bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The anti–PD-1 antibody spartalizumab in combination with dabrafenib and trametinib in advanced BRAF V600–mutant melanoma: Efficacy and safety findings from parts 1 and 2 of the Phase III COMBI-i trial.
Authors: Long Georgina V. , Lebbe Celeste , Atkinson Victoria , Mandalà Mario , Nathan Paul D. , Arance Ana , Richtig Erika , Yamazaki Naoya , Robert Caroline , Schadendorf Dirk , Tawbi Hussein Abdul-Hassan , Ascierto Paolo Antonio , Ribas Antoni , Flaherty Keith , Pakhle Neha , Masood Aisha , Gasal Eduard , Dummer Reinhard
Published: May 2020

10028

Background: Treatment (tx) with checkpoint inhibitors or targeted therapy improves outcomes in patients (pts) with BRAF V600–mutant advanced melanoma; however, many pts subsequently progress and die. Preliminary evidence suggests that targeted therapy may enhance the impact of checkpoint inhibitors and improve efficacy compared with either treatment alone. Methods: COMBI-i is investigating first-line spartalizumab 400 mg every 4 wk + dabrafenib 150 mg twice daily + trametinib 2 mg once daily in pts with unresectable or metastatic BRAF V600–mutant melanoma (NCT02967692). We report efficacy and safety data from parts 1 (run-in cohort) and 2 (biomarker cohort), with a median follow-up of 24.3 mo. Response was assessed per RECIST v1.1. The randomized part 3 is ongoing. Results: 36 pts were enrolled (part 1: n = 9; part 2: n = 27); 20 (56%) had stage IV M1c disease and 15 (42%) had elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels (≥ upper limit of normal). At the data cutoff (August 19, 2019), tx was ongoing in 10 pts (28%). The confirmed investigator-assessed objective response rate (ORR) was 78% (n = 28), with 16 complete responses (CRs; 44%) and 12 partial responses (33%). Median duration of response (DOR; 10/28 responders with events) was not reached (NR); 24-mo DOR rate was 53.4% (95% CI, 29%-73%). Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 22.7 mo; 24-mo PFS rate was 41.4% (95% CI, 23%-59%). At the cutoff, median overall survival (OS) was NR, with a 24-mo OS rate of 74.1% (95% CI, 56%-86%). In pts with elevated LDH, ORR was 67%, with 4 CRs (27%); median PFS was 10.7 mo (95% CI, 4.6-19.1 mo), and median OS was NR. The estimated 24-mo PFS and OS rates in these pts were 26.7% and 52.5%, respectively. All pts had ≥ 1 tx-related adverse event (TRAEs); 26 (72%) had grade ≥ 3 TRAEs. The most common grade ≥ 3 TRAEs were pyrexia (17%), increased lipase (11%), neutropenia (11%), increased blood creatine phosphokinase (8%), and increased γ-glutamyltransferase (8%). AEs leading to discontinuation of all 3 study drugs occurred in 6 pts (17%). All-causality grade ≥ 3 AEs requiring immunosuppressive medication occurred in 19 pts (53%). One pt died of cardiac arrest that was not considered tx related. Conclusions: The combination of spartalizumab + dabrafenib + trametinib resulted in high ORR and CR rates, with a high frequency of durable responses, including in patients with poor prognostic factors. Clinical trial information: NCT02967692.
Response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) rechallenge after high-grade immune related adverse events (irAE) in patients (pts) with metastatic melanoma (MM).
Authors: Shah Payal , Boland Patrick , Pavlick Anna C.
Published: May 2020

10045

Background: ICIs have transformed MM mortality. Pts receiving ICIs may experience high-grade irAEs that limit continuation of treatment per current guidelines. We aimed to evaluate the safety and response rate of ICI rechallenge. Methods: 551 MM pts treated with ICI were retrospectively reviewed from Jan 2014 to Jan 2020 after IRB approval. The incidence of a recurrent irAE in pts with ICI rechallenge within the same drug class after an initial high-grade (Grade III/IV) irAE was evaluated. Age, gender, irAEs, and outcomes were descriptively analyzed within the rechallenged cohort. Results: 32.7% of pts (180/551) experienced a high-grade irAE. 60.0% of these (108/180) pts were on combination therapy with at least one ICI. 50.6% (91/180) of pts were rechallenged with ICI within the same drug class. The rechallenged cohort had a median age of 63.8 [range: 28-86] years and 48.4% was female. The cohort’s initial irAE occurred at a median of 7.6 weeks from treatment onset with Grade 3/4 severity of 60.0% /40.0% (91). Toxicities included colitis 27.5% (25/91), hepatitis 23.1% (21/91), skin toxicity 22.0% (20/91), adrenal insufficiency 5.5% (5/91) hypophysitis 5.5% (5/91), neurological abnormality 4.4% (4/91), pancreatitis 3.3% (3/91), hematological abnormality 3.3% (3/91), arthralgia 3.3% (3/91), myalgia 3.3% (3/91), pneumonitis 2.2% (2/91), insulin dependent diabetes 1.1% (1/91), fatigue 1.1% (1/91), vasculitis 1.1% (1/91), and hyponatremia 1.1% (1/91). ICI rechallenge occurred at a median of 9.7 weeks from the first Grade 3/4 irAE. 51.8% (29/56) pts initially treated with combo were rechallenged with combo, while 48.2% (27/56) were rechallenged with single agent ICI. Of pts initially treated with single ICI, 60% (21/35) were rechallenged with single agent ICI and 40% (14/35) with combo. With a median follow-up of 21.1 months after rechallenge, irAEs occurred in 75.8% (69/91), with 44.9% of irAEs (31/69) presenting as a different type from the initial event and 31.9% (22/69) as high-grade events. There were no rechallenge irAE-related deaths. Within the rechallenge cohort, 39.6% (36/91) of pts had disease progression. Clinical benefit was achieved in 60.4% (55/91) of pts: 40.7% (37/91) complete response, 11.0% (10/91) partial response and 8.8% (8/91) stable disease. Conclusions: ICI rechallenge can be safely administered in pts with MM after recovery from an initial high-grade irAE. Rechallenge irAE’s did not always reflect initial irAE’s. Close monitoring for any type or grade of IRAE is recommended.
Discordant response comparing 18F-FDG PET/CT with response assessment by RECIST in patients with advanced melanoma treated with immune checkpoint blockade.
Authors: De Barros E Silva Milton Jos , Teixeira Marcos Rezende , Pandolfi Natasha Carvalho , Calsavara Vinicius Fernando , Oliveira Thiago Bueno , Rinck José Augusto , Tavares Monique Celeste , Garcia Daniel , Lima Joao Paulo SN , Duprat Joao
Published: May 2020

10046

Background: Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) has changed the natural history advanced melanoma (AM). Based on phase III trial, which used RECIST criteria, the complete response (CR) rate with anti-PD1 therapy is around 20%. In daily practice, PET/CT is a useful tool to evaluate response to treatment in melanoma patients. Little is known about the number of patients who achieve metabolic CR by PET/CT but with anatomic residual disease and their prognosis. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients with AM treated with ICB who achieved metabolic CR by PET/CT but with residual disease on tomography and compared to patients with RECIST CR in a high-volume cancer center. Progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were obtained by Kaplan Meier method and log-rank test. Results: One hundred seventy pts with AM treated with anti-PD1 (79%) or anti-PD1 + anti- CTLA4 (21%) betweenSeptember 2013 and December 2019 were analyzed. At a median follow-up of 23.6 months, seventy-five (44%) pts achieved CR. RECIST criteria: 22 pts (29.3%) and metabolic CR: 53 pts (70.7%). All patients with metabolic CR had RECIST partial response. The median total time on treatment was 14.8m (95%CI:0.9-42.3). The median time to reach CR was 5.4m (95%CI: 3-39). The median time of treatment after CR was 6.8m (95%CI: 0-21.4). The rate of CR patients off treatment at the moment of this analysis was 69%. The median follow-up after discontinuing treatment was 5.2m. There was no difference in PFS (36 month-rate: 84.4% vs 74%, p:0.64) and OS (36 month-rate: 100% vs 86.3%, p:0.14) between pts with CR based on RECIST or PET-CT, respectively. Median time for PFS and OS have not been reached until the date cut-off. Nine pts have relapsed (12%). Seven of them had residual disease on tomography but with no metabolic active lesion(s) at the time of the end of treatment. Conclusions: Twice more patients achieve complete response considering only metabolic parameters on PET/CT compared to RECIST criteria and they seem to have comparable prognosis.
Clinical outcomes with early-elective discontinuation of PD-1 inhibitors (PDi) at one year in patients (pts) with metastatic melanoma (MM).
Authors: Pokorny Rebecca , McPherson Jordan P. , Grossmann Kenneth F. , Luckett Carolyn , Voorhies Benjamin Newell , Sageser Daniel S. , Wallentine Jocelyn , Tolman Zachary , Hu-Lieskovan Siwen , Swami Umang
Published: May 2020

10048

Background: Randomized trials of PDi in MM permitted treatment for 2 years (pembrolizumab) or more (nivolumab). However, the optimal treatment duration is unknown, and shorter courses may be effective. We reviewed clinical outcomes of pts who electively discontinued PDi at 1 year at our institution. Methods: We performed a real-world, observational cohort study of pts with MM treated with single-agent PDi from 1/1/2015 to 12/31/2018 at Huntsman Cancer Institute. This was a continuous series of pts who made the joint decision with their provider to electively discontinue PDi at 1 year ( > 6 mos and < 18 mos) in the setting of ongoing treatment response or disease stability. Exclusion criteria: PDi with other systemic therapy, discontinuation due to disease progression or immune-related adverse event, and PDi in neoadjuvant, adjuvant, or clinical trial settings. Local therapies, as in real-world, were allowed. Best objective response (BOR) per RECIST 1.1 at PDi discontinuation, progression-free survival (PFS) and retreatment characteristics were analyzed. Results: Of 485 pts who received PDi, 52 met inclusion criteria. Median age was 60.5 years and 26.9% were female. Median duration of PDi from first to last dose was 11.1 mos (95% CI 10.5 - 11.4). BOR was complete response in 13 (25%), partial response in 28 (53.8%), and stable disease in 11 (21.2%) pts. After median follow-up of 20.5 mos (range 3 - 49.2) from treatment discontinuation, 39 (75%) pts remained without disease progression (median PFS not reached). Only 13 (25%) pts progressed. Median time to progression after treatment discontinuation was 3.9 mos (range 0.7-30.9). Of the 13 pts, 7 immediately underwent successful localized treatment to the solitary site of progression (3 SRS/SBRT, 4 resection; followed by PDi in 2), 5 were retreated with PDi and 1 received BRAF/MEK followed by PDi. Retreatment with PDi controlled disease in all 5 pts. All pts except 1 were alive at data cut-off. Conclusions: In the largest continuous series of pts with MM who electively discontinued PDi after 1 year of treatment, the majority remained without progression on follow-up. Risk of disease progression even in pts with residual disease on imaging was low, and retreatment was effective. Strengths of our study include real-world cohort and treatment pattern analysis. Limitations include single-institution, retrospective design. After prospective validation, elective PDi discontinuation at 1 year may reduce financial and PDi-related toxicity without sacrificing outcomes.
Activity and safety of third-line BRAF-targeted therapy (TT) following first-line TT and second-line immunotherapy (IT) in advanced melanoma.
Authors: Atkinson Victoria , Batty Kathleen , Long Georgina V. , Carlino Matteo S. , Peters Geoffrey David , Bhave Prachi , Moore Maggie A. , Xu Wen , Brown Lauren Julia , Arneil Melissa , Lyle Megan , Menzies Alexander M.
Published: May 2020

10049

Background: Patients with advanced melanoma who progress on 1st line TT and 2nd line IT have limited treatment options. We explored the safety and efficacy of re-treatment with 3rd line TT. Methods: was pooled from 6 centers in Australia from 2009-2018. Eligible patients with BRAF V600 mutant melanoma had 1st line therapy with a BRAF/MEK inhibitor, 2nd line IO and were re-challenged with a BRAF/MEK inhibitor. Results: 90 patients were included; median age 61 years, 78% BRAF V600E, 89% ECOG 0-1 at baseline. 1st line TT was combination BRAF/MEK inhibitors in 80%, predominately dabrafenib/trametinib. Response to 1st line therapy was CR 20%, PR 41%, SD 17% and PD 13% and median duration of therapy was 7.2 months (0-33 months). 70% stopped for progressive disease, 9% toxicity and 16% had a planned switch to immunotherapy. For 2nd line IT, 49% had PD-1 alone, 33% had PD-1+CTLA-4, 14% had CTLA-4 alone. Only median duration on IT was 67 days (0-23 months), 81% ceased for PD, 14% for toxicity. Of patients who had a planned switch to IO before 1st line TT progression, one patient responded to second line IO with SD as BORR, there were no other responses to 2nd line IO in the planned switch group. At 3rd line TT re-challenge, 54% were AJCC stage IVd, 34% IVc, 51% had elevated LDH, 59% ECOG 0-1. 47% were re-challenged with dabrafenib/trametinib, 33% vemurafenib/cobimetinib, 11% encorafenib/binimetinib. BORR was 28%, with median duration on 3rd line TT 81 days. The OS was 1.7 years, with 34% alive at time of analysis. Conclusions: Despite progression on 1st line TT and 2nd line IT, patients may experience meaningful response and on re-challenge TT.
Checkpoint inhibitor treatment in patients with isolated in-transit melanoma metastases.
Authors: Storey Lucy , Abdul-Latif Mohammed , Kreft Sophia , Barrett Emma , Pickering Lisa M , Rohaan Maartje W. , Ahmed Sobia , Eigentler Thomas K. , Hassel Jessica Cecile , Haferkamp Sebastian , Meiss Frank , Steeb Theresa , Shaw Heather May , Blank Christian U. , Van Akkooi Alexander Christopher Jonathan , Larkin James M. G. , Schilling Bastian , Lorigan Paul , Nathan Paul D.
Published: May 2020

10070

Background: In the context of multiple in-transit melanoma metastases without nodal involvement, a variety of treatment modalities have historically been employed including surgery, laser, isolated limb perfusion/infusion, intralesional interleukin-2, T-VEC and electrochemotherapy. Unfortunately, most patients treated with these modalities experience subsequent disease progression. While checkpoint inhibitors (CPI) are a standard of care for bulky unresectable stage III and for stage IV melanoma, patients with isolated in-transit metastases were rarely included in registration studies. There are anecdotal reports of lower response rates in these patients despite them having disease characteristics that would usually be associated with a good response. Methods: We report data from 11 retrospective patient cohorts treated at cancer centres across Europe who received CPI between 2016 and April 2019. All patients had multiple in-transit metastases without clinical or radiological evidence of nodal or distant disease. Disease response was assessed using CT, PET-CT or MRI depending on clinical indication. All patients had at least one prior resection of loco-regional relapsed disease and were deemed not curable by further surgery. Results: Sixty three patients meeting criteria were identified, 40 females and 23 males. Median age was 72 years and 54 (86%) patients had a normal lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). 19 (30%) patients had a BRAF mutation. At treatment initiation, the majority 55 (87.3%) received single agent PD-1 inhibitor, 7 (11.1%) combination ipilimumab + nivolumab and 1 (1.6%) received single agent anti-CTLA 4. The overall response rate was 62% for the full population. The response rate with anti-PD1 monotherapy was 59%. With a median FU of 23 months, the median PFS was 26 months, median OS not reached. OS estimates with 95% CI: 12 month - 93% (87-100%), 24 month - 88% (80-98%), 36 month - 80% (67-95%). Conclusions: The results show a high response rate to CPI in patients with in-transit metastases and support early treatment with CPI following identification of in-transit metastases not curable with surgery whilst disease characteristics remain favourable.
Exploring impact of mutations in non-BRCA DNA damage response (DDR) and non-DDR genes on efficacy in phase III EMBRACA study of talazoparib (TALA) in patients (pts) with germline BRCA1/2 mutated (gBRCAm) HER2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC).
Authors: Litton Jennifer Keating , Laird Douglas , Rugo Hope S. , Ettl Johannes , Hurvitz Sara A. , Martin Miguel , Roche Henri , Im Young-Hyuck , Goodwin Annabel , Blum Joanne Lorraine , Eiermann Wolfgang , Chen Ying , Lanzalone Silvana , Chelliserry Jijumon , Czibere Akos , Albacker Lee A. , Frampton Garrett M. , Mina Lida A.
Published: May 2020

1018

Background: Loss-of-function mutations in genes encoding components of the homologous recombination DNA damage response (DDR) machinery, notably BRCA1/2, are associated with tumor sensitivity to poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi). In EMBRACA, the PARPi TALA showed an improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) (HR [95% CI] 0.54 [0.41-0.71], P < 0.001) vs physician's choice of chemotherapy (PCT) in g BRCAm HER2− ABC. Methods: Baseline tumor tissue from 308 pts (71%; intent-to-treat) was sequenced using the FoundationOne CDx panel. Mutations summarized below were known/likely pathogenic single-nucleotide variants, insertions, deletions, or rearrangements. Best tumor response (BOR) was using RECIST 1.1 by Investigator (confirmation of CR or PR not required). Results: 296/308 (96%) of evaluable pts exhibited ≥1 tumor BRCA mutation, with 7 of the remaining 12 exhibiting BRCA copy number alterations deemed pathogenic. Mutations in other genes implicated in DDR and/or potential sensitization to PARPi were rare, with mutations detected in BARD1, CDK12, FANCG, STAG2 (each 0.3%), ATR, BRD4, FANCC, PALB2, RAD51B (0.6%), ATM, BRIP1 (1.0%), NBN (1.3%), CHEK2, FANCA (1.6%), and ARID1A (2.3%). No association was observed between total number of DDR mutations, including BRCA1/2, and best tumor response (BOR) [odds ratio of 1 vs ≥2 DDR mutations (95% CI): TALA, 0.76 (0.31-1.87), P = 0.55; PCT, 0.98 (0.27-3.51), P = 0.97]. TP53 and PIK3CA were the most commonly mutated non- BRCA genes in BRCAm tumors (52.0 and 10.8%, respectively). TP53 mutations were more prevalent in BRCA1m vs BRCA2m tumors (85.2 vs 24.8%). PIK3CA mutations were more prevalent in BRCA2m vs BRCA1m tumors (15.9 vs 5.2%). With TALA, PFS was significantly shorter in pts with TP53 mutations than without [HR (95% CI) 1.693 (1.186-2.418), P = 0.0033]. A similar, non-significant, trend was evident with PCT [HR (95% CI) 1.439 (0.859-2.411), P = 0.1614]. PIK3CA mutational status had no impact on PFS in either arm. Conclusions: Selection based on g BRCA mutational status is appropriate to identify HER2─ ABC pts with potential for clinical benefit from TALA, with the total number of tumor mutations in BRCA1/2 and other DDR genes not impacting response (within the g BRCAm subset). TP53 mutations were associated with shorter PFS, likely reflecting the worse outcomes observed in g BRCA1m patients. Additional correlative analyses are ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT01945775 .
Phase I dose escalation and expansion trial to assess the safety and efficacy of ADP-A2M4 SPEAR T cells in advanced solid tumors.
Authors: Hong David S. , Van Tine Brian A. , Olszanski Anthony J. , Johnson Melissa Lynne , Liebner David A. , Trivedi Trupti , Lin Quan , Elefant Erica , Dryer-Minnerly Rebecca , Navenot Jean-Marc , Williams Dennis , Ramachandran Indu R. , Fracasso Paula M. , Norry Elliot , Butler Marcus O.
Published: May 2020

102

Background: MAGE-A4 is a cancer/testis antigen with expression in many solid tumors promoting cell growth by preventing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. This study (NCT03132922) evaluated safety and efficacy of SPEAR T-cells directed against the MAGE-A4 peptide expressed in 9 tumor types. Methods: This Phase I dose-escalation, expansion trial evaluated patients (pt) who were HLA-A*02 positive with advanced cancers that expressed the MAGE-A4 protein. Autologous T-cells from eligible patients were isolated, transduced with a lentiviral vector containing the MAGE-A4c1032 TCR, and expanded. Prior to ADP-A2M4 infusion, pts received a lymphodepletion regimen of cyclophosphamide and fludarabine. Cohorts 1, 2, 3, and expansion were to receive transduced cell doses of up to: 0.12 × 109, 1.2 × 109, 6 × 109, and 10 x 109, respectively. Results: As of 23 October 2019, 9 pts were treated in dose escalation with no DLTs; 25 pts were treated in expansion. Median age was 56.5 yr (range: 31-78). All pts received prior chemotherapy. Most common ( > 30%) AEs ≥Grade 3 were lymphopenia, leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and febrile neutropenia. Two pts had trial-related deaths (aplastic anemia and CVA) leading to modification of the lymphodepletion regimen and eligibility criteria. In Cohort 3/expansion (28 pts), Best Overall Response was PR (7), SD (11), PD (5), non-evaluable (5). All PRs, at the time of data cut-off, were in patients with synovial sarcoma. Transduced T-cells were detectable in all patients. Tumor infiltration of SPEAR T-cells was detectable in several cohort 3/expansion pts. Conclusions: The Phase I single agent ADP-A2M4 trial will complete enrollment shortly and updated data will be presented. ADP-A2M4 shows promising efficacy and a manageable safety profile at a dose range of 1.2 – 10 × 109. Clinical activity in various tumors has led to a separate on-going low dose radiation sub-study of this trial, a Phase II trial in sarcoma (SPEARHEAD-1, NCT04044768), and a Phase I trial (SURPASS, NCT04044859) with ADP-A2M4CD8, a next-generation SPEAR T-cell targeting MAGE-A4. Clinical trial information: NCT03132922.
Prognostic and predictive effects of circulating and disseminated tumor cells in breast cancer: A National Cancer Database (NCDB) analysis.
Authors: Bilani Nadeem , Elson Leah , Arteta-Bulos Rafael , Elimimian Elizabeth Blessing , Liang Hong , Nahleh Zeina A.
Published: May 2020

1029

Background: Alongside other biomarkers, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) could contribute to our growing understanding of the breast cancer (BC) “liquid biopsy”. This study evaluated 1) clinicopathologic factors associated with CTCs and DTCs, 2) the prognostic value of CTCs and DTCs by disease stage, 3), the efficacy of chemotherapy by CTC and DTC status. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of BC using the 2004-2016 National Cancer Database (NCDB). The NCDB defines CTCs as isolated tumor cells (ITCs) found in the blood (using assays such as reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction or immunohistochemistry) distant from the breast. DTCs are ITCs found in the bone marrow or other non-regional tissues. To evaluate variables associated with CTCs or DTCs, we used chi-squared and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests (univariate), followed by multivariate logistic regression. Consequently, we included CTC or DTC status in a multivariate, stage-by-stage Cox regression analysis for overall survival (OS). After adjusting for receptor status and staging, we used the Kaplan-Meier method to explore chemotherapy efficacy in CTC- or DTC-positive vs. CTC- or DTC-negative subsets. Results: 4,846 cases reported CTC-status, 1,454 (21.1%) of which were positive. 4,993 cases reported DTC-status, 1,400 (20.3%) of which were positive. Factors associated with positive CTC status were HER2-positivity, progesterone receptor-positivity, lobular histology and N-staging. Factors associated with positive DTC status were being White, HER2-positivity, lobular histology and N-staging. Positive CTC-status was associated with poor OS overall in late-stage (III and IV) (HR 1.477, 95% CI: 1.129-1.931, p = 0.004) but not early-stage BC (0, I, II) (p = 0.110) disease. DTC-status was not associated with OS in early-stage or late-stage subsets. In hormone receptor (HR)-positive disease, chemotherapy was associated with better OS when CTC-status was also positive both in early-stage (p = 0.003) and late-stage (p = 0.023) disease. In a subset of the same BC subtype with negative CTC-status, however, chemotherapy conferred no survival benefit (p = 0.638 for early-stage, p = 0.501 for late-stage). DTC status was not a significant predictor of chemotherapy efficacy in early or late-stage, HR+ disease. Conclusions: This study suggests that CTC-status is a stronger prognostic factor at later stages of BC; yet it can also help guide management of early-stage disease as it appears predictive for chemotherapy benefit.
Identification of pathogenic ROS1 alterations in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from patients with breast cancer.
Authors: Force Jeremy Meyer , Taylor Mary Love , Drusbosky Leylah , Yen Jennifer , Marcom Paul Kelly , Anders Carey K. , Marks Jeffrey R
Published: May 2020

1031

Background: ROS1 is an important proto-oncogene involved in the development of various cancers for which we have FDA approved therapies. While activation of the ROS1 tyrosine kinase receptor has been reported in 1-2% of lung cancers, the frequency and type of ROS1 alterations in breast cancer have not been fully explored. We previously described the incidence of ROS1 alterations from breast cancer tissue. The purpose of this study was to identify the incidence of ROS1 genomic alterations occurring in cfDNA from patients with breast cancer. Methods: We queried 16,053 breast cancer samples from the Guardant Health breast cancer database between June 2015 - October 2019 to identify the incidence of ROS1 alterations detected in cfDNA in breast cancer. We identified fusion partner genes and classified each alteration type into the following categories: fusion, single nucleotide variants (SNVs), and indels. Radical amino acid changes occurring at conserved regions across the ROS1 gene were identified. In vitro analyses were used to investigate the effect of ROS1 nonsynonymous mutations on the ROS1 protein. We made associations with ROS1 alterations and co-occurring mutated genes. Results: Nonsynonymous ROS1 alterations from the Guardant Health breast cancer database were found in 162 samples from 142 patients in the 16,053-patient cohort (1%). Alterations found included: 1 (0.6%) ROS1-SLC35F1 fusion, 155 (95.7%) SNVs, and 6 (3.7%) indels. Of the 155 SNVs, we identified 23 (14.8%) mutations occurring in the ROS1 kinase, of which, 20 (12.9%) occurred at highly conserved regions and 15 (9.6%) harbored radical amino acid changes. The top 5 co-occurring mutations in samples with ROS1 alterations were TP53 (50%), PIK3CA (44%), ESR1 (27%), EGFR (21%), and FGFR1 (18%). Conclusions: A modest incidence of ROS1 genomic alterations occurs in cfDNA from patients with breast cancer. New somatic alterations in the ROS1 gene were identified from Guardant Health that were not detected in publicly available databases. A portion of mutations occurred at highly conserved regions across the ROS1 gene suggesting these may be more actionable than currently recognized. In vitro analyses of ROS1 gene activation from these newly discovered somatic alterations are being investigated with results to be reported. Co-occurring mutations reveal a unique genotype associated with ROS1 alterations that may play a biologic role in ROS1-mediated pathogenesis.
Trastuzumab deruxtecan for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer: DESTINY-Breast01 subgroup analysis.
Authors: Modi Shanu , Andre Fabrice , Krop Ian E. , Saura Cristina , Yamashita Toshinari , Kim Sung-Bae , Tamura Kenji , Chen Shuquan , Suto Fumitaka , Kuwahara Yusuke , Lee Caleb C. , Park Yeon Hee
Published: May 2020

1036

Background: Trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd; DS-8201) is an antibody-drug conjugate composed of an anti-HER2 antibody, a cleavable linker, and a cytotoxic topoisomerase I inhibitor. In the pivotal DESTINY-Breast01 trial, efficacy of T-DXd in HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer (mBC) was demonstrated, with an objective response rate (ORR) of 60.9% and median progression-free survival (mPFS) of 16.4 months. Methods: DESTINY-Breast01 was a single-group, open-label, multicenter, phase II trial of 184 patients with HER2-positive mBC previously treated with trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) who received T-DXd at 5.4 mg/kg. Multivariate analysis using logistic regression models (ORR) and Cox proportional hazards models (duration of response [DOR], mPFS) explored 15 relevant clinical predictor variables. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) was collected prior to the first dose, every 3 cycles of treatment, and at the end of treatment. Sequencing was done via GuardantOMNI (Guardant Health) for single-nucleotide variation/insertion and deletion, amplification, and fusion of ≈ 500 genes. Results: Efficacy in all evaluated clinical subgroups was similar to the overall ORR 60.9% and mPFS 16.4 months with ranges from ORR 46.4%-74.5% and mPFS 12.3-18.1 months. Variables associated with improved ORR, DOR, or mPFS included hormone receptor positive status, fewer prior treatment regimens (continuous variable), pertuzumab given in the first or second line, and normal renal and hepatic function. Variables that did not impact efficacy outcomes compared to the overall population include age, race, region, ECOG PS, HER2 IHC 3+ status, progesterone receptor status, best response to T-DM1, time since diagnosis, and history of brain metastases. In 48 subjects with progression as of data cut date, metastases were most commonly observed in the liver, lung, and lymph nodes. Only 8% (4 of 48) had progression involvement in the brain upon disease progression. Decrease of ERBB2 copy number in ctDNA was seen on treatment and correlated with clinical response. Additional changes in molecular markers on treatment and following progression will be described. Conclusions: T-DXd demonstrated strong efficacy in all clinical subgroups analyzed. Further exploration of both clinical and molecular variables to determine biomarkers of efficacy may be warranted. Clinical trial information: NCT03248492 .
Clinical activity of MCLA-128 (zenocutuzumab) in combination with endocrine therapy (ET) in ER+/HER2-low, non-amplified metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients (pts) with ET-resistant disease who had progressed on a CDK4/6 inhibitor (CDK4/6i).
Authors: Pistilli Barbara , Wildiers Hans , Hamilton Erika Paige , Ferreira Ana Alexandra , Dalenc Florence , Vidal Maria , Gavilá Joaquín , Goncalves Anthony , Murias Carmen , Mouret-Reynier Marie-Ange , Canon Jean-Luc Re , Bazan Fernando , Ladoire Sylvain , Sirulnik L. Andres , Bekradda Mohamed , Bol Kees , Stalbovskaya Viktoriya , Murat Anastasia , Ford Jim , Bidard Francois Clement
Published: May 2020

1037

Background: MCLA-128 (zenocutuzumab) is an ADCC-enhanced humanized bispecific antibody targeting HER2 and HER3 and potently blocking HER3-ligand induced receptor dimerization. Upregulation of Her2:Her 3 pathway is a means of resistance to ET in HR+ breast cancer, indicating a potential role for MCLA-128. In preclinical studies, the combination of MCLA-128 with ET in breast cancer xenografts outperformed single drug treatments. The current study explores the use of MCLA-128 to rescue pts with ET-resistant MBC who have progressed on a CDK4/6i. Methods: This phase II, open-label trial planned for up to 40 evaluable women with HR+, HER2 low (IHC 1+/IHC 2+ with negative FISH) MBC, who had progressed on a CDK4/6i and up to 3 lines of ET, who had received ≤ 2 chemotherapy regimens in the metastatic setting. Pts received MCLA-128 (750 mg, 2h IV, flat dose) q3w combined with last ET on which the pt had previously progressed immediately prior to study entry. Disease control rate (DCR; RECIST 1.1, per investigator), best overall response (BOR), overall response rate (ORR), safety, and PK, are evaluated. Data cut off was 14Nov2019. Results: 48 pts were treated, all of whom had progressed on a CDK4/6i. Pts had received a median 2 prior ET lines (range 1-5) and 1 line (range 1-3) of chemotherapy. Pts had a median number of 3 metastatic sites (range 1-6) and 42 (88%) had visceral involvement. Among 42 pts evaluable for efficacy, DCR was 45% (90% CI 32-59) with 2 pts having unconfirmed PR and 19 pts SD as BOR. Common related AEs (all grades; G3-4) were asthenia/fatigue (27%; 2%), diarrhea (25%; 0), nausea (21%; 0). No clinically significant LVEF decline was seen. At the end of cycle 1, mean trough level of MCLA-128 was 15.5 µg/mL, and mean terminal half-live was 102 h (n = 19-21). Data on the primary endpoint, clinical benefit rate at 24 weeks, and biomarkers will be provided. Conclusions: The addition of MCLA-128 to the last line of ET showed clinical activity after ET+CDK4/6i failure and a favorable safety profile. Clinical trial information: NCT03321981 .
Targeted next generation sequencing to expand HER2 status detection: Implication for newer HER2-directed agents.
Authors: Liao Ning , Song RongFeng , Xue FangQin , Zhang Shuirong , Klempner Samuel J , Chen Lijuan , Wang Kai , Wang Wenjing
Published: May 2020

1047

Background: Establishment of ERBB2 ( HER2) amplification status in breast carcinoma (BC) and gastric carcinoma (GC) is essential for treatment selection, but no anti- HER2 therapies have been approved for tumors with low level of HER2 expression. The clinical trial ( NCT02564900 ) was initiated to evaluate the safety and efficacy of trastuzumab deruxtecan (DS-8201a) in BC patients with lower HER2 expression by current methods. This study aims to validate NGS-based detection for HER2 low expression. Methods: 275 BC and 425 GC were collected and subjected to NGS for genomic alteration detection. The testing was carried out by a College of American Pathologists (CAP) accredited and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) certified laboratory, Shanghai, China. Protein expression was analyzed by using IHC. FISH was carried out on 108 samples, including 63 BC and 45 GC. To set up NGS cutoff, FISH was performed on additional 34 samples. Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were evaluated based on FISH as a gold-standard reference. Results: In BC, the expression level of HER2 protein detected by IHC was overall IHC 0 in 28.7%, 1+ in 18.9%, 2+ in 27.3% and 3+ in 25.1%, respectively, while in GC, the expression level was 60.7%, 18.6%, 14.8% and 5.9%, respectively. Log2ratio was used to assess ERBB2 amplification status detected by NGS. According to the FISH results of 34 other samples with high sensitivity (98%) and specificity (100%), the threshold was determined as 0.5. 8 and 10 samples of IHC 1+/2+ met the cutoff in BC and GC, respectively. In 63 BC, there were 17 positive and 46 negative by FISH. According to the threshold, the sensitivity and specificity of NGS detection was 94.1% and 97.8%, respectively. The proportion of samples with IHC 2+ that couldn't determine NGS ERBB2 status was 49.2%. However, except for false positive and false negative, the NGS results were concordant with FISH. In 45 GC, there were 5 positive and 40 negative by FISH. The specificity and sensitivity was 97.5% and 40%, respectively. In 4 samples with IHC 2+, 2 of them were discordant with the results of NGS and FISH. All IHC 1+ didn't meet the cutoff of NGS and was FISH negative in 108 samples. The accuracy of NGS in ERBB2 detection was 96.8% and 91.1% for BC and GC, respectively. Conclusions: Our data indicated that the NGS-based detection of ERBB2 amplification had high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. In samples with IHC 1+/2+, the results of NGS detection were high concordant with FISH detection.
Activity of front-line window therapy with temozolomide plus irinotecan in patients with primary multifocal Ewing sarcoma: ISG/AIEOP EW-2 protocol.
Authors: Sebastian Asaftei Dorin , Puma Nadia , Paioli Anna , Petraz Marco , Morosi Carlo , Podda Marta Giorgia , Tamburini Angela , Coccoli Luca , Grignani Giovanni , Manzitti Carla , Bertulli Rossella , De Leonardis Francesco , Rabusin Marco , Picci Piero , Prete Arcangelo , Longhi Alessandra , Fagioli Franca , Luksch Roberto
Published: May 2020

10516

Background: The prognosis of patients with primary multifocal metastatic Ewing sarcoma (PMES) remains dismal. So far, combination with temozolomide and irinotecan (TEMIRI) was tested in patients with refractory or relapsed disease. This study evaluates the activity and the tolerability of TEMIRI as front-line treatment in PMES. Methods: In the study-period 2012-2018, a front-line window therapy with 2 courses TEMIRI (temozolomide 100 mg/sqm/day + irinotecan 50 mg/sqm/day for 5 days every three weeks) was introduced as amendment to the ISG/AIEOP EW-2 protocol ( EUDRACT#2009-011197-15, Vers. 1.02 ) for patients with PMES. Main objective was to test the activity of TEMIRI evaluated by RECIST 1.1 criteria, with centralized revision of the radiological response. Secondary objectives included assessment of the toxicity profile and clinical benefit of the combination. A two-step study design by Simon was planned. Results: Thirty-four patients were enrolled. Median age at diagnosis was 19 years (range 3-55); males/females ratio was 2.4. Primary axial tumour was present in 24 (70%). After TEMIRI, RECIST response was as follows: partial response -20 (59%), stable disease -11 (32%), progression disease -3 (9%). After TEMIRI, amelioration in ECOG/Lansky score was achieved in 25/34 (73,5%), and reduction or disappearance of pain was observed in 31/34 patients (91%). TEMIRI toxicity was manageable: incidence of grade 3-4 nonhaematological and haematological toxicity was 3% and 3%, respectively (67/68 evaluable courses). At the time of the present analysis, 11 patients are alive; 7 of them are in complete remission and completed their treatment program (5-drug standard chemotherapy). With a median follow-up of 31 months (range 23-75), the 3-year survival estimate is 36,5%±0.09. Conclusions: Upfront TEMIRI x 2 courses showed an encouraging activity, with response rate 59% and deserves further evaluation combined with conventional treatments also in non-metastatic patients. In PMES new treatment strategies are urgently needed. Clinical trial information: NCT02727387.
Tisagenlecleucel (Tisa) for relapsed/refractory (r/r) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL): B2001X study focusing on prior exposure to blinatumomab (BLINA) and inotuzumab (INO).
Authors: Krueger Joerg , Bittencourt Henrique N. S. , Rives Susana , Baruchel Andre , De Moerloose Barbara , Peters Christina , Bader Peter , Buechner Jochen , Boissel Nicolas , Hiramatsu Hidefumi , Thudium Karen , Sanjeevi Prasanthi , White Marina , Eldjerou Lamis K. , Balduzzi Adriana
Published: May 2020

10518

Background: B2001X (NCT03123939) is a multicenter global study of tisa to provide access to patients (pts) with r/r ALL including prior anti-CD19 therapy after enrollment ended in the pivotal ELIANA (NCT02435849) study. We report clinical outcomes and cellular kinetics in B2001X including pts with prior BLINA exposure or INO as bridging therapy (BT). Methods: Eligible pts ≤21 y at diagnosis with ≥2 relapse, refractory or post allogeneic transplant (alloSCT) relapse were enrolled globally. Results: As of Nov 4, 2019, 73 pts were enrolled; 67 received tisa. 91% received lymphodepletion. Among 65 pts ≥3 mo follow up (FU) or discontinued earlier (efficacy analysis set [EAS]) median FU was 9.6 mo (range [R] 0.2-16.5). Median age 10 y (R 2-33); prior alloSCT 61%; 15 pts had prior BLINA and 9 pts had INO as BT. Efficacy is summarized in Table. 13/14 relapsed pts were medullary (isolated or combined with extramedullary [EM]) and 1 EM; 9 within 6 mo including 4/5 who were CD19(+). 64% had CRS (G 3/4 13%/15%; Penn scale); 24% had neurologic events (G 3/4 9%/2%; CTCAE v4.03). 4 deaths ≤30 d: 2 early ALL progression, 1 fatal CRS with refractory ALL, 1 infection with multiorgan failure. Transgene level in peripheral blood: limited to no in vivo expansion in nonresponders (n=8) vs responders (n=42). Median duration of persistence (T last) of tisa was 272 d (R 27-379) in responders. In pts with CR/CRi, Cmax (geo-mean [CV%]) and median T last were 9260 (124) copies/µg DNA and 154 d (R 28-349), respectively, in pts who received INO as BT (n=6) vs 38,500 (215) and 273 d (R 27-379), respectively, in pts with no INO as BT (n=36). Conclusions: Outcomes in B2001X remain consistent with ELIANA. In pts with prior BLINA or INO as BT, a trend toward suboptimal outcomes was observed but should be interpreted with caution due to small n, short FU and potential confounding factors. Clinical trial information: NCT03123939. [Table: see text]
Biomarker analysis from a phase I study using gedatolisib+palbociclib+hormone therapy in ER+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer (mBC).
Authors: Wesolowski Robert , Pathan Nuzhat , Zhu Zhou , Stringer-Reasor Erica Michelle , Han Hyo S. , Dees Elizabeth Claire , Bardia Aditya , Layman Rachel M. , Weise Amy , Kabos Peter , Lu Janice M. , Kern Kenneth Alan , Pierce Kristen J. , Rugo Hope S.
Published: May 2020

1052

Background: Endocrine therapy with a CDK4/6 inhibitor (CDKi) is standard of care (SOC) for patients (pts) with estrogen-receptor-positive (ER+) metastatic breast cancer (mBC). Resistance to therapy may arise from mutations in ESR1, PIK3CA, and activation of receptor tyrosine kinase signaling pathways. In this study, gedatolisib (G), a PI3KCA/mTOR inhibitor, was added to a CDKi (palbociclib, P) + letrozole (L) or fulvestrant (F) for treatment of pts with ER+/HER2- mBC. Methods: This phase 1b study (NCT02684032) comprises a dose escalation phase evaluating the dose-limiting toxicity and maximum tolerated dose of G+P+L/F and a dose expansion phase assessing the objective response rate of G+P+L/F, compared with historical data for P+L or P+F. Response was assessed using RECIST v1.1. Genomic and transcriptomic analyses were performed on archival pt tumor biopsies. Longitudinal plasma ctDNA analysis was performed on samples taken at baseline, on-treatment, and end-of-treatment. Unsupervised data analysis was conducted. Results: Genomic information was available for 25 of 35 pts with measurable disease (G+P+L: 11; G+P+F: 14). No relationship was observed between responses (1 complete response [CR] and 11 partial responses [PR]) and baseline PIK3CA pathway alterations. Pt tumor tissue analysis (n = 25) confirmed pts with FGF3/4/19 amplification (n = 4) had larger changes in tumor size in response to G+P+L/F (p = 0.029). Of the 6 pts with an ESR1 mutation, 1 pt with an ESR1 Y537S mutation exhibited a partial response (PR) to G+P+L. Longitudinal plasma ctDNA analysis (73-gene panel) revealed that decreases in PIK3CA and PTEN were most associated with clinical response. Plasma sample analysis (n = 21) showed that pts with somatic alterations in EGFR (n = 4) had a greater response to therapy (p = 0.066), compared with pts without somatic EGFR alterations. Transcriptomic profiling also revealed responsive patients had higher levels of EGFR expression. Pts exhibiting CR/PR had a lower somatic tumor mutation burden at Cycle 5 Day 1 compared with baseline (p = 0.0013). Conclusions: The addition of G to SOC endocrine + CDKi therapy may help overcome resistance due to activation of FGFR or EGFR signaling pathways and the ESR1 Y537S mutation. Somatic frequency changes of PI3K pathway alterations were most correlated with clinical response. Genomic data analysis from dose expansion samples is currently ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT02684032 .
A phase I/II study of lenvatinib (LEN) plus everolimus (EVE) in recurrent and refractory pediatric solid tumors, including CNS tumors.
Authors: Dela Cruz Filemon S. , Fox Elizabeth , Muscal Jodi Ann , Kirov Ivan , Geller James I. , DuBois Steven G. , Kim AeRang , Croop James , Laetsch Theodore Willis , Minard Charles G. , Liu Xiaowei , Weigel Brenda , Okpara Chinyere E. , Huang Jie , Dutta Lea , Aluri Jagadeesh , Glade Bender Julia Lynne
Published: May 2020

10527

Background: Proangiogenic signaling pathways cooperate with mTOR-mediated regulation of cell growth and maintenance to drive development of many pediatric cancers. We report results of the phase 1 dose escalation for LEN + EVE in pediatric patients (pts) with recurrent solid and CNS tumors conducted by Children’s Oncology Group. Methods: Dose escalation was conducted using a rolling-6 design. Pts received LEN + EVE orally once daily in continuous 28-day cycles. Dose determination was based on toxicity (CTCAE v4.03) during cycle 1. Pharmacokinetics (PK) of plasma LEN and EVE were monitored. Results: 17 pts were enrolled (9 male; 8 female). Median (range) age was 10 (3–21) years; 8 pts had CNS tumors. 17 were evaluable for dose-limiting toxicity (DLT). Enrollment started at dose level 1 (DL 1; LEN 11 mg/m2 + EVE 3 mg/m2) and, after treatment of 3 pts, was initially de-escalated to DL –1 (LEN 8 mg/m2 + EVE 3 mg/m2) due to DLT of proteinuria in 1 pt and self-resolving headache in another who, on review, did not meet the definition of DLT. No pts enrolled at DL –1 (n = 5) experienced DLT. Overall, DLTs were observed in 2 of the first 6 patients enrolled at DL 1: the initial pt with proteinuria and 1 more pt with hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesteremia. Because 2 pts had reversible DLT of different categories not related to Cmax or AUC, the DL 1 cohort was expanded to enroll an additional 6 pts, none of whom had DLT. Thus, 2/12 pts experienced DLT at DL 1. Overall, most common treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs; ≥ 50% of pts) were diarrhea, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, and hypothyroidism. 47% of pts had ≥ 1 treatment-related TEAE grade ≥ 3; the most frequent was proteinuria (n = 2). On cycle 1 day 15, mean (SD) Cmax (ng/mL) for LEN at DL –1 and DL 1, respectively, was 314 (150) and 359 (270), and mean (SD) AUC0-8h (hr•ng/mL) for LEN was 1570 (935) and 1780 (1100). Taking all toxicities and PK into account, no further dose escalation was recommended. Best overall response in pts with measurable disease was 2/11 stable disease, 7/11 progressive disease, and 2/11 not evaluable. Conclusions: The recommended phase 2 dose of LEN + EVE in children with solid and CNS tumors was LEN 11 mg/m2 + EVE 3 mg/m2, with maximum daily doses capped at 18 mg and 5 mg, respectively. The toxicity profile was no more than additive to single-agent therapy. PK exposure was comparable with children on single-agent LEN and to adults receiving LEN + EVE. Enrollment to the phase 2 portion (Ewing sarcoma, high-grade glioma, and rhabdomyosarcoma strata) is ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT03245151.