bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A first-in-human, multicenter, open-label, phase 1 study of ATOR-1017, a 4-1BB antibody, in patients with advanced solid malignancies.
Authors: Ullenhag Gustav J. , Yachnin Jeffrey , Carneiro Ana , Elison Emma , Carlsson Malin , Russell Charlotte Astrid , Enell Smith Karin
Published: June 2021

2646

Background: ATOR-1017 is a human agonistic IgG4 antibody targeting the co-stimulatory receptor 4-1BB (CD137). It is developed to activate T cells and natural killer cells in the tumor environment, leading to immune-mediated tumor cell killing. This is a first-in-human, multicenter, phase 1 study (NCT04144842). Methods: In this study, ATOR-1017 is administered intravenously every 21 days as a single agent to patients with solid malignancies. ATOR-1017 is administered until confirmed progressive disease, unacceptable toxicity or withdrawal of consent. The primary objective of the study is to determine the maximum tolerated dose, assessed by adverse events (AEs) and dose limiting toxicities (DLTs), and the recommended phase 2 dose. Secondary objectives include pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity and clinical efficacy, assessed with CT scans using response criteria for use in studies testing immunotherapeutics (iRECIST). The study uses a single cohort design for doses up to 40 mg, and thereafter a modified 3+3 design. Results: The first patient was dosed in December 2019; by 22 Jan 2021, twelve patients have been exposed to ATOR-1017. The following dose levels have been evaluated; 0.38 mg; 1.5 mg; 5 mg; 15 mg; 40 mg and 100 mg. Dose escalation is ongoing, and the 200 mg dose level is under evaluation. The maximum tolerated dose has not been reached. The following cancer types are included; ovarian cancer (n = 1), choroidal melanoma (n = 3), anal cancer (n = 1), cholangiocarcinoma (n = 1), gastrointestinal stromal tumor (n = 1), breast cancer (n = 1), pancreatic cancer (n = 1), adenoid cystic cancer (n = 1), malignant melanoma (n = 1), colorectal cancer (n = 1). Drug-related AEs were reported in 5 out of 12 patients; one patient experienced a grade 3, all others were grade 1 or 2. There have been two episodes each of chest pain (grades 2 and 3) and headache (grades 1 and 2). Single cases of pyrexia, upper abdominal pain, mouth ulceration, nausea, leukopenia, neutropenia, cytokine release syndrome (CRS), arthralgia, neck pain, and rash were also reported. No DLTs have been observed in the study to date. The median age of the patients were 48.5 years (range 34-76). Patients received a median of 2 prior lines of therapy (range 1-4). The median time on study were 15 weeks (range 0.14-51). Six patients are on study, and six patients have discontinued treatment. Reasons for discontinuation include; investigator decision (n = 1), confirmed disease progression (n = 1), withdrawal of consent (n = 1), death due to disease progression (n = 1) and other reason (n = 2). Preliminary PK data show dose-proportional kinetics up to 100 mg. Best response has been stable disease. Conclusions: ATOR-1017 is safe and well-tolerated up to 100 mg. Dose escalation continues and the current dose level is 200 mg. Clinical trial information: NCT04144842.
Consensus disease definitions for the spectrum of neurologic immune related adverse events.
Authors: Guidon Amanda C , Burton Leeann B , Chwalisz Bart K , Hillis James M , Schaller Teilo , Reynolds Kerry Lynn ,   Neuro irAE Disease Definition Panel
Published: June 2021

2647

Background: Expanding FDA-approved indications for immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with cancer has resulted in both therapeutic success and immune related adverse events (irAEs). Neurologic irAEs (irAE-Ns) have an incidence of 1-12% and a high fatality rate relative to other irAEs. Lack of standardized disease definitions and accurate phenotyping leads to syndrome misclassification and impedes evidence-based treatments and research progress. The objectives of this study were to develop consensus guidance for an approach to irAE-Ns including disease definitions and severity grading. Methods: A working group of 4 neurologists drafted irAE-N consensus guidance and definitions, which were reviewed by the Neuro irAE Disease Definition Panel, consisting of neurologists, oncologists, neuro-oncologists and irAE subspecialists. A modified Delphi consensus process was used, with 2 rounds of anonymous ratings by panelists and 2 virtual meetings to discuss areas of controversy. Panelists rated content for usability, appropriateness and accuracy on 9-point scales in electronic surveys and provided free text comments. The working group aggregated survey responses and incorporated them into revised definitions. Consensus was based on numeric ratings using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method with prespecified definitions. Results: Twenty-seven panelists from 15 academic medical centers voted on a total of 53 rating scales (6 general guidance, 24 central and 18 peripheral nervous system disease definition components, 3 severity criteria and 2 clinical trial adjudication statements); of these, 77% (41/53) received first round consensus. After revisions, all items received second round consensus. Consensus definitions were achieved for 7 core disorders: irMeningitis, irEncephalitis/Encephalomyelitis, irDemyelinating disease, irVasculitis, irNeuropathy, irNeuromuscular junction disorders and irMyopathy. For each disorder, 6 sub-classifications are described: disease subtype, diagnostic certainty, severity, autoantibody association, exacerbation of pre-existing disease or de novo presentation and present or absent concurrent irAE. Conclusions: These disease definitions standardize irAE-N classification. They are being incorporated into a multi-institutional registry that our group has initiated to study irAEs. Given consensus on their accuracy and usability from a representative panel group, we anticipate that they can be used broadly across clinical and research settings.
Prevalence of hyperprogressive disease (HPD) mutations and correlations to immune-related biomarkers in a large pan-cancer Chinese cohort.
Authors: Yang Shengli , Liu Xinyi , Bei Ting , Huang Mengli
Published: June 2021

2649

Background: Immune checkpoint blockade (ICI) therapies have demonstrated inspiring clinical efficacy in multiple types of cancer. However, a subset of patients suffered rapid tumor growth after ICI treatment, which is known as hyperprogressive disease (HPD). Although the mechanism of HPD has not been fully elucidated, some genomic alterations, such as CDKN2A/CDKN2B loss and MDM2/MDM4 amplification were reported to occur in tumors with ICI-related HPD. We analyzed the prevalence of these four “HPD mutations” and their association with PD-L1 expression, TMB, and occurrence of driver gene mutations in a large pan-cancer Chinese cohort. Methods: Patients whose tumor tissues were subjected to molecular profiling using targeted next-generation sequencing from January 2017 – November 2020 were included. Single nucleotide variants (SNV), copy number variants (CNV), insertion/deletions (indels) and fusions were called. PD-L1 expression was stratified by CPS 5. Fisher’s exact test were conducted to compare the frequencies of biomarkers and Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the TMB level between the “HPD mutations” group and their wild-type counterpart. Results: 45,785 patients of 22 types of cancer were queried. Across all 22 cancers, CDKN2A loss and CDKN2B loss were most commonly seen in ESCA (23.3%, 19.8%), while with the lowest frequency in PRAD (0.18%, 0.18%). MDM2 gain and MDM4 gain occurred most frequently in SARC (14.6%) and BRCA (3.3%), respectively, with the lowest frequency in COAD (0.05%, 0.07%). PD-L1 positive (CPS≥5) rates were similar in CDKN2A/B loss, MDM2/4 amp and wild-type groups in the whole cohort (26.1%, 25%, 27.7%). Enrichment of PD-L1 positivity was not observed in HPD-mutant groups in a specific cancer type. Compared with wild-type group, CDKN2A/B loss significantly correlated with higher TMB levels in NSCLC and SARC (p < 0.05) while MDM2/4 amp correlated with lower TMB levels in NSCLC, BTC, and STAD (p < 0.05). In NSCLC, SNV in EGFR, TP53, KEAP1, NFE2L2, STK11, PIK3CA, and SMARCA4 genes were significantly enriched in the CDKN2A/B loss group, while SNV in EGFR, RBM10, AR, KDR genes, and fusion in RET were significantly enriched in MDM2/4 amp group. Conclusions: HPD mutations were significantly associated with TMB level and occurrence of some driver genes, but were not correlated with PD-L1 expression. Our results revealed the immune-related molecular characteristics in tumors with HPD mutations, providing more insights into the exploration for mechanism of HPD.
Proton pump inhibitors and antibiotics impact on toxicities and clinical outcomes in cancer patients treated with immunotherapy.
Authors: Araujo Haniel alves , Moniz Camila Motta Venchiarutti , Braghiroli Oddone Freitas Melro , Mak Milena Perez , Uratani Lucas Fernando , Dahmer Tiecher Ricardo , Moraes Priscila Muniz , Barbosa Ingrid , Camargo Veridiana Pires De , Braghiroli Maria Ignez Freitas Melro , Castro Gilberto , Hoff Paulo Marcelo , Diz Maria Del Pilar
Published: June 2021

2652

Background: Gut microbiome dysbiosis impairs systemic immune responses and recent evidence suggests its critical role in patients (pts) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI). Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and antibiotics (ATB) may alter the microbiome and their impact on clinical outcomes and toxicities requires further investigation. Methods: This retrospective cohort included consecutive metastatic cancer pts treated with ICI with palliative intent. We reviewed pts' records, concomitant medication and toxicities graded by CTCAE 4.0. Pts with PPI or ATB exposure were analyzed according to previous use (pPPI and pATB, ≤60 days to ICI) and concomitant use (cPPI and cATB). We estimated median overall survival (mOS) and progression free survival (PFS) by Kaplan–Meier and used a Cox proportional-hazards model to adjust for differences in baseline characteristics. Toxicities and ATB/PPI interaction was calculated using Pearson Chi-square method. Results: We enrolled 216 pts with a median age of 59 years, mostly ECOG-PS 0 (34%) or 1 (58%). ICI employed were mostly anti-PD-1 (60.2%), anti-CTLA-4 (16.2%) and anti-PD-L1 (12.5%). Most frequent primary tumor sites were lung n = 39 (18.1%), gastrointestinal n = 34 (15.7%) and melanoma n = 33 (15.2%). Half of the pts (108) received ATB and 114 (52.8%) PPI. Compared to control, pPPI group n = 57 (26.4%) had shorter mOS (11.6m vs 19.7m, p < 0.001) and PFS (2.8m vs 8.5m, p < 0.001), but no statistically significant difference in toxicities grade ≥3 and/or leading to ICI discontinuation (36% vs 29.1%; p = 0.29). cPPI n = 100 (46.3%) depicted a negative impact on mOS (12.1m vs 17.0m; p = 0.01), PFS (4.3m vs 7.1m; p = 0.04) and augmented toxicities (42% vs 19%; p < 0.001). pATB n = 34 (15.7%) had shorter OS (6.9m vs 19.3m, p < 0.001) and PFS (3.2 vs 7.2m, p = 0.005) and higher incidence of toxicities (45.9% vs 28.1%; p = 0.04 ). cATB use n = 92 (42.6%) did not impact OS (12.1m vs 15.6m; p = 0.32) or PFS (5.5m vs 5.9m; p = 0.82), but had a higher incidence of toxicities: 37% vs. 24.2% (p = 0.05). Multivariate analyses confirmed that pATB therapy and pPPI respectively remained as independent prognostic variables associated with OS (HR 2.39; 95% CI, 1.60-3.59; P <.001 and HR 1.73; 95% CI 1.23-2.44; P = 0.002) and PFS (HR 1.72; 95% CI, 1.14-2.61; P = 0.01 and HR 2.36; 95% CI 1.67 - 3.34; P < 0.001) adjusted by performance status, age and line of treatment. Conclusions: These data suggest that concomitant use of PPI and ATB is associated with increased toxicities in ICI treated pts. pPPI and pATB can negatively impact OS and PFS and merit clinician’s attention.
MyPathway HER2 basket study: Pertuzumab (P) + trastuzumab (H) treatment of a large, tissue-agnostic cohort of patients with HER2-positive advanced solid tumors.
Authors: Meric-Bernstam Funda , Hainsworth John , Bose Ron , Burris III Howard A. , Friedman Claire Frances , Kurzrock Razelle , Swanton Charles , Wang Yong , Levy Jonathan , Schulze Katja , Price Richard , Patel Arisha , Sweeney Christopher
Published: June 2021

3004

Background: HER2 ( ERBB2) amplification and/or overexpression is observed in 2–3% of solid tumors, and is often associated with more aggressive disease. Thus far, HER2-targeted therapies are FDA-approved only for breast, gastric, and gastroesophageal cancers. MyPathway (NCT02091141) is a non-randomized, phase 2a multi-basket study assessing the activity of FDA-approved targeted therapies in non-indicated advanced solid tumors with relevant molecular alterations. We report results from the MyPathway HER2 basket, comprising a large, tissue-agnostic cohort of patients (pts) with HER2-altered tumors treated with P + H. Methods: Pts in this analysis were aged ≥18 years and had HER2-amplified and/or overexpressed tumors. Pts received P (840-mg IV loading dose, then 420-mg every 3 weeks [q3w]) + H (8-mg/kg IV loading dose, then 6-mg/kg q3w). The primary efficacy endpoint was investigator-assessed objective response rate (ORR). Other endpoints included disease control rate (DCR, defined by objective response or stable disease >4 mos) and duration of response (DOR). Subgroup analyses were completed by tumor type and KRAS status. Results: Pts were fully enrolled from April 14, 2014 to June 15, 2020. By January 22, 2021, 260 pts were efficacy-evaluable. Confirmed ORR (cORR) was 23.1% (60/260, including 5 complete responses; 95% confidence interval [CI] 18.1–28.7), DCR was 44.2% (115/260, 95% CI 38.1–50.5), and median DOR was 7.9 mos (95% CI 6.2–9.3). In 199 pts with wild-type KRAS tumors, cORR was 25.6% (51/199, 95% CI 19.7–32.3), DCR was 48.7% (97/199, 95% CI 41.6–55.9), and median DOR was 8.3 mos (95% CI 6.2–10.8). In comparison, in 26 pts with KRAS-mutated tumors, cORR was 3.8% (1/26, responder had colorectal cancer; 95% CI 0.1–19.6), DCR was 3.8% (1/26, 95% CI 0.1–19.6), and DOR was 2.7 mos. KRAS status was unknown in 35/260 pts (cORR 22.9% [8/35, 95% CI 10.4–40.1]; median DOR 6.7 mos [95% CI 2.5–12.7]). Clinical outcomes by tumor type are shown in the Table. Conclusions: P+H was active in a wide variety of KRAS wild-type HER2-amplified/overexpressed tumor types, but had limited activity in KRAS-mutated tumors. Clinical trial information: NCT02091141. [Table: see text]
Prevalence of inferred clonal hematopoiesis (CH) detected on comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) of solid tumor tissue or circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).
Authors: Antonarakis Emmanuel S. , Kuang Zheng , Tukachinsky Hanna , Parachoniak Christine , Kelly Andrew David , Gjoerup Ole , Aiyer Aparna , Severson Eric Allan , Pavlick Dean C. , Frampton Garrett M. , Venstrom Jeffrey Michael , Oxnard Geoffrey R.
Published: June 2021

3009

Background: The increased use of ctDNA CGP has paralleled increased detection and interest in CH, which can confound CGP results from ctDNA or tissue, and can be associated with hematologic and cardiovascular morbidity. However, paired-depth sequencing of white blood cells (WBC) for confirmation of CH is not widely available. We here study the prevalence of inferred CH (iCH), which refers to incidental detection on routine clinical CGP of variants attributable to CH due to their known CH association and their negligible prevalence in solid tumors. Methods: A database of clinical CGP results was reviewed, including two 324-gene NGS panels for tumor tissue (FoundationOne CDx) and plasma ctDNA (FoundationOne Liquid CDx). Analysis was limited to NSCLC, breast, prostate, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. iCH was defined as any pathogenic mutation in ASXL1, DNMT3A, and TET2, and prespecified mutations in JAK2, SF3B1, U2AF1, MYD88, IDH2, MPL, CBL. Variant allelic frequency (VAF) > 2% was considered clinically significant and VAF > 10% was considered high risk. Results: 100,905 total cases were studied; median age was 65 for tissue CGP and 68 for ctDNA. iCH was more commonly detected in ctDNA (1468/2891, 51%) than in tissue (9416/97993, 10%). Among cases with any iCH detected, multiple iCH mutations were seen more commonly in ctDNA (640/2891, 22%) than in tissue (987/98014, 1%). Focusing on clinically significant iCH ( > 2% VAF), prevalence remained higher in ctDNA (22%, 637) than in tissue (8%, 7878), while the higher sensitivity of ctDNA testing identified more low level iCH (< 2% VAF, 40% in ctDNA, 2% in tissue). Across cancer types, iCH > 2% was consistently more common in ctDNA (Table). As expected, prevalence of iCH > 2% increased with age (continuous variable, p < 0.001). High risk iCH ( > 10% VAF) was seen in 4% of total cases (most commonly ASXL1, TET2, DNMT3A); 1% of all cases had multiple clinically significant iCH variants ( > 2% VAF). Focusing on a subset of 439 cases with both tissue and ctDNA results (median 1.5 months between samples), 290 iCH mutations were detected in ctDNA (median VAF 1%) but only 38 in tissue (median VAF 9%). Conclusions: Inferred CH is common on somatic CGP of cancer patients, with a high prevalence in ctDNA likely due to the deeper sequencing depth and WBC contamination. For the minority of patients with high VAF iCH, further research is needed to understand whether this might be representative of an occult hematologic condition deserving of further evaluation.[Table: see text]
A single institution experience with droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (dd-PCR) liquid biopsy (LB) for therapeutic decision in advanced solid tumors.
Authors: Murad Andre Marcio , Carneiro Juliana Garcia , Casali-da-Rocha José Claudio
Published: June 2021

3038

Background: Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) is a promising method for analyzing minor amounts of cell-free circulating free nucleic acid (DNA and RNA) due to its high sensitivity, low cost, and fast reading, since it dispenses bioinformatics, making it an appropriate alternative to new generation sequencing (NGS) for the detection of biomarkers to guide molecularly targeted cancer therapy. The assay covers main actionable hotspot alterations across many actionable genes: EGFR(mutations), ALK (fusion, mutations), ROS1(fusion), BRAF(mutations), KRAS (mutations), NRAS(mutations), PIK3CA (mutations), ERBB2(CNV- copy number variation), ESR1(mutations), KIT(CNV) and PDGFRA(CNV). Therefore, our genes can be used in panels, both in therapeutically applied genotyping and in detecting molecular responses as well as in secondary resistance to tumors such as NSCLC, breast, cervix. rectal, GIST, melanoma and pancreas. Methods: dd-PCR was performed using the QX200 system (BIO-RAD, Hercules). The extraction of DNA and RNA was done using the magnetic beads technique of Thermofisher's MagMAX Kit. All samples were tested in duplicate. Up to now, 108 metastatic cancer patients were tested: NSCLC - 28 (26%), breast - 22 (20%), colorectal - 22(20%), melanoma - 18(17%), pancreas - 8(7%), ovarian - 6(6%), salivary glands - 2 (4%) and GIST 2(4%). Results: Significant genomic alterations were detected in 38(35%) patients: 10 (9%) mutations in the KRAS G12V gene (all in colorectal cancer), 10 (9%) ERBB2 amplification (breast cancer), 4 (3.65%) EGFR L858R mutations (NSCLC), 4 (3.5%) EGFR del19 mutations (NSLC), 4 (3.5%) EGFR T790M mutations (NSCLC), 4 (3.5%) BRAF-V600E mutations (colon and melanoma), 2 (1.8%) ALK-EML4 fusion (NSCLC). The MAF (Mutant Allele Fraction) ranged from 0.9% to 24%. In all cases, the results were decisive for the indication or change of a targeted therapy. Median turnaround time was 36 hours and the average cost of the panels was around 500 USD (median of 4 genes per panel). Conclusions: Our results suggest that dd-PCR is a highly sensitive method and could be used for a routine laboratory detection of the important genomic variations to determine the targeted therapy in patients with varied advanced solid tumors.
Addition of selpercatinib to overcome osimertinib resistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with acquired RET fusion detected in ctDNA at very low allele frequency.
Authors: Kim Leeseul , Chae Young Kwang , Jung Chan Mi , Lee Alice Daeun , Yu Emma
Published: June 2021

3046

Background: Osimertinib, a highly selective third generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) became the standard front-line therapy for EGFR-mutant NSCLC. However, therapeutic options are limited for TKI resistance which commonly occurs. Therefore, overcoming acquired resistance to osimertinib remains an important high unmet need in the field of precision oncology. Herein, we present the first case of advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung that showed notable response with the addition of selpercatinib after acquired resistance to osimertinib monotherapy. Methods: Case presentation. Results: A 37-year-old woman with stage IVB adenocarcinoma of lung with osseous, hepatic and brain metastases initially received one cycle of carboplatin, pemetrexed and pembrolizumab. Based on the EGFR exon19 deletion detected from ctDNA NGS assay (Guardant 360) [variant allele frequency (VAF) 62.7%], the treatment regimen was changed to osimertinib monotherapy (80mg PO daily). Bevacizumab was empirically added given CNS involvement. She maintained overall stable disease for 10 months before subsequent CT showed disease progression. The treatment regimen was switched to atezolizumab, bevacizumab, paclitaxel and carboplatin combination therapy. She tolerated 6 cycles of the regimen in 4 month before a subsequent brain MRI revealed progression of the metastatic brain disease with new leptomeningeal disease. Whole brain radiotherapy was performed and decision was made to start combination TKI treatment of selpercatinib (120mg BID) added to the osimertinib (80mg daily) monotherapy based on her repeat ctDNA NGS assay result showing concurrent acquired CCDC6RET fusion (VAF 0.05%) and EGFR exon 19 deletion (VAF 10.0%). The 6 week follow-up CT demonstrated significant decrease in the largest lung mass (33.95*24.22mm->32.50*16.07mm). Repeat ctDNA NGS assay at one week after selpercatinib use showed disappearance of RET fusion and significant decrease in EGFR clone (VAF 10.0% to 0.05%). Conclusions: It has been reported that co-occurring RET fusions in NSCLC patients with EGFR mutations may contribute to acquired resistance to EGFR inhibitors. Several successful cases of cabozantinib, a non-selective RET inhibitor, or pralsetinib, a selective RET inhibitor combined with EGFR inhibitor, have been reported to aid in overcoming the acquired resistance to EGFR inhibitors. To date, there has been no report of clinical benefit in adding a RET inhibitor based on ctDNA detection of RET fusion with minute variant allele frequency. We for the first time report the case of overcoming acquired resistance to osimertinib by adding selpercatinib, a selective RET inhibitor in NSCLC patients with acquired RET fusion detected in ctDNA at VAF of 0.05%.
Circulating genetically abnormal cells combined with artificial intelligence for accurate and non-invasive early detection on NSCLC.
Authors: Yang Han , Chen Hongjie , Ni Ran , Zhang Guorui , Huang Yongjie , Ye Xin , Fan Xianjun , Kuang Yinglan , Zhang Juncheng , Huang Chuoji , Liu Hong
Published: June 2021

3056

Background: Non-small-cell carcinoma (NCSLC) is the most common type of early lung cancer. Early detection of NSCLC is still a diagnostic challenge. Current clinical management of patients with pulmonary nodule is inefficient and may lead to misclassification, thus increasing healthcare expenses. Further, a few previous studies showed liquid biopsy and artificial intelligence (AI) platform on computed tomography (CT) imaging contributes to early NSCLC detection. Still, there is something lacking in a precise and authorized lung nodule classifier to minimize discomfort of patients. This study aims to evaluate the possibility and effectiveness of combining circulating genetically abnormal cells (CACs) with an AI platform on CT imaging to improve the diagnostic route for NSCLC. Methods: A prospective cohort of 101 in-patients was enrolled from Sep. 1, 2020 to Jan. 15, 2021, with non-calcified pulmonary nodules, ranging from 0.5 to 3 cm in diameter, indicated by CT. The participants' pulmonary nodules will be assessed by two evaluation tools: CAC detection on full blood and AI platform on CT imaging. The diagnostic performances of the two tools were evaluated in a blinded validation study respectively and combined in an open-label retrospective analysis. Results: 68 of enrolled patients were confirmed as NSCLC by pathology. The diagnostic performance of CACs for NSCLC detection was 80.9% for sensitivity and 87.3% for positive predictive value (PPV) while overall accuracy reaches 79.2%. AI platform showed a slight disadvantage as 78.6% for PPV and 73.5% for accuracy. 9 false-negative patients on CAC results could be reversed with a combination of AI platform on CT imaging, while sensitivity rises to 94.1%. However, of 33 benign nodules patients, 8 wrong diagnoses by CAC detection could decrease to 2 when combined with the results from the AI platform, which may avoid unnecessary biopsies. Conclusions: Coupling CAC with an AI platform on CT imaging could be a useful strategy to improve the diagnostic route for NSCLC and avoid unnecessary biopsies.[Table: see text]
Machine learning models to quantify HER2 for real-time tissue image analysis in prospective clinical trials.
Authors: Glass Benjamin , Vandenberghe Michel Erminio , Chavali Surya Teja , Javed Syed Ashar , Rebelatto Marlon , Sridharan Shamira , Elliott Hunter , Rao Sudha , Montalto Michael , Resnick Murray , Wapinski Ilan , Beck Andrew , Barker Craig
Published: June 2021

3061

Background: Patient eligibility for HER2-targeting treatments is commonly informed by testing tumor HER2 expression using immunohistochemistry. As HER2 expression is visually assessed by pathologists, inter- and intra-rater variability might affect treatment decisions. Here, we report the development of an automated machine learning (ML)-based algorithm to quantify HER2 cell membrane expression across a diversity of breast cancer phenotypes as a clinical tool for monitoring HER2 testing quality. Methods: A total of 689 breast cancer tissue samples were either procured (Avaden Biosciences) or were anonymized samples from the AstraZeneca biobank comprising tissues from primary and metastatic tumors, core needle biopsies and surgical resections, lobular and ductal carcinomas, across tumor grades and HER2 expression levels. Samples were stained for HER2 detection (Ventana HER2 (4B5) Assay) and digitized (Leica Biosystems) across 5 laboratories in the US. Whole-slide images (WSIs) were stratified into training (n = 407), validation (n = 110), and test sets (n = 172). Multiple convolutional neural network based ML models (PathAI, Boston, MA) were trained using 190,000 manual annotations provided by 30 board-certified pathologists to identify artifacts, invasive tumor, identify individual cancer cells and measure tumor cell membrane HER2 expression as partial or complete, and negative, weak-or-moderate, or intense. Cell-level scores were validated against a consensus of manual cell counts from 5 independent pathologists in 320 representative regions of test set WSIs. HER2 scores were generated by automatically applying rules derived from 2018 ASCO/CAP guidelines and then compared in the test set with consensus scores from 3 independent pathologists. Results: Cell counts provided by the ML model were strongly consistent with cell counts obtained by pathologist consensus in all cell-types except for faintly positive HER2 cells where ML-based quantification identified more cells on average. Automatically generated ML-ASCO/CAP HER2 scores using WSI showed substantial consistency across IHC categories with the consensus of pathologists (ICC 0.88, 95%CI 0.82-0.92) in the test set and improved further when ML models were trained to agree with pathologists by adjusting cut offs (ICC 0.91, 95%CI 0.89-0.94). The ML-based model was deployed through the PathAI cloud platform to calculate HER2 testing quality control metrics in real-time in multicentric clinical trials. Conclusions: Automated image analysis of HER2-stained breast cancer tissues using ML-based models is consistent with pathologist consensus across breast cancer tissue types. The results support evidence that ML-based algorithms can help pathologists assess HER2 testing reproducibility in clinical trials.
Patient-derived micro-organospheres recapitulate tumor microenvironment and heterogeneity for precision oncology.
Authors: Ding Shengli , Wang Zhaohui , Obando Marcos Negrete , Palomino Grecia rivera , Rotstein Tomer , Williamson Ian , Hsu Shiaowen David , Shen Xiling
Published: June 2021

3076

Background: Preclinical models that can recapitulate patients’ intra-tumoral heterogeneity and microenvironment are crucial for tumor biology research and drug discovery. In particular, the ability to retain immune and other stromal cells in the microenvironment is vital for the development of immuno-oncology assays. However, current patient-derived organoid (PDO) models are largely devoid of immune components. Methods: We first developed an automated microfluidic and membrane platform that can generate tens of thousands of micro-organospheres from resected or biopsied clinical tumor specimens within an hour. We next characterized growth rate and drug response of micro-organospheres. Finally, extensive single-cell RNA-seq profiling were performed on both micro-organospheres and original tumor samples from lung, ovarian, kidney, and breast cancer patients. Results: Micro-organospheres derived from clinical tumor samples preserved all original tumor and stromal cells, including fibroblasts and all immune cell types. Single-cell analysis revealed that unsupervised clustering of tumor and non-tumor cells were identical between original tumors and the derived micro-organospheres. Quantification showed similar cell composition and percentages for all cell types and also preserved functional intra-tumoral heterogeneity.. An automated, end-to-end, high-throughput drug screening pipeline demonstrated that matched peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from the same patient added to micro-organospheres can be used to assess the efficacy of immunotherapy moieties. Conclusions: Micro-organospheres are a rapid and scalable platform to preserve patient tumor microenvironment and heterogeneity. This platform will be useful for precision oncology, drug discovery, and immunotherapy development. Funding sources: NIH U01 CA217514, U01 CA214300, Duke Woo Center for Big Data and Precision Health
Does oxaliplatin pharmacokinetics (PKs) explain associations between body composition and chemotherapy toxicity risk in older adults with gastrointestinal (GI) cancers?
Authors: Williams Grant Richard , Al-Obaidi Mustafa , Rower Joseph , Harmon Christian , Dai Chen , Acosta Edward , Giri Smith , Zamboni William , Lucas Andrew T. , Shachar Shlomit Strulov , Gbolahan Olumide B. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Caan Bette Jane , Bhatia Smita
Published: June 2021

3095

Background: Considerable inter-individual variability in oxaliplatin toxicity exists in older adults with GI cancers. Low lean body mass (LBM), commonly known as sarcopenia, influences toxicity and is not incorporated in standard body surface area-based dosing, which may affect oxaliplatin PK and tolerability, but has not been examined systematically. Methods: We examined oxaliplatin PK in 26 older adults (103 concentrations) with GI cancers (NCT03998202). Using the transverse section at L3, skeletal muscle area (SMA) and total adipose tissue (TAT) were quantified (Slice-O-Matic software) and LBM was calculated (LBM = 0.30 × SMA + 6.06). Noncompartmental methods (WinNonlin 7.0) were used for PK estimates and a one compartment population PK model (PopPK) was developed. Covariates included age, sex, LBM, TAT, weight, BMI, creatinine clearance, BSA, serum albumin, and body composition phenotypes (i.e. low LBM-high TAT, etc.). Results: Median age was 68yrs, 69% male, 88% white, and mostly colorectal (62%) and pancreatic (27%) cancers. There was wide variability in oxaliplatin volume of distribution (Vd: 12.5-259L), peak concentrations (Cmax: 404-3642ng/mL), and clearance (CL: 26.7-270L/hr). Participants with lower LBM had lower Vd (r = 0.51, p< 0.01); those with higher TAT had higher Cmax (r = 0.53, p< 0.01). Higher albumin was associated with lower Cmax (r = -0.49, p= 0.01) and higher CL (r = 0.47, p= 0.01). The phenotype of low LBM + high TAT had the lowest Vd (Relative Risk [RR] 0.32, p= 0.01), lowest CL (RR 0.39, p< 0.01), and highest Cmax (RR 3.3, 95% CI 1.7-6.5, p< 0.01). Eleven patients (44%) had grade 3-5 chemotoxicity. Vd (r = -0.46, p= 0.02) and Cmax (r = 0.44, p= 0.03) were associated with grade 3-5 chemotoxicity. The phenotype of low LBM + high TAT was associated with a 45% higher risk of grade 3-5 chemotoxicity (RR = 1.45, 95% CI 1.1-2.1, p= 0.04), while BSA was not (r = -0.04, p= 0.9). In the popPK model, body composition was associated with PK (TAT with Vd [p = 0.006] and CL [p < 0.001]), as was albumin (Vd p = 0.004; CL p = 0.002), while BSA was not (Vd p = 0.08; CL p = 0.2). Compared to BSA, an additional 11-17% in oxaliplatin PK variability was explained by LBM (11%), TAT (14%), and albumin (17%). Conclusions: Relationships between body composition, oxaliplatin PK, and severe chemotoxicity suggest the need for novel dosing strategies that incorporate body composition to reduce chemotoxicity and improve outcomes. Clinical trial information: NCT03998202.
A phase Ib study of the PI3Kδ inhibitor linperlisib in patients with advanced solid tumors.
Authors: Li Jin , Xu Nong , Liu Tianshu , Huang Jianjin , Yin Yongmei , Mou Haibo , Zhang Jun , Wu Lihua , Liu Zong liang , Bao Hanying , Xu Zusheng
Published: June 2021

3099

Background: Phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K) pathways are important elements of tumor survival and progression, and PIK3C genes are often mutated or overexpressed in many cancers. Additionally, PIK3D (PI3Kδ) modulates immune cell functions in tumors, elaborating another PI3Kδ inhibition feature with a potential clinical benefit. Linperlisib, an oral and highly selective PI3Kδ inhibitor, demonstrated potent anti-tumor activity in syngeneic animals from previous research. In this Phase 1b study, the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of linperlisib is under investigation for patients with advanced solid tumors. Methods: Linperlisib was given orally once daily (QD) in 28-day cycle until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or withdrawal from the study. Adverse events (AEs) were graded by NCI-CTCAE v5.0. Efficacy was assessed according to RECIST1.1 criteria. Results: As of December 28, 2020, 70 patients were enrolled in the Phase1b study, with advanced cancers, including colorectal (n = 22), breast (n = 8), lung (n = 8), kidney (n = 5), liver (n = 4), ovarian (n = 1), head and neck (n = 5), and esophageal (n = 1) cancers; sarcomas, (n = 4), small intestinal stromal tumor (n = 3), thymic (n = 2), gallbladder (n = 2), gastric (n = 4), and pancreatic (n = 1) carcinomas. The patients were heavily pretreated with an average of 4 previous lines of therapy. Among the 70 patients, the most common nonhematologic TEAEs (all grades/grade≥3) were proteinuria (37.14%/0%), elevated aspartate aminotransferase (20%/0%), nausea (20%/0%), oral mucositis (2.8%/2.8%), diarrhea (2.8%/2.8%). The most common hematological TEAEs were leukopenia (24.28%/0%) and neutropenia (17.14%/4.28%). There were no unexpected toxicities in this study. Of 42 patients evaluable for response, the overall response rate was 2.38%. Notably, the disease control rate (DCR) was 45.24% from monotherapy treatment. One patient with thymic carcinoma obtained a partial response (80.8% reduction of the target lesion), with a duration of response of more than 6 cycles. The treatment of this subject is continuing. A lung adenocarcinoma subject reached radiological stable disease associated with 13.7% reduction in the target lesion and disease control for approximately 6 months. Conclusions: In this study, the PI3K inhibitor, linperlisib exhibited a favorable safety profile as was previously seen in lymphoma patients. Monotherapy treatment with linperlisib was observed to impart a high DCR in advanced solid cancers of many types. Available data from linperlisib and other PI3K inhibitors suggests that linperlisib may limit tumor growth directly, but also by affecting the tumor immune microenvironment. With these promising indications of clinical tolerability and activity, further investigation of linperlisib alone or in key therapeutic combinations is warranted. Clinical trial information: NCT04049929.
A phase I study of an IDO inhibitor (SHR9146) plus camrelizumab and in combination with/without apatinib in patients with advanced solid tumors: Safety and efficacy analysis.
Authors: Cheng Ying , Liu Ying , Xu Jinhua , Zhu Jing , Wang Ying , Xin Ying , Wang Yanping , Wu Chunjiao , Cui Hongxia , Liu Xianhong , Dai Jixin , Li Zili , Zhang XiangHua , Zhang Jing , Zhang Ben
Published: June 2021

3101

Background: IDO is an enzyme of interest in immuno-oncology because of the immunosuppressive effects that result from its role in tryptophan catabolism. Clinical trials of IDO inhibitors with immunotherapy are under active investigation. The addition of angiogenesis inhibitor may further enhance the anti-tumor immune responses. Here we report the safety and efficacy results of SHR9146 (IDO inhibitor) plus camrelizumab (PD-1 antibody) with/without apatinib (VEGFR-2 inhibitor) in patients (pts) with advanced solid cancers who failed standard antitumor therapies. Methods: This was an open-label, phase I study. Eligible puts would receive SHR9146 (escalated dose) plus camrelizumab (200 mg IV, q2w) alone (Cohort A) or in combination with apatinib (250 mg p.o. qd) (Cohort B). Each cohort was conducted according to a 3+3 dose escalation design. The starting dose of SHR9146 was 100mg bid, followed by 200, 400, 600 mg bid. The two primary endpoints were Dose-limiting Toxicity (DLT) and Maximum Tolerated Dose (MDT). The secondary objective was to analysis the incidence of Adverse Events (AEs) and efficacy. Results: As of Oct 31, 2020, 23 pts have been enrolled (Cohort A:14, Cohort B: 9; median age: 54 years; median prior therapies: 2 lines;). Cohort A was escalating at 600mg, and Cohort B was escalating at 400mg. Two pts experienced DLTs: one DLT (G4 hypercalcemia) was observed at 600mg in Cohort A; the other DLT (G3 rash) was observed at 400mg in Cohort B. MDT was not reached and the study was still ongoing. In Cohort A, ORR and DCR in evaluable pts were 21.4% (3/14, all confirmed) and 42.9% (6/14). Partial response was observed in 3 pts with liver cancer (1/3), renal cancer (1/3), and cervix cancer (1/3). In Cohort B, ORR and DCR in evaluable pts were 33.3%(3/9, all confirmed) and 77.8%(7/9). Partial response was observed in 3 pts with SCLC (1/3), prostate cancer (1/3) and renal cancer (1/3). The incidence of pts with TRAEs and grade>=3 TRAEs were 91.3% (21/23) and 39.1% (9/23) respectively. The most common grade>=3 TRAEs were hypercalcemia (26.1%, 6/23), fatigue (17.4%, 4/23) and nausea (13.0%, 3/23). No fatal AEs were observed. G3 nausea, G3 lipase increased and G2 GGT increased resulted in SHR9146 dose reduction in 3 pts (Cohort A). Conclusions: SHR9146 plus camrelizumab in combination with/without apatinib demonstrated promising anti-tumor activity with acceptable safety in pts with advanced solid tumors. Further study is needed to validate the efficacy and safety. Clinical trial information: NCT03491631.
Dosing, drug reduction, drug interruption, and drug discontinuation rates among U.S. FDA approved tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Authors: Reddy Neha K. , Roszik Jason , Norris David Carl , Groisberg Roman , Coleman Niamh , Alhalabi Omar , Ludmir Ethan B. , Taniguchi Cullen M. , Subbiah Ishwaria Mohan , Subbiah Vivek
Published: June 2021

3112

Background: The advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has altered the therapeutic landscape of multiple hematological and solid malignancies. FDA approved starting doses of TKIs are based on the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) in clinical trials. Since many of these drugs are continuously dosed, ongoing toxicities may lead to drug reductions and drug discontinuations. Hence in practice, many patients are started on lower doses due to tolerability concerns or are dose-reduced subsequently for toxicity. Herein, we assessed the dosing, drug reduction rates, and drug discontinuation rates among FDA approved TKIs. Methods: We established a database of all FDA approved TKIs from the FDA online label repository. We extracted descriptive data for indications and usage, type of approval, approval dosage, dose reduction recommendation, median age, dose reduction rates, drug discontinuation rates, dose modification, warnings, adverse reactions, clinical trial experience, and geriatric use above 65 yrs and 75 yrs. Results: TKIs were approved for 143 different indications, ranging from 1 indication to 11 indications (eg. Imatinib) from data arising from 7 patients to 2816 patients for a specific indication. Among all TKIs, median dose was 150 mg and average dose was 237 mg; 34 (23.8%) were approved bid vs 71 (49.7%) qd. Specifically for oncology, 54 indications were biomarker based (eg. EGFR mutant NSCLC) and 52 were non-biomarker based for specific diseases (eg. metastatic RCC). Among approved indications range of dose reduction rate (DRR), drug interruption rates (DIR), drug discontinuations rates (DDR) were 0.80-89%, 3%-89%, and 1-39% respectively. Most common reasons for DRR, DIR, and DDR were diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hepatotoxicity, rash, and hypertension. Geriatric use was listed in 99 indications ( > 65 yrs, 6-68%; > 75 yrs, 0.50-24%). Patient reported outcomes were not available. Conclusions: TKIs have a variable dose reduction and drug discontinuation rate. Clinical trials should evaluate multiple dosing regimens and schedules to lessen the toxicity burden and improve QOL in patients. Future studies are warranted to look into flat dosing vs alternative dosing, like weight-based dosing for TKIs, and to report patient reported outcomes.
Phase I expansion study of the first-in-class monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) inhibitor AZD3965 in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and Burkitt lymphoma (BL).
Authors: Halford Sarah E. R. , Walter Harriet , McKay Pamela , Townsend William , Linton Kim , Heinzmann Kathrin , Dragoni Ilaria , Brotherton Laura , Veal Gareth , Siskos Alexandros , Keun Hector C , Bacon Chris , Wedge Steve , Dyer Martin J.S. , Plummer Elizabeth Ruth
Published: June 2021

3115

Background: Tumours rely on lactate transporters (MCT1-4) to maintain glycolytic flux and avoid intracellular acidification. In haematological tumours the MCT1 transporter acts as a lactate and pyruvate exporter. AZD3965 is a potent and specific inhibitor of MCT1 causing intracellular lactate accumulation. In vivo efficacy was observed in xenografts of DLBCL and BL, expressing high levels of MCT1 and no or low levels of MCT4. In the AZD3965 phase I (NCT01791595) dose-escalation an oral recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of 10mg twice-daily (bd) was determined. Pharmacokinetic (PK) showed exposure estimated to produce a minimum MCT1 occupancy of 90% (based on modelling). DLTs were primarily on-target dose-dependent, reversible, asymptomatic alterations in retinal function seen on ERG. Methods: This expansion cohort enrolled patients with relapsed/refractory DLBCL and BL. Expression of MCT1/MCT4 was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Pharmacokinetic (PK) sampling was performed and pharmacodynamic assessments included [18F]FDG-PET/CT imaging and plasma/urine metabolomics. Results: 11 DLBCL patients were treated with AZD3965 10mg bd. PK showed exposure to be broadly in line with the escalation cohort. No significant ERG changes were observed. One patient experienced a dose-limiting SUSAR of Troponin I increase. MCT1 is expressed in erythrocytes, however no serious events of anaemia were seen, with one non-clinically significant episode of grade 3 anaemia reported. Urine analysis showed increased excretion of lactate and ketone bodies post AZD3965 treatment consistent with renal target engagement. No alteration was detected in plasma. Ongoing stable disease at cycle 5 was observed in one patient and an additional patient had a confirmed complete response (CR) lasting 15 months, with no significant toxicity. In the patient showing CR a reduction in tumour FDG uptake was observed on day 3 of cycle 1. The other four patients who consented to research imaging did not have a clinical response and no changes were observed on FDG-PET. Conclusions: AZD3965 can be safely administered at 10mg bd. In one DLBCL patient monotherapy activity was observed with changes in FDG-PET providing evidence indicative of proof of mechanism. These changes in FDG uptake as early as on day 3 in the responding patient warrant further investigation of FDG-PET as a predictive biomarker. Further biomarker analysis and preclinical studies are ongoing to understand the biology and explore effective combinations with other agents targeting tumour cell metabolism Clinical trial information: NCT01791595.
Outcomes of active cancer patients with COVID-19 infection treated with COVID-19 neutralizing monoclonal antibodies.
Authors: Shaya Justin , Lee Aaron , Cabal Angelo , McKay Rana R.
Published: June 2021

3137

Background: Treatment with COVID-19 (C19) neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), including bamlanivimab and casirivimab/imdevimab, has been associated with decreased rates of C19-related hospitalizations in high-risk patients. Patients with active cancer are at high-risk for C19 complications and currently are candidates for C19-mAbs. Little is known about C19-related outcomes with mAb therapy in cancer patients. Here, we examine the outcomes of a cohort of active cancer patients infected with C19 who were treated with C19-neutralizing mAbs. Methods: Retrospective, single center cohort of patients with active cancer and mild-moderate C19 infection not requiring hospitalization who were treated with either bamlanivimab or casirivimab/imdevimab. Active cancer was defined as a solid or hematologic malignancy diagnosed within 90 days of C19 diagnosis or recurrent/metastatic disease. The primary endpoint was the rate of C19-related hospitalization. Secondary endpoints included the rate of C19-related mortality and adverse events associated with mAb therapy. Results: We identified 38 active cancer patients with C19 who were treated with mAbs. Median age was 65 years (range 20-89) and 47.4% (N = 18) had a hematologic malignancy. Among the cohort, 73.7% (N = 28) were on an anti-cancer therapy at the time of C19 diagnosis: targeted therapy (n = 18), cytotoxic chemotherapy (N = 5), immunotherapy (n = 3), or hormonal therapy (n = 2). 42.1% (N = 16) received bamlanivimab and 57.9% (N = 22) received casirivimab/imdevimab. Median time from C19 diagnosis to mAb infusion was 2 days (range 0-6 days). With a median follow-up of 21 days (range 7-71), 7.9% (N = 3) required hospitalization for C19-related complications. Median time from mAb infusion to hospitalization was 25 days (range 5-29). C19-related deaths occurred in 5.3% (N = 2) of the cohort. No significant adverse events were reported with either mAb formulation. Conclusions: Among a cohort of high-risk cancer patients treated with mAbs, rates of hospitalization and mortality due to C19 were low compared to previously described rates among active cancer patients. Key limitations of this analysis include the lack of a control group for comparison and a small sample size given the recent emergency use authorization of these agents. Given the high mortality rate of active cancer patients with C19, these data support the use of mAbs in cancer patients with C19.