bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase 1b open-label randomized study of the oncolytic adenovirus DNX-2401 administered with or without interferon gamma for recurrent glioblastoma.
Authors: Lang Frederick F. , Tran Nam D. , Puduvalli Vinay K. , Elder J. Bradley , Fink Karen L. , Conrad Charles A. , Yung W. K. Alfred , Penas-Prado Marta , Gomez-Manzano Candelaria , Peterkin Joanna , Fueyo Juan
Published: September 2018

2002

Background: DNX-2401 is a replication-competent, tumor-selective, oncolytic adenovirus with enhanced infectivity that causes durable tumor control by killing tumor cells and eliciting antitumor immunity. To increase immune activation, a phase 1b randomized study of intratumoral DNX-2401 alone versus DNX-2401 with interferon gamma (IFN) was conducted. Methods: A total of 27 patients with biopsy-confirmed glioblastoma at first or second recurrence received a single intratumoral injection of 3e10 vp DNX-2401. Patients were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive 50 mcg/m2 of subcutaneous IFN (Actimmune) Q3W initiated 14 days after DNX-2401 or to be followed without further treatment for safety and survival. Results: Twenty-seven (27) patients were enrolled following first (59%) or second (41%) recurrence having previously failed surgery, radiation, and temozolomide (100%). The median longest tumor diameter was 40 mm (range 20-77 mm). Patients were randomized to DNX-2401 followed by IFN (n = 18) or to DNX-2401 alone (n = 9). Due to the poor tolerability of IFN, the median duration of treatment was only 6 weeks (range 0-30 weeks), and two patients did not initiate treatment as scheduled due to early clinical deterioration. The most frequent grade 3-4 AEs across treatment groups were fatigue, headache, and seizures consistent with pre-existing symptoms, underlying disease and/or surgery. Based upon a preliminary intent-to-treat analysis, IFN did not appear to provide additional benefit. However, OS-12 and OS-18 for all patients enrolled was 33% and 22%, respectively regardless of treatment assignment. Three patients remain alive at 19, 21, and 22 months (DNX-2401, n = 1; DNX-2401 + IFN, n = 2). Interestingly, 50% of patients with a baseline tumor diameter of ≤ 42 mm survived beyond 12 months, potentially identifying a sub-population of patients that may live longer following intratumoral DNX-2401. Conclusions: DNX-2401 was well tolerated as monotherapy. Although the addition of IFN did not improve survival, clinical activity following a single injection of DNX-2401 is encouraging and supports an ongoing Phase II study of DNX-2401 for recurrent glioblastoma. Clinical trial information: NCT02197169.
Efficacy analysis of ABT-414 with or without temozolomide (TMZ) in patients (pts) with EGFR-amplified, recurrent glioblastoma (rGBM) from a multicenter, international phase I clinical trial.
Authors: Lassman Andrew B. , Van Den Bent Martin J. , Gan Hui Kong , Reardon David A. , Kumthekar Priya , Butowski Nicholas A. , Lwin Zarnie , Mikkelsen Tom , Nabors Louis B. , Papadopoulos Kyriakos P. , Penas-Prado Marta , Simes John , Wheeler Helen , Gomez Erica J. , Lee Ho-Jin , Roberts-Rapp Lisa , Xiong Hao , Bain Earle E. , Maag David , Merrell Ryan Thomas
Published: September 2018

2003

Background: GBM is the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults. Pts with rGBM have a poor prognosis. EGFR is amplified (amp) in ~50% of GBMs and is a compelling therapeutic target. ABT-414 is an antibody-drug conjugate composed of an EGFR-directed antibody conjugated to a microtubule toxin, MMAF. ABT-414 binds a unique epitope exposed during EGFR activation, either through ligand stimulation or mutation such as EGFR variant III (EGFRvIII), releasing MMAF into the cancer cell. Here, we report a pooled safety and efficacy analysis of ABT-414 +/- TMZ in EGFR amp, rGBM. Methods: M12-356 is a Phase 1, open-label, multi-arm study. Results from the 2 arms accruing rGBM pts were pooled for analysis. Eligible adults had rGBM, centrally confirmed EGFR amp, and KPS ≥ 70. Pts received 0.5-1.25 mg/kg ABT-414 on days 1 and 15 +/- 150-200 mg/m2 TMZ on days 1-5 of 28-day cycles until progression (per RANO). Results: As of 11 January 2017, 126 pts were treated. The most common adverse events (AEs, ≥ 25% pts) were ocular (90%) and included blurred vision (64%) and photophobia (31%), which were mainly reversible. Common non-ocular AEs were fatigue (36%) and headache (30%). Grade 3/4 AEs (≥ 5% pts) included ocular toxicities (29%) and decreased platelets/thrombocytopenia (10%). Serious AEs included seizure and keratitis (2% each). Of 125 pts evaluable by RANO, 52% had improvement or stabilization as best response (2 CR, 9 PR, 54 SD), and the remaining 60 (48%) had PD. Of 115 pts with measurable disease at baseline, the objective response rate (ORR) was 10% (2 CR + 9 PR). For 5 pts, re-resection for radiographic PD revealed mostly necrotic tissue and pts were classified as SD, suggesting the ORR may be an underestimate. Of all 126 pts, the 6-month PFS rate (PFS6) was 26%; median OS was 8.5 months. Conclusions: In this Phase 1 trial of EGFR amp, rGBM, we observed encouraging disease control (52%, CR + PR + SD) and PFS6 (26%) rates. Toxicity was mainly ocular, and reversible. A global, randomized trial of ABT-414 vs. ABT-414 + TMZ vs. TMZ/lomustine in EGFR amp, rGBM has completed accrual with results expected later this year (NCT02343406). Clinical trial information: NCT01800695.
Cambridge Brain Mets Trial 1 (CamBMT1): A proof of principle study of afatinib penetration into cerebral metastases (mets) for patients (pts) undergoing neurosurgical resection, combined with low-dose, targeted radiotherapy (RT)—Phase 1b results.
Authors: Baird Richard D. , Garcia-Corbacho Javier , Linossi Constanza , Kumar Sanjeev Srinivas , Smith Donna , Williams Michael , Qian Wendi , Machin Andrea , Ahmad Saif , Matys Tomasz , Jena Raj , Pacey Simon , Caldas Carlos , Jodrell Duncan Ian , Jefferies Sarah , Price Stephen , Watts Colin , Ramenatte Nicola
Published: September 2018

2008

Background: Failure of drugs to cross the blood brain barrier (BBB) can be a major reason for treatment failure in pts with brain tumours. Preliminary data suggest that low-dose RT may disrupt the BBB, and could facilitate increased drug delivery into brain tumours. CamBMT1 is a phase 1b/2 pre-operative window-of-opportunity trial designed to test if the delivery of afatinib into brain mets might be enhanced by targeted, low dose-RT. Methods: Pts with operable brain mets from breast or lung origin were treated with afatinib for 11 days prior to surgery on day 12. Pts also received a single fraction of targeted RT on day 10 (pts in either 2Gy or 4Gy arm). In phase 1b, afatinib dose (20, 30, or 40mg QD) was escalated in each arm using an accelerated titration design. Primary endpoint: steady-state afatinib concentration in resected brain mets, compared with plasma. Secondary endpoints: safety and tolerability. Results: 10 pts were treated (4 breast, 6 lung), with no dose-limiting toxicities seen, thus completing recruitment to phase 1b. Treatment was generally well tolerated. Median afatinib concentrations on day 12 were: plasma 22.7ng/mL (range 9.94-179); and tumour 405ng/g (range 120-1129). Conclusions: It was feasible to conduct a window-of-opportunity study of afatinib plus RT in pts with operable brain mets. The recommended phase 2 dose of afatinib was 40mg QD for both 2Gy and 4Gy arms. Afatinib concentrations in resected tumour were on average >15-fold higher than those in plasma. Phase 2 of CamBMT1 is now underway in multiple UK sites, and randomises patients into 3 treatment arms (n=20 per arm): 1. afatinib 40mg QD; 2. afatinib 40mg QD + 2Gy# RT; 3. afatinib 40mg QD + 4Gy# RT. Clinical trial information: NCT02768337. [Table: see text]
A phase II of everolimus and octreotide for patients with refractory and documented progressive meningioma (CEVOREM).
Authors: Graillon Thomas , Sanson Marc , Peyre Matthieu , Peyrière Hadrien , Autran Didier , Kalamarides Michel , Roche Pierre-Hugues , Fuentes Stephane , Tabouret Emeline , Barrie Maryline , Campello Chantal , Idbaih Ahmed , Dufour Henry , Chinot Olivier L.
Published: September 2018

2011

Background: After iterative surgeries and radiotherapy (RT)/radiosurgery (RS) failure, aggressive meningiomas remain an unmet medical need. We have shown in vitro that everolimus (EVE) combined to octreotide (OCT) is active in meningiomas. Methods: Prospective multicentric single arm phase II study (NCT02333565) including pts with recurrent meningioma with documented progression ( > 10% increase of tumor surface over 6 months) after surgery and RT/RS. EVE was orally administrated at 10mg/day and OCT by IM injection 30 mg/28 days. MRI was performed every 3 months with planned central review of imaging including volumetric progression at inclusion and during treatment. The primary endpoint was PFS6. The criteria for success was defined as a PFS6 > 40%. Results: 20 pts were included, aged 30-75 years (median 55) with 37 progressive intra cranial meningiomas (WHO: 2 grade I, 27 grade II, 8 grade III) including 4 NF2 pts. Median KPS was 70%. All pts previously underwent at least one surgery and more than 1 in 18/20 patients. 19/20 pts were treated with radiotherapy or radiosurgery and 5 pts with prior chemotherapy. 1 pt was not evaluable at 3 months. With a median f/u of 12.3 months (2-24 months), PFS6 was 58.2% (95% CI 33.5-76.5%) and PFS12 was 38% (95% CI 16-60%). Volumetric analysis at 3 months demonstrated a decrease in tumor volume superior to 10% in 8 tumors (4 pts). Pre therapeutic growth rate was decreased of more than 50% in 29/35 tumors (18/20 pts) during the first 3 months. Inclusion (I)-to-3 months tumor growth rate (mean at 1.9%/month) was significantly lower than pre inclusion (Pre-I)-to-I growth rate (mean at 18.5%/month) (p = 0.0003). 3 highly aggressive tumors (3 pts) were separately assessed: Pre-I-to-I growth rate superior to 1000%/month was decreased to 3%, 15% and 44%/month in the first 3 months. Toxicity included 7 grade III AE (stomatitis, 3; pneumopathy, 1). AE of special interest included stomatitis (10, 50%), rash (8, 40%), abdominal pain and diarrhea (11, 55%) and nausea and vomiting (4, 20%). Conclusions: Everolimus and octreotide combination appears active in refractory aggressive and progressive meningiomas with acceptable and manageable toxicity and should request further evaluation. Clinical trial information: NCT02333565.
Use of targeted next generation sequencing (NGS) to assess mutational load in glioblastoma (GBM).
Authors: Bagley Stephen Joseph , Velu Priya , Bigdeli Ashkan , Hess Paul , Desai Arati Suvas , Linette Gerald P. , Nasrallah MacLean , O'Rourke Donald M. , Brem Steven , Morrissette Jennifer J.
Published: September 2018

2027

Background: Trials of immune checkpoint inhibitors in GBM are ongoing. Evidence from other tumors suggests that high mutational load predicts response to these agents. We estimated mutational load in adults with newly diagnosed GBM using targeted NGS and assessed its association with other clinicopathologic parameters. Methods: NGS was performed for all patients diagnosed with isocitrate dehydrogenase wild-type (IDH-WT) GBM at our institution since September 1, 2016. Our panel performs targeted exome sequencing of 153 cancer-related genes (+/- 10 bp at intron/exon boundaries) and detects insertions, deletions, and single nucleotide variants at an allele frequency of 2%. Polymorphisms present in > 0.1% of the population according to the ExAC database and 1000 Genomes Project were filtered to reduce germline variants in the absence of matched normals. To avoid upward skewing of mutational load due to the panel’s preferential detection of genes recurrently mutated in cancer, alterations with known or likely functional disruption per the COSMIC database and/or our internal variant knowledge base were also not counted. The number of mutations counted was divided by the coding region target territory of the NGS panel (~0.5 Mb) to extrapolate mutational load to the whole exome. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare mutational load according to sex, age (≥65 vs. < 65), and MGMT methylation status (positive vs. negative). Results: Of 28 patients, median age was 65, 75% were male, and 37% were MGMT-methylated. Mean mutational load was 3.6 mutations/Mb (range 0-8, standard deviation 2.3) and was higher in males (4.3, 95% CI 3.3-5.3) compared to females (1.4, 95% CI 0.03-2.8) (p = 0.004). Mutational load did not differ according to age or MGMT methylation. Conclusions: In newly diagnosed IDH-WT GBM, targeted NGS revealed an estimated mutation rate similar to that reported in whole exome sequencing studies. In addition, we detected a higher mutational load in males compared to females. The latter finding adds to recent evidence suggesting sex-specific differences in the biology of GBM, and implies that future studies should account for sex when assessing mutational load as a predictive marker of immune checkpoint inhibition.
Neurocognitive outcome in children with sensorineural hearing loss after treatment of malignant embryonal brain tumors.
Authors: Dahl Christine , Moxon-Emre Iska , Ramaswamy Vijay , Bartels Ute Katharina , Tabori Uri , Huang Annie , Cushing Sharon , Papaioannou Vicky , Laperriere Normand , Mabbott Donald J , Bouffet Eric
Published: September 2018

2029

Background: Neurological side effects associated with childhood brain tumors and their treatments contribute to long term neurocognitive morbidity. The aims of this study were to identify the incidence of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in a large sample of children treated for malignant brain tumors, and to evaluate the potential relationship between SNHL and intellectual functioning following the completion of treatment. Methods: We conducted a prospective follow-up study at a single center with review of 119 patients treated for embryonal brain tumors at the Hospital for Sick Children, between 1996-2015, to analyze the impact of significant SNHL (Chang > 2b) on intellectual function. Hearing was assessed post-treatment (median age: 13.5y (+4.5)) and the median age for neurocognitive testing was 12.8y (+ 4.1). The median interval from time of diagnosis was 5.8y (+ 3.7). Results: Severe SNHL was identified in half the patients (50.4%, n = 60/119). We identified a subset of patients (n = 61) who had assessments of intellectual function. In this cohort, intellectual function was significantly poorer in the group with severe SNHL, even after controlling for the effect of craniospinal radiation (severe SNHL 22.4 Gy + 13.3, no or mild hearing loss 20.4 Gy +12.8) and boost dose and volume. Children experiencing severe SNHL had lower overall IQ (severe SNHL 72.4 + 16.6; no/mild hearing loss 92.0 + 20.5) p < 0.001 and in significantly lower verbal comprehension (severe SNHL 78.7 + 15.9; no/mild hearing loss 94.7 + 13.8) p < 0.001, and working memory (severe SNHL 78.2+ 17.6; no/mild hearing loss 94.8 + 16.4) p < 0.001, scores. Conclusions: Hearing loss is a much more significant complication in children with embryonal brain tumors than previously estimated. We show the profound impact of hearing loss on intellectual deficit in children. Namely, patients with severe SNHL have difficulty using and understanding verbal language, and they have a reduced ability to concentrate and manipulate information in short-term memory. Our results have implications on future trial designs and follow-up of children treated for embryonal brain tumors.
Benefits and costs of bevacizumab in recurrent glioblastoma: A quality adjusted survival and cost analysis (EVALUATE).
Authors: Conen Katrin Lisa , Matter-Walstra Klazien , Schädelin Sabine , Mariani Luigi , Hess Viviane
Published: September 2018

2032

Background: Routine clinical use of bevacizumab (Bev) in recurrent glioblastoma (rGBM) is controversial, as no large RCT has shown a survival advantage. We describe treatment algorithms, survival (OS), quality-adjusted survival (QAS) as well as costs of patients (pts) with GBM treated at an academic hospital in Switzerland, where Bev is registered and reimbursed for rGBM. Methods: Pts’ and treatment characteristics from diagnosis until death (including neurological symptoms and toxicities) of all pts over a 5-year period were retrospectively retrieved from our GBM database. For each treatment period (1st-line, recurrence and “best supportive care”) time to next treatment (TNT), OS and QAS were calculated and modelled for prognostic factors (Cox regression). QAS was evaluated as previously described (Murray et al). In- and out-patient costs were calculated from time of diagnosis until death in respect of Bev treatment (+Bev vs. –Bev). Results: 82 newly diagnosed GBM pts with a median age of 66 years (range 39-85), median KPS of 90% (range 50-100%), who were treated with 1 (n = 75), 2 (n = 36) or 3 (n = 14) lines of therapy, respectively, lived for a median OS of 11.9 (SD 9.7) months (mos). QAS was 5.3 (SD 6.9) mos i.e. 44% of the numerical survival time. 40% of patients were treated with Bev at 1st or 2nd recurrence. Pts, who were selected for BEV treatment, had a longer time from diagnosis to 2ndline treatment (median 5.2 (SD 6.3) mos) as compared to pts in the -Bev group (median 2.1 (SD 1.8) mos). Younger age and Bev treatment were associated with longer OS and QAS. QAS to OS ratio was 52% (9.4 out of 18.1 mos) for BEV treated patients and 34% (2.8 out of 8.2 mos) for the –Bev group, respectively. Bev treatment increased the overall treatment costs by 1.7x. The population adjusted incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was CHF 75,669 per life year gained. Conclusions: QAS in patients with GBM is short (one third to half of OS). In our cohort, pts selected for Bev treatment had longer OS and longer QAS - at costs below the accepted threshold of 100,000 CHF per life year gained. Whether this gain of lifetime is a direct result of Bev treatment or a consequence of a selection bias needs to be addressed prospectively.
PD-L1 expression of high grade glial tumors at diagnosis and change of expression status at recurrence.
Authors: Oyan Basak , Eren Seyma , Sonmez Ozlem , Ozkan Ferda , Yaltırak Kaan , Ture Ugur
Published: September 2018

2035

Background: PD-L1 expression status is the main predictive factor for response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. PD-L1 status may change over time with the impact of therapies. The aim of this study is to determine if PD-L1 expression status changes in recurrent gliomas after chemoradiotherapy. Methods: Thirty eight patients with recurrent high grade gliomas who had surgical excision at least two times were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study. Nine patients were excluded because of the lack of appropriate pathology slides for pathologic evaluation. PD-L1 expression of 29 patients was evaluated by an expert pathologist with immunohistochemical methods. PD-L1 positivity was defined as expression in ≥1% of tumor cells. Change in PD-L1 expression status was defined as an absolute 5% difference between two resections. Results: Of the 29 patients, 15 patients (51.7%) had PD-L1 expression in ≥1% of tumor cells and 7 patients (24.1%) had PD-L1 expression in ≥10% of tumor cells. Tumor PD-L1 expression (defined as expression in ≥1% of tumor cells) was positive in 15 (51.7%) of 29 patients at diagnosis and at the time of recurrence. The PD-L1 status did not change in 17 patients (58.6%). 8 patients had PD-L1 negative tumors both at diagnosis and at recurrence, while 9 patients had PD-L1 positive tumors both at diagnosis and at recurrence. In 6 patients (20.7%) a negative-to-positive switch and in 6 patients (20.7%) a positive to negative switch were seen. Tumor PD-L1 expression increased in 7 of 29 patients (24.1%) and decreased in 9 of 29 patients (31.1%). PD-L1 expression remained stable in 13 of 29 patients (34.4%). The change in PD-L1 status over time was not statistically significant. Conclusions: More than 50% of high grade glial tumors express PD-L1 at diagnosis, so these tumors are good candidates for immune checkpoint inhibitors. The expression status changes in more than 40% of high grade glial tumors at recurrence, so immune responsiveness of glial tumors can be modified by treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Study of the impact of cytomegalovirus-encephalopathy on survival of brain cancer patients undergoing treatment with radio(chemo)therapy.
Authors: Goerig Nicole Lydia , Frey Benjamin , Korn Klaus , Fleckenstein Bernhard , Ueberla Klaus M , Schmidt Manuel A. , Doerfler Arnd , Engelhorn Tobias , Eyüpoglu Ilker , Merkel Andreas , Ruehle Paul F , Putz Florian , Semrau Sabine , Gaipl Udo S , Fietkau Rainer
Published: September 2018

2036

Background: As recently demonstrated (Neurooncology, 2016), neurological decline of patients with brain cancer (high grade glioma, brain metastases) during radio(chemo)therapy (RCT) of the brain is oftentimes caused by CMV-encephalopathy but not disease progression or therapeutic complications. We examined the impact of clinical and serological CMV-status on the survival one year after the onset of radio(chemo)therapy of the brain. Methods: 118 patients requiring whole-brain radiotherapy for brain metastases (n = 55) or local RCT of the brain for high-grade gliomas (n = 63) were observed in the prospective GLIO-CMV-01 study. MRIs and blood samples were obtained before, halfway through, and at the end of radiotherapy. MRIs were screened for disease progression or increased intracranial pressure. Blood was tested for anti-CMV immunoglobulin (Ig)M, anti-CMV IgG, and CMV DNA. Results: 68 of 118 (58%) patients were positive for anti-CMV IgG before radio(chemo)therapy. 28 of those 68 (41%) developed CMV-viremia during or up to 28 days after the end of irradiation. 21 of those 28 (75%) required treatment for symptomatic CMV-associated encephalopathy. One year after the start of RCT, survival was 72% (34/47) (no encephalopathy, anti-CMV-IgG+) or 68% (34/50) (no encephalopathy, anti-CMV-IgG-) versus 38% (8/21) (encephalopathy) (p = 0.0034). Conclusions: Symptomatic CMV-encephalopathy all but doubles the mortality of brain cancer patients within one year of RCT, despite antiviral treatment with ganciclovir. These findings heavily underline the importance to identify patients with increased risk profile for developing CMV-encephalopathy before initiating RCT.
Phase 2 study to evaluate safety and efficacy of MEDI4736 (durvalumab [DUR]) in glioblastoma (GBM) patients: An update.
Authors: Reardon David A. , Kaley Thomas Joseph , Dietrich Jorg , Clarke Jennifer Leigh , Dunn Gavin P , Lim Michael , Cloughesy Timothy Francis , Gan Hui Kong , Park Andrew J. , Schwarzenberger Paul , Ricciardi Toni , Macri Mary J. , Ryan Aileen , Venhaus Ralph Rudolph
Published: September 2018

2042

Background: DUR is a human IgG1 monoclonal Ab against PD-L1. PD-1/PD-L1 blockade has shown benefit in solid tumors. PD-L1 is expressed by many GBM tumors while cytotoxic lymphocytes infiltrating GBM tumors often express PD-1; thus, there is a rationale for exploring PD-1/PD-L1 blockade in GBM. Bevacizumab (BEV) is a VEGF-specific angiogenesis inhibitor approved for recurrent GBM. PD-L1 blockade and angiogenesis inhibition may be synergistic. Methods: This ongoing Phase 2, multicenter, open-label study (NCT02336165) evaluates safety/efficacy of DUR (10 mg/kg every 2 wks) in 5 GBM cohorts. Secondary endpoints are safety/tolerability, median PFS/OS, overall response rate and quality of life measures. Exploratory endpoints: neurologic function and immunocorrelative biomarkers. Results: Enrollment as of 16 Dec 2016: Cohort A = 35, B = 31, B2 = 34, B3 = 34, and C = 20 pts. Enrollment is ongoing for Cohorts A and C. This is an update to the interim analysis that was reported for Cohort B (male: 83.9%; mean age: 54.0 [24-77] years; baseline ECOG PS0: 51.6%, PS1: 48.4%; baseline measurable lesions: 77.4%). Incidences of treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) by max CTCAE grade (Gr) were Gr1: 35.5%; Gr2: 41.9%; Gr3: 9.7%; and Gr4/5: 0%. Most common TRAEs (≥3 pts): fatigue, headache, hemiparesis, gait disturbance, increased AST, and decreased platelets/WBCs/lymphs. Six of 30 evaluable pts were progression free at 6 months (Kaplan-Meier, 20.0% [90% CI: 9.7, 33.0]); best overall response: partial response, 4 (13.3%) pts and stable disease, 14 (46.7%). At 1 year, 4 pts remained progression free (longest PFS ongoing at 80 wks, n=2). OS-6 and OS-12 are 59.0 and 44.4%, respectively. As of 16 Dec 2016, 7 pts remain alive (longest OS ongoing at 86 wks). Conclusions: DUR monotherapy appears to be well tolerated and shows durable activity in a subset of BEV-naïve recurrent GBM pts. Study is ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT02336165. [Table: see text]
Radiomics method to predict loss of heterozygosity on chromosome 1p/19q of oligodendroglial tumor.
Authors: Wei Jingwei , Tian Jie
Published: September 2018

2043

Background: Oligodendroglial tumor (OT) is one of the main types of gliomas, which is incurable in current situation. As a tumor-specific genetic alteration of OTs, loss of heterozygosity (LOH) on chromosome 1p/19q indicates a preferable response to chemo/radiotherapy and a better survial, which could be used as a key molecular signature for personalized treatment decision making. However, 1p/19q LOH status is now commonly obtained by fluorescence in situ hybridization after the tumor resection, which is highly likely to lead functin deficit with tumor locating on eloquent area. Thus, a noninvasive predicition on 1p/19q LOH is required. Here, we used a "Radiomics" method to achieve the prediction based on magnetic resonance imaging in this study. Methods: A cohort of 113 OT patients was collected from Beijing Tiantan Hospital. 593 three-dimensional imaging features were extracted on T2-weighted images including textural and non-textural features. We used "minimum redundancy maximum relevance" and "iterative backward elemination and forward inclusion" algorithms to pick up the most effective features with a p-value < 0.05. With the selected features as the input, support vector machine algorithm was adopted to predict the 1p/19q LOH status with 10-fold cross validation. Comparisons were made between the traditional clinical predictors and the established model. Results: The prediction accuracy for 1p/19q LOH turned out to be 86.6%. The top three features contributing most to the prediction were respectively: GlobalUniformity, GaborBankD4GLRLMLGRE and GaborBankD4GLRLMSRLGE. The predictive performance of the radiomics model was proved to be far more valid than the clinical predictors (indistict tumor border and heterogeneous signal intensity) with the higher area under curve (AUC). Compared with the best single feature (GlobalUniformity, AUC: 0.749), this combined-feature model has the best diagnostic performance with an AUC of 0.898. Conclusions: This study reveals the intrinsic association between the imaging features and 1p/19q LOH status, meanwhile, realizes the high precision prediction, providing reliable basis for the pre-operative treatment regime.
Characterizing glioma microenvironment with ultra-high gradient diffusion MRI.
Authors: Ly Ina , Wichtmann Barbara , Huang Susie Yi , Nummenmaa Aapo , Andronesi Ovidiu , Fan Qiuyun , Curry William T. , Cahill Daniel P. , Golby Alexandra J , Batchelor Tracy , Kalpathy-Cramer Jayashree , Rosen Bruce R. , Gerstner Elizabeth Robins
Published: September 2018

2050

Background: The infiltrating nature of gliomas, particularly into the peritumoral area, is a major barrier to improving clinical outcome as microscopic disease remains even after apparent gross total resection. Conventional T1 post-contrast and T2/FLAIR MRI do not capture full tumor extent. A better imaging biomarker is needed to improve differentiation between tumor, peritumoral area and normal brain. Methods: 4 pre-surgical patients with non-enhancing, FLAIR-hyperintense lesions suspicious for glioma underwent ultra-high gradient diffusion MRI on the Connectome MRI scanner, a unique scanner with maximum gradient strength of 300 mT/m enabling mapping of cellular microstructures on a micron-level scale. The FLAIR area was defined as the tumor region of interest (ROI). Radiographically normal appearing brain up to 1 cm around the FLAIR area was defined as the peritumoral ROI. Using a novel 3 compartment diffusion model (Linear Multiscale Model), the volume fraction of water (VFW) was calculated within restricted (intracellular), hindered (extracellular) and free (CSF) spaces. VFW in the tumor, peritumoral ROI, contralateral normal white matter (WM) and cortex were compared. Results: Within the tumor ROI, the median VFW in the restricted compartment was decreased vs. the peritumoral ROI (↓ 34%), WM (↓ 46%) and cortex (↓ 18%) while median VFW in the hindered compartment was increased vs. the peritumoral ROI (↑ 26%), WM (↑ 54%) and cortex (↑ 25%). Within the peritumoral ROI, median VFW in the hindered compartment was increased compared to WM (↑ 23%). 3 patients had available histopathology revealing isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutant gliomas. Conclusions: Using ultra-high gradient diffusion MRI and a novel diffusion model, we detected distinct diffusion patterns in the tumor and peritumoral area not seen on conventional MRI. Lower VFW in the restricted compartment within the tumor may reflect decreased intracellular water mobility due to enlarged nuclei. Higher VFW in the hindered compartment in the tumor and peritumoral area may reflect higher degree of tissue permeability and edema. MRI-pathology and larger cohort validation studies are underway to elucidate microenvironment changes in response to treatment.
Association of SDF1 inhibition with local control and relative cerebral blood volume of glioblastoma.
Authors: Thomas Reena Parada , Nagpal Seema , Iv Michael , Soltys Scott G. , Recht Cathy Kahn , Bertrand Sophie , Makar Sherif Mark , Corbin Zachary , Mandic Kseniya , Coffey Gwen , Pelpola Shanika , Prado Isabel P , Brown Martin , Recht Lawrence David
Published: September 2018

2058

Background: Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor, with 75-85% of patients historically having recurrence within the original tumor site. We have shown in preclinical studies that inhibition of the SDF1/CXCR4 pathway by the CXCR4 inhibitor Plerixafor increases tumor response to irradiation by inhibition of the recovery of tumor blood vessels. Methods: Newly diagnosed glioblastoma patients were enrolled to the clinical trial using the investigational agent Plerixafor after standard radiation therapy and temozolomide (NCT01977677). To date, 28 patients out of the planned accrual of 29 have been enrolled to this study. Normalized relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) ratios were calculated by the mean rCBV within the 95% isodose radiation field one month post-radiation as compared to contralateral white matter outside of the radiation field. Our imaging analysis compares patients treated with Plerixafor compared to a control group receiving standard therapy (chemo-RT). Results: There was a significant reduction in rCBV measured by DSC-MRI within the 95% isodose field one month after radiation therapy in patients receiving Plerixafor compared to control (p < 0.02). The rCBV out of the radiation field was similar between patients receiving Plerixafor compared to control patients one-month post radiation therapy. As of February 7, 2017, only 2 of the total of 9 recurrences occurred within the irradiated field. The rate of out of field recurrence (77%) was therefore much higher than expected (20%), with statistical significance (p < 0.03, Fisher’s exact test). Conclusions: We show that Plerixafor has a meaningful impact on local control of glioblastoma. Furthermore, DSC-MRI could be a useful biomarker of its efficacy.
Pituitary carcinoma: The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center experience.
Authors: Santos Pinheiro Fernando , Penas-Prado Marta , McCutcheon Ian E. , Mahajan Anita , Brown Paul D. , Kamiya-Matsuoka Carlos
Published: September 2018

2068

Background: Pituitary carcinoma (PC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine tumor diagnosed once a pituitary adenoma (PA) becomes metastatic. Although no standard treatment currently exists, surgery, radiation (XRT) and/or chemotherapy are most commonly used. Recently, treatment with temozolomide (TMZ) has shown promising results, although the lack of prospective trials limits accurate outcome assessment. Methods: We describe a single-center multidisciplinary team experience in managing PC patients over a 13-year period (Oct, 2003 to Jan, 2017). Results: A total of 17 patients (9 males) were seen. Median age at diagnosis of PC was 44 years (range 16-82 years) and the median time from PA to PC conversion was 6 years (range 1-29 years). Median follow-up time: 28 months (range 8-158 months) with 7 reported deaths. The majority of PC was hormone-secreting (HS) subtype (n = 12): ACTH (n = 5), PRL (n = 4), FSH/LH (n = 2), GH (n = 1). After PC diagnosis, all pituitary tumors were locally invasive, all underwent at least one resection (mean 2.3) and all received at least one course of XRT alone (IMRT = 76%, SRS = 29%, IMPT = 12%) or concurrent with chemotherapy (18%). Immunohistochemistry showed high Ki-67 labeling index ( > 3%) in 9 (53%) cases. Most cases (n = 14) had metastases to the CNS, 35% of those had combined CNS and systemic foci. Ten (59%) cases underwent focal treatment of metastases, 90% of which underwent XRT. The most common chemotherapy used was TMZ [n = 14 (82%): single agent (n = 10); TMZ+capecitabine (n = 5); concurrent TMZ+XRT (n = 3); concurrent TMZ+XRT with adjuvant TMZ (n = 1)]. The median longest progression-free survival (LPFS) was 18 months (range 4-45 months). TMZ was associated with the chemotherapy-related LPFS in 9 (75%) cases. The 2, 3 and 5 year survival rate was 65%, 53% and 35%, respectively. All patients surviving > 5 years were treated with TMZ (n = 5, 2 survived > 10 years). Two refractory cases are currently on PD-1 inhibitor agent. Eighty percent of non-functioning PC were alive at last follow-up (HS-PC, 58%). Recurrence occurred in 11 (65%) cases. Conclusions: Treatment of PC requires a multidisciplinary approach. Multimodality therapy with surgery, radiation and TMZ was associated with higher survival rates and longer PFS.
What drives patient outcomes in brain metastases: Number, volume, or biology?
Authors: Kotecha Rupesh , Miller Jacob A , Chao Samuel T. , Mohammadi Alireza Mohammad , Murphy Erin Sennett , Suh John H. , Barnett Gene H. , Vogelbaum Michael A. , Angelov Lilyana , Ahluwalia Manmeet Singh
Published: September 2018

2071

Background: To delineate the prognostic importance of number of brain metastases (BM), lesion volume, and biology on overall survival. Methods: Patients treated for BM with whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT), surgery, and/or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) at a single tertiary care institution from 1997-2015 were reviewed. The primary outcome was overall survival. Multivariable proportional hazards regression was used to adjust for confounding factors. Results: 3,955 patients with 16,189 BM were included in the analysis. There was a reduction in median survival with increasing number of lesions [1 lesion, 10.2 months; 2-4 lesions, 7.2 months, Hazard Ratio (HR) 1.36; 5-10 lesions, 5.6 months, HR: 1.69; > 10 lesions, 5.5 months, HR: 1.57, p< 0.001]. Among 1,651 patients (35%) who underwent SRS, there was a similar reduction in median survival with increasing lesion number [1 lesion, 12.2 months; 2-4 lesions, 10.1 months, HR 1.20; 5-10 lesions, 8.4 months, HR 1.41; > 10 lesions, 6.9 months, HR 1.19], p< 0.001). Among patients who underwent upfront SRS, increasing number of BM did not adversely affect survival in those with the smallest intracranial disease volume (≤0.4 cc, 10th percentile, p= 0.39), but was associated with inferior survival in patients with larger disease volumes (≤1.1 cc, 25th percentile, p= 0.05; ≤2.6 cc, 50th percentile, p= 0.005; ≤6.3 cc, 75th percentile, p= 0.006, and ≤12.2 cc, and 90th percentile, p =0.004). After partitioning the cohort into molecular subsets, patients with ALK+ disease had no difference in survival based on either lesion number or volume. Patients with EGFR+, HER2+, and luminal B disease had no difference in survival based on number of metastases, while patients with BRAF V600+and luminal A disease had no difference in survival based on intracranial disease volume. Conclusions: Number of BM closely correlates with survival in the majority of patients and intracranial disease volume impacts survival independent of number of metastases. For patients with certain tumor subtypes ( ALK+), intracranial disease burden appears to have no correlation with survival. Molecular profile characterization is important to identify patients with favorable subtypes given available treatment options.
Phase I study of nab-paclitaxel, gemcitabine, and bevacizumab in advanced cancers.
Authors: Sen Shiraj , Piha-Paul Sarina Anne , Kato Shumei , Karp Daniel D. , Janku Filip , Fu Siqing , Naing Aung , Pant Shubham , Tsimberidou Apostolia Maria , Subbiah Vivek , Kurzrock Razelle , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Hong David S.
Published: September 2018

2526

Background: Gemcitabine (gem) with nab-paclitaxel (nab-p) is known to have antitumor activity and a favorable toxicity profile. The addition of bevacizumab (bev) to nab-paclitaxel has also been found to enhance nab-paclitaxel cytotoxicity. Methods: We therefore performed a modified 3+3 dose escalation study with 15 dose levels of fixed dose gem 1000 mg/m2IV (day 1, 8, 15) and escalating doses of nab-p IV (day 1,8, 15) and bev IV (day 1,15) every 28 days. The study design allowed for the possibility of multiple MTDs. Correlative studies on VEGF polymorphism and response were planned. (NCT01113476). Results: 103 patients (45 male) with advanced cancers were enrolled (19 ovarian, 18 pancreatic, and 18 gastroesophageal (GE) cancers among the most common). All patients were ECOG PS 0-2, median age was 60 years (range 17-85), and 51 patients (50%) were gem refractory with a median of 3 prior lines of therapy. 3 DLTs were observed during dose escalation - one with nab-p 50 mg/m2 and bev 10 mg/m2 (grade 3 dysphagia, dehydration), one with nab-p 75 mg/m2 and bev 10 mg/m2 (grade 3 cellulitis) and one with nab-p 150 mg/m2 and bev 5 mg/m2 (grade 3 bacteremia, hypotension). 2 DLTs were observed among the 13 patients in the nab-p 100 mg/m2 and bev 5 mg/m2 expansion cohort (one grade 3 diarrhea, one grade 3 fatigue) and 1 DLT among the 12 patients in the nab-p 75 mg/m2 and bev 10 mg/m2 expansion cohort (grade 3 rectal bleed). Dose escalation up to nab-p 125 mg/m2 and bev 15 mg/m2was well tolerated with no MTD. One patient with gem refractory peritoneal papillary carcinoma achieved a complete response, 13 patients (13%) had partial responses (PR), and 54 patients (52%) had prolonged stable disease (pSD) ≥ 12 weeks. 4 patients achieving PR and 26 patients with pSD were previously gem refractory. 3/6 (50%) small cell cancers achieved PR and all 6 of these patients had tumor shrinkage of at least 25%. 4/19 (21%) ovarian cancers achieved PR, 3/18 (17%) GE cancers achieved PR, and 1/18 (6%) pancreatic cancers achieved PR. Conclusions: The combination of gem 1000 mg/m2, nab-p 125 mg/m2 and bev 15 mg/m2 is safe, well-tolerated, and has activity even at lower doses in advanced malignancies, including gem refractory tumors. Correlative VEGF polymorphism studies are ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT01113476.
A phase I dose escalation study of SCB01A, a micro-tubular inhibitor with vascular disrupting activity, in patients with advanced solid tumors refractory to standard therapy.
Authors: Chiang Nai-Jung , Shiah Her-Shyong , Lin Chia-Chi , Yen Chia-Jui , Tsai Hui-Jen , Wu Shang-Yin , Su Wu-Chou , Chang Kwang-Yu , Chen Li-Tzong
Published: September 2018

2531

Background: SCB01A is a novel anti-microtubular agent with vascular disrupting activity. The Phase I study aimed to determine the dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), maximum tolerated dose (MTD), safety, and pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles of SCB01A in patients with advanced solid tumor. Methods: This was an open-label, phase I clinical trial with a rapid titration followed by a 3 x 3 study design. Eligible patients would receive a 3-hr intravenous infusion of SCB01A, every 21 days as one cycle. All adverse events were classified according to the CTCAE V4.0. DLT was defined as the occurrence of grade 3 with complications and grade 4 hematoloigcal, or ≥grade 3 non-hematological toxicities. Results: From June 2011 to November 2015, a total of 33 eligible patients were enrolled to eight dose levels: 2 mg/m2 (n = 1), 3 mg/m2 (n = 1), 4 mg/m2 (n = 6), 6.5 mg/m2 (n = 9, with 3 additional subjects were recruited for safety concern), 10 mg/m2 (n = 3), 16 mg/m2 (n = 3), 24 mg/m2 (n = 6) and 32 mg/m2 (n = 4). Six episodes of DLTs were observed in 5 patients (each one in dose levels of 4/6.5/24 mg/m2 and two in dose level of 32 mg/m2), including grade 4 blood creatine phosphokinase elevation (4 mg/m2), grade 3 gastric hemorrhage (6.5 mg/m2), grade 2 venous thrombosis (24 mg/m2), grade 3 peripheral neuropathy manifested as weakness of lower limbs, grade 3 aspartate aminotransferase elevation, and grade 3 hypertension (32 mg/m2). The MTD was determined to be 24 mg/m2. Pharmacokinetic profiles revealed a linear AUC-dose response with an average elimination half-life (t1/2) of 2.5 hours. Partial response was observed in one subject with buccal cancer. A total of 57.6% (19/33) subjects had stable disease for at least 2 cycles. Conclusions: SCB01A is safe and tolerable in patients with solid tumor. The MTD of SCB01A is 24 mg/m2 every 21 days, which deserves further development. Clinical trial information: NCT011159522.
Large scale adverse event data mining for targeted therapies development.
Authors: Sarangdhar Mayur , Aronow Bruce , Jegga Anil Goud , Turpin Brian , Breese Erin Haag , Perentesis John Peter
Published: September 2018

2538

Background: Targeted anti-cancer small molecule drugs & immune therapies have had a dramatic impact in improving outcomes & the approach to clinical trials. Increasingly, regulatory approvals are expedited with small studies designed to identify strong efficacy signals. However, this may limit the extent of safety profiling. The use of large scale/big data meta-analyses can identify novel safety & efficacy signals in "real-world" medical settings. Methods: We used AERSMine, an open-source data mining platform to identify drug toxicity signatures in the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System of 8.6 million patients. We identified patients (n = 732,198) who received either traditional and targeted cancer therapy & identified therapy-specific toxicity patterns. Patients were classified based on exposures: anthracyclines (n = 83,179), platinum (117,993), antimetabolites (93,062), alkylators (81,507), antimicrotubule agents (97,726), HER2 inhibitors (40,040), VEGFis (79,144), VEGF-TKis (90,734), multi TKis (34,457), anaplastic lymphoma Kis (7,635), PI3K-AKT-mTOR inhibitors (33,864), Bruton TKis (9,247), MEKis (4,018), immunomodulatory agents (174,810), proteasome inhibitors (44,681), immune checkpoint inhibitors (20,287). Pharmacovigilance metrics [Relative Risks & safety signals] were used to establish statistical correlation & toxicity signatures were differentiated using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Results: To validate the use of the AERSMine to detect AEs, we focused on cardiotoxicity. It identified classic drug associated AEs (e.g. ventricular dysfunction with anthracyclines, HER2is & VEGFis; VEGFi hypertension & vascular toxicity; multi TKIs vascular events). AERSMine also identified recently reported uncommon toxicities of myositis/myocarditis with immune checkpoint inhibitors. It indicated a higher frequency of myositis/myocarditis with combination immune checkpoint therapy, paralleling industry corporate safety databases. These toxicities were reported at higher frequencies in patients > 65 yrs. Conclusions: AERSMine “big data” analyses provide a sensitive tool to detect potential new patterns of AEs simultaneously across multiple clinical trials & in the real-world setting.
FDA analysis of grade 3-4 safety events.
Authors: Smit Marie-Anne Damiette , Casak Sandra J. , Lemery Steven , Keegan Patricia , McKee Amy E.
Published: September 2018

2544

Background: In new drug/biologics applications, safety data provided to FDA include serious adverse events (SAEs), defined as adverse events (AEs) resulting in death, life-threatening AE, inpatient hospitalization or prolongation of hospitalization, persistent or significant incapacity or substantial disruption of the ability to conduct normal life functions, or congenital anomaly/birth defect. One limitation of the SAE definition is that hospitalization practices differ across localities and among medical practitioners. Therefore, a safety signal may not be adequately reflected when analyzing SAEs. We hypothesize that evaluating CTCAE Grade 3 (severe) and Grade 4 (life-threatening) AEs, independent of whether or not these were classified as serious, provides a more complete assessment of patient safety. Methods: We reviewed SAEs from all nine registrational trials for new molecular entities approved for the treatment of cancer by the FDA in 2014. Results: A total of 25,548 AEs were reported in 1,781 patients treated with an investigational agent. There were 2,943 Grade 3-4 AEs and 912 Grade 3-4 SAEs. Information regarding hospitalization was available in 62% of Grade 3-4 AEs. Fifty-five percent of Grade 3-4 SAEs vs. 5.5% of Grade 3-4 non-serious AEs resulted in hospitalization. Several clinically serious Grade 3-4 AEs, including sepsis and respiratory failure, were not classified as SAE. Conclusions: There is significant overlap in most common Grade 3-4 AEs and most common Grade 3-4 SAEs. Most AEs that are clinically serious were appropriately classified as SAE. However, some clinically serious AEs and some AEs resulting in hospitalization were not classified as SAE. With the exception of information regarding hospitalization, characterization of the reason why certain AEs were classified as SAEs was not possible. In this pooled analysis, data from the analysis of AEs by severity was more informative than the analyses by SAEs. [Table: see text]