IPR). Of note, 16 (31.4%) pts achieved CPR in both primary tumor and lymph nodes. The objective response rate was 66.7% (95% CI, 40.0-70.4). No in-hospital mortality occurred. The most common treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) were decreased WBC (20 [36%] of 56 pts), vomiting (19 [34%]), and alopecia (18 [32%]). Grade 3 TRAEs only occurred in 6 (11%) pts, and there were no grade 4 or 5 TRAEs. The most common immune-related AEs included grade 1-2 rash maculo-papular (7 [13%]) and reactive cutaneous capillary endothelial proliferation (5 [9%]). Presence of mutations in CREBBP and KMT2D at treatment-naïve time-point was correlated with non-response group (IPR and stable disease) (CREBBP, p = 0.046; KMT2D, p = 0.047). Among the immune populations, CD8+, CD8+PD-1+ and CD8+PD-L1+ T cells increased significantly after two doses of NIC, especially in the CPR+MPR group (CD8+, p = 0.013; CD8+PD-1+, p < 0.001; CD8+PD-L1+, p = 0.068). Conclusions: The addition of camrelizumab to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in ESCC demonstrated promising efficacy with acceptable toxicity, supporting the further investigation in a randomized phase 3 clinical trial. Clinical trial information: NCT04225364. [Table: see text]
SHARED: Efficacy and safety of sintilimab in combination with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT) in patients with locally advanced gastric (G) or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma.
Authors: Wei Jia , Lu Xiaofeng , Liu Qin , Fu Yao , Liu Song , Yang Ju , Wang Meng , Zheng Liming , Yang Yang , Fan Xiangshan , Zhao Yang , Guan Wenxian , Liu Baorui
Published: June 2021

4040

Background: PD-1 inhibitor and chemotherapy have shown significant clinical benefits in 1L-treatment of G/GEJ. While it is not clear for locally advanced stage. The aim of this single-arm phase Ib trial is to assess the feasibility of sintilimab (PD-1 inhibitor) in combination with cCRT in locally advanced GC. Methods: Patients (pts) with initial histopathologically confirmed G/GEJ adenocarcinoma, diagnosed as locally advanced III-IVA per AJCC 8th and ECOG PS of 0-1 were eligible. Sintilimab (200mg, iv, Q3W) was given with CRT sandwich in sequence of one induction chemotherapy (S-1+Nab-PTX), weekly Nab-PTX(80-100mg/m2, d1, d8, d15, d22), concurrent radiotherapy (45Gy/1.8Gy*25f), and one consolidation chemotherapy (S-1+Nab-PTX). Pts received three additional combinations of sintilimab and chemotherapy after surgery or investigator’s best choice for unresectable pts after planned therapy. The primary endpoint was pCR and a Simon two-stage was employed at first 9 pts. This interim analysis was pre-planned after finishing stage I assessment. Accrual is ongoing with another 25 in next stage. Results: In the first stage, 5 out of 9 pts achieved pCR and passed to next stage. As of 7th Feb 2021, 28 pts met inclusion criteria with median age 67 yrs (range 47-81), men 86%, PS 1 25%, cT3/4a/4b 28%/54%/18%, cN1/N2/N3 7%/50%/43% and Borrmann II/III/IV 57%/18%/25%. The location on GEJ and G was 14% and 86%. Of 23 pts completed neoadjuvant, all were evaluated as D2-surgery feasibility. 19 pts had completed gastrectomy (4 pts waiting for surgery) with pCR 42.1% (8/19), MPR (≤10% viable tumor cells) 73.7% (14/19) and R0 resection 94.7% (18/19). Down-staging to pT0 and pN0 were both observed in 42.1%. The median follow-up was 5.8m unavailable for survival evaluation at present. Grade (gr) 3-4 TRAE occurred in 39.3% (11/28) pts with most common events as myelosuppression (39.3%) and increased transaminase (10.7%). IrAEs occurred in 21.4% (6/28) pts with one gr 4 hepatitis and others gr 1-2. Peri-operative complications occurred in 3 pts with gr 1-2 pneumonia, increased transaminase, and ileus. No death or unexpected toxicity observed. Conclusions: SHARED interim analysis demonstrated a promising feasibility of sintilimab in combination with cCRT with preliminary impressive pCR & MPR and acceptable toxicity in phase III-IVA G/GEJ cancer. These results warrant further accrual and evaluation. Clinical trial information: ChiCTR1900024428.
Relationship between Helicobacter pylori and development of hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors: Madala Samragnyi , MacDougall Kira , Surapaneni Balarama Krishna , Park Robin , Kasi Anup , Girotra Mohit
Published: June 2021

4091

Background: The relationship between Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was first proposed in 1994. Since then, several studies have been performed to explore the association. The role of Hepatitis C (HCV) viruses coexisting with H.pylori in causing HCC was also studied. With the emergence of data in this regard, a causal relationship has been postulated, but not confirmed, and hence the relationship remains controversial. Our meta-analysis aims to summarize the research on this topic and investigate if there exists a relationship between H. pylori infection and the development of HCC and if the presence of HCV along with H.pylori plays a role in liver carcinogenesis. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we performed a systematic review of all relevant studies published in the literature using keywords “Helicobacter pylori” and “Hepatocellular carcinoma” on major literature databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane controlled trials register. A total of 656 studies were identified between 1994 to March 2020, out of which 26 studies qualified under our selection criteria. Patients positive for HCC are included as cases and patients that did not have HCC under control group. In both groups, H.pylori positive patients and their HCV status, was identified. Results: Out of the 26 studies included in the final analysis, the prevalence of H. pylori infection was 64.78% (561 of 866) amongst HCC cases and 47.92% (1718 of 3585) in the non-HCC control group. The summary odds ratio for the association of H. pylori infection with the risk for HCC using the random-effects model was determined to be 4.75 (95% CI, 3.06-7.37), I²=63%. Subgroup analysis to determine the odds of developing HCC in the presence of H.pylori and HCV coinfection, was 13.97 (95% CI, 3.94-49.61), I²=81%. Whereas, the odds of developing HCC in the presence of only HCV without H.pylori was found to be 2.21 (0.70-6.94), I²=79. Subgroup analysis by study design showed no significant difference between the study groups (P= 0.5705). Conclusions: Our meta-analysis showed a positive association between H. pylori infection and the development of HCC. It showed a significantly higher risk of developing HCC in the presence of HCV infection along with H.pylori. Further prospective cohort studies are needed to prove the causal relationship, especially in cases of Hepatitis B, C coinfection, and cirrhotic patients.[Table: see text]
The cost effectiveness of lenvatinib versus atezolizumab and bevacizumab or sorafenib in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) in Canada.
Authors: Trueman David , Liu Yifeng , Geadah Marc , Hon Nicholas , Sabapathy Suthakar , Kamboj Laveena , Li Huimin , Lucero Melanie , Meier Genevieve
Published: June 2021

4098

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents 72% of liver cancers in Canada. In the phase III REFLECT trial, lenvatinib met the primary endpoint of non-inferiority in overall survival (OS) versus sorafenib and demonstrated superiority in secondary endpoints of progression free-survival (PFS), time to progression and objective response rate. Based on the REFLECT trial, lenvatinib has become the standard of care in the treatment of Canadian patients with unresectable HCC (uHCC). In the Phase III IMbrave150 trial, the use of the combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab (atezo+bev) resulted in statistically significant improvement in OS and PFS versus sorafenib for patients with uHCC. The aim of this analysis was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of lenvatinib versus atezo+bev or sorafenib as first-line treatment for patients with uHCC from the perspective of Ministry of Health in Canada. Methods: A cost-utility analysis was conducted using a partitioned survival analysis. Health state membership for lenvatinib and sorafenib were estimated based on patient level data and clinical inputs from REFLECT and extrapolated using parametric survival models. Relative efficacy for atezo+bev was estimated from a de novo network meta-analysis. In the base-case analysis, estimates from REFLECT used in the NMA were adjusted for imbalances in baseline characteristics. Sensitivity analyses included the use of alternative approaches to determine relative efficacy. Health state utility values were determined with EQ-5D data collected in REFLECT. Drug acquisition costs were obtained from publicly available sources and medical resource utilization was based on a survey of Canadian clinicians. The time horizon was 10 years. Results of the incremental analysis were calculated sequentially. Results: In the base case lenvatinib was associated with cost savings of CAD$4,640 and CAD$120,095 and a QALY difference of 0.15 and -0.28 vs sorafenib and atezo+bev, respectively. The base case deterministic analysis resulted in lenvatinib being dominant over sorafenib and cost-effective vs. atezo+bev (sequential ICER for atezo+bev was CAD$425,754 per QALY). Results of the probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) were consistent with the base case findings with lenvatinib being the optimal treatment strategy in >99% of iterations. Conclusions: Results of this analysis demonstrate that lenvatinib represents the optimal use of healthcare resources as a first-line treatment for uHCC in Canada.
Tumor-informed assessment of circulating tumor DNA and its incorporation into practice for patients with hepatobiliary cancers.
Authors: Kasi Pashtoon Murtaza , Budde Griffin , Dayyani Farshid , Botta Gregory P. , Diehl Adam , King Gentry Teng , Malla Midhun , Abdelrahim Maen , Hanna Diana L. , Schafer Liudmila N. , Tejani Mohamedtaki Abdulaziz , Krainock Michael , Billings Paul R. , Olshan Perry , Aushev Vasily N. , Aleshin Alexey
Published: June 2021

4103

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and biliary tract cancers [BTC - including cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and gall bladder cancers (GBC)] represent a heterogeneous group of diseases. Glycoprotein-based tumor markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) or carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA-19-9) though part of standard-of-care (SOC), lack sensitivity, and specificity. A fair proportion of these cancers do not produce these glycoproteins. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing can fill this void and be used for the assessment of molecular residual disease (MRD), as well as for surveillance purposes in patients with HCC or BTC. Prospective evaluation of this methodology in clinical practice has been limited to date. Methods: A personalized and tumor-informed multiplex PCR assay (Signatera bespoke mPCR NGS assay) was used for the detection and quantification of ctDNA. Serial time points were collected on a subset of patients to monitor their ctDNA levels in response to treatment. Results: Here we analyzed 200 plasma samples from a total of 90 patients with HCC (n=27) and BTC (n=63), comprising 46 patients with CCA and 17 patients with GBC. Sample-level ctDNA positivity rates, determined using a tumor-informed assay are presented in table. ctDNA detection was significantly associated with the stage of disease (Wilcoxon rank-sum test, p<0.05). Serial time point analysis was performed on a subset of patients (n=56) that had 2-7 time points available and correlations between ctDNA levels and clinical response were noted and will be presented. Conclusions: Our study is the first to set the benchmark for the utility and feasibility of using a tumor-informed assay in this cohort of hepatobiliary cancers. With adjuvant chemotherapy already a SOC for BTC, and immunotherapy being studied for HCC alongside other novel agents for CCA and GBC, assessment of MRD or ctDNA clearance on therapy would be of value as an additional tool in identifying patients at high risk for recurrence/metastasis. The utility of this study would also lie in incorporation in clinical trials to enrich and study those who are at the highest risk of recurrence i.e. ctDNA positive.[Table: see text]
Modified FOLFIRINOX versus S-1 as second-line chemotherapy in patients with gemcitabine-failed metastatic pancreatic cancer: A randomized phase III trial (MPACA-3).
Authors: Go Se-Il , Lee Sang-Cheol , Bae Woo Kyun , Zang Dae Young , Lee Hyun Woo , Jang Joung Soon , Ji Jun Ho , Kim Jung Hoon , Park Sanggon , Sym Sun Jin , Yang Yaewon , Jeon So Yeon , Oh Sung Yong , Kang Jung Hun
Published: June 2021

4119

Background: Modified FOLFIRINOX (mFOLFIRINOX) consisting of 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin, irinotecan, and oxaliplatin has been assessed as second-line treatment of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer in retrospective and phase II studies. However, the result was not confirmed by randomized controlled trial. Methods: A randomized, open-label, phase III trial was conducted at 9 institutions in Korea. Patients with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma (mPAC) and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-1 who failed to first-line gemcitabine-based chemotherapy were randomly assigned to receive mFOLFIRINOX or S-1. The primary endpoint was overall survival. Results: A total of 80 patients were enrolled from March 2017 to December 2019. The accrual of patients was early terminated due to clear difference of efficacy in the interim analysis and expectation of poor recruitment due to conflicting adjuvant regimens. Objective response and disease control rates were 15.4% vs. 2.4% ( p= 0.041) and 66.7% vs. 36.6% ( p= 0.007) in the mFOLFIRINOX and S-1 arms, respectively. The median progression-free survival was 5.2 and 2.2 months in the mFOLFIRINOX and S-1 arms, respectively ( p= 0.002). The median overall survival was 9.2 and 4.9 months in the mFOLFIRINOX and S-1 arms, respectively ( p= 0.048). The adjusted hazard ratio of the mFOLFIRINOX arm to the S-1 arm for overall survival was 0.402 (95% confidence interval 0.223-0.725, p= 0.002). All grade 3-4 adverse events occurred in 56.5% and 17.1% in the mFOLFIRINOX and S-1 arms, respectively ( p< 0.001). However, only one patient in each arm prematurely discontinued treatment due to toxicity and there was no treatment-related mortality in both arms. Minimally important differences in the health-related quality of life were not observed in both arms. Conclusions: mFOLFIRINOX as second-line treatment in mPAC patients failed to gemcitabine-based chemotherapy demonstrated a survival benefit versus S-1 alone with acceptable toxicities. Clinical trial information: KCT0003534.
First-line pembrolizumab (pembro) in cisplatin-ineligible patients with advanced urothelial cancer (UC): Response and survival results up to five years from the KEYNOTE-052 phase 2 study.
Authors: O'Donnell Peter H. , Balar Arjun Vasant , Vuky Jacqueline , Castellano Daniel , Bellmunt Joaquim , Powles Thomas , Bajorin Dean F. , Grivas Petros , Hahn Noah M. , Plimack Elizabeth R. , Xu Jin Zhi , Godwin James Luke , Homet Moreno Blanca , De Wit Ronald
Published: June 2021

4508

Background: Pembro was approvedfor cisplatin-ineligible patients with untreated advanced UC based on initial results of the phase 2 KEYNOTE-052 study (NCT02335424), which showed an ORR of 29%. Updated results after up to 5 years of follow-up are presented. Methods: KEYNOTE-052 is a single-arm, multi-site, open-label trial. Patients had advanced or metastatic UC, were cisplatin ineligible (criteria: ECOG PS 2, CrCl ≥30 to ̃60 mL/min, grade ≥2 peripheral neuropathy/hearing loss, NYHA class III heart failure), and had not previously received chemotherapy for advanced/metastatic disease. Patients received pembro 200 mg IV Q3W until progression, unacceptable toxicity, withdrawal, or 24 mo of therapy, whichever occurred first. PD-L1 status was determined by combined positive score (CPS, number of PD-L1–staining cells [tumor cells, lymphocytes, macrophages] divided by the total number of viable tumor cells, multiplied by 100); PD-L1–positive was CPS ≥10. The primary end point was confirmed ORR (RECIST v1.1, independent central review). Key secondary end points were duration of response (DOR), OS, and safety. Results: Among 370 enrolled patients, median age was 74 y, 315 (85.1%) had visceral disease, and 43 (11.6%) completed 24 mo of therapy. Median time from enrollment to data cutoff (Sep 26, 2020) was 56.3 mo (range, 51.2-65.3) for all patients and 56.0 mo (range, 51.4-65.2) for the 110 patients (29.7%) with CPS ≥10. Confirmed ORR for all patients was 28.9% (95% CI, 24.3-33.8); complete response, 9.5% (n=35); partial response, 19.5% (n=72). Median DOR was 33.4 mo (range, 1.4+ to 60.7+); 44.8% and 39.4% of patients had DOR ≥36 and ≥48 mo, (Kaplan-Meier estimates). Median OS was 11.3 mo (95% CI, 9.7-13.1); 24- and 36-mo OS rates were 31.5% and 22.1%. Patients with CPS ≥10 had better outcomes than patients with CPS <10 (Table). Treatment-related adverse events (AEs) occurred in 67.3% of patients; 21.1% of treatment-related AEs were grade ≥3, including 1 death (myositis). Conclusions: After up to 5 y of follow-up, pembro continued to elicit clinically meaningful, durable antitumor activity in cisplatin-ineligible patients with advanced UC. These effects were more pronounced in patients with CPS ≥10. Clinical trial information: NCT02335424. [Table: see text]
RC48-ADC combined with toripalimab, an anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody (Ab), in patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC): Preliminary results of a phase Ib/II study.
Authors: Zhou Li , Xu Huayan , Yan Xieqiao , Chi Zhihong , Cui Chuanliang , Si Lu , Tang Bixia , Mao Lili , Lian Bin , Wang Xuan , Li Siming , Bai Xue , Guo Jun , Sheng Xinan
Published: June 2021

4534

Background: RC48-ADC is a novel humanized anti-HER2 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), which showed promising data in HER2-positive and even negative patients (pts). Anti-PD-1 Abs have durable antitumor effect for mUC especially in PD-L1 positive patients. The combination may have synergistic antitumor effect. This phase 1b/II study evaluated the safety and activity of RC48-ADC combined with toripalimab in mUC. Methods: In dose-escalation cohort, pts received 1.5 or 2 mg/kg RC48-ADC + 3mg/kg toripalimab with the traditional 3+3 escalation design. In expansion cohort, patients received the recommended dose of RC48-ADC + toripalimab every 2 weeks. The primary endpoints were safety/tolerability and recommended RC48-ADC dose; secondary endpoints included pharmacokinetics, ORR per RECIST 1.1, PFS, and OS stratified by HER2 and PD-L1 expression. HER2 positivity was determined by IHC and in situ hybridization (ISH). PD-L1 expression was tested with IHC 22C3 pharmDx assay. Results: As of 8 Jan 2021 (data cutoff), 14 mUC pts (9 males, median age 66 y [52-76]) were enrolled. Most pts were systemic treatment naïve (57%) in the locally advanced or metastatic setting. The primary site was in upper tract UC in 50%; 50% had visceral metastases (mets), including 36% with liver mets; HER2 expression was positive (IHC 3+ or 2+ ISH+) in 28%, and 43% PD-L1 CPS≥10. A total of 36 pts is anticipated to be enrolled by Apr 2021. No dose limiting toxicity was reported and the recommended dose for RC48-ADC was 2mg/kg. At data cutoff, 10/14 patients were evaluable for response, with 8 PR, 1 SD (tumor shrinking), and 1 PD. The objective response rate (ORR) was 80%, and disease control rate (DCR) was 90%. All responsive patients have durable efficacy and are still on treatment. Follow-up continues for PFS and OS. Most common treatment-related AEs were grade 1-2, including aminotransferase level increased (7/14, 50%), weight loss (6/14, 43%), alopecia (6/14, 43%), asthenia (4/14, 29%), anemia (3/14, 21%), leukopenia (21%), peripheral sensory neuropathy (21%), hypothyroidism (21%), blood triglycerides increased (21%), and creatine phosphokinase increase (21%). One pt had G3 intestinal obstruction attributed to study drug and went back to treatment after recovery. Conclusions: RC48-ADC in combination with toripalimab had a good tolerance and promising anti-tumor activity in pts with mUC. Further evaluation of safety and efficacy is ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT04264936.
Real-world treatment patterns and clinical outcomes among patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma.
Authors: Geynisman Daniel M. , Broughton Edward , Alhasani Hasan , Hao Yi , Zhang Ying , Stwalley Brian , Le Trong Kim , Huo Stephen
Published: June 2021

4538

Background: Knowledge of large-scale real-world treatment patterns and clinical outcomes in patients (pts) with metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) is limited. We conducted this study to address the lack of knowledge and identify unmet needs in pts with mUC in real-world clinical practice. Methods: The US nationwide Flatiron Health electronic health records–derived, de-identified database, comprised of 280 oncology practices across the US, was utilized to conduct a retrospective cohort analysis of pts diagnosed with mUC between Jan 1, 2011, and Aug 31, 2020. Baseline pt characteristics were assessed descriptively, and treatment patterns were classified by cisplatin (CIS) eligibility. Kaplan–Meier methods were used to evaluate overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). In a subgroup analysis of cisplatin-ineligible (CIS-inelig) pts, a multivariable model adjusting for baseline covariates was used to assess survival outcomes. Results: Of 8183 pts with mUC, median age was 73.0 years at diagnosis. Primary tumor sites were bladder (78.5%), upper tract (20.6%), and urethra (0.9%). Median (range) follow-up from mUC diagnosis was 9.7 (0.2-116.6) months. Of 5855 (71.6%) pts who received first-line (1L) systemic therapy, 1764 (30.1%) were CIS eligible (CIS-elig), 2293 (39.2%) were CIS-inelig, and 616 (10.5%) did not receive CIS despite qualifying ECOG PS (0–1) and renal function; CIS eligibility was unknown in 1182 (20.2%). Among all 1L pts, 4380 (74.8%) received chemotherapy and 1410 (24.1%) received immunotherapy (IO); of the IO users, 1345 (95.4%) received monotherapy. Among CIS-elig pts, CIS plus gemcitabine (GC) and methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, CIS (MVAC) accounted for 1562 (88.5%) of 1L therapy. Among CIS-inelig pts, carboplatin plus gemcitabine (GCa; 36.1%), pembrolizumab (pembro) monotherapy (18.5%), and atezolizumab (atezo) monotherapy (15.1%) were the most common 1L therapies. Across CIS eligibility groups, the most common second-line therapies included pembro, atezo, and GCa; the most common third-line therapies included atezo, pemetrexed, paclitaxel, and GCa. Median OS (95% CI) was longer in pts who received ≥ 1 line of systemic therapy (14.5 [14.0–15.2] months) than in those who did not receive therapy (6.8 [6.2–7.3] months). Median (95% CI) OS and PFS were also longer in CIS-elig pts (OS, 19.7 [18.2–21.4] months; PFS, 11.5 [10.8–12.1] months) than in CIS-inelig pts (OS, 11.4 [10.8–12.0] months; PFS, 7.0 [6.7–7.4] months), irrespective of receiving treatment. In a subgroup analysis of CIS-inelig pts, 1L IO monotherapy was associated with worse OS than 1L chemotherapy (HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.13–1.40, P < 0.0001). Conclusions: This study of > 8000 mUC pts, of whom almost 30% never received systemic therapy, demonstrates real-world treatment patterns in mUC and highlights the substantial unmet need in this population, in particular for CIS-inelig pts.
TIVO-3: Durability of response and updated overall survival of tivozanib versus sorafenib in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC).
Authors: Verzoni Elena , Escudier Bernard , Hutson Thomas E. , McDermott David F. , Pal Sumanta K. , Porta Camillo , Rini Brian I. , Needle Michael N. , Atkins Michael B.
Published: June 2021

4546

Background: Tivozanib is a potent and highly selective VEGF receptor (R) tyrosine kinase inhibitor in clinical development for mRCC. Methods: The TIVO-3 study enrolled subjects with mRCC who failed 2 or 3 prior systemic regimens, one of which included a VEGFR TKI, stratified by IMDC risk category and type of prior therapy (two TKIs; TKI plus checkpoint; TKI + other) then randomized 1:1 to T or sorafenib. Tivozanib demonstrated PFS and ORR advantages over sorafenib. Here we report long term durability of response based on investigator assessment and updated overall survival. Results: There were 41 responders (23%) to tivozanib and 20 responders (11%) to sorafenib. The median duration of response (mDoR) was 20.3 months (95% CI: 9.8, 29.9) and 9.0 months (95% CI: 3.7, 16.6) for tivozanib and sorafenib, respectively. With prolonged follow up there were 270 deaths; the HR for overall survival favored tivozanib at 0.91 (95% CI: 0.716, 1.165). Clinical trial information: NCT02627963 . Conclusions: Tivozanib treatment in third and fourth line mRCC results in longer PFS, higher objective response rate and more durable responses compared to sorafenib. There is no difference in overall survival.[Table: see text]