Clinical trial NCT00114738
Conditions: Lymphoma, Mantle Cell Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Keywords: Proteasome Inhibition NF-Kappa-B Gene Expression Signature Cyclin D1 Translational Studies Lymphoma Mantle Cell Lymphoma MCL
Sponsor: National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Start date: 2005-06-15; Completion date: 2022-08-11
Enrollment: 53 participants; Allocation: RANDOMIZED; Intervention model: SEQUENTIAL

Brief summary:
This study will evaluate the effectiveness of etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin-rituximab (EPOCH-R) chemotherapy plus bortezomib for treating mantle cell lymphoma, a cancer of white blood cells called lymphocytes. EPOCH-R consists of the drugs prednisone, etoposide, doxorubicin and vincristine, with the addition of a new drug called rituximab. In a recent study of patients with newly diagnosed mantle cell lymphoma, 92 percent had a complete remission of their disease after treatment with EPOCH-R. This study will test whether adding bortezomib as "maintenance therapy" once chemotherapy is finished will lengthen the time before the disease relapses and improve the overall cure rate.

Patients 18 years of age and older with mantle cell lymphoma may be eligible for this study. Candidates are screened with a medical history and physical examination, blood and urine tests, electrocardiogram, multi-gated acquisition scan (MUGA) or echocardiogram, imaging studies and biopsy to determine the extent of disease, and possible colonoscopy.

Participants undergo treatment in three parts, as follows:

* Part 1: Bortezomib alone: Patients receive 4 doses of bortezomib over 3 weeks. The drug is injected into a vein over about 30 seconds.
* Part 2: EPOCH-R chemotherapy plus bortezomib: This phase of treatment begins 3 to 4 weeks after completing Part 1. Treatment is given on an outpatient basis in six 3-week cycles, with all drugs administered over the first 5 days of each cycle. Patients take prednisone by mouth on days 1 to 5 and etoposide, doxorubicin, and vincristine as a 96-hour infusion through a vein over days 1 to 5. The infused drugs are delivered through a lightweight, portable infusion pump. Rituximab is given by vein over several hours on day 1 immediately before the chemotherapy infusion begins. Bortezomib is given by vein over 30 seconds on day 1 before the rituximab and again on day 4. Cyclophosphamide is given by vein over about 15 minutes on day 5 immediately after the chemotherapy infusion is completed. Patients are taught how to self inject granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), a drug that helps boost white cell counts after chemotherapy. They inject the drug under the skin (like an insulin shot) for 10 days of each cycle beginning day 6. Patients also take an antibiotic to help prevent infection during chemotherapy.
* Part 3: Bortezomib alone: After completing EPOCH-R-B therapy, patients are randomly assigned to receive or not to receive bortezomib alone. The drug is given in 2 doses over 5 days, with a break of 16 days before the next dose. These 3-week cycles continue for up to 18 months or until the disease comes back or worsens. Patients who are assigned to the group that does not receive bortezomib will be offered the drug if their disease relapses.

During therapy, patients have tests performed on their bone marrow, tumor tissue, blood or other fluids to look at different genes and proteins that may be involved in the development of their lymphoma or the reaction of the immune system. A tissue biopsy is done before treatment begins and a day after treatment starts. Disease progress is followed with computed tomography (CT) scans and blood tests. When treatment is completed, patients whose cancer has disappeared are scheduled for periodic follow-up examinations and tests. Those whose disease remains or recurs may be offered participation in another protocol if an appropriate one is available or are returned to the care of their local physician.

...

Detailed description:
Background:

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) presents a clinical challenge because it is aggressive and incurable with chemotherapy. Therefore novel treatment approaches are needed.

MCL has overexpression of NF-kappa B (NF-kappa B), a transcription factor that affects cell growth and survival, and cyclin D1 that affects cell cycle and growth. These proteins appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of MCL.

Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor that inhibits NF-kappa B and cyclin D1, has demonstrated activity in patients with relapsed or refractory MCL.

Dose-adjusted-etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin-rituximab (EPOCH-R) has excellent activity in MCL, with a complete response (CR) rate of 92%, but patients eventually relapse.

Objective:

Determine the progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of dose-adjusted etoposide, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide with vincristine, prednisone, and rituximab,bortezomib (DA-EPOCH-RB) followed by bortezomib maintenance versus observation.

Eligibility:

Diagnosis of mantle cell lymphoma.

No prior treatment except for local radiation or a short course of steroids for control of symptoms,

Age greater than or equal to 18 years old.

Adequate major organ function unless impairment is due to lymphoma.

Study Design:

To assess the clinical activity and biological effects of bortezomib, patients will initially receive one cycle of bortezomib alone with sequential tumor biopsies for microarray analysis.

All patients will then receive Dose-adjusted (DA)-EPOCH-RB for 6 cycles, and if they have at least a PR, this will be followed by randomization to either immediate bortezomib maintenance x 18 months, or to observation, followed by bortezomib if progression occurs. This study has as a primary goal, to describe progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival of early bortezomib maintenance versus observation following induction with bortezomib followed by DA-EPOCH-RB. Important secondary goals are to assess response and toxicity to bortezomib alone or DA-EPOCH-RB, to evaluate time to progression after receiving bortezomib following progression on an observation arm, and to assess the biological effects of bortezomib on untreated MCL.

Arms: arm 1: Combo chemo etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin (EPOCH)-Rituxan (R) + Bortezomib (B) arm 2: Bortezomib alone arm 3: Bortezomib maintenance arm 4: At the beginning of part C patients are randomized to receive bortezomib maintenance or observation without bortezomib.
Interventions: intervention 1: Rituximab (R) intervention 2: EPOCH intervention 3: Bortezomib (B) intervention 4: Bortezomib intervention 5: Bortezomib or observation
Intervention descriptions: intervention 1: Rituximab is given with etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin (EPOCH) and bortezomib every 3 weeks for 6 cycles. intervention 2: EPOCH is given with Rituximab and bortezomib every 3 weeks for 6 cycles. intervention 3: Bortezomib is given alone for one cycle. intervention 4: Bortezomib is given with EPOCH and rituximab every 6 weeks for 12 cycles. intervention 5: At the beginning of Part C, patients are randomized to receive bortezomib maintenance or be observed w/o bortezomib.

Protocol documents:
Prot_SAP_002.pdf: 
Abbreviated Title:  EPOCH-R-B +/- B Maintenance in MCL
Version Date:   11/08/2021
1
Abbreviated Title: EPOCH-R-B +/- B Maintenance in MCL
NIH Protocol #:  05-C-0170 
Version Date: 11/08/2021
NCT Number: NCT00114738
Randomized Phase II Study of Dose-Adjusted EPOCH-Rituximab-Bortezomib Induction 
Followed by Bortezomib Maintenance versus Observation in Untreated Mantle Cell 
Lymphoma with Microarray Profiling and Proteomics
NCI Principal Investigator: Wyndham H. Wilson, M.D., Ph.D.
Lymphoid Malignancies Branch (LYMB)
Center for Cancer Research (CCR)
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Building 10, Room 4N115
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Bethesda, MD 20892
Phone:  240-760-6092
Email:  wilson2@mail.nih.gov 
Investigational Agents:  None
Commercial Agents:  Etoposide, Prednisone, Vincristine, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, 
Rituximab, Bortezomib, Filgrastim


Abbreviated Title:  EPOCH-R-B +/- B Maintenance in MCL
Version Date:   11/08/2021
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PRÉCIS
Background: 

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) presents a clinical challenge because it is aggressive and 
incurable with chemotherapy. Therefore, novel treatment approaches are needed.  

MCL has overexpression of NF-kappa B (NF-B), a transcription factor that affects cell 
growth and survival, and cyclin D1 that affects cell cycle and growth. These proteins 
appear to be involved in the pathogenesis of MCL.  

Bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor that inhibits NF-B and cyclin D1, has demonstrated 
activity in patients with relapsed or refractory MCL.  

Dose-adjusted-EPOCH-R has excellent activity in MCL, with a complete response (CR) 
rate of 92%, but patients eventually relapse. 
Objective:

Determine the PFS and OS of DA-EPOCH-RB followed by bortezomib maintenance 
versus observation
Eligibility:

Diagnosis of mantle cell lymphoma

No prior treatment except for local radiation or a short course of steroids for control of 
symptoms, 

Age > 18 years old

Adequate major organ function unless impairment is due to lymphoma.
Study Design: 

To assess the clinical activity and biological effects of bortezomib, patients will initially 
receive one cycle of bortezomib alone with sequential tumor biopsies for microarray 
analysis.  

All patients will then receive Dose-adjusted (DA)-EPOCH-RB for 6 cycles, and if they 
have at least a PR, this will be followed by randomization to either immediate bortezomib 
maintenance x 18 months, or to observation, followed by bortezomib if progression occurs. 
This study has as a primary goal, to describe progression free survival (PFS) and overall 
survival of early bortezomib maintenance versus observation following induction with 
bortezomib followed by DA-EPOCH-RB. Important secondary goals are to assess 
response and toxicity to bortezomib alone or DA-EPOCH-RB, to evaluate time to 
progression after receiving bortezomib following progression on an observation arm, and 
to assess the biological effects of bortezomib on untreated MCL. 


Abbreviated Title:  EPOCH-R-B +/- B Maintenance in MCL
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRÉCIS............................................................................................................................................2
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................3
STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE ................................................................................................6
1
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................6
1.1
Study Objectives..............................................................................................................6
1.2
Background and Rationale...............................................................................................6
2
ELIGIBILITY ASSESSMENT AND ENROLLMENT.........................................................16
2.1
Eligibility Criteria..........................................................................................................16
2.2
Evaluation Pre-Treatment..............................................................................................17
3
PARTICIPANT REGISTRATION AND STATUS UPDATE PROCEDURES...................18
4
STUDY IMPLEMENTATION...............................................................................................18
4.1
Study Design..................................................................................................................18
4.2
Drug Administration......................................................................................................19
4.3
Treatment Modifications ...............................................................................................21
4.4
On Study Evaluation......................................................................................................24
4.5
Post-Treatment Evaluations...........................................................................................30
4.6
Cost and Compensation .................................................................................................30
4.7
Off Treatment Criteria ...................................................................................................30
4.8
Off Study Criteria ..........................................................................................................31
5
SUPPORTIVE CARE.............................................................................................................31
5.1
Prophylaxis of Pneumocystis jiroveci (formerly, carinii)..............................................31
5.2
Prophylaxis for Hepatitis B reactivation........................................................................31
5.3
Prophylaxis for Herpes Simplex and/or Herpes Zoster .................................................32
5.4
Recommendations for management of gastrointestinal issues:.....................................32
6
CORRELATIVE STUDIES FOR RESEARCH.....................................................................32
6.1
Procedures for Collecting Tumor Biopsies and/or Peripheral Blood Cells...................32
6.2
Biospecimen Collection.................................................................................................33
6.3
Sample Storage, Tracking and Disposition ...................................................................34
6.4
Genetic/Genomic Analysis ............................................................................................36
7
DATA COLLECTION AND EVALUATION.......................................................................36
7.1
Data Collection And Evaluation....................................................................................36
7.2
Data Sharing Plans.........................................................................................................37


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7.3
Evaluation of CT Scan Measurements ..........................................................................38
7.4
Response Criteria...........................................................................................................38
7.5
Toxicity Criteria.............................................................................................................39
8
NIH REPORTING REQUIREMENTS / DATA AND SAFETY MONITORING PLAN....39
8.1
Definitions .....................................................................................................................39
8.2
OHSRP Office of Compliance and Training / IRB Reporting ......................................39
8.3
NCI Clinical Director Reporting ...................................................................................39
8.4
NIH Required Data and Safety Monitoring Plan...........................................................40
8.5
Procedures for AE and SAE Reporting to Manufacturer ..............................................40
8.6
Procedures for Reporting Drug Exposure during Pregnancy and Birth Events ............41
9
STATISTICAL CONSIDERATIONS....................................................................................41
10 COLLABORATIVE AGREEMENTS ...................................................................................43
10.1
Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) ..................................43
11 HUMAN SUBJECTS PROTECTIONS .................................................................................44
11.1
Rationale for subject selection.......................................................................................44
11.2
Participation of Children................................................................................................44
11.3
Participation of Subjects Unable to Give Consent ........................................................44
11.4
Evaluation of Benefits and Risks/Discomforts..............................................................45
11.5
Consent Process and Documentation.............................................................................46
12 REGULATORY AND OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS ...........................................47
12.1
Study Discontinuation and Closure ...............................................................................47
12.2
Quality Assurance and Quality Control.........................................................................47
12.3
Conflict of Interest Policy..............................................................................................48
12.4
Confidentiality and Privacy ...........................................................................................48
13 PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION...............................................................................49
13.1
Bortezomib ....................................................................................................................49
13.2
Rituximab ......................................................................................................................55
13.3
Cyclophosphamide ........................................................................................................57
13.4
Doxorubicin ...................................................................................................................58
13.5
Vincristine......................................................................................................................58
13.6
Etoposide .......................................................................................................................59
13.7
Administration of vincristine/doxorubicin/etoposide....................................................59
13.8
Prednisone......................................................................................................................59


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13.9
Filgrastim (G-CSF/NeupogenR).....................................................................................60
14 ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS...............................................................................60
14.1
Good Clinical Practice...................................................................................................60
14.2
Ethical Considerations...................................................................................................61
14.3
Patient Information and Informed Consent ...................................................................61
14.4
Patient Confidentiality...................................................................................................61
14.5
Protocol Compliance .....................................................................................................61
14.6
On-site Audits................................................................................................................61
14.7
Drug Accountability ......................................................................................................61
14.8
Record Retention ...........................................................................................................62
15 REFERENCES........................................................................................................................63
16 APPENDIX A: Procedure for Serum Separation ...................................................................67
17 APPENDIX B: Epoch Admixtures: Preparation and Administration ....................................68
18 APPENDIX C: Pregnancy Reporting Form............................................................................69


Abbreviated Title:  EPOCH-R-B +/- B Maintenance in MCL
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STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE
The trial will be carried out in accordance with International Conference on Harmonisation Good 
Clinical Practice (ICH GCP) and the following: 
United States (US) Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) applicable to clinical studies (45 
CFR Part 46, 21 CFR Part 50, 21 CFR Part 56, 21 CFR Part 312, and/or 21 CFR Part 812) 
National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded investigators and clinical trial site staff who are 
responsible for the conduct, management, or oversight of NIH-funded clinical trials have 
completed Human Subjects Protection and ICH GCP Training.
The protocol, informed consent form(s), recruitment materials, and all participant materials will 
be submitted to the Institutional Review Board (IRB) for review and approval.  Approval of both 
the protocol and the consent form must be obtained before any participant is enrolled.  Any 
amendment to the protocol will require review and approval by the IRB before the changes are 
implemented to the study.  In addition, all changes to the consent form will be IRB-approved; an 
IRB determination will be made regarding whether a new consent needs to be obtained from 
participants who provided consent, using a previously approved consent form.
1
INTRODUCTION
1.1
STUDY OBJECTIVES
1.1.1
Primary

Determine the PFS and OS of DA-EPOCH-RB followed by bortezomib maintenance 
versus observation
1.1.2
Secondary

Determine response to bortezomib pre-DA-EPOCH-RB in “window of opportunity” 

Determine response and toxicity of DA-EPOCH-RB 

Determine response and PFS of bortezomib at disease progression in the observation 
arm

Compare time to non-protocol treatment in the maintenance versus observation arms

Assess effects of bortezomib on mantle cell lymphoma by microarray, proteomics and 
genomic methylation microarrays

Correlate microarray, genomic methylation and proteomic findings with clinical 
outcomes
1.1.3
Exploratory

Explore molecular and genomic studies in tissue that may predict response and outcomes
1.2
BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE
Hypothesis: Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), an aggressive B-cell neoplasm, has only recently 
been recognized as a distinct biologic entity and compromises approximately 2.5 to 4% of all 
NHL in the U.S. It occurs more commonly in the elderly, has a male predominance and typically 
presents at an advanced stage. The clinical behavior of MCL tends to be aggressive but can vary 
from relatively indolent to very aggressive. Although the disease responds to chemotherapy, it is 


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usually incurable and responses are of short duration with a median survival of 3 – 4 years. 1 
Studies looking at various chemotherapy regimens in untreated mantle cell lymphoma have 
demonstrated event-free survivals ranging from 8 to 19 months and disease-free survivals 
ranging from 19 to 25 months, depending on the series (Table 1). 
Series 
n
PR 
(%)
CR (%)
Median
DFS
(months)
Median 
PFS  
(months)
Median 
Survival 
(months)
G.A. Velder1,2
41
---
32
25
---
24
W.Hiddenmann3
45
52
17
---
8
28
H. Samaha4
121
28
68
---
---
38
I. Teodorovic5
65
--- 
52
20
19
45
E. Zucca6
26
---
50
19
---
33
J. Armitage7
83
---
---
---
---
32
The use of autologous stem cell transplantation and high dose therapy in the treatment of newly 
diagnosed mantle cell lymphoma is controversial. Khouri et al tested an aggressive regimen of 
hyper-CVAD and high-dose methotrexate/cytarabine followed by stem cell transplantation in 
patients with relapsed or previously untreated mantle cell lymphoma.8  Among the 25 previously 
untreated patients, the overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) at 3 years were 92% 
and 72% respectively.  In contrast, the EFS at 3 years was 17% in the previously treated patients.  
Although the results are impressive in the untreated group, the results from the previously treated 
group suggest that this combination approach can salvage few if any patients and is therefore 
unlikely to be curative in the untreated group. A recent study published by Mangel et al. 
prospectively evaluated intensive chemotherapy and high-dose chemotherapy plus rituximab for 
newly diagnosed advanced stage mantle cell lymphoma. Of 20 patients treated, 17 remain in 
remission at a median of 30 months from diagnosis.9 However, longer follow-up is required to 
assess the impact of this strategy on PFS and OS. Other studies have shown little evidence that 
high-dose treatment with transplant is potentially curative. Freedman et al treated 28 MCL 
patients with high-dose chemo-radiotherapy and anti-B-cell monoclonal antibody purged 
autologous bone marrow transplantation.10  Twenty patients had received prior regimens before 
transplant, and 8 were in first CR/PR following CHOP.  Nineteen (68%) patients relapsed at a 
median of 21 months, and of 8 patients in first CR/PR, 5 had relapsed.  With a median follow-up 
of 24 months, DFS and OS were estimated to be 31% and 62%, respectively, at 4 years, 
indicating that high dose chemotherapy with autologous stem-cell support cures few if any 
patients.  
Thus, with anthracycline based chemotherapy or high dose chemotherapy, MCL is largely 
incurable and therefore new treatment approaches are needed. Dose-adjusted EPOCH in 
combination with rituximab has good activity in mantle cell lymphoma with a CR rate of 92%. 
However, most patients eventually have disease relapse and thus additional approaches to 
treatment of this disease are worth investigating with the hope of improving time to treatment 
failure and curability rates.


Abbreviated Title:  EPOCH-R-B +/- B Maintenance in MCL
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MCL is characterized by t (11; 14) (q13; q32) resulting in over-expression of cyclin D1 which is 
involved in regulation of the cell cycle - it controls G1 progression and G1 – S transition. NF-
B, a transcription factor involved in immune and inflammatory cellular responses affecting both 
cell growth and survival, appears to have an important role in the pathogenesis of aggressive 
lymphoid malignancies including MCL.11 Therefore, therapeutic strategies that target NF-B, 
such as  proteasome inhibition by Bortezomib, possibly in combination with conventional 
chemotherapy, are worthwhile investigating.
In eukaryotic cells, the ubiquitin proteasome pathway plays an essential role in the degradation 
of most intracellular proteins. The 26 S proteasome degrades regulatory proteins involved in cell 
cycle control. Some targets of this degradation are p53, p21, NF-ĸB, IĸB and bcl-2. The NF-
B/Rel transcription factors integrate diverse intracellular signaling pathways that are activated 
during normal cellular differentiation and during immune responses. 12-15 NF-B dependent 
transcriptional activity is mediated by dimers of NF-B family members (p50/105, p52/100, 
p65/RelA, RelB, or c-Rel), and is regulated by members of the IB family of inhibitors, 
principally IB, which binds to NF-B dimers and retains them in the cytoplasm. Upon 
phosphorylation by the IKK complex, IB is targeted for ubiquitination and proteasomal 
degradation, and released NF-B dimers can translocate to the nucleus and activate transcription 
of target genes.13  NF-B target genes encode diverse mediators of immune responses as well as 
regulators of cellular proliferation and apoptosis.  The expression of these target genes varies, in 
part, with the cell type in which NF-B is activated.  NF-B activity is also critical for normal B 
cell development and survival.16 NF-B activation by mitogenic stimuli is normally self-limited, 
but constitutive nuclear NF-B has been found in several types of cancers, raising the possibility 
that NF-B may contribute to malignant transformation or progression11,17.  For example, in cell 
lines and Hodgkin’s disease, mutations of IB gene result in its functional inactivation and the 
accumulation of p50/RelA heterodimers in the nucleus.17-21  In other types of lymphoid 
malignancies, constitutive NF-B activity can occur occasionally due to translocations involving 
the NF-B2 gene that disrupt its carboxy terminus,22,23 or by amplification of the c-rel locus.24,25  
Of interest is evidence that NF-B transcriptionally activates bcl-2.
The ability of NF-B to inhibit responses to cancer therapeutic agents  may contribute to the 
poor outcome of MCL, and inhibition of NF-B can synergize with chemotherapy to kill tumor 
cells.11 P21 and p27, two cdk inhibitory proteins and members of the INK-4 family are important 
for cell cycle regulation.26 MCL cells often have low levels of p21 and p27, and low p27 levels 
have been associated with a poor prognosis.27 Both p21 and p27 are up regulated in MCL cells 
after Bortezomib treatment.28  Two recently published studies 28,29 have demonstrated that 
inhibition of the proteasome induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in MCL lines. In the first of 
these,28 it is demonstrated that inactivating NF-B in MCL lines with the  proteasome inhibitor 
Bortezomib or the PIBα inhibitor Bay 11, blocks MCL cell growth leading to tumor cell death. 
The mechanism of blocking cell growth was via cell cycle arrest and induction of cell death, both 
of which involve inhibition of constitutive NF-B activation. This cell cycle arrest was 
associated with inhibition of cyclin D1 expression. A second study 11 looked at  proteasome 
inhibition in MCL lines that closely resembled blastic MCL with deletion of p15 and p16 
(Granta 519) and mutation of P53 (NCEB)). In this study, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis were 
accompanied by accumulation of the cdk inhibitor p21 in both cell lines.  These results suggest 


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that inhibition of NF-B, through proteasome inhibition by Bortezomib, may induce tumor cell 
apoptosis or decrease bcl-2 associated drug resistance. 
Two studies, recently presented in abstract form, have demonstrated good activity of Bortezomib 
in the setting of relapsed and refractory mantle cell lymphoma. In the first of these,30 the dose of 
Bortezomib was 1.5mg/m2 IV on days 1, 4, 8 and 11 every 21 days. Of 15 evaluable patients, 
8/15 patients responded with 3 CRs and 5 PRs (RR 53%). In the second study,31 using a dose of 
1.3mg/m2 IV twice weekly for 2 out of every 3 weeks, there was a PR rate of 38.5% (5 of 13 
evaluable patients). 
1.2.1
Bortezomib background  
VELCADE® (bortezomib) for Injection is a small molecule proteasome inhibitor developed by 
Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc., (Millennium) as a novel agent to treat human malignancies.  
Bortezomib is a dipeptidyl boronic acid derived from leucine and phenylalanine, which is a 
potent and reversible inhibitor of the proteasome. The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway is essential 
for the degradation of most short- and long-lived intracellular proteins in eukaryotic cells. The 
26S proteasome, universally present and abundant in all eukaryotic cells, is an ATP-dependent 
multicatalytic protease that is central to the degradative pathway. The 26S proteasome functions 
not only in a housekeeping role to eliminate damaged or misfolded proteins but also as a critical 
regulator of multiple cellular processes by virtue of the many regulatory proteins governing the 
cell cycle, transcription factor activation, apoptosis, and cell trafficking that are substrates for 
proteasome-mediated degradation. The proteasome is the final degradative enzyme involved in 
an important catabolic pathway for many intracellular regulatory proteins including NF-B, p53, 
and the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors p21 and p27.  Notably, Bortezomib induces apoptosis 
in cells that over express bcl-2, a genetic trait that confers unregulated growth and resistance to 
conventional chemotherapeutics.  Targeting the proteasome has emerged as a novel approach to 
cancer therapy. Bortezomib is currently approved by the United States Food and Drug 
Administration (US FDA) and it is registered in Europe for the treatment of multiple myeloma 
patients who have received at least one prior therapy and have demonstrated disease progression 
on the last therapy.
1.2.2
Bortezomib Nonclinical Toxicity 
Single-dose IV toxicity studies were conducted with bortezomib in the mouse, rat, dog, and 
monkey to establish the single-dose maximum tolerated dose (MTD).  The MTDs were 0.25 
mg/kg (1.5 mg/m2) and 0.067 mg/kg (0.8 mg/m2) in the 2 most sensitive species, rat and 
monkey, respectively.  Repeat-dose multi-cycle toxicity studies of 3 and 6 months in the rat and 
9 months in the monkey, each with 8-week recovery periods, were conducted to characterize the 
chronic toxicity of bortezomib when administered by the clinical route and regimen of 
administration.  The MTD in the 6-month rat study was 0.10 mg/kg (0.6 mg/m2) and the key 
target organs were the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, hematopoietic and lymphoid systems.  The 
MTD in the 9-month monkey study was 0.05 mg/kg (0.6 mg/m2) and the key target organs were 
the GI tract, hematopoietic and lymphoid systems, peripheral nervous system, and kidney.  Full 
or partial reversibility was observed for each of the toxicities described to date.  
In general, the nature of the toxicity of bortezomib is similar across species, and target organs of 
toxicity in animals have been largely predictive of human toxicity.  The toxicity of bortezomib in 
animals is characterized by a steep dose-response with mortality seen at dosages above the MTD.  
The cause of death at acutely lethal dosages is considered to be related to cardiovascular (CV) 


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10
effects of hypotension and vascular changes with secondary bradycardia and the cause of death 
in long-term studies has been attributed to GI or hematologic toxicity.  The pharmacologic 
effects of bortezomib on the CV system have been extensively characterized and have 
demonstrated that indirect effects on CV function occur only at acutely lethal dosages and are 
abrogated by routine supportive care.  Additional detailed information regarding the nonclinical 
pharmacology and toxicology of bortezomib may be found in the Investigator’s Brochure
1.2.3
Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Bortezomib 
The clinical pharmacology characterization of bortezomib has been determined from phase 1 
studies in subjects with solid tumors and hematological malignancies, and confirmed in phase 2 
studies in subjects with multiple myeloma.  In solid tumor subjects, the mean terminal 
elimination half-life of bortezomib was 9.06 hours.  The mean area under the curve (AUC)(0-24) 
after the first dose (1.3 mg/m2) of bortezomib was 48.2 hr*ng/mL.  The average clearance of 
bortezomib following a single 1.3 mg/m2 dose was 49.0 L/hr.  However, the AUC increased to 
81.0 hr*ng/mL after the third dose in the first cycle as a result of a reduction in systemic 
clearance to 28.2 L/hr with a consequent increase in elimination half-life to 54.0 hours.  Clinical 
experience has shown that the change in clearance does not result in overt toxicity from 
accumulation in this multidose regimen in humans. The overall disposition of bortezomib is 
consistent with a 2-compartment PK model, although the existence of a third compartment 
cannot be excluded at this time due to the lack of supportive steady-state PK data in humans. In 
subjects with advanced malignancies, the maximum pharmacodynamic effect (inhibition of 20S 
activity) occurred within 1-hour post dose.  At the therapeutic dose of 1.3 mg/m2 in subjects with 
multiple myeloma, the mean proteasome inhibition at 1-hour post dose was approximately 61%.
The time course of proteasome inhibition in subjects is characterized by maximum inhibition 
observed within the first hour after administration, followed by partial recovery of proteasome 
activity over the next 6 to 24 hours to within 50% of the pretreatment activity.  On the Day 1, 4, 
8, and 11 schedule, variable (10%–30%) levels of proteasome inhibition have been observed at 
next scheduled dosing.  In theory, this advantage allows cells to recover proteasome activity for 
normal cellular housekeeping functions between doses.
The relationship between bortezomib plasma concentrations and proteasome inhibition can be 
described by a maximum effect (Emax) model.  The Emax curve is initially very steep, with small 
changes in plasma bortezomib concentration over the range of 0.5 to 2.0 ng/mL relating to large 
increases in the percent inhibition (0–60%).  After that, a plateau occurs where marginal 
increases of proteasome inhibition are observed in spite of large changes in plasma bortezomib 
concentrations.
1.2.4
Clinical Experience with Bortezomib 
It is estimated that as of June 2005, more than 24,000 patients have been treated with 
bortezomib, including patients treated through Millennium-sponsored clinical trials, Investigator-
Initiated Studies, the US NCI Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP), and with 
commercially available drug.  Bortezomib has been commercially available since 13 May 2003.
The overall goal of the Millennium phase 1 program was to determine the MTD and dose-
limiting toxicity (DLT) of bortezomib in a number of therapeutic settings involving subjects with 
various advanced malignancies.  In a Phase I trial in patients with refractory hematologic 
malignancies, the MTD for a twice weekly for 4 weeks of a 42-day cycle was 1.04 mg/m2/dose, 


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with DLTs of thrombocytopenia, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, fatigue, and malaise (Orlowski et 
al., 2002).  The toxicity was greatest during the third and fourth weeks of therapy. In the 3-week 
schedule of bortezomib monotherapy (4 doses, given on Days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of a 21-day 
treatment cycle), the DLT occurred at 1.56 mg/m2/dose (3 subjects with Grade 3 diarrhea and 1 
with peripheral sensory neuropathy).  Therefore, the MTD at this schedule was 1.3 mg/m2/dose.  
In a 35-day treatment cycle with 4 weekly doses of bortezomib monotherapy, the MTD was 1.6 
mg/m2/dose and DLT included hypotension, tachycardia, diarrhea, and syncope.  
In phase 1 clinical studies, anti-tumor activity was reported in subjects with NHL, multiple 
myeloma, Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia, squamous cell carcinoma of the nasopharynx, 
bronchoalveolar carcinoma of the lung, renal cell carcinoma, and prostate cancer.  The safety and 
efficacy of bortezomib in subjects with multiple myeloma were investigated in two phase 2 
clinical studies, studies M34100-024 (subjects with first relapse) and M34100-025 (subjects with 
second or greater relapse and refractory to their last prior therapy).  In M34100-025, 202 heavily 
pre-treated subjects with refractory multiple myeloma after at least 2 previous treatments 
received bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 on Days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of a 21-day treatment cycle. The 
European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplant (EBMT) response criteria, as described by 
Blade (Blade et al., 1998) were utilized to determine disease response.  CRs were observed in 
4% of subjects, with an additional 6% of patients meeting all criteria for CR but having a 
positive immunofixation test.  PR or better was observed in 27% of subjects, and the overall 
response rate (CR, PR and minor response [MR] combined) was 35%.  Seventy percent of 
subjects experienced stable disease or better.  
The phase 3 study (M34101-039), also referred to as the APEX study, was designed to determine 
whether bortezomib provided benefit (time to progression [TTP], response rate, and survival) to 
patients with relapsed or refractory MM relative to treatment with high-dose dexamethasone.  
The study was also designed to determine the safety and tolerability of bortezomib relative to 
high-dose dexamethasone, and whether treatment with bortezomib was associated with superior 
clinical benefit and quality of life relative to high-dose dexamethasone. A total of 669 patients 
were enrolled and 663 patients received study drug (bortezomib: 331; dexamethasone: 332).  
Patients randomized to bortezomib received 1.3 mg/m2 I.V. push twice weekly on days 1, 4, 8, 
and 11 of a 3-week cycle for up to eight treatment cycles as induction therapy, followed by 1.3 
mg/m2 bortezomib weekly on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 of a 5-week cycle for three cycles as 
maintenance therapy. Patients randomized to dexamethasone received oral dexamethasone 40 
mg once daily on days 1 to 4, 9 to 12, and 17 to 20 of a 5-week cycle for up to four treatment 
cycles as induction therapy, followed by dexamethasone 40 mg once daily on days 1 to 4 
followed of a 4-week cycle for five cycles as maintenance therapy. The European Group for 
Blood and Marrow Transplant (EBMT) response criteria, as described by Blade (Blade et al., 
1998) were utilized to determine disease response.  There was a 78% increase in TTP for the 
bortezomib arm. Median TTP was 6.2 months for the bortezomib arm and 3.5 months for the 
dexamethasone arm (P<.0001). CR (complete response) + PR (partial response) was 38% with 
bortezomib vs. 18% with dexamethasone (P.0001). CR was 6% with bortezomib vs. 1% with 
dexamethasone (P<.0001). The CR + nCR rate was13% with bortezomib vs. 2% with 
dexamethasone. In patients who had received only one prior line of treatment (bortezomib: 132; 
dexamethasone: 119), CR + PR was 45% with bortezomib vs. 26% with dexamethasone 
(P=.0035). With a median 8.3 months of follow-up, overall survival was significantly longer 
(P=.0013) for patients on the bortezomib arm vs. patients on the dexamethasone arm. The 
probability of survival at one year was 80% for the bortezomib arm vs. 66% for the 


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dexamethasone arm, which represented a 41% decreased relative risk of death in the first year 
with bortezomib (P=.0005). In patients who had received only one prior line of treatment, the 
probability of survival at one year was 89% for the bortezomib arm vs. 72% for the 
dexamethasone arm, which represented a 61% decreased relative risk of death in the first year 
with bortezomib (P=.0098). (Richardson et al., 2005)
The optimal schedule for bortezomib is unclear. To further investigate the schedule, a study was 
recently presented at the American Society of Hematology in 2005. 
Patients were indolent lymphoma were randomized to bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 on days 1, 4, 8, and 
11 of a 21-day cycle (Arm A) or 1.6 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 of a 35-day cycle (Arm B) 
for up to 15 weeks (5 and 3 cycles in arms A and B, respectively). Starting from day 1, rituximab 
375mg/m2 was administered weekly for 4 weeks. In this study, 81 patients were enrolled. At data 
reporting 46 (23 each arm) had received study drug, and 42 (20 Arm A, 22 Arm B) were 
evaluable for response.   The median bortezomib dose received was 15.9 mg/m2 (61% of max. 
expected) in Arm A, and 19.0 mg/m2 (99% of max. expected) in Arm B. Overall response rates 
were similar in both arms with 50% Arm A and 45% Arm B. Treatment was tolerated in both 
arms with grade 3 AEs in 10 patients in Arm A and 5 patients in Arm B. The most common 
grade 3 AEs were gastrointestinal toxicities, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and peripheral 
neuropathy, but no grade 3 thrombocytopenia or neutropenia were observed in Arm B. These 
results suggest that weekly dosing is less toxic. However, it is unclear if it is as effective because 
rituximab was administered in both arms and may have obscured differences in outcome. 
Because the twice weekly schedule has been shown to be effective in mantle cell lymphoma, it 
will be used in the maintenance arm of this study.   Because this is a maintenance and not 
treatment schedule, patients will receive bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 weekly on days 1, 4, 8 and 11 of 
an 8-week treatment cycle.   
1.2.5
DA-EPOCH-bortezomib background 
We recently commenced a study, using bortezomib in combination with DA-EPOCH in patients 
with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell NHL. To reach the optimal dose of Bortezomib 
used in conjunction with DA-EPOCH, there was an accelerated dose escalation of Bortezomib 
with doses of 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 1.7 mg/m2. On the basis of tolerability and feasibility, the 1.5mg/m2 
dose was the dose selected for Phase II evaluation with DA-EPOCH and was administered on 
days 1 and 4 of a 21-day cycle.  Thus far, the toxicities of this combination have included 
nausea/vomiting, stomatitis, diarrhea, constipation, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, fever and 
neutropenia and neuropathy.  
Preliminary experience with DA-EPOCH-RB has been obtained in the first 5 patients on the 
current study. Of these patients, bortezomib doses were reduced or discontinued in all 5 patients 
due to at least grade 2 neuropathy.  These results indicate that the acceptable phase II dose of 
bortezomib with DA-EPOCH-R should be reduced to 1.3 mg/m2. The apparent higher toxicity in 
the current study compared to our previous study may in part be due to the administration of Part 
A where patients receive bortezomib 1.5 mg/m2 on days 1, 4, 8, 11 for analysis of translational 
endpoints and response. Because bortezomib neurotoxicity is cumulative, neurotoxicity during 
DA-EPOCH-RB will be higher due to bortezomib exposure on Part A. Hence, to reduce 
neurotoxicity, Part A will administer bortezomib at 1.3 mg/m2 for days 1 and 4 only (times 
during which translational endpoints are obtained).  As noted above, maintenance bortezomib 


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will be administered using the standard dose and schedule (bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 days 1, 4, 8, 
11) but will be repeated at 8-week intervals. 
Toxicity of DA-EPOCH-B from our phase I study are shown in the table below. 
1.2.6
DA-EPOCH-R background 
DA-EPOCH-Rituximab (DA-EPOCH-R) is a novel combination of chemotherapy and the CD-
20 monoclonal antibody, rituximab. DA-EPOCH in combination with rituximab has produced a 
92% complete remission rate in patients with newly diagnosed mantle-cell lymphoma.33 
This study sets out to evaluate the combination of EPOCH-Rituximab-Bortezomib induction 
followed by either early or delayed Bortezomib maintenance in untreated MCL. We plan to 
accrue 80 patients on this study.  This design will allow an assessment of the efficacy of 
maintenance Bortezomib on time to treatment failure and will provide additional information on 
the efficacy of Bortezomib at the time of relapse, if this were to occur.  In a recent study of 
EPOCH-R followed by idiotype vaccine in 26 untreated MCL patients, 92% achieved a complete 
remission following EPOCH-R alone.33  Additionally, there was 24-month median response 
duration and 100% survival, indicating that EPOCH-R is a highly effective treatment platform.  
However, despite the high CR rate, 40% of patients on the study have progressed, suggesting that 
this approach will not be curative in most patients.  Based on the biology of MCL, the addition of 
Bortezomib to EPOCH-R may further increase the cytotoxicity of the regimen.  Additionally, 
given the over-expression of cyclin D1 in MCL, which is believed crucial in driving cells from 
the G1 to the S phase, it is worthwhile targeting this pathway through long-term  proteasome 
inhibition.  Hence, we propose using maintenance Bortezomib for 18 months following induction 
with EPOCH-R-Bortezomib.  Maintenance therapy has previously been shown to be highly 
Grade 2 %
Toxicity Profiles :DA -EPOCH-Bortezomib*
Gastrointestinal
Nausea/vomiting
2
1
-
8
Stomatitis
10
-
-
26
Constipation
4
-
-
10
Diarrhea
3
1
-
10
Hematological
Thrombocytopenia
7
14
-
54
Transfusion platelets
-
7
2
23
Neutropenia
3
7
21
79
Infectious
Fever and neutropenia
-
6
-
15
Neuropathy * *
1
-
-
Cardiac
-
2
-
5
* * Toxicity is by patient and not cycle
* Based on 39 cycles
Adverse Event
Grade
2
3
4


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effective in recurrent Hodgkin’s lymphoma and provides different kinetics of cell kill compared 
to cyclic treatment. We plan to incorporate micro-array analysis of tissue from patients with 
MCL and correlate gene expression signatures to other molecular and histological markers and to 
survival and response. This will be achieved by taking advantage of a “window of opportunity” 
in which all patients will receive a single cycle of Bortezomib before induction with paired 
tumor samples for microarray and CT scan assessment of tumor response. Recent work by Louis 
Staudt’s group has shown that the proliferation gene expression signature is a quantitative 
integrator of oncogenic events that predicts survival in MCL and may provide an important 
prognostic tool in addition to discovering new molecular predictors of outcome using this novel 
approach.34  Furthermore, there is little information on the biological effects of Bortezomib in 
mantle cell lymphoma.  Paired samples for analysis by microarray and proteomics will permit 
further characterization of the potential mechanisms of Bortezomib.  These results will be 
correlated with clinical outcome as a secondary objective.  
1.2.7
Microarray Profiling and Proteomics Background  
Gene expression profiling on microarrays. We aim to perform gene expression profiling on 
Affymetrix whole genome arrays in both biopsies from all patients enrolled in the study. We 
chose gene expression profiling to assess the molecular changes induced by a proteasome 
inhibitor because gene expression profiling provides a comprehensive and highly quantitative 
overview of tumor biology and can be carried out even from small amounts of tissue. Gene 
expression signatures that relate to specific cellular functions or to the activity of distinct 
signaling pathways can be reproducibly monitored and can identify subsets of patients with 
distinct tumor biology, different prognosis or differential response to therapy. For example, 
Rosenwald et al have recently identified a proliferation gene expression signature in a 
retrospective study in MCL biopsies profiled on the Lymphochip34. This proliferation signature 
integrates different oncogenic events and confers powerful prognostic information. Therefore, 
we will use the proliferation signature to determine the effect of proteasome inhibition on 
proliferation rate in vivo and to test whether our proposed combination therapy is able to 
overcome the adverse prognostic impact of high tumor proliferation. In addition to monitoring 
changes in gene expression induced by bortezomib, we will use the pre-treatment gene 
expression profile to develop a molecular predictor of treatment responsiveness. In the second 
biopsy on bortezomib monotherapy we will use gene expression profiling to characterize 
sequelae of proteasome inhibition in vivo to better define MCL pathobiology and to identify 
predictors of treatment response. The mechanisms of bortezomib induced cell death and the 
reason for its apparent tumor selectivity are currently incompletely understood. In vitro data 
provide a number of hypotheses including inhibition of the NF-kB pathway, activation of 
caspases, down regulation of cyclin D1 or upregulation of cell cycle inhibitors such as p21cip and 
p27kip-1. The gene expression profiles from the paired biopsies will be helpful in testing whether 
some of these in vitro observations translate into clinical reality. For instance, we will be able to 
follow changes in NF-kB regulated genes and thereby estimate the relative importance of this 
signaling pathway for MCL. 
The genetic aberrancies which characterize lymphoma are manifested functionally by changes at 
the protein level and result in modulation of critical cell signaling pathways such as those 
involving apoptosis.  The technology to profile these protein pathways has evolved through the 
development of reverse phase protein microarrays (RPPMs)35-37.  This approach allows not only 


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quantitation of proteins of interest, but also determination of their activation state, regulated 
through post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation or cleavage.
The small molecule inhibitor of the proteasome, bortezomib, promotes apoptosis; this effect 
appears to be due in part to prevention of NF-B activation, but the precise mechanisms have not 
been fully established38.  Furthermore, the proteasome degrades proteins with a wide variety of 
cellular functions other than regulation of apoptosis (e.g. cell cycle proteins).  While previous 
studies have shown clinical promise of bortezomib in lymphoma, including MCL39, the key 
signaling pathways modulated in responders and non-responders have not been characterized.  
Because bortezomib acts by inhibiting proteasomal degradation, its principal effects are expected 
to be observed at the protein level.
In this portion of the study we will profile the activation status of cell signaling pathways in 
MCL before and after bortezomib therapy using RPPMs.  Tissue biopsies will be processed by 
freezing tissue (approximately 0.5 cm3 for open biopsies or 1 core for needle biopsies) in OCT.  
Tumor lysates will be immobilized in serial dilutions on a solid phase.  Antibodies will be 
applied in solution phase and binding will be detected by secondary tagging and amplification.  
Over 400 such antibodies, including those specific for post-translational modifications such as 
phosphorylation, have been validated for use in RPPMs by the NCI-FDA Clinical Proteomics 
Program.  The precision, sensitivity and linearity of this protocol have been validated using 
clinical specimens35.  Bioinformatic analysis of the data can identify significant proteins or 
combinations, including the hierarchical clustering typical of microarrays35.  The Center for 
Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, currently has open clinical trials for other diseases 
that incorporate this method of RPPMs to evaluate protein expression in pre- and post-treatment 
tissue biopsies.
The goal of these analyses will be (1) to identify protein profiles (including activation status of 
specific signaling pathways) from pre-treatment specimens that correlate with response to 
bortezomib in MCL; and (2) to determine differences between pre- and post-treatment protein 
profiles that correlate to response.  These data will be helpful in:
(1) Development of future clinical trials of individualized therapy, including:
a.
Selective use of bortezomib in patients with appropriate pre-treatment protein 
profiles.
b. Selective continuation of bortezomib (vs. change in therapy) based on 
proteomic correlates of response.
(2) Identification of activation of undesirable (e.g. anti-apoptotic) pathways as an 
inadvertent effect of proteasome inhibition, particularly in non-responders.  This 
information could be used to:
a.
Suggest targeted therapies which might be used successfully in combination 
with bortezomib.
b. Direct development of novel, more selective, proteasome inhibitors.
1.2.8
Genomic Methylation Analysis Background
Epigenetic changes including aberrant methylation of gene promoters and acetylation of histones 
have been shown to regulate gene transcription in normal and cancer cells.  Gene expression 
profiling has identified groups of genes associated with resistance to the proteasome inhibitor 
Bortezomib (BZM), a promising novel therapy for Mantle Cell Lymphoma( MCL).  We have 


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developed in-house, a high resolution, comprehensive global methylation assay called HELP 
(HPA II Enzyme Ligation mediated PCR amplification).  Briefly, genomic DNA is digested 
using 2 restriction enzymes (HPAII and MSP1) that are iso-schizomers of each other, the 
resulting products amplified using ligation-mediated PCR and hybridized onto a custom-
designed promoter array using the Nimblegen platform.  Preliminary data comparing MCL cell 
line specimens to Naïve B cells using HELP shows abnormal methylation of several key genes 
like p53 and NPM1.  We hypothesize that aberrant epigenetic silencing may regulate genes 
associated with Bortezomib resistance in MCL. Integrative genomic approaches combining 
array- based comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and gene expression have identified 
novel deletions involving key molecules in MCL biology. We will determine the aberrantly 
methylated genes involved in MCL pathogenesis by comparing these results with normal mantle 
zone B cells from routine tonsillectomy specimens.  Moreover, by correlating methylation 
profiles to clinical response in this study we will develop a prediction model for BZM resistance, 
which could be used in future large scale clinical trials to individualize therapy in MCL. Leftover 
genetic material (gDNA) will be used to confirm the HELP results at individual genomic loci 
using MassArray, which is a high throughput Robotic Mass-spectrometric analysis system 
specifically designed for measuring small amounts of DNA and RNA.
2
ELIGIBILITY ASSESSMENT AND ENROLLMENT
2.1
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA  
2.1.1
Diagnosis of mantle cell lymphoma (confirmed at NCI). All variants are eligible. 
2.1.2
Age  18 years.
2.1.3
No prior treatment except for local radiation or a short course of steroids for control of 
symptoms. Enrollment of subjects who require concurrent radiotherapy (which must be 
localized in its field size) should be deferred until the radiotherapy is completed and 3 
weeks have elapsed since the last date of therapy.
2.1.4
All stages of disease. 
2.1.5
ECOG performance status  3. 
2.1.6
Adequate major organ function (serum creatinine ≤1.5 mg/dl or creatinine clearance > 50 
ml/min; bilirubin ≤ 1.5 mg/dl (total) except < 5 mg/dl in patients with Gilbert’s syndrome 
as defined by > 80% unconjugated; ANC > 1000 and platelets > 75,000) unless 
impairment due to organ involvement by lymphoma.
2.1.7
No myocardial infarction within 6 months prior to enrollment or New York Hospital 
Association (NYHA) Class III or IV heart failure, uncontrolled angina, severe 
uncontrolled ventricular arrhythmias, or electrocardiographic evidence of acute ischemia 


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or active conduction system abnormalities.  Prior to study entry, any ECG abnormality at 
Screening has to be documented by the investigator as not medically relevant.
2.1.8
No grade 2 ≥ peripheral neuropathy within 14 days before enrollment.  
2.1.9
Ability to give voluntary written informed consent before performance of any study-
related procedure not part of normal medical care, with the understanding that consent 
may be withdrawn by the subject at any time without prejudice to future medical care.  
2.1.10 HIV antibody negative.
2.1.11 Female subject is either post-menopausal at least 1 year before the Screening visit or 
surgically sterilized or if they are of childbearing potential, agree to practice 2 effective 
methods of contraception (i.e., a hormonal contraceptive, intra-uterine device, diaphragm 
with spermicide, condom with spermicide, or abstinence) at the same time, from the time 
of signing the informed consent through 30 days after the last dose of study treatment, or 
agree to completely abstain from heterosexual intercourse.  Female subject is not 
pregnant or breast-feeding.  Confirmation that the subject is not pregnant must be 
established by a negative serum -human chorionic gonadotropin (-hCG) pregnancy test 
result obtained during screening.  Pregnancy testing is not required for post-menopausal 
or surgically sterilized women
2.1.12 Male subject even if surgically sterilized (i.e., status post vasectomy) must agree to 
practice effective barrier contraception during the entire study treatment period and 
through 30 days after the last dose of study treatment, or agree to completely abstain from 
heterosexual intercourse.
2.1.13 No invasive tumors within the last 5 years unless confined to an organ (e.g. prostate or 
thyroid cancer) and treated with curative therapy (e.g. surgery and/or radiation). Please 
note, there must be no evidence of the prior malignancy using standard criteria to 
evaluate the specific prior malignancy.
2.1.14 No known involvement of central nervous system by lymphoma
2.1.15 No history of hypersensitivity to bortezomib, boron or mannitol. 
2.1.16 Patient has not received other investigational drugs with 14 days before enrollment.
2.1.17 No serious medical or psychiatric illness likely to interfere with participation in this 
clinical study.
2.1.18 Exclusion for FDG scan is anyone exceeding the weight limit of the scanner (350 lb).
2.2
EVALUATION PRE-TREATMENT 
To be done within 4 weeks of commencing treatment; 2.2.5 must be done within one week of 
commencing treatment: 
2.2.1
Complete History and Physical examination
2.2.2
CBC, differential, PT, PTT, AST, ALT, LDH, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, albumin, 
calcium, phosphate, uric acid, creatinine (24-hour creatinine clearance if serum creatinine 


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> 1.5 mg/dl), electrolytes, urinalysis, immunoglobulin free light chains and serum protein 
electrophoresis. Type & screen, and isohemagglutinin titer.  
2.2.3
HIV antibody, Anti-HCV antibody, & hepatitis B surface antigen.
2.2.4
HLA typing (A,B, Cw) and Anti-varicella zoster virus IgG ELISA
2.2.5
HCG (serum) in women of childbearing potential.
2.2.6
Electrocardiogram
2.2.7
MUGA or echocardiogram in patients with history of MI or CHF. 
2.2.8
Staging: CT scan of chest, abdomen and pelvis; PET (fluorine 18-FDG) scan, bone 
marrow biopsy. Imaging of head and CSF analysis if clinical suspicion of CNS 
involvement. Colonoscopy recommended if not performed in previous 2 months and/or 
known to be positive.
2.2.9
Peripheral blood flow cytometry
3
PARTICIPANT REGISTRATION AND STATUS UPDATE PROCEDURES
Registration and status updates (e.g., when a participant is taken off protocol therapy and when a 
participant is taken off-study) will take place per CCR SOP ADCR-2, CCR Participant 
Registration & Status Updates found here.
Randomization takes place after Cycle 6 restaging is completed (weeks 0-12 after completion of 
cycle 6 of DA-EPOCH-RB). Only patients who have achieved a PR or CR will be eligible for 
randomization. 
4
STUDY IMPLEMENTATION
4.1
STUDY DESIGN
Part A: Bortezomib on days 1, 4, 8 & 11 with sequential tumor sampling. Part A is 
completed on day 21-28. In patients with leukemic MCL, timed blood samples may be 
obtained throughout the first course, typically pre and at 6 hours and 24 hours after the first 
dose and before and 24 hours after the second dose. Select patients without leukemic disease 
may have serial blood draws during Part A to serve as a comparison group.  In patients with 
nodal disease two lymph node biopsies will be obtained if nodal disease is safely accessible: 
one pre-treatment and the second 12-24 hours after the 2nd bortezomib dose. On treatment 
bone marrow aspirate or lymphapheresis to obtain lymphoma cells may be substituted for the 
lymph node biopsy in select patients.
If Platelet Count <25 K/mcL and impairment is due to organ involvement by lymphoma, 
proceed to Part B. If a patient has advanced disease that requires urgent treatment with 
chemotherapy, proceed to Part B.
Part B: Induction: DA-EPOCH-RB x 6 cycles 
Part C: Randomization to bortezomib maintenance versus observation for patients who have 
achieved PR or CR. Randomization will occur within 12 weeks after completion of Part B 
(Post-cycle 6 of DA-EPOCH-RB).  Patients with disease progression in the observation arm 
will be offered bortezomib treatment.  Patients cannot be randomized to maintenance if they 


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have any grade of toxicity which forbids bortezomib administration. Toxicity must resolve to 
a lower grade (that allows administration of bortezomib) within 12 weeks of completing DA-
EPOCH-RB to be eligible for randomization.  If toxicity does not resolve to this level within 
12 weeks, the patient is not eligible for randomization.
4.2
DRUG ADMINISTRATION  

Part A: Bortezomib x 1 cycle (21 days)  
Agent
Dose
Route
Duration
Schedule
Bortezomib
1.3 mg/m2
IV injection
Bolus (3-5 sec)
Days 1, 4, 8, 11

Part B:  DA-EPOCH-Rituximab-Bortezomib. (Begin after part A day 21 to 28).
All patients initiate therapy at Dose Level 1 of DA-EPOCH-RB shown below.  
Doses are based on actual body weight for all patients. Future dose adjustments based 
on hematological toxicity as shown below.
Drugs
Dosages & Administration/Schedule
Bortezomib
1.3 mg/m2 per dose for 2 doses on day 1 (before rituximab) and 
day 4 (between etoposide+doxorubicin+vincristine bag 
exchanges)
Prednisone
60 mg/m2 PO BID days 1-5 (first dose at least 60 min before 
starting rituximab)
Rituximab
375 mg/m2 day 1 (before etoposide+doxorubicin+vincristine 
infusion begins; see Section 13.2 for administration instructions)
Etoposide
50 mg/m2/day CIV days 1- 4 (96 hour infusion)
Doxorubicin
10 mg/m2/day CIV days 1-4 (96 hour infusion)
Vincristine
0.4 mg/m2/day CIV days 1-4 (96 hour infusion)
Cyclophosphamide
750 mg/m2 IV day 5 over 30-60 mins
Filgrastim
Body weight <75 kg: 300 mcg/dose
Body weight ≥75 kg: 480 mcg/dose
Doses are given once daily by subcutaneous injection on days 6 
to 15 or ANC > 5000/mcL after the leukocyte nadir.  
Cycle Length
Repeat cycle every 21 days

Repeat cycles every 21 days.  Delay cycle until ANC > 1000/mcL or platelets 
>75,000/mcL.  Use filgrastim to increase ANC and begin next cycle as soon as 
ANC recovers.  If no recovery after 2 weeks, contact study Chair for guidance.  
4.2.1
Dose Adjustments Based on Hematological Toxicity for DA-EPOCH-RB
Doses for doxorubicin, etoposide and cyclophosphamide will be based on measurements of 
the previous cycle ANC or platelet nadir whichever is lower. Dose adjustment is based on 
measurements of twice weekly CBC only, even if additional CBCs are obtained. Twice 
weekly CBCs must be at least 3 days apart. 


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• If Nadir ANC  500/mcL on all measurements:
 One level above last cycle
 •If Nadir ANC  500/mcL on 1 or 2 measurements:
   Same level as last cycle
• If Nadir ANC  500/mcL  3 measurements:
 One level below last cycle
Or
• If nadir platelet  25,000/mcL on  1 measurement:
 One level below last cycle
4.2.2
Dose Levels 
Adjustments apply only to etoposide, doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide. Levels below 
1 only involve 20% reductions in cyclophosphamide.
      Drug Doses per Dose Levels 
 Drugs
-2
-1
1
2
3
4
5
6
Doxorubicin (mg/m2/day)
10
10
10
12
14.4
17.3
20.7
24.8
Etoposide (mg/m2/day)
50
50
50
60
72
86.4
103.7
124.4
Cyclophosphamide (mg/m2)
480
600
750
900
1080
1296
1555
1866
4.2.3
Part C: Bortezomib maintenance versus observation (followed by bortezomib if 
progression occurs). 
Patients must have achieved at least a PR after DA-EPOCH-RB to be randomized on Part C. 
Randomization takes place when patient is eligible after Cycle 6 restaging is completed. Patients 
cannot be randomized to maintenance if they have any grade of toxicity which forbids 
bortezomib administration. Toxicity must resolve to a lower grade (that allows administration of 
bortezomib) within 12 weeks of completing DA-EPOCH-RB to be eligible for randomization.  If 
toxicity does not resolve to this level within 12 weeks, the patient is not eligible for 
randomization.
4.2.4
 Maintenance bortezomib arm 
Begin maintenance 8-12 weeks after completion of DA-EPOCH-RB (e.g. Day 77 of last cycle).  
Bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 days 1, 4, 8 and 11 every 56 days (i.e. q8 weeks) for 18 months (10 
cycles) or until disease progression, whichever comes first.  After maintenance, begin follow-up 
as described in Section 4.5.2. 
Agent
Dose
Route
Duration
Schedule
Bortezomib
1.3 mg/m2
IV injection
Bolus (3-5 sec)
Days 1, 4, 8, 11 Repeat q 56 days
4.2.5
 Observation (followed by bortezomib if progression occurs) arm 
Observation continues for 18 months or until disease progression, whichever comes first.  If 
disease progression occurs on the observation arm, begin bortezomib. Bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 
days 1, 4, 8, and 11 every 28 days (i.e. q4 weeks).  Continue treatment for 18 months  or until 
disease progression, whichever comes first.  After completion of observation or treatment begin 
follow-up as described in Section 4.5.2.
Agent
Dose
Route
Duration
Schedule


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Bortezomib
1.3 mg/m2
IV injection
Bolus (3-5 sec)
Days 1, 4, 8, 11 Repeat q 28 days 
4.3
TREATMENT MODIFICATIONS
4.3.1
Part A:  Bortezomib toxicity reasonably ascribed to treatment  
4.3.1.1
Hematological Toxicity
Day 1 platelets  25,000/mcL
Proceed to Part B with DA-EPOCH-RB.
Day 4 platelets  25,000/mcL
Stop bortezomib and proceed to Part B with DA-EPOCH-RB 
10-14 days after last bortezomib dose 
4.3.1.2
Diarrhea Toxicity
At first loose stool, start loperamide 2 mg po q 2 h while awake and q 4 h while sleeping.  
Continue around the clock until 12 h diarrhea free.  If diarrhea free > 12 h, stop loperamide.  If 
new episode, retreat as outlined. Please note the manufacturer’s recommended maximum daily 
dose of loperamide is 16 mg. If grade 3 diarrhea accompanied by mucus or dehydration, stop 
bortezomib and proceed to Part B with DA-EPOCH-RB 10-17 days after last bortezomib dose  
4.3.2
Part B: DA-EPOCH-RB toxicity reasonably ascribed to treatment  
4.3.2.1
Hematologic Toxicities
See Section 4.2.1 Part B Dose Adjustments for EPOCH-RB
4.3.2.2
Ileus and Constipation 
Symptomatic ileus/constipation may occur. Because the severity of constipation is dose related, 
it is usually unnecessary to stop the vincristine altogether. Every effort should be made to not 
unnecessarily reduce vincristine doses.  Ileus/constipation is usually worse on the first cycle, so 
prophylactic bowel care is essential.  If vincristine dose is reduced for this toxicity, it can often 
be increased to full dose on subsequent cycles without recurrence of severe ileus/constipation. If 
ileus or constipation requires hospitalization, reduce vincristine 25%. If symptoms resolve after 
vincristine reduction, increase dose to previous level on subsequent cycles. 
4.3.2.3
Neurological Toxicity 
Sensory or Motor Neuropathy
Neurotoxicity Grade
Vincristine mg/m2/day
Bortezomib mg/m2/day 
1 without neuropathic pain
0.4 mg/m2/day
1.3 mg/m2/day
1 with neuropathic pain
0.2 mg/m2/day
1.3 mg/m2/day
2 without  neuropathic pain
0
1.3 mg/m2/day
≥ 2 with neuropathic pain 
0
0 
If neuropathy resolves to a lower grade, doses for that lower grade may be reinstituted at 
investigator discretion.  If the grade of neuropathy increases after being re-escalated, doses must 
be reduced for the appropriate toxicity grade and may not be re-escalated, even if neuropathy 
resolves again to a lower grade. 


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4.3.2.4
Hepatic Toxicity 
Patients with mild hepatic impairment (bilirubin ≤ 1.5 x ULN) do not require a starting dose 
adjustment.  Please note that patients with bilirubin levels > 1.5 ULN are excluded from 
enrollment in this protocol.  If a patient develops moderate or severe hepatic impairment with 
bilirubin ≥ Grade 2 (> 1.5 -3.0 X ULN) while on study, the investigator should hold bortezomib 
until the toxicity returns to < Grade 2. Restarting bortezomib at the next lower dosed level could 
be considered at the Investigator’s discretion and following exclusion of bortezomib-induced 
liver impairment and careful consideration of liver disease due to other causes, such as, but not 
limited to, active infection and mantle cell-related liver disease.
No doxorubicin dose modifications for increased bilirubin.  Pharmacokinetic data from our 
group has shown no significant effect of bilirubin on doxorubicin clearance. The following are 
the dose reductions that apply to vincristine for hyperbilirubinemia due to disease. NOTE: 
INCREASE VINCRISTINE TO FULL DOSE AFTER BILIRUBIN NORMALIZES
Total bilirubin on day 1
Vincristine mg/m2/day 
1.5-3 mg/dL
0.3 mg/m2/day 
> 3.0 mg/dL
0.2 mg/m2/day 
4.3.2.5
Diarrhea Toxicity
Diarrhea treatment ascribed to Bortezomib:  At first loose stool: Start loperamide 2 mg p.o. q 2 h 
while awake and q 4 h while sleeping.  Continue around the clock until 12 h diarrhea free.  If 
diarrhea free > 12 h, stop loperamide.  If new episode, retreat as outlined.  If grade 3 diarrhea 
accompanied by mucus or dehydration, hold doses of bortezomib (if applicable) and hydrate.  
Diarrhea management for next cycle dosing:  
Diarrhea Grade  
Bortezomib  mg/m2/day
 grade 3 or associated 
with mucus or dehydration
1 mg/m2/day 
4.3.2.6
Other Non-Hematological Toxicity 
Toxicity Grade
Management
 grade 3
Hold bortezomib until  grade 1. Restart bortezomib at: 1 mg/m2/day. 
If recurrence of   grade 3 toxicity, hold bortezomib until  grade 1. Restart 
bortezomib at 0.75 mg/m2/day. 
If recurrence of   grade 3 toxicity, discontinue bortezomib during DA-
EPOCH-RB. 
4.3.2.7
Infusion Related Toxicity 
Side effects of rituximab may be infusion rate related and may be reduced by slower 
administration or premedication. Thus, dose reductions of rituximab will not be made. Rituximab 
will be discontinued for the duration of the cycles in patients with grade 4 allergic reactions.  At 


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the discretion of the PI, rituximab may be administered on the following cycles using slower 
infusion rates and pretreatment with diphenhydramine using standard medical practice.
4.3.3
Part C. Maintenance Bortezomib or Treatment after Observation toxicity reasonably 
ascribed to treatment
Patients cannot be randomized to maintenance if they have any grade of toxicity which forbids 
bortezomib administration. Toxicity must resolve to a lower grade (that allows administration of 
bortezomib) within 12 weeks of completing DA-EPOCH-RB to be eligible for randomization.  If 
toxicity does not resolve to this level within 12 weeks, the patient is not eligible for 
randomization. The dose modifications apply to the first and all subsequent maintenance cycles.
4.3.3.1
Hematological Toxicity 
Day 1 platelets  25,000/mcL
Delay until recovery above this level
*Days 4, 8 or 11 platelets  25,000/mcL
Hold dose for cycle. 
*Draw CBC on these days only if day 1 platelets <50, 000/mcL or as clinically indicated.
4.3.3.2
Diarrhea Toxicity
Diarrhea treatment during cycle:  At first loose stool:  Start loperamide 2 mg po q 2 h while 
awake and q 4 h while sleeping.  Continue around the clock until 12 h diarrhea free.  If diarrhea 
free > 12 h, stop loperamide.  If new episode, retreat as outlined. Please note the manufacturer’s 
recommended maximum daily dose of loperamide is 16 mg. If grade 3 diarrhea accompanied by 
mucus or dehydration, hold doses of Bortezomib and hydrate.  
Diarrhea management for next cycle dosing:
Diarrhea Grade  
Bortezomib  mg/m2/day
 grade 3 or associated with 
mucus or dehydration
1 mg/m2/day 
4.3.3.3
Neurotoxicity
Sensory or Motor Neuropathy
Neurotoxicity Grade 
Bortezomib Management
Grade 1 
Bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 
Grade 2 without pain (interfering with 
function but not with activities of daily 
living).
Bortezomib 1 mg/m2  
Grade 2 with pain or grade 3 (interfering with 
activities of daily living)
Hold bortezomib until  grade 2 without pain.  
Reduce bortezomib to 1 mg/m2 and administer 
cycles every 12 weeks.  If toxicity ≥ grade 2 
with pain after 12 weeks, discontinue 
bortezomib.  
Grade 4 (disabling)
Discontinue bortezomib


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If neuropathy resolves to lower grade, doses for that lower grade may be reinstituted at 
investigator discretion. If the grade of neuropathy increases after being re-escalated, doses must 
be reduced for the appropriate toxicity grade and may not be re-escalated, even if neuropathy 
resolves again to a lower grade. 
4.3.3.4
Other Non-Hematological Toxicity
Toxicity Grade
Management
 grade 3
Hold bortezomib until  grade 1. Restart bortezomib at 1 mg/m2/day. 
If recurrence of   grade 3 toxicity, hold bortezomib until  grade 1. 
Restart bortezomib at 0.75 mg/m2/day. 
If recurrence of   grade 3 toxicity, discontinue bortezomib. 
4.4
ON STUDY EVALUATION 
4.4.1
Part A:  Bortezomib alone   
Studies
Pre-
therapyA
Day -1 or 
day 1 of 
cycle
Day 5 (12-24 
hours after second 
bortezomib dose 
Day 4 
of cycle 
Hx; PE; VS; PS  
x
Tumor Measurement
x
CBC/diff
x
x
x
x
Electrolytes, Creatinine, BUN, ALT, 
AST, Bilirubin, LDH, Ca++, Phos, Mg
x
x
x
x
EBV viral load
x
Immunoglobulin Free Light Chains, 
Serum Protein Electrophoresis, 
Isohemagglutinin titer, Type & Screen
x
TBNK, 24 cc red & green CPT tubes
x
HLA typing, Anti-varicella zoster virus
x
CT chest/abd/pelvis, PET scanD
x
Research PET scan
xE
Bone marrow biopsy & aspirate, 
peripheral blood flow cytometry 
x
ColonoscopyB
x
Optional Tumor biopsy, timed blood 
collections and/or apheresisC
x
xC
10 cc red top for serum storage
x
A- Initial assessment is to be performed within 4 weeks prior to starting treatment.
B-
Colonoscopy is recommended pre-treatment unless prior colonoscopy within 2 months or 
known to be positive or medically contra-indicated. 


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C- Biopsies will be obtained in all patients (who agree to the optional biopsy) with safely accessible 
lymph nodes. Snap freeze and store tissue biopsies for translational studies. In patients with 
leukemic MCL treated at the NCI, up to 8 additional blood samples (typically 6 and 24 hrs post 
dose 1, and pre and 24 hours post dose 2 of bortezomib) of 20-40cc each may be obtained to 
collect lymphocytes for analysis of gene expression on microarray and proteomic analysis. In 
these patients a cbc/diff will be obtained at the time of research blood collection. The amount of 
blood that may be drawn from adult patients for research purposes shall not exceed 10.5 mL/kg 
or 550 mL, whichever is smaller, over any eight week period. Lymphapheresis may be 
performed pre-treatment in all patients with leukemic MCL at the NCI and may be repeated 12-
24 hours after the first or second bortezomib dose instead of the timed blood draws. Tissue 
samples are to be stored at -80º C and shipped on dry ice.
D- Clinical PET scans may be performed at other time points throughout this protocol if the 
investigator deems it medically necessary.
E- If research biopsies are obtained, research PET scan will be within 24 hours of the second 
biopsy. If no research biopsies are obtained, the PET scan may be omitted. If a patient has 
evidence of tumor reduction between day 8 and 21, a repeat PET scan may be done at the end 
of Part A cycle.  
4.4.1.1
Microarray and Proteomic analysis 
The pretreatment lymph node biopsy (optional) will be used to perform all standard diagnostic 
tests. In addition we will extract RNA and protein for research studies. The second biopsy 
(optional) obtained during Bortezomib monotherapy will be used for research studies only. In 
cases where there is peripheral blood involvement by mantle cells, timed blood collections or 
apheresis may be carried out in addition to a lymph node biopsy. Standard diagnostic tests will 
be sent and samples will be taken for microarray analysis as above. Microarray and proteomic 
analysis may be performed on lymph node biopsies, serum, whole blood samples and apheresis 
collected for research. In protein extracts of tumor cells pre and during therapy we aim to 
determine activity of key regulatory proteins such as components of the NF-kappa B signal 
transduction pathway, the levels of cell cycle inhibitors such as p21cip and p27kip-1 and the p53 
stress response. In addition, we may determine serum levels of proteins that play a role in 
lymphocyte function including chemokines and cytokines. Where possible we may initiate 
studies that aim at characterizing changes in protein levels on a global scale
4.4.1.2
Timing of the second biopsy 
The optimal timing for the on-treatment biopsy can only be estimated at this time. Experiments 
in cell lines indicate that after 6 hours of proteasome inhibition there are many highly significant 
changes in gene expression. On the other hand, in a recent study on the effect of Fludarabine on 
chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells maximal effects required at least 24 hours to develop and the 
most robust response was observed between 48 and 96hours from start of therapy (Rosenwald, 
2004). Thus, the optimal time point to detect changes in response to bortezomib could range 
from 6 hours after the initial infusion to days after the second infusion. We will perform the 
second biopsy 12-24 hours after the first or second infusion for several reasons: first, the 
relatively long time interval will make it likely that we will be able to detect effects of 
proteasome inhibition on signaling pathways such as the NF-kB pathway that may not be 
immediately interrupted by bortezomib; second, we will be better able to detect cumulative 
changes in protein levels and third, scheduling the second biopsy at these time points minimizes 
interference with an orderly treatment cycle. We plan to analyze a first set of biopsies to 


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determine whether there are any changes in gene expression detectable in these samples. If there 
are no or only minimal changes in gene expression we will move the biopsy time point. From the 
timed blood samples in patients with leukemic MCL we will derive a better understanding of the 
kinetics of molecular changes in the tumor cells on bortezomib therapy. This data will help 
determine the optimal time point for lymph node biopsies.
4.4.1.3
Tissue immunohistochemistry 

Tumor tissue will be analyzed by immunohistochemistry. RT-PCR may be performed on 
tumor samples to correlate changes in gene expression.

Tumor tissue may be stored for future research assays which are related to this study and 
do not pose an increase in patient risk.  
4.4.1.4
Genome–wide Methylation Analysis
Genomic DNA (gDNA) will be prepared and digested using HPAII and MSPI enzymes from 
coded tumor samples from enrolled MCL patients. Digested DNA products are then amplified 
using ligation mediated PCR and hybridized to a custom high density oligonucleotide 
Microarray.  Methylation array testing will be done in duplicate and analyzed using an extensive 
quality control, primary analysis and normalization pipeline based on the R statistical package 
and developed by statisticians and bio-informaticians of the Einstein Epigenomics program.  
Data from all patients will be analyzed by supervised clustering to determine differentially 
methylated genes in MCL and any correlation for promoter methylation to response to 
bortezomib.  We will confirm results at individual loci by mass spectrometric analysis using the 
MassArray machine. 
4.4.1.5
Biopsy Procedure
Standard techniques will be used for pre-treatment and post-treatment percutaneous biopsies 
which may include CT and / or ultrasound guided biopsy. In some cases, such biopsies may be 
expedited and facilitated with the use of navigation tools such as an automated laser angle 
selector connected to CT scan, or a standard needle guide connected to a protractor to determine 
which exact angle the biopsy needle will be inserted.
These guiding techniques may occur as maneuvers to facilitate the biopsy, which will take place 
in the usual conventional fashion, with standard, disposable, conventional spring-loaded biopsy 
equipment. Such guiding techniques may add to the reliability of tissue acquisition from specific 
spatial coordinates of a tumor target. Accurate spatial tissue acquisition may lead to more 
reliable, accurate and precise tissue characterization, which in turn should be more reproducible. 
When performing sequential biopsies, the knowledge of sampling location within a tumor may 
actually help avoid multiple needle punctures or repeat procedures, as might occur when samples 
are obtained from necrotic regions or regions without high quality mRNA (cDNA) for 
microarrays or sufficient protein for proteomics analysis. 
Sequential biopsy has been used routinely at the NCI as a research and prognostic tool, as well as 
pathway to surrogate biological markers for tumor response, prognosis, or susceptibility to 
specific targeted agents. Sequential biopsies are usually performed under the assumption that all 
tumor is created equal (mRNA and proteins) at a given time point, which is clearly an 
oversimplification with broad ramifications. Precision biopsy techniques might normalize some 
of the spatial heterogeneity inherent to tumors. Such normalization (as occurs when repeat 


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biopsies are taken from precisely the same location of tumors) could minimize the added noise 
from the interpretation of already voluminous and noisy data (as in the case of the gene 
microarrays). 
The correlation and anatomic mapping of tumor biology to multiparametric imaging may 
improve the search for reliable imaging surrogates for tumor biology or behavior. Image fusion 
with CT/PET or image registration with electromagnetic tracking allows for the biopsies to be 
performed with multimodality guidance. This allows PET scans or functional dynamic MRI to 
provide the guidance for biopsy needle placement, such that biopsies may be taken from specific 
areas of tumor that have higher metabolic activity on FDG PET for example. 
We will use precision techniques like automated laser pointers, to facilitate being able to reliably 
sample a tumor from precisely the same region on repeated biopsies. This should maximize our 
chances of detecting significant alterations in tumor biology and protein or gene expression 
signatures (such as the proliferation signature or upregulation of cell cycle inhibitors).
4.4.2
Part B: DA-EPOCH-RB 
Studies
Pre-
therapy
A
Day -1 or 
Day 1 of 
cycles 2-6
Twice 
weekly   
each 
cycle F 
End of cycle 
4 and 6 (+/- 1 
day)
End of
 cycle 6 
(+/- 2 
days)
Hx; PE; VS; PS  
X
x
Tumor Measurement
X
x
CBC/diff
X
x
x
Electrolytes, Creatinine, BUN, ALT, 
AST, Bilirubin, LDH, Ca++, Phos, Mg
X
x
Isohemagglutinin titer, 
Immunoglobulin Free Light Chains, 
Serum Protein Electrophoresis,
X
X
EBV viral load
x
TBNK, 24 cc red & green CPT tubes
X
x
Anti-varicella zoster virus
x
CT chest/abd/pelvis
X
x
Clinical PET scan
x
Peripheral blood flow cytometry, 
Bone marrow biopsy & aspirateB 
X
XB
ColonoscopyC
x
10 cc whole blood for storageD
XE
x
10 cc red top for serum storage
X
X
X
A. Pre-DA- EPOCH-R-B  evaluation.
B. If patient proceeds directly to Part B, without Part A, then peripheral blood flow cytometry and bone 
marrow biopsy are to be performed pre-treatment. Repeat both tests if positive at diagnosis. 


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C. Repeat colonoscopy after cycle 6 if positive at initial diagnosis (or not performed) and not medically 
contraindicated. 
D. 10 cc whole blood for DNA extraction. Draw blood in 10 cc tube with EDTA as preservative. Call Dr. 
Adrian Wiestner’s lab for pick-up: 301-451-7135.
E. May be requested in patients who presented with leukemic MCL. 
F.
Twice weekly (e.g., on Monday & Thursday or Tuesday & Friday to assure that counts are checked 
every three to four days). 


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4.4.3
Part C: Bortezomib maintenance versus observation with treatment at progression.  
Studies
Pre-
Cycle 1
Day 1(+/- 1 
day) each 
cycle
Day 4, 8 
and 11 of 
each cycleA 
Every 4 
months in 
both 
armsB
Follow 
upE, F
Hx; PE; VS; PS  
x
x
x
Tumor Measurement
x
CBC/diff
x
x
x
x
Electrolytes, Creatinine, BUN, ALT, 
AST, Bilirubin, LDH, Ca++, Phos, Mg
x
x
x
Immunoglobulin Free Light Chains, 
Serum Protein Electrophoresis,
x
TBNK, 24 cc red & green CPT tubesG
x
CT chest/abd/pelvis
xH
x
x
ColonoscopyC
Bone marrow biopsy & aspirateC
Tumor biopsy and/or apheresisD
10 cc red top for serum storage
x
x
x
A-
For patients undergoing treatment on the maintenance arm or in patients with progression on the 
observation arm. Draw CBC on these days only if Day 1 platelets <50, 000/mcL or as clinically 
indicated.
B-
Restage every 4 months (+/- 1 week) in patients undergoing treatment and in patients on 
observation during treatment or observation period. 
C-
A repeat bone marrow biopsy and colonoscopy may be done in patients who progress. Repeat if 
patients receive bortezomib after progression on the observation arm and only if they achieved a 
second CR by CT scan or at end of treatment.  
D-
When possible, a repeat lymph node biopsy and/or lymphapheresis will be obtained in patients 
who progress after DA-EPOCH-RB.
E-
Patients who are not randomized to treatment or observation, follow-up to occur every 4 months 
(+/- 2 weeks) for 2 years, then every 6 months (+/- 2 weeks) for 2 years, and then yearly (+/- 4 
weeks) thereafter. Patients who are randomized to treatment or observation on Part C will 
proceed to follow-up after completion of treatment or observation. Follow-up to occur every 6 
months (+/- 2 weeks) for 2 years, and then yearly (+/- 4 weeks) thereafter.
F-
After the sixth year, patients may be followed by local oncologist who agrees to send office visit 
notes and lab results to Research Team.  Records should be sent via fax to Research Nurse Office 
301.480.1105, attention Dr. Wyndham Wilson.  Patients who are not randomized to treatment or 
observation on part C will proceed directly to follow up. Patients who are taken off-study will 
continue to be followed for survival using publicly available information, such as the Social 
Security Death Index.
G-
This test to be done only up to 2 years s/p the end of Part B.
H-
Pre-Cycle 1 CT scan may be done up to 2 weeks before beginning Part C.


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4.5
POST-TREATMENT EVALUATIONS 
4.5.1
Patients who are not randomized to treatment or observation on Part C will proceed 
directly to follow up. Follow-up to occur every 4 months (+/- 2 weeks) for 2 years, then 
every 6 months (+/- 2 weeks) for 2 years, and then yearly (+/- 4 weeks) thereafter. 
4.5.2
Patients who are randomized to treatment or observation on Part C will proceed to 
follow-up after completion of treatment or observation. Follow-up to occur every 6 
months (+/- 2 weeks) for 2 years, and then yearly (+/- 4 weeks) thereafter. 
4.5.3
For all groups: after the sixth year, patients may be followed by local oncologist who 
agrees to send office visit notes and lab results to Research Team. Records should be sent 
via fax to Research Nurse Office 301.480.1105, attention Dr. Wyndham Wilson. Adverse 
event data that occurs during the follow-up period that is unrelated to study treatment will 
not be reported. Patients who are taken off-study will continue to be followed for survival 
using publicly available information, such as the Social Security Death Index. 
4.5.4
Patients who are lost to follow-up will continue to be followed for survival using publicly 
available information, such as the Social Security Death Index. 
4.5.5
As part of the clinical evaluation and follow up we will use CT scans and Positron 
Emission Tomography (PET) scan to determine the extent of disease and response to 
treatment. In addition, we will do one CT scan and up to two PET scans for research 
purposes to look for any early effect of the VELCADE you will receive.  Some patients 
may also undergo up to two biopsies under CT guidance for research purposes. This 
radiation is for research purposes only and is not necessary for medical care.
4.6
COST AND COMPENSATION 
4.6.1
Costs
NIH does not bill health insurance companies or participants for any research or related clinical 
care that participants receive at the NIH Clinical Center.  If some tests and procedures performed 
outside the NIH Clinical Center, participants may have to pay for these costs if they are not 
covered by insurance company.  Medicines that are not part of the study treatment will not be 
provided or paid for by the NIH Clinical Center.    
4.6.2
Compensation
Participants will not be compensated on this study.
4.6.3
Reimbursement 
The NCI will cover the costs of some expenses associated with protocol participation.  Some of 
these costs may be paid directly by the NIH and some may be reimbursed to the 
participant/guardian as appropriate.  The amount and form of these payments are determined by 
the NCI Travel and Lodging Reimbursement Policy. 
4.7
OFF TREATMENT CRITERIA

Completion of protocol therapy

Progressive disease requiring non-protocol therapy

Participant requests to be withdrawn from active therapy


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
Investigator discretion
4.8
OFF STUDY CRITERIA

Voluntary withdrawal

Institution of non-protocol treatment

Non-compliance which affects safety or endpoints of the study

Death

Physician’s determination that withdrawal is in the patient’s best interest

Lost to Follow-up
4.8.1
Lost to Follow-up
A participant will be considered lost to follow-up if he or she fails to return for 3 scheduled visits 
and is unable to be contacted by the study site staff. 
The following actions must be taken if a participant fails to return to the clinic for a required 
study visit:

The site will attempt to contact the participant and reschedule the missed visit 5 business 
days and counsel the participant on the importance of maintaining the assigned visit 
schedule and ascertain if the participant wishes to and/or should continue in the study.

Before a participant is deemed lost to follow-up, the investigator or designee will make 
every effort to regain contact with the participant (where possible, 3 telephone calls and, 
if necessary, a certified letter to the participant’s last known mailing address or local 
equivalent methods). These contact attempts should be documented in the participant’s 
medical record or study file. 

Should the participant continue to be unreachable, he or she will be considered to have 
withdrawn from the study with a primary reason of lost to follow-up.
5
SUPPORTIVE CARE 
5.1
PROPHYLAXIS OF PNEUMOCYSTIS JIROVECI (FORMERLY, CARINII)
All patients will receive prophylaxis for Pneumocystis during EPOCH chemotherapy. 
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 1 DS P.O. QD for three days each week. Monday, Wednesday, 
Friday is the preferred schedule. Patients allergic to either component may receive other standard 
treatments. 
5.2
PROPHYLAXIS FOR HEPATITIS B REACTIVATION. 
Patients who are positive for Hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) and not acutely infected are at 
varying risk for reactivation of Hepatitis B.  These patients will have quantitative PCR testing 
performed for Hepatitis B virus. Additionally, patients at high and moderate risk will receive 
appropriate prophylaxis for hepatitis B reactivation, e.g., lamivudine 100mg PO daily to continue 
until 8 weeks after last chemotherapy with repeat quantitative PCR performed 4-8 weeks after 
stopping prophylaxis.
anti-HBc
HBsAg
Anti-HBs
Risk
HBV PCR
Prophylaxis


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+ or −
+
+ or −
High
pre-tx, 
post 2, 4, 6 cycles
Yes
+
−
−
Moderate
pre-tx, 
post 2, 4, 6 cycles
Yes
+
−
+
Low
pre-tx, post 3, 6 cycles
No, if PCR neg
5.3
PROPHYLAXIS FOR HERPES SIMPLEX AND/OR HERPES ZOSTER
All patients will receive prophylaxis for Herpes Simplex and/or Herpes Zoster virus infection 
during Part B EPOCH chemotherapy, using ValAcyclovir 500 mg twice daily, Acyclovir 400 mg 
twice daily or Famciclovir 500 mg twice daily.
5.4
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MANAGEMENT OF GASTROINTESTINAL ISSUES:
5.4.1
Prevention and/or treatment of nausea and vomiting prior to and during chemotherapy:

Ondansetron 24 mg PO x1 dose 30–60 min prior to Cyclophosphamide, followed by 
Ondansetron 8 mg every 12 hours for 3 more days (5 or 6 doses)

Prochlorperazine 10 mg PO every 6 hours PRN for nausea or vomiting
5.4.2
Prevention of symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions 
caused by excess stomach acid:

Omeprazole 20 mg PO once daily
5.4.3
Prevention and/or treatment of constipation:

Docusate Sodium 50 mg + Sennosides 8.6 mg 1 tablet PO twice daily.

Lactulose 10-20 grams (15–30 mL) PO every 6 hours PRN for constipation
6
CORRELATIVE STUDIES FOR RESEARCH
6.1
PROCEDURES FOR COLLECTING TUMOR BIOPSIES AND/OR PERIPHERAL BLOOD CELLS
1. Orders for tumor biopsies, research blood samples and lymphapheresis collections should 
be placed in CRIS (Clinical Research Information System, Clinical Research Center, 
NIH, Bethesda, MD) 
2. Tumor biopsies will be submitted in native condition to the Department of Pathology, 
CCR, NIH and handled according to routine procedures. Material released for research 
studies will be documented on form NIH 2803-1. Initial processing of samples for 
research will depend on the size of the tumor biopsy. For core biopsies, the research 
sample will typically consist of 2 cores in a microcentrifuge vial snap frozen on dry ice. 
Surgical lymph node biopsies may in addition be processed for single cell suspension, 
additional vials of snap frozen tissue and OCT embedded tissue.
3. Lymphapheresis is performed in the Department of Transfusion Medicine, and blood will 
be collected in the phlebotomy suite, on a clinical ward, or in an outpatient clinic of the 
CRC, NIH. Samples will be transferred to the research laboratory at room temperature. 
Cells will be separated by Ficoll density gradient centrifugation and only mononuclear 
cells will be harvested, processed, analyzed, and stored. 


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4. Tumor and normal blood cells may be viably frozen, typically at concentrations of 20-
100x106/mL in FCS with 10% DMSO using a temperature controlled freezing process to 
optimize sample viability. Samples will be transferred to Nitrogen tanks for long term 
storage. 
5. Tumor and normal blood cells can be further processed. Additional purification may be 
carried out by selection with magnetic beads binding to appropriate surface molecules, 
typically CD19. For analysis cells may be lysed to obtain RNA (using Qiagen 
manufactured kits are similar) or proteins (salt and/or triton containing buffers with 
addition of protease and phosphatase inhibitors). Integrity of RNA is monitored by gel 
electrophoresis and concentration of RNA or protein is measured spectrophotometrically. 
6. Research sample inventory and storage. All research samples are assigned a unique 
number and cataloged. Viably frozen cells are stored in a temperature controlled, alarm 
secured Nitrogen tank. Tumor biopsies and processed biologic material (RNA, protein) is 
stored at -80ºC in a temperature controlled, alarm secured -80ºC freezer. 
6.2
BIOSPECIMEN COLLECTION
6.2.1
Molecular and Genomic Studies
Samples will be analyzed to assess the effects of treatment on molecular and genetic changes 
within the cancer genome, and to correlate these with clinical outcomes (e.g., microarray, 
proteomics, and other genetic and/or mutational analyses).  Although direct analysis of germline 
DNA is not planned, normal genome could be analyzed for comparison with other testing or 
inadvertently analyzed within other samples, or as part of future analyses.
NOTE:  Effective with Amendment O, the option for exploratory genetic testing was added and 
this protocol amended accordingly, including revised informed consent/procedures.  
6.2.2
Methylation/Epigenetic Testing
Coded samples consisting of extracted DNA or cellular material from either frozen blood cells or 
lymph node biopsies will be sent to Samir Parekh, MD for genome-wide methylation analysis 
and epigenetic testing.  The address to send the samples to is: 
Samir Parekh, M.D.
Department of Oncology Hoffheimer 1
Montefiore Medical Center
111 East 210th Street, Bronx, NY 10467
Phone:  718.920.4826
6.2.3
Circulating Tumor DNA
Coded, de-identified frozen or formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) human tissue and 
serum and/or plasma samples will be sent to Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp. It is of research 
interest to determine if circulating tumor DNA before, during or after therapy is predictive of 
long-term disease survival. Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp will assess whether immune 
repertoire data (B-cell immunoglobulin receptor sequences) from the Human Material can be 
used as biomarkers that correlate with disease-free survival. Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp will 
use a proprietary method, Immune Cell Receptor Sequencing (ICRS) platform, for amplifying 
and analyzing immune cell receptor sequences, allowing unprecedented sensitivity and 


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specificity.  Data from experiments conducted by Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp using the 
Human Material will be provided to NCI and such data provided by Adaptive Biotechnologies 
Corp to NCI may be used by NCI for any purpose. The address to send the samples to is:
Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp
1551 Eastlake Ave E
Suite 200
Seattle, WA 98102
6.3
SAMPLE STORAGE, TRACKING AND DISPOSITION
All specimens obtained in the protocol are used as defined in the protocol.  Samples will be 
ordered in CRIS and tracked through a Clinical Trial Data Management system.  Should a CRIS 
screen not be available, the CRIS downtime procedures will be followed.  Samples will not be 
sent outside NIH appropriate approvals and/or agreements, if required.  
6.3.1
Procedures for stored specimens

The Clinical Support Laboratory, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc.-Frederick, processes 
and cryopreserves samples in support of IRB-approved, NCI clinical trials.  All 
laboratory personnel with access to patient information annually complete the NIH online 
course in Protection of Human Subjects.  The laboratory is CLIA certified for anti-IL15 
and certain cytokine measurements, and all laboratory areas operate under a Quality 
Assurance Plan with documented Standard Operating Procedures that are reviewed 
annually.  Laboratory personnel are assessed for competency prior to being permitted to 
work with patient samples.  Efforts to ensure protection of patient information include:

The laboratory is located in a controlled access building and laboratory doors are kept 
locked at all times. Visitors to the laboratory are required to be accompanied by 
laboratory staff at all times.  

Hard copy records or electronic copies of documents containing patient information are 
kept in the locked laboratory or other controlled access locations.   

An electronic database is used to store information related to patient samples processed 
by the laboratory.  

The database resides on a dedicated program server that is kept in a central, locked 
computer facility.  

The facility is supported by two IT specialists who maintain up to date security features 
including virus and firewall protection.  

Program access is limited to specified computers as designated by the laboratory 
director.  Each of these computers has a password restricted login screen.  

The database sample entry program itself is accessed through a password protected entry 
screen.  

The database program has different levels of access approval to limit unauthorized 
changes to specimen records and the program maintains a sample history.  

Upon specimen receipt each sample is assigned a unique, sequential laboratory accession 
ID number.  All products generated by the laboratory that will be stored either in the 
laboratory freezers or at a central repository facility are identified by this accession ID.

Inventory information will be stored at the vial level and each vial will be labeled with 
both a sample ID and a vial sequence number.  


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
Vial labels do not contain any personal identifier information.   

Samples are stored inventoried in locked laboratory freezers and are routinely transferred 
to the NCI-Frederick repository facilities for long term storage.  

Access to stored clinical samples is restricted.  Investigators establish sample collections 
under “Source Codes” and the investigator responsible for the collections, typically the 
protocol Principal Investigator, specifies who has access to the collection.  Specific 
permissions will be required to view, input or withdraw samples from a collection. 
Sample withdrawal requests submitted to approved laboratory staff by anyone other than 
the repository source code owner are submitted to the source code owner for approval.  
The repository facility will also notify the Source Code holder of any submitted requests 
for sample withdrawal.  

It is the responsibility of the Source Code holder (generally the NCI Principal 
Investigator) to ensure that samples requested and approved for withdrawal are being 
used in a manner consistent with IRB approval.  

The Clinical Support Laboratory does perform testing services that may be requested by 
clinical investigators including, but not limited to, immunophenotyping by flow 
cytometry and cytokine testing using ELISA or multiplex platforms.  

When requests are submitted by the NCI investigator for shipment of samples outside of 
the NIH it is the policy of the laboratory to request documentation that a Material 
Transfer Agreement is in place that covers the specimen transfer.  At a minimum, the lab 
needs confirmation that one has been executed or an exception was granted from an 
office authorized to make such exceptions, e.g. NCI Technical Transfer Center.  The 
laboratory does not provide patient identifier information as part of the transfer process 
but may, at the discretion of the NCI investigator, group samples from individual patients 
when that is critical to the testing process.  

The NCI investigator responsible for the sample collection is responsible for ensuring 
appropriate IRB approvals are in place and that a Material Transfer Agreement has been 
executed prior to requesting the laboratory to ship samples outside of the NIH.
6.3.2
Study Completion, Future Use and Sample Destruction
The study will remain open so long as sample or data analysis continues.  Following completion 
of the planned analyses, samples will remain in storage as detailed above.
Tissue specimens and derived tissue lysates, RNA and DNA collected in the course of this 
research project may be banked and used in the future to investigate new scientific questions 
related to this study that are not expressly stated in the present protocol. However, this research 
may only be done if the risks of the new questions and the proposed research have undergone 
prospective IRB review and approval. If new risks are associated with the research the Principal 
Investigator must amend the protocol and obtain informed consent from all research subjects.
If, at any time, a patient withdraws from the study and does not wish for their existing samples to 
be utilized, the individual must provide a written request. Following receipt of this request, data 
will be excluded from future distributions, but data that have already been distributed for 
approved research use will not be able to be retrieved; additionally, the samples will be destroyed 
(or returned to the patient, if so requested) and reported as such to the IRB. 


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Any samples lost (in transit or by a researcher) or destroyed due to unknown sample integrity 
(e.g., broken freezer allows for extensive sample thawing, etc.) will be reported as such to the 
IRB, the NCI Clinical Director, and the office of the CCR, NCI, as appropriate.
6.4
GENETIC/GENOMIC ANALYSIS
6.4.1
Description of the scope of genetic/genomic analysis
At any point in the analyses, normal genome could be analyzed for comparison with other testing 
(e.g., mutational analyses, cancer genome).
6.4.2
Description of how privacy and confidentiality of medical information/biological 
specimens will be maximized
Confidentiality for genetic samples will be maintained as described (Sections 6.3.1 and 6.4.2).  
In addition, a Certificate of Confidentiality has been obtained for this study.
6.4.3
Management of Results
Subjects will be contacted if a clinically actionable gene variant is discovered.  Clinically 
actionable findings for this study are defined as disorders appearing in the American College of 
Medical Genetics and Genomics recommendations for the return of incidental findings that is 
current at the time of primary analysis. (A list of current guidelines is maintained on the CCR 
intranet: https://ccrod.cancer.gov/confluence/display/CCRCRO/Incidental+Findings+Lists).
6.4.4
Genetic Counseling
Subjects will be contacted with a request to provide a blood sample to be sent to a CLIA 
certified laboratory.  If the research findings are verified in the CLIA certified lab, the subject 
will be offered the opportunity to come to NIH to have genetic education and counseling to 
explain this result; at the time of any such event(s), these activities will be funded by the 
NCI/CCR in consideration of the specific circumstances.  If the subject does not want to come 
to NIH, a referral to a local genetic healthcare provider will be provided (at their expense).
This is the only time during the course of the study that incidental findings will be returned. No 
interrogations regarding clinically actionable findings will be made after the primary analysis.
7
DATA COLLECTION AND EVALUATION
7.1
DATA COLLECTION AND EVALUATION
7.1.1
Data Collection 
The PI will be responsible for overseeing entry of data into an in-house password protected 
electronic system and ensuring data accuracy, consistency and timeliness.  
All AEs, including clinically significant abnormal findings on laboratory evaluations, regardless 
of severity, will be followed until return to baseline or stabilization of event. 
Document AEs from the first study intervention, Study Day 1, through 30 days after the last dose 
of the study treatment. 
Beyond 30 days after the last intervention, only adverse events which are serious and related to 
the study intervention need to be recorded.


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Primary and final analyzed data will have identifiers so that research data can be attributed to an 
individual human subject participant.
End of study procedures: Data will be stored according to HHS, FDA and NIH Intramural 
Records Retention Schedule regulations as applicable. 
Loss or destruction of data: Should we become aware that a major breach in our plan to protect 
subject confidentiality and trial data has occurred, this will be reported expeditiously per 
requirements in section  8.2.1.
7.1.2
Data Collection Clarifications
7.1.2.1
Abnormal Laboratory Values
An abnormal laboratory value will be considered an AE if the laboratory abnormality is 
characterized by any of the following:

Results in discontinuation from the study

Is associated with clinical signs or symptoms 

Requires treatment or any other therapeutic intervention

Is associated with death or another serious adverse event, including hospitalization. 

Is judged by the Investigator to be of significant clinical impact

If any abnormal laboratory result is considered clinically significant, the investigator will 
provide details about the action taken with respect to the test drug and about the patient’s 
outcome.
7.2
DATA SHARING PLANS
7.2.1
Human Data Sharing Plan
What data will be shared?
I will share human data generated in this research for future research as follows:
_X_ Coded, linked data in an NIH-funded or approved public repository.  
_X_Coded, linked data in BTRIS (automatic for activities in the Clinical Center)
How and where will the data be shared? 
Data will be shared through:
_X_ An NIH-funded or approved public repository: ClinicalTrials.gov.
_X_ Another public repository: dbGaP.
_X_ BTRIS (automatic for activities in the Clinical Center)
_X_ Publication and/or public presentations.
When will the data be shared?
_X_ At the time of publication or shortly thereafter.
7.2.2
Genomic Data Sharing Plan
Unlinked genomic data will be deposited in public genomic databases such as dbGaP in 
compliance with the NIH Genomic Data Sharing Policy.


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7.3
EVALUATION OF CT SCAN MEASUREMENTS
CT Scans are used to assess baseline tumor burden and to determine tumor response. The 
following measurement guidelines are intended to ensure that tumor measurements and 
assessments of response are conducted consistently throughout the study. 
7.3.1
Part A
Baseline (Pre-treatment) tumor measurements will be obtained using the CT Scan performed 
prior to the initiation of any Protocol Therapy. These pre-treatment baseline measurements will 
be recorded and used as the cumulative baseline product when restaging post Part A on cycle 1 
Day 21 after the administration of single agent Bortezomib 
7.3.2
Part B
The Cumulative Product which was calculated after completion of Cycle 1 Part A will become 
the baseline tumor measurement for Pre-Part B. This product also serves as the Cumulative 
Baseline Product for subsequent restaging CT Scans for Part B, i.e. post cycle 4 and Cycle 6.
If it is determined that the patient is to bypass Part A and proceed directly to Part B, then pre-
treatment baseline measurements will be obtained and recorded as stated in Part A. 
7.3.3
Part C
The Cumulative Product which was calculated after completion of Cycle 6 Part B will become 
the baseline tumor measurement for Pre-Part C. The CT scan for Pre Part C will be performed 
when the patient is evaluated for Randomization to Bortezomib maintenance versus observation 
occurs. This occurs approximately 12 weeks after the completion of Part B.  The tumor 
measurements obtained at this time point will serve as the Cumulative Product for Pre-Part C and 
subsequent Cumulative baseline products for further treatment and restaging CT Scan 
evaluations. 
7.4
RESPONSE CRITERIA
7.4.1
Response criteria for lymphomas 
Responses must last for at least 4 weeks off treatment. 
7.4.1.1
Complete response (CR) 
Complete disappearance of all detectable clinical and radiographic evidence of disease and 
disappearance of all disease-related symptoms if present before therapy, and normalization of 
those biochemical abnormalities (e.g. LDH) definitely assignable to the lymphoma.  All lymph 
nodes must have regressed to normal size ( 1.5 cm in greatest diameter if > 1.5 cm before 
therapy).  Previously involved nodes that were 1.1 to 1.5 cm in greatest diameter must have 
decreased to  1 cm or by more than 75% in the sum of the products of the greatest diameters 
(SPD). Spleen, if considered to be enlarged before therapy, must have regressed in size and not 
be palpable on physical examination.  The bone marrow must show no evidence of disease by 
histology.  Lymphocyte aggregates within the bone marrow must be negative for B-cell markers 
(e.g. L26).
Flow cytometric, molecular or cytogenetic studies will not be used to determine response. 


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7.4.1.2
Complete response unconfirmed (CRu) 
As per CR criteria except that if a residual node is > 1.5 cm, it must have regressed by > 75% in 
SPD.  Lymphocyte aggregates within the bone marrow must be negative for B-cell markers (e.g. 
L26).
7.4.1.3
Partial response
 50% decreased in SPD of 6 largest dominant nodes or nodal masses. No increase in size of 
nodes, liver or spleen and no new sites of disease.  Splenic and hepatic nodules must regress by  
50% in the SPD.  Bone marrow is irrelevant for determination of a PR.  
7.4.1.4
Definition of progressive disease (PD):  
Defined by at least one of the following: >50% increase in the sum of the products of at least two 
lymph nodes appearance of new lymph nodes, >50% increase in the size of the liver and/or 
spleen as determined by measurement below the respective costal margin, appearance of new 
palpable hepatomegaly or splenomegaly that was not previously present, >50% increase in the 
absolute number of circulating lymphocytes. 
7.4.1.5
Definition of stable disease 
 (SD) will be characterized by not meeting any of the criteria outlined above. 
7.5
TOXICITY CRITERIA 
The NCI Common Toxicity Criteria version 3.0 will be used for toxicity and adverse event 
reporting. A copy of the CTC version 3.0 can be downloaded from 
http:/ctep.cancer.gov/reporting/ctc.html. Dose limiting toxicity is defined in section 4.3. 
8
NIH REPORTING REQUIREMENTS / DATA AND SAFETY MONITORING PLAN
8.1
DEFINITIONS
Please refer to definitions provided in Policy 801: Reporting Research Events found here.
8.2
OHSRP OFFICE OF COMPLIANCE AND TRAINING / IRB REPORTING
8.2.1
Expedited Reporting 
Please refer to the reporting requirements in Policy 801: Reporting Research Events and Policy 
802 Non-Compliance Human Subjects Research found here.
8.2.2
IRB Requirements for PI Reporting at Continuing Review
Please refer to the reporting requirements in Policy 801: Reporting Research Events found here.
8.3
NCI CLINICAL DIRECTOR REPORTING 
Problems expeditiously reported to the OHSRP in iRIS will also be reported to the NCI Clinical 
Director.  A separate submission is not necessary as reports in iRIS will be available to the 
Clinical Director.
In addition to those reports, all deaths that occur within 30 days after receiving a research 
intervention should be reported via email to the Clinical Director unless they are due to 
progressive disease.  


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To report these deaths, please send an email describing the circumstances of the death to Dr. 
Dahut at NCICCRQA@mail.nih.gov within one business day of learning of the death.
8.4
NIH REQUIRED DATA AND SAFETY MONITORING PLAN
8.4.1
Principal Investigator/Research Team
The clinical research team will meet on a regular basis when patients are being actively treated 
on the trial to discuss each patient. Decisions about dose level enrollment and dose escalation if 
applicable will be made based on the toxicity data from prior patients.
All data will be collected in a timely manner and reviewed by the PI, the study chairman or a 
lead associate investigator for toxicity.  Events meeting requirements for expedited reporting as 
described in section 8.2.1 will be submitted within the appropriate timelines.  
The principal investigator will review adverse events and response data on each patient to ensure 
safety and data accuracy. The principal investigator will personally conduct or supervise the 
investigation and provide appropriate delegation of responsibilities to other members of the 
research staff. 
8.5
PROCEDURES FOR AE AND SAE REPORTING TO MANUFACTURER
AEs may be spontaneously reported by the patient and/or in response to an open question from 
study personnel or revealed by observation, physical examination, or other diagnostic 
procedures.  Any clinically relevant deterioration in laboratory assessments or other clinical 
finding is considered an AE.  When possible, signs and symptoms indicating a common 
underlying pathology should be noted as one comprehensive event.  AEs which are serious must 
be reported to Millennium Pharmacovigilance (or designee) from the first dose of bortezomib up 
to and including 30 days after administration of the last dost of bortezomib.   Any SAE that 
occurs at any time after completion of bortezomib treatment or after the designated follow-up 
period that the sponsor-investigator and/or sub-investigator considers to be related to any study 
drug must be reported to Millennium Pharmacovigilance (or designee).  Planned hospital 
admissions or surgical procedures for an illness or disease that existed before the patient was 
enrolled in the trial are not to be considered AEs unless the condition deteriorated in an 
unexpected manner during the trial (e.g., surgery was performed earlier or later than planned).  
All SAEs should be monitored until they are resolved or are clearly determined to be due to a 
patient’s stable or chronic condition or intercurrent illness(es).
Since this is an investigator-initiated study, the principal investigator Dr. Wyndham Wilson, also 
referred to as the sponsor-investigator, is responsible for reporting serious adverse events (SAEs) 
to any regulatory agency and to the sponsor- investigator’s EC or IRB.   Regardless of 
expectedness or causality, all SAEs must also be reported to Millennium Pharmacovigilance or 
designee as soon as possible, but no later than 5 calendar days of the sponsor-investigator’s 
observation or awareness of the event.  See below for contact information for the reporting of 
SAEs to Millennium Pharmacovigilance.
As the study sponsor, Dr. Wilson will be the single point of contact with Millennium for safety 
reporting.  Dr. Wilson will require all local physicians operating under the protocol for all 
patients (i.e., those from the NCI study site) to report SAEs to Dr. Wilson immediately. Dr. 
Wilson will be responsible for ensuring that all local physicians are aware of SAE reporting 
requirements and that they send such reports to Dr. Wilson.


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The sponsor-investigator should fax the SAE Form within five calendar days after becoming 
aware of the event.  Follow-up information on the SAE may be requested by Millennium.  The 
SAE report must include event term(s), serious criteria, and the sponsor-investigator’s or sub-
investigator’s determination of both the intensity of the event(s) and the relationship of the 
event(s) to study drug administration.    Relationship to all study drugs for each SAE will be 
determined by the investigator or sub-investigator by responding yes or no to the question: Is 
there a reasonable possibility that the AE is associated with the study drug(s)?
Sponsor-investigator must also provide Millennium Pharmacovigilance with a copy of all 
communications with applicable regulatory authorities related to the study or study drug(s), 
including, but not limited to, telephone conversation logs, as soon as possible but no later than 5 
calendar days of such communication.
SAE and Pregnancy Reporting Contact Information (North America Reporting)
Millennium Pharmacovigilance
SAE and Pregnancy Reporting Contact Information
FAX Number: 1-800-963-6290
Email: TakedaOncoCases@cognizant.com
8.6
PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING DRUG EXPOSURE DURING PREGNANCY AND BIRTH 
EVENTS
If a woman becomes pregnant or suspects that she is pregnant while participating in this study, 
she must inform the investigator immediately and permanently discontinue study drug.  The 
sponsor-investigator must fax a completed Pregnancy Form (Section 0) to the Millennium 
Department of Pharmacovigilance or designee (see Section 8.5).  The pregnancy must be 
followed for the final pregnancy outcome.
If a female partner of a male patient becomes pregnant during the male patient’s participation in 
this study, the sponsor-investigator must also immediately fax a completed Pregnancy Form 
(Section 0) to the Millennium Department of Pharmacovigilance or designee (see Section 8.5).  
Every effort should be made to follow the pregnancy for the final pregnancy outcome.
All SAEs that are reported to Millennium must also be forwarded to the Regulatory Affairs 
Branch, CTEP via email to ctepsupportae@tech-res.com.
9
STATISTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
The primary objective of this study is to determine in a small, randomized study whether there 
could be a statistically significant difference in progression free survival between patients with 
mantle cell lymphoma who are randomized to receive EPOCH-RB followed by maintenance 
Bortezomib versus observation alone.
In order to detect a difference in progression free survival with a two-tailed 0.05 alpha level, 
simulations were performed to determine the sample size. The following assumptions were 
made:
Accrual will take place over 24 months. It will be assumed that greater than 90% of patients who 
enter the trial will experience a PR or CR and hence be eligible for randomization. The 
observation arm will be assumed to have a median progression free survival of approximately 24 
months, and will follow an exponential failure distribution with a 0.0289 hazard rate throughout. 


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This was based on results obtained from the single arm trial of EPOCH-R + vaccine in mantle 
cell lymphomas in which the median progression free survival of 26 patients was approximately 
24 months, and assuming that the observation arm will have similar results. It will be assumed 
that the maintenance therapy progression free survival curve will decrease less rapidly than the 
observation curve, and then plateau. For purposes of calculation, the maintenance therapy curve 
will be assumed to have an exponential failure rate of ½ that of the other curve for the first  24 
months (lambda=0.0144), resulting in approximately 71% PFS at 24 months. It will further be 
assumed that the curve will flatten out such that it attains 51% PFS by 48 months 
(lambda=0.0137 from 24 to 48 months) and finally levels out to 50% PFS at 72 months 
(lambda=0.0008 from 48 to 72 months). Under these assumptions, using 10000 simulations with 
nQuery Advisor, with 36 patients per arm (total 72), there is 81% power to detect the differences 
as stated above with a two-tailed 0.05 alpha level test. In order to enroll 72 patients who are able 
to be randomized, the accrual ceiling will be set at 80 patients, and could be expanded 
by amendment if necessary to enroll 72 randomized subjects. 
The primary evaluation will be a Kaplan-Meier analysis with a two-tailed log rank test. Since 
accrual is expected to take place rapidly for this trial, and progression free survival probabilities 
well past 2 years will be of interest to examine, there will be no formal provision for early 
termination of this trial. Also, because the two arms differ mainly in the use of maintenance 
therapy vs. standard duration of agents and then observation, it is not expected that there will be 
differences in toxicity between the two arms. Furthermore, the study will not be blinded and is of 
limited size. Thus, there will not be a need for formal DSMB evaluation of this study. The PI 
will monitor the trial in conjunction with the study statistician and will report all adverse events 
in a timely fashion to the IRB.
Overall survival (OS) will also be determined for both randomized arms of the trial and 
compared beginning at the date of randomization.  Because this is a relatively indolent disease, 
statistically significant differences in OS will be difficult to observe with only 72 randomized 
subjects. However, the results obtained will be reported, along with appropriate 95% confidence 
intervals.
Secondary evaluations will include, but not be limited to the following:  Clinical response will be 
evaluated on all 80 patients who receive the initial cycle of Bortezomib alone, and a 95% 
confidence interval will be formed about the observed response proportion. Biopsies taken pre-
treatment and post this single cycle of Bortezomib will yield gene expression data and 
microarray data that can be evaluated both to determine if pre-treatment expression levels or 
gene patterns can be found which differ according to degree of clinical response noted (CR vs. 
<CR, or CR+PR vs. SD+PD), or to see if changes in expression levels or changes in microarray 
patterns can be used to predict response to DA-EPOCH-RB. With a total of up to 80 subjects 
having this data available, even with 90% of patients responding and 10% not responding, there 
would be over 80% power to detect a 1.2 standard deviation difference between response 
categories in an individual gene with its expression level evaluated, using a 0.05 alpha level two 
tailed t-test. Since a large number of such tests may be performed, the power to detect individual 
differences at that level may be reduced, but since these analyses will be done with exploratory 
intent, the results obtained will be used to guide future research. Analyses will tend to focus on 
cell cycle regulatory genes to see if changes in their expression levels and patterns are associated 
with clinical response, PFS, and OS.


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In addition, response and clinical toxicity to DA-EPOCH-RB will be determined and reported 
descriptively, and a 95% confidence interval about the observed fraction of patients who have a 
CR or a CR+PR will be formed. As well, time to progression after progressing on the 
observation arm will be determined using the Kaplan-Meier method. This will be reported 
descriptively, using appropriate 95% confidence intervals. With 24 months to accrue 80 patients, 
in order to yield 72 randomized subjects, approximately 3 patients per month are expected to 
enroll in an average month.
10 COLLABORATIVE AGREEMENTS
10.1 COOPERATIVE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT (CRADA) 
The agent(s) (hereinafter referred to as “Agent(s)”), PS-341, used in this protocol is provided to 
the NCI under a CRADA with Millennium (hereinafter referred to as “Collaborator(s)”) and the 
NCI Division of Cancer Treatment, Diagnosis and Centers.  Therefore, the following 
obligations/guidelines apply to the use of the Agent(s) in this study:
1.
Agent(s) may not be used outside the scope of this protocol, nor can Agent(s) be 
transferred or licensed to any party not participating in the clinical study.  
Collaborator(s) data for Agent(s) are confidential and proprietary to Collaborator(s) 
and should be maintained as such by the investigators.
2.
For a clinical protocol where there is an investigational Agent used in combination 
with (an)other investigational Agent(s), each the subject of different CTAs or 
CRADAs, the access to and use of data by each Collaborator shall be as follows (data 
pertaining to such combination use shall hereinafter be referred to as "Multi-Party 
Data.”):
a.
NCI must provide all Collaborators with written notice regarding the existence and 
nature of any agreements governing their collaboration with NIH, the design of the 
proposed combination protocol, and the existence of any obligations which would 
tend to restrict NCI's participation in the proposed combination protocol.
b.
Each Collaborator shall agree to permit use of the Multi-Party Data from the 
clinical trial by any other Collaborator to the extent necessary to allow said other 
Collaborator to develop, obtain regulatory approval or commercialize its own 
investigational Agent.
c.
Any Collaborator having the right to use the Multi-Party Data from these trials 
must agree in writing prior to the commencement of the trials that it will use the 
Multi-Party 
Data 
solely 
for 
development, 
regulatory 
approval, 
and 
commercialization of its own investigational agent.
3.  The NCI encourages investigators to make data from clinical trials fully available to 
Collaborator(s) for review at the appropriate time (see #5).  The NCI expects that 
clinical trial data developed under a CTA or CRADA will be made available 
exclusively to Collaborator(s), and not to other parties.
4.  When a Collaborator wishes to initiate a data request, the request should first be sent to 
the NCI, who will then notify the appropriate investigators (Group Chair for 
cooperative group studies, or PI for other studies) of Collaborator's wish to contact 
them.


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5.   Any data provided to Collaborator(s) must be in accordance with the guidelines and 
policies of the responsible Data Monitoring Committee (DMC), if there is a DMC for 
this clinical trial.
6.  Any manuscripts reporting the results of this clinical trial should be provided to CTEP 
for immediate delivery to Collaborator(s) for advisory review and comment prior to 
submission for publication.  Collaborator(s) will have 30 days from the date of receipt 
for review.  An additional 30 days may be requested in order to ensure that confidential 
and proprietary data,  in addition to Collaborator(s)’s intellectual property rights, are 
protected.  Copies of abstracts should be provided to Collaborator(s) for courtesy review 
following submission, but prior to presentation at the meeting or publication in the 
proceedings.  Copies of any manuscript and/or abstract should be sent to the following 
address and the Regulatory Affairs Branch will then distribute them to Collaborator(s): 
Regulatory Affairs Branch, CTEP, DCTDC, NCI
9609 Medical Center Drive
Bethesda, MD 20892 
email: info@ctep.nci.nih.gov
11 HUMAN SUBJECTS PROTECTIONS 
11.1 RATIONALE FOR SUBJECT SELECTION 
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas affect all races and genders.  However, males are more likely than 
females to be affected and this will be reflected in the gender distribution of our cases.  We have 
selected mantle cell lymphomas for inclusion in this trial because they are considered to be 
incurable with chemotherapy.  Thus, they would potentially benefit from the use of a novel agent 
like Bortezomib combined with a chemotherapy regimen like EPOCH-R.  Additionally, the 
administration of maintenance Bortezomib therapy could result in an improved clinical outcome.  
Patients under the age of 18 are excluded because mantle cell lymphoma is rare in young 
patients, and the inclusion of an occasional younger patient will not provide generalizable 
information that would justify their inclusion on this phase II study. Additionally, patients with 
HIV infection will be excluded due to the severe immunosuppression of this therapy, and 
pregnant or nursing mothers are excluded because of the potential teratogenic effects of therapy.
11.2 PARTICIPATION OF CHILDREN
Subjects under the age of 18 are excluded because mantle cell lymphoma is rare in young 
patients; and the inclusion of an occasional younger patient will not provide generalizable 
information that would justify their inclusion on this study
11.3 PARTICIPATION OF SUBJECTS UNABLE TO GIVE CONSENT
Adults unable to give consent were excluded from enrolling in the protocol.  However, re-
consent may be necessary and there is a possibility, though unlikely, that subjects could become 
decisionally impaired. For this reason and because there is the prospect of direct benefit to 
subjects from treatment, including ongoing follow-up for detection of early relapse and to allow 
for the return of incidental findings of genetic testing (Sections 6.4.3 and Error! Reference 
source not found.) all subjects ≥ age 18 will be offered the opportunity to fill in their wishes for 
research and care, and assign a substitute decision maker on the “NIH Advance Directive for 


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Health Care and Medical Research Participation” form so that another person can make 
decisions about their medical care in the event that they become incapacitated or cognitively 
impaired during the course of the study.
Note: The PI or AI will contact the NIH Ability to Consent Assessment Team (ACAT) for 
evaluation to assess ongoing capacity of the subjects and to identify an LAR, as needed.
Please see section 11.5.1 for consent procedure. 
11.4 EVALUATION OF BENEFITS AND RISKS/DISCOMFORTS 
Patients may or may not obtain direct benefit from treatment with Bortezomib combined with 
EPOCH-R.  Results from a phase I/II study of Bortezomib in combination with EPOCH shows 
the combination to have tolerable side effects.
11.4.1 Risks related to CT and PET scans
CT and PET scans often use a contrast agent. There is a small risk of having a reaction to the 
contrast and most often include nausea, pain in the vein where the contrast is given, headache, 
metallic and/ or bitter taste in the mouth and a warm, flushing feeling. Rarely, some people have 
more severe allergic reactions to the contrast which may include skins rashes, shortness of 
breath, wheezing or low blood pressure.
11.4.2 Risks from Radiation Exposure
The procedures for performing the CT scans will follow clinical policies, no special procedures 
apply to these additional assessments for research purposes.  On this study patients who are 
given Parts A, B and Part C would have received additional scans during treatment; however, as 
all patients are in long-term follow-up on the study only (as of November 2021), the risks 
described in the protocol and consent will apply to the imaging for follow-up only.  Accordingly:  
patients will receive up to up to one (1) CT scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis and two (2) 
[18F]-FDG PET scans as well undergo up to two (2) CT guided biopsies. 
The total additional radiation dose for research purposes will be approximately 3.9 rem.
11.4.3 Risks from Blood Draws
The possible side effects of drawing blood include pain, bleeding, bruising, dizziness, light-
headedness, fainting, and rarely a local blood clot formation or infection with redness and irritation 
of the vein.
11.4.4 Risks from Bone Marrow Aspiration/ Biopsy
Bone marrow biopsy is minimally invasive and is typically a very safe procedure. Usually, the 
hipbone is numbed with anesthesia. Using a needle, the solid and liquid portion of bone marrow 
is taken out. This procedure causes some pain. Very rarely, infection or bleeding may occur at 
the needle site. 
11.4.5 Risks from Tumor Biopsy
The likely side effects include discomfort or pain, redness, swelling, and/or bruising at the site of 
the needle insertion.  Bleeding from the site of the needle insertion is a less likely risk.  Rarely, 
significant infection or bleeding from this procedure, allergic reaction to the anesthetic, or 
formation of a scar at the site of needle entry occurs.  


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11.4.6 Psychological or Social Risks Associated with Loss of Privacy
Learning of genetic risks for another disease or disability may be upsetting and cause distress. 
11.4.7 Privacy Risks Associated with Return of Incidental or Secondary Findings
It may be possible that genetic information could be used to help identify the participant and/or 
participant’s relatives.   
11.4.8 Risks from Catheter Insertion
11.5 INSERTION OF CATHETERS CAN CAUSE, SITE PAIN, INFLAMMATION OF THE VEIN, 
BRUISING, INFECTION, BLOOD CLOTS, LEAK OF THE INFUSED LIQUID, AND IF THIS IS A 
CENTRAL LINE, PUNCTURE OF THE LUNG THAT CAN RESULT IN LUNG COLLAPSECONSENT 
PROCESS AND DOCUMENTATION
The informed consent document will be provided as a physical or electronic document to the 
participant or consent designee(s) as applicable for review prior to consenting.  A designated study 
investigator will carefully explain the procedures and tests involved in this study, and the 
associated risks, discomforts and benefits. In order to minimize potential coercion, as much time 
as is needed to review the document will be given, including an opportunity to discuss it with 
friends, family members and/or other advisors, and to ask questions of any designated study 
investigator. A signed informed consent document will be obtained prior to entry onto the study.
The initial consent process as well as re-consent, when required, may take place in person or 
remotely (e.g., via telephone or other NIH approved remote platforms used in compliance with 
policy, including HRPP Policy 303) per discretion of the designated study investigator and with 
the agreement of the participant/consent designee(s).  Whether in person or remote, the privacy of 
the subject will be maintained. Consenting investigators (and participant/consent designee, when 
in person) will be located in a private area (e.g., clinic consult room). When consent is conducted 
remotely, the participant/consent designee will be informed of the private nature of the discussion 
and will be encouraged to relocate to a more private setting if needed.  
Consent will be documented with required signatures on the physical document (which includes 
the printout of an electronic document sent to participant) or as described below, with a manual 
(non-electronic) signature on the electronic document.  When required, witness signature will be 
obtained similarly as described for the investigator and participant.
Manual (non-electronic) signature on electronic document:
When a manual signature on an electronic document is used for the documentation of consent 
at the NIH Clinical Center, this study will use the following to obtain the required signatures:

Adobe platform (which is not 21 CFR Part 11 compliant); or,  

iMedConsent platform (which is 21 CFR Part 11 compliant)
During the consent process, participants and investigators will view individual copies of the 
approved consent document on screens at their respective locations (if remote consent); the 
same screen may be used when in the same location but is not required.  
Both the investigator and the participant will sign the document using a finger, stylus or 
mouse. 


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Note: Refer to the CCR SOP PM-2, Obtaining and Documenting the Informed Consent 
Process for additional information (e.g., verification of participant identity when obtaining 
consent remotely) found here.
11.5.1 Consent Process for Adults Who Lack Capacity to Consent to Research Participation
For participants addressed in section 11.3, an LAR will be identified consistent with Policy 403 
and informed consent obtained from the LAR, as described in Section 11.5. 
12 REGULATORY AND OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS 
12.1 STUDY DISCONTINUATION AND CLOSURE
This study may be temporarily suspended or prematurely terminated if there is sufficient 
reasonable cause.  Written notification, documenting the reason for study suspension or 
termination, will be provided by the suspending or terminating party to study participants, 
investigator, funding agency, and regulatory authorities.  If the study is prematurely terminated 
or suspended, the Principal Investigator (PI) will promptly inform study participants, the 
Institutional Review Board (IRB), and sponsor and will provide the reason(s) for the termination 
or suspension.  Study participants will be contacted, as applicable, and be informed of changes to 
study visit schedule.
Circumstances that may warrant termination or suspension include, but are not limited to:

Determination of unexpected, significant, or unacceptable risk to participants

Demonstration of efficacy that would warrant stopping   

Insufficient compliance to protocol requirements

Data that are not sufficiently complete and/or evaluable

Determination that the primary endpoint has been met

Determination of futility
Study may resume once concerns about safety, protocol compliance, and data quality are 
addressed, and satisfy the sponsor, IRB and as applicable, Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
12.2 QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL
The clinical site will perform internal quality management of study conduct, data and biological 
specimen collection, documentation and completion.  An individualized quality management 
plan will be developed to describe a site’s quality management.
Quality control (QC) procedures will be implemented beginning with the data entry system and 
data QC checks that will be run on the database will be generated. Any missing data or data 
anomalies will be communicated to the site for clarification/resolution.
Following written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), the monitors will verify that the 
clinical trial is conducted and data are generated and biological specimens are collected, 
documented (recorded), and reported in compliance with the protocol, International Conference 
on Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice (ICH GCP), and applicable regulatory requirements 
(e.g., Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)). 


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The investigational site will provide direct access to all trial related sites, source data/documents, 
and reports for the purpose of monitoring and auditing by the sponsor, and inspection by local 
and regulatory authorities.
12.3 CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY
The independence of this study from any actual or perceived influence, such as by the 
pharmaceutical industry, is critical.  Therefore, any actual conflict of interest of persons who 
have a role in the design, conduct, analysis, publication, or any aspect of this trial will be 
disclosed and managed. Furthermore, persons who have a perceived conflict of interest will be 
required to have such conflicts managed in a way that is appropriate to their participation in the 
design and conduct of this trial.  The study leadership in conjunction with the National Cancer 
Institute has established policies and procedures for all study group members to disclose all 
conflicts of interest and will establish a mechanism for the management of all reported dualities 
of interest.
12.4 CONFIDENTIALITY AND PRIVACY
Participant confidentiality and privacy is strictly held in trust by the participating investigators, 
their staff, and the sponsor(s). This confidentiality is extended to cover testing of biological 
samples and genetic tests in addition to the clinical information relating to participants. 
Therefore, the study protocol, documentation, data, and all other information generated will be 
held in strict confidence. No information concerning the study or the data will be released to any 
unauthorized third party without prior written approval of the sponsor. 
All research activities will be conducted in as private a setting as possible.
The study monitor, other authorized representatives of the sponsor, representatives of the 
Institutional Review Board (IRB), and/or regulatory agencies may inspect all documents and 
records required to be maintained by the investigator, including but not limited to, medical 
records (office, clinic, or hospital) and pharmacy records for the participants in this study. The 
clinical study site will permit access to such records.
The study participant’s contact information will be securely stored at the clinical site for internal 
use during the study. At the end of the study, all records will continue to be kept in a secure 
location for as long a period as dictated by the reviewing IRB, Institutional policies, or sponsor 
requirements.
Study participant research data, which is for purposes of statistical analysis and scientific 
reporting, will be transmitted to and stored at the NCI CCR. This will not include the 
participant’s contact or identifying information. Rather, individual participants and their research 
data will be identified by a unique study identification number. The study data entry and study 
management systems used by the clinical site(s) and by NCI CCR research staff will be secured 
and password protected. At the end of the study, all study databases will be archived at the NIH.
To further protect the privacy of study participants, a Certificate of Confidentiality has been 
issued by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).  This certificate protects identifiable research 
information from forced disclosure. It allows the investigator and others who have access to 
research records to refuse to disclose identifying information on research participation in any 
civil, criminal, administrative, legislative, or other proceeding, whether at the federal, state, or 
local level. By protecting researchers and institutions from being compelled to disclose 


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information that would identify research participants, Certificates of Confidentiality help achieve 
the research objectives and promote participation in studies by helping assure confidentiality and 
privacy to participants.
13 PHARMACEUTICAL INFORMATION
13.1 BORTEZOMIB
13.1.1 Supply
Bortezomib is being supplied by Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. directly to the Clinical Center 
Pharmacy.   Dr. Wilson, as sponsor of the study, will be responsible for complete study drug 
accountability in accordance with good clinical practices and ensuring that the study drug is 
labeled for clinical trial use only. 
Bortezomib for Injection is a sterile lyophilized powder for reconstitution and is supplied in vials 
containing bortezomib and mannitol at a 1:10 ratio.  For example, vials containing 3.5 mg of 
bortezomib contain 35 mg of mannitol. 
13.1.2 Storage and Stability
Vials containing lyophilized BORTEZOMIB for Injection should be stored according to the label 
requirements.  For the United States, store at USP Controlled Room Temperature which is 25ºC 
(77ºF); storage temperature excursions are permitted from 15 to 30ºC (59 to 86ºF).  For Europe, 
do not store above 30ºC (86ºF).  To date, stability data indicate that the lyophilized drug product 
is stable for at least 18 months when stored under the recommended conditions. Stability studies 
are ongoing, and the sponsor will notify the investigator should this information be revised 
during the conduct of the study.
13.1.3 Preparation and Administration 
Drug will be administered only to eligible patients under the supervision of the investigator or 
identified subinvestigator(s).  Patients may be treated on an outpatient basis, if possible.
The drug will be prepared under the supervision of a pharmacist, or appropriately qualified and 
trained personnel.  The amount (in mg) of drug to be administered will be determined based on 
body surface area.  Body surface area is to be calculated based on body weight using a standard 
calculation. The dose should be calculated on Day 1 of each cycle; the dose administered should 
remain the same throughout each cycle but should be recalculated at the start of the next cycle.  
If a patient experiences a notable change in weight within a cycle, as determined by an 
unscheduled weight assessment, then the patient’s dose should be recalculated at that time based 
on clinical judgment.
The appropriate amount of bortezomib will be drawn from the injection vial and administered as 
an IV push over 3 to 5 seconds followed by a standard saline flush or through a running IV line.  
Vials are for single-use administration.
There must be at least 72 hours between each dose of bortezomib.
13.1.4 Product Destruction
For commercially-labeled bortezomib for IND-exempt studies, please contact your Millennium 
Clinical Operations representative to arrange for return of study drug procedures.  Any unused or 


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expired bortezomib must be returned to Millennium.  Be sure to document drug return on your 
drug accountability logs.
13.1.5 Potential Risks of Bortezomib
To date, more than 436,000 patients have been treated with bortezomib in both clinical trials 
investigating its use in hematological malignancies and solid tumors, and in patients who were 
treated with commercially available bortezomib.
Prescribing physicians and health care practitioners are referred to their locally approved product 
label for bortezomib regarding Indications and Usage, Contraindications, Warnings, and 
Precautions.
The known anticipated risks of bortezomib therapy are presented in Table 11-1 and Table 11-2.  
These risks are grouped according to the combined frequency observed in an integrated analysis 
of AEs in sponsored clinical studies of single-agent bortezomib dosed at 1.3 mg/m2 twice 
weekly on a 21-day schedule, in patients with multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma. 
13.1.6 Precautions and Restrictions
It is not known what effects bortezomib has on human pregnancy or development of the embryo 
or fetus.  Therefore, female patients participating in this study should avoid becoming pregnant, 
and male patients should avoid impregnating a female partner.  Nonsterilized female patients of 
reproductive age and male patients should use effective methods of contraception through 
defined periods during and after study treatment as specified below.
Female patients must meet 1 of the following:

Postmenopausal for at least 1 year before the screening visit, or

Surgically sterile, or

If they are of childbearing potential, agree to practice 2 effective methods of 
contraception from the time of signing the informed consent form through 30 days after 
the last dose of bortezomib, or agree to completely abstain from heterosexual intercourse.
It is strongly recommended that at least 1 of these 2 methods highly effective (see examples 
below) be used.
Highly effective methods
Other effective methods (barrier methods)
Intra-uterine devices (IUD)
Latex condom
Hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills/oral 
contraceptives, injectable contraceptives, 
contraceptive patches, or contraceptive implants)
Diaphragm with spermicide
Cervical cap
Sponge
If one of the highly effective methods cannot be used, using 2 effective methods at the same time is 
recommended. 
Male patients, even if surgically sterilized (i.e., status post-vasectomy) must agree to 1 of the 
following:

Practice effective barrier contraception during the entire study treatment period and 
through a minimum of 30 days after the last dose of study drug

or completely abstain from heterosexual intercourse.


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Table 13-1   
Known Anticipated Risks of BORTEZOMIB by MedDRA System Organ Class, 
Observed Incidence, and Preferred Term
System Organ Class
Observed Incidence
Preferred Term
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders
Most common
Thrombocytopenia*, anemia*
Very common 
Neutropenia*
Common 
Lymphopenia, pancytopenia*, leukopenia*, febrile neutropenia
Cardiac Disorders
Common 
Tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, palpitations, cardiac failure 
congestive*
Uncommon
Cardiogenic shock*, atrial flutter, cardiac tamponade*, 
bradycardia, atrioventricular block complete, arrhythmia, cardiac 
arrest, cardiac failure, arrhythmia, pericardial effusion, 
pericarditis, pericardial disease, cardiopulmonary failure
Ear and Labyrinth Disorders
Uncommon
Deafness, hearing impaired
Eye Disorders
Common 
Blurred vision, conjunctivitis, conjunctival hemorrhage 
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Most common
Constipation, diarrhea*, nausea, vomiting*
Very common 
abdominal pain (excluding oral and throat)
Common 
Dyspepsia, pharyngolaryngeal pain, gastroesophageal reflux, 
abdominal distension, gastritis, stomatitis, mouth ulceration, 
dysphagia, gastrointestinal hemorrhage*, lower gastrointestinal 
hemorrhage*± rectal hemorrhage
Uncommon
Eructation, gastrointestinal pain, tongue ulceration, retching, upper 
gastrointestinal hemorrhage*, hematemesis*, oral mucosal 
petechiae, ileus paralytic*, ileus, odynophagia, enteritis, colitis, 
esophagitis, enterocolitis, diarrhea hemorrhagic, acute 
pancreatitis*, intestinal obstruction
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
Most common
Fatigue, pyrexia
Very common 
Chills, edema peripheral, asthenia
Common 
Neuralgia, lethargy, malaise, chest pain, mucosal inflammation*
Uncommon
Injection site pain, injection site irritation, injection site phlebitis, 
general physical health deterioration*, catheter-related 
complication
Hepatobiliary Disorders
Uncommon
Hyperbilirubinemia, hepatitis*
Immune System Disorders
Uncommon
Drug hypersensitivity, angioedema
Infections and Infestations


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Table 13-1   
Known Anticipated Risks of BORTEZOMIB by MedDRA System Organ Class, 
Observed Incidence, and Preferred Term
System Organ Class
Observed Incidence
Preferred Term
Very common 
Upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, pneumonia*, 
Herpes zoster*
Common 
Lower respiratory tract infection*, sinusitis, pharyngitis, oral 
candidiasis, urinary tract infection*, sepsis, bacteremia*, 
cellulitis, Herpes simplex, bronchitis, gastroenteritis*, infection
Uncommon
Septic shock*, catheter-related infection*, skin infection*, Herpes 
zoster disseminated*, lung infection, infusion site cellulitis, 
catheter site cellulitis, infusion site infection, urosepsis*, 
Aspergillosis*, tinea infection, Herpes zoster ophthalmic, Herpes 
simplex ophthalmic, meningoencephalitis herpetic, varicella, 
empyema, fungal esophagitis
Injury, Poisoning, and Procedural Complications 
Common
Fall
Uncommon
Subdural hematoma
Investigations
Common 
Weight decreased, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) increased, 
aspartate aminotransferase (AST) increased, blood alkaline 
phosphatase increased, liver function test abnormal, blood 
creatinine increased*
Uncommon
Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) increased, oxygen saturation 
decreased*, blood albumin decreased, ejection fraction decreased*
Metabolism and Nutritional Disorders
Very common 
Decreased appetite, anorexia, dehydration*
Common 
Hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, 
hypercalcemia*
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders
Very common 
Bone pain, myalgia, arthralgia, back pain
Common
Muscular weakness
Uncommon
Limb discomfort
Neoplasms, Benign, Malignant, and Unspecified (including cysts and polyps)
Uncommon
Tumor lysis syndrome*
Nervous System Disorders
Most common
Peripheral neuropathy (including all preferred terms under the 
MedDRA High-level term Peripheral neuropathy NEC)
Very common 
Paresthesia, dizziness excluding vertigo, headache
Common 
Polyneuropathy, syncope, dysesthesia, dysgeusia, postherpetic 
neuralgia
Uncommon
Convulsion, loss of consciousness, ageusia, encephalopathy, 
paralysis*,autonomic neuropathy, reversible posterior 
leukoencephalopathy syndrome, posterior reversible 
encephalopathy syndrome 


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Table 13-1   
Known Anticipated Risks of BORTEZOMIB by MedDRA System Organ Class, 
Observed Incidence, and Preferred Term
System Organ Class
Observed Incidence
Preferred Term
Psychiatric Disorders
Very common
Anxiety, insomnia 
Common
Confusional state 
Uncommon
Delirium
Renal and Urinary Disorders
Common
Renal impairment*, renal failure*, hematuria
Uncommon
Micturition disorder
Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders
Very common
Cough, dyspnea 
Common
Epistaxis, dyspnea exertional, pleural effusion*, rhinorrhea, 
hypoxia*, pulmonary edema
Uncommon
Hemoptysis*, acute respiratory distress syndrome*, respiratory 
failure*, pneumonitis*, lung infiltration, pulmonary alveolar 
hemorrhage*, interstitial lung disease*, pulmonary hypertension*, 
pleurisy, pleuritic pain
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
Very common
Rash
Common
Rash pruritic, rash erythematous, urticaria, petechiae
Uncommon
Cutaneous vasculitis, leukocytoclastic vasculitis 
Vascular Disorders
Common
Hypotension*, orthostatic hypotension
Uncommon
Cerebral hemorrhage*
Source:  VELCADE® Investigator’s Brochure Edition 16.
Most common =  30%, Very common = 10% to 29%, Common = 1% to 9%, Uncommon = < 1%.
*
Fatal outcomes have been reported.

Indicates a Preferred term not listed in the source table, however the event is deemed medically 
important and so is included.
         Effective MedDRA update to version 14.0, the term ‘reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy 
syndrome’ updated to ‘posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)’.


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Table 113-2   Reports of Adverse Reactions From Postmarketing Experience
System Organ Class
Preferred Term
Observed
Incidencea
Blood and lymphatic system disorders
Disseminated intravascular coagulation 
Rare
Cardiac Disorders
Atrioventricular block complete
Rare
Cardiac tamponade
Rare
Ear and labyrinth disorders
Deafness bilateral
Rare
Eye Disorders
Ophthalmic herpes
Rare
              Optic neuropathy
Rare
              Blindness
Rare
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Acute pancreatitis 
Rare
Ischemic colitis
Rare
Hepatobiliary disorders
Hepatitis
Uncommon
Liver failure
Unknown
Infections and infestations
Herpes meningoencephalitis
Rare
Septic shock
Rare
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
Very rare
Immune System Disorders
Angioedema
Rare
Nervous System Disorders
Autonomic neuropathy
Rare
Dysautonomia
Unknown
Encephalopathy
Rare
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders:
Acute diffuse infiltrative pulmonary diseaseb 
Rare
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
Rare
Interstitial pneumonia
Rare
Lung infiltration
Rare
Pneumonitis
Rare
Pulmonary hypertension
Rare
Skin and subcutaneous system disorders


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Table 113-2   Reports of Adverse Reactions From Postmarketing Experience
System Organ Class
Preferred Term
Observed
Incidencea
Acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis
Unknown
Toxic epidermal necrolysis
Unknown
Source:  VELCADE® Investigator’s Brochure Edition 16.
a
Incidence is assigned using the following convention:  very common ( 1/10); common 
( 1/100 and  1/10); uncommon ( 1/1000 and  1/100); rare ( 1/10,000 and  1/1000 
); very rare ( 1/10,000, including isolated reports).
b
Acute diffuse infiltrative pulmonary disease is a MedDRA Lower Level Term which 
corresponds to a Preferred Term of Interstitial lung disease.
Other medical events of interest that are considered not causally related to bortezomib include 
hepatic failure and QT prolongation.  Fatal outcomes have been reported.
Women of childbearing potential should avoid becoming pregnant while being treated with 
bortezomib.  Genotoxicity testing has shown that bortezomib is negative in the in vitro Ames 
assay and in the in vivo micronucleus assay, but it is a clastogen in the in vitro chromosomal 
aberration assay.
Additional details on the potential risks of bortezomib may be found in the current Investigator’s 
Brochure.
13.1.7 Product Complaints
A product complaint is a verbal, written, or electronic expression which implies dissatisfaction 
regarding the identity, strength, purity, quality, or stability of a drug product.  Individuals who 
identify a potential product complaint situation should immediately contact MedComm Solutions 
(see below) and report the event.  Whenever possible, the associated product should be 
maintained in accordance with the label instructions pending further guidance from a Millennium 
quality representative.
A medication error is a preventable event that involves an identifiable patient and that leads to 
inappropriate medication use, which may result in patient harm.  While overdoses and 
underdoses constitute medication errors, doses missed inadvertently by a patient do not.  
Individuals who identify a potential medication error situation should immediately contact 
MedComm Solutions (see below) and report the event.
For Product Complaints or Medication Errors, 
call MedComm Solutions at
1-866-835-2233 (US and International) 
Product complaints and medication errors in and of themselves are not AEs.  If a product 
complaint or medication error results in an SAE, an SAE form should be completed and sent to 
PPD (refer to Section 8.5).
Bortezomib should be given prior to the rituximab infusion. 
13.2 RITUXIMAB 
Refer to the FDA approved package insert for complete product information.


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13.2.1 Supply
Commercially available in single-use vials containing 10 mL (100 mg) or 50 mL (500 mg) of 
rituximab solution at a concentration of 10 mg/mL. 
13.2.2 Storage
Rituximab vials should be stored in a secure refrigerator at 2º to 8°C. 
13.2.3 Preparation
Rituximab will be diluted to a final volume of 0.9% Sodium Chloride or 5% Dextrose Injection 
to prepare a standard product with concentration of 2 mg/ml.  Caution should be taken during the 
preparation of the drug, as shaking can cause aggregation and precipitation of the antibody.
13.2.4 Stability
After dilution, rituximab is stable at 2-8 degrees C (36-46 degrees F) for 24 hours and for an 
additional 24 hours at room temperature.
13.2.5 Administration
A peripheral or central intravenous line will be established. During rituximab infusion, a patient's 
vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature) should be monitored according to the 
standard of care. Medications readily available for the emergency management of anaphylactoid 
reactions should include: epinephrine (1:1000, 1 mg/mL) for subcutaneous injection, 
diphenhydramine hydrochloride for intravenous injection, and resuscitation equipment.
Prophylaxis against hypersensitivity and infusion-related reactions associated with rituximab will 
include acetaminophen 650 mg and diphenhydramine hydrochloride 50-100 mg administered 
30 to 60 minutes prior to starting rituximab. Patients will also receive their first dose of 
prednisone 60 mg/m2 (or a glucocorticoid equivalent dose of an alternative steroid) at least 
60 minutes before rituximab treatment commences.
Rituximab will be administered as an intravenous infusion at 375 mg/m2 on day 1 of each cycle 
of EPOCH after bortezomib (when both drugs are given on the same day) and before starting 
etoposide + doxorubicin + vincristine administration. Rituximab infusions will be administered 
to patients primarily in an outpatient clinic setting. 
First dose:
The initial dose rate at the time of the first rituximab infusion should be 50mg/hour (25 mL/hr) 
for the first 30  minutes. If no toxicity is seen, the dose rate may be escalated gradually in 50 
mg/hour (25 mL/h) increments at 30 minute intervals) to a maximum of 400 mg/hour (maximum 
rate = 200 mL/h). 
Second and Subsequent Doses (select the appropriate administration timing):
90-minute Administration
If the first dose of rituximab was well tolerated, subsequent doses may be administered over 90 
minutes with 20% of the total dose given in the first 30 minutes, and remaining 80% of the total 
dose administered over the subsequent 60 minutes; e.g.:
Two-Step Rate Escalation
Volume to administer (X mL)


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1st portion (0 – 30 minutes)
2nd portion (30 – 90 minutes)
Special Note: The 90-minute infusion scheme is not recommended for patients with clinically 
significant cardiovascular disease or high circulating lymphocyte counts (≥5000/mcL).
Standard Administration for Second & Subsequent Infusions
Patients who tolerate initial treatment without experiencing infusion-related adverse effects but 
for whom the 90-minute infusion scheme during subsequent treatments is considered 
inappropriate, may receive subsequent rituximab doses at the Standard Rate for Subsequent 
Infusions, which is as follows:
Begin at an initial rate of 100 mg/hour (50 mL/h) for 30 minutes. If administration is well 
tolerated, the administration rate may be escalated gradually in 100-mg/hour (50-mL/h) 
increments at 30-minute intervals to a maximum rate of 400 mg/hour (maximum rate = 200 
mL/h).
CAUTION: DO NOT ADMINISTER RITUXIMAB AS AN INTRAVENOUS PUSH OR 
BOLUS. 
13.2.6 Toxicities
Common toxicities include fever, chills, nausea, asthenia, headache, angioedema, pruritis and 
rash. Leukopenia occurs in approximately 10% but grade 3 or 4 neutropenia is uncommon. 
Hypotension occurred in 10% of patients during rituximab infusion, and serious bronchospasm 
and urticaria associated with rituximab infusion each occurred in fewer than 10% of patients. 
Less common toxicities include abdominal pain, vomiting, thrombocytopenia, anemia, myalgia, 
arthralgia, dizziness, and rhinitis. Recently, in patients receiving Rituximab, there have been 
reports of hepatitis B virus reactivation with fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure and death in 
some patients with hematological malignancies. 
13.3 CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE 
13.3.1 Supply
Commercially available as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution in vials containing 100 mg, 200 
mg, 500 mg, 1gm, and 2 gm of cyclophosphamide. 
13.3.2 Storage and preparation
Intact vials should be stored at room temperature (not to exceed 30oC). Reconstitute with 
appropriate amounts of 0.9% NaCl to produce a final concentration of 20 mg/ml.  Discard solution 
after 24 hours at room temperature.  Stable up to 6 days if refrigerated (2º-8ºC). 
13.3.3 Administration
Cyclophosphamide will be diluted in D5W or 0.9% NaCl and administered as an intravenous 
infusion over 30minutes.  Patients will be instructed to drink an adequate amount of fluids and 
empty their bladders frequently during cyclophosphamide administration. 
Total Dose (mg)
2
0.2 X mL (over 30 min)
Total Dose (mg)
2
0.8 X mL (over 60 min)


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13.3.4 Hydration Guidelines
All patients should receive 0.9%NS at the following volumes (based on cyclophosphamide dose 
levels) and rates with half the specified volume given before starting cyclophosphamide 
administration and half the volume given after completing the cyclophosphamide administration.  
Cyclophosphamide
Dosage Levels
Fluid Volume and Administration Rate
1 & 2
1000 mL 0.9%NS @ 300 – 500 mL/h
Levels 3, 4, & 5
2000 mL 0.9%NS @ 300 – 500 mL/h
Levels 6
2500 mL 0.9%NS @ 300 – 500 mL/h
13.4 DOXORUBICIN
Refer to the FDA approved package insert for complete product information.
13.4.1 Supply
Commercially available as a lyophilized powder for reconstitution in 10, 20, 50, and 100 mg 
vials. Also available as 2 mg/ mL solution for injection in 10, 20, 50, and 200 mg vials. 
13.4.2 Preparation and stability
Intact vials of doxorubicin solution for injection should be stored in the refrigerator (2º-8ºC).  
Intact vials of doxorubicin lyophilized powder for reconstitution should be stored at room 
temperature (not to exceed 30ºC). 
Reconstitute vials of doxorubicin powder with appropriate amounts of 0.9% NaCl to produce a 
final concentration of 2 mg/ml.  Reconstituted solutions are stable for 7 days at room temperature 
and 15 days under refrigeration when protected from light. 
13.4.3 Toxicities
Myelosuppression, stomatitis, alopecia, nausea and vomiting, and acute and chronic cardiac 
toxicity, manifested as arrhythmias or a congestive cardiomyopathy, the latter uncommon at total 
cumulative doses less than 500 mg/m2. The drug causes local necrosis if infiltrated into 
subcutaneous tissue. Please refer to the package insert for a complete listing of all toxicities.  
13.5 VINCRISTINE 
Refer to the FDA approved package insert for complete product information.
13.5.1 Supply
Commercially available as a 1 mg/mL solution for injection in 1 mg, 2 mg, and 5 mg vials.
13.5.2 Stability
Vials should be stored at 2º-8ºC and should be protected from light.
13.5.3 Toxicities
Peripheral neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy, alopecia. Local necrosis if injected 
subcutaneously. Please refer to the package insert for a complete listing of all toxicities.  


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13.6 ETOPOSIDE 
13.6.1 Supply
Commercially available as a concentrate for parenteral use in 100 mg vials; each ml contains 20 
mg etoposide, 2 mg citric acid, 30 mg benzyl alcohol, 80 mg polysorbate 80, 650 mg of 
polyethylene glycol 300, and 30.5% alcohol. 
13.6.2 Toxicities
Myelosuppression, nausea, vomiting, anaphylactoid reactions, alopecia, and hypotension if 
infusion is too rapid. Please refer to the package insert for a complete listing of all toxicities.   
13.7 ADMINISTRATION OF VINCRISTINE/DOXORUBICIN/ETOPOSIDE
Stability studies conducted by the Pharmaceutical Development Section, Pharmacy Department, 
NIH Clinical Center, have demonstrated that admixtures of vincristine, doxorubicin, and 
etoposide in 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (0.9%NS) at concentrations, respectively, of 
1, 25, and 125 mcg/mL; 1.4, 35, and 175 mcg/mL; 2, 50, and 250 mcg/mL; and 2.8, 70, 350 
mcg/mL are stable for at least 36 hours at room temperature when protected from light. Also, 
admixtures containing vincristine, doxorubicin, and etoposide concentrations of 1.6, 40, and 200 
mcg/mL are stable for at least 30 hours at 32°C.
For this study, etoposide, doxorubicin, and vincristine comprising a daily dose (a 24-hour 
supply) will be diluted in 0.9%NS. Product containers will be replaced every 24 hours to 
complete the planned duration of infusional treatment. Product volumes will be determined by 
the amount of etoposide present in a 24-hour supply of medication. For daily etoposide doses 
≤130 mg, admixtures will be diluted in approximately 500 mL 0.9%NS.  For daily etoposide 
doses >130 mg, admixtures will be diluted in approximately 1000 mL 0.9%NS.
Etoposide + doxorubicin + vincristine admixtures will be administered by continuous IV 
infusion over 96 hours with a suitable rate controller pump via a central venous access device.
Temporary PICC lines or permanent lines may be used.  Extravasation of these diluted agents 
has not caused local tissue damage due to their low concentrations in the solution.
13.8
 PREDNISONE 
13.8.1 Supply
Commercially available in a large number of oral dosage strengths including pills and liquid 
formulations. 
13.8.2 Storage
Tablets should be stored in well-closed containers at temperatures between 15-30oC. 
13.8.3 Administration
Prednisone utilization will be simplified by using only 20- and 50-mg tablets to produce 
individual doses and by stratifying prednisone doses by a patient’s body surface area (BSA), 
according to the chart below. These are recommendations and not requirements.
BSA (m2)
Each Dose
1.25 – 1.49
80 mg


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1.5 – 1.83
100 mg
1.84 – 2.16
120 mg
2.17 – 2.41
140 mg
2.42 – 2.6
150 mg
2.61-2.69
160 mg
2.7 – 3
170 mg
13.8.4 Toxicities
Proximal muscle weakness, glucose intolerance, thinning of skin, redistribution of body fat, 
Cushingoid facies, immunosuppression, propensity to gastrointestinal ulceration. Please refer to 
the package insert for a complete listing of all toxicities.  
13.9 FILGRASTIM (G-CSF/NEUPOGENR)  
Refer to the FDA approved package insert for complete product information.
13.9.1 Supply
Commercially available in single use vials containing 300 mcg (1 mL/vial) and 480 mcg/vial 
(300 mcg/ml, 1.6 mlvial). 
13.9.2 Storage
Should be stored at 2º-8ºC (do not freeze and do not shake) and is stable for at least 1 year at this 
temperature. 
13.9.3 Administration
Filgrastim will be given by subcutaneous injection; patient or other caregiver will be instructed 
on proper injection technique.
10.8.2 Toxicities
Rare anaphylactic reactions with the first dose; bone pain at sites of active marrow with 
continued administration. Local reactions at injection sites. Constitutional symptoms, increased 
alkaline phosphatase, LDH, uric acid; worsening of pre-existing inflammatory conditions. Please 
refer to the package insert for a complete listing of all toxicities.
14 ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS
14.1 GOOD CLINICAL PRACTICE
The study will be conducted in accordance with the International Conference on Harmonization 
(ICH) for Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and the appropriate regulatory requirement(s).  The 
investigator will be thoroughly familiar with the appropriate use of the drug as described in the 
protocol and Investigator’s Brochure.  Essential clinical documents will be maintained to 
demonstrate the validity of the study and the integrity of the data collected.  Master files should 
be established at the beginning of the study, maintained for the duration of the study and retained 
according to the appropriate regulations.  


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14.2 ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS
The study will be conducted in accordance with ethical principles founded in the Declaration of 
Helsinki.  The IRB/IEC will review all appropriate study documentation in order to safeguard the 
rights, safety and well-being of the patients.  The study will only be conducted at sites where 
IRB/IEC approval has been obtained.  The protocol, Investigator’s Brochure, informed consent, 
advertisements (if applicable), safety updates, annual progress reports, and any revisions to these 
documents will be provided to the IRB/IEC by the investigator.  Informed consent documents 
will be provided to Millennium for their review.  
14.3 PATIENT INFORMATION AND INFORMED CONSENT
After the study has been fully explained, written informed consent will be obtained from either 
the patient or his/her guardian or legal representative prior to study participation.  The method of 
obtaining and documenting the informed consent and the contents of the consent will comply 
with ICH-GCP and all applicable regulatory requirement(s).
14.4 PATIENT CONFIDENTIALITY
In order to maintain patient privacy, all data capture records, drug accountability records, study 
reports and communications will identify the patient by name and/or initials and the assigned 
patient number.  The investigator will grant monitor(s) and auditor(s) from Millennium or its 
designees and regulatory authority(ies) access to the patient’s original medical records for 
verification of data gathered on the data capture records and to audit the data collection process.  
The patient’s confidentiality will be maintained and will not be made publicly available to the 
extent permitted by the applicable laws and regulations.
14.5 PROTOCOL COMPLIANCE
The investigator will conduct the study in compliance with the protocol given approval/favorable 
opinion by the IRB/IEC and the appropriate regulatory authority(ies).  Changes to the protocol 
will require approval from Millennium and written IRB/IEC approval/favorable opinion prior to 
implementation, except when the modification is needed to eliminate an immediate hazard(s) to 
patients.  The IRB/IEC may provide, if applicable regulatory authority(ies) permit, expedited 
review and approval/favorable opinion for minor change(s) in ongoing studies that have the 
approval /favorable opinion of the IRB/IEC.  The investigator will submit all protocol 
modifications to Millennium and the regulatory authority(ies) in accordance with the governing 
regulations. 
14.6 ON-SITE AUDITS
Regulatory authorities, the IEC/IRB and/or Millennium’s clinical quality assurance group may 
request access to all source documents, data capture records, and other study documentation for 
on-site audit or inspection.  Direct access to these documents must be guaranteed by the 
investigator, who must provide support at all times for these activities.
14.7 DRUG ACCOUNTABILITY
Accountability for the drug at all study sites is the responsibility of the principal investigator.  
The investigator will ensure that the drug is used only in accordance with this protocol.  Drug 
accountability records indicating the drug’s delivery date to the site (if applicable), inventory at 


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the site (if applicable), use by each patient, and return to Millennium or disposal of the drug (if 
applicable and if approved by Millennium) will be maintained by the clinical site.  
Accountability records will include dates, quantities, lot numbers, expiration dates (if 
applicable), and patient numbers.  All material containing bortezomib will be treated and 
disposed of as hazardous waste in accordance with governing regulations.
14.8 RECORD RETENTION
The investigator will maintain all study records according to ICH-GCP and applicable regulatory 
requirement(s).  


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lymphoid malignancies. Oncogene. 1993;8:2839-2845
23.  Neri A, Chang CC, Lombardi L, Salina M, Corradini P, Maiolo AT, Chaganti RS, Dalla-
Favera R. B cell lymphoma-associated chromosomal translocation involves candidate oncogene 
lyt-10, homologous to NF-kappa B p50. Cell. 1991;67:1075-1087
24.  Joos S, Otano-Joos MI, Ziegler S, Bruderlein S, du Manoir S, Bentz M, Moller P, Lichter P. 
Primary mediastinal (thymic) B-cell lymphoma is characterized by gains of chromosomal material 
including 9p and amplification of the REL gene. Blood. 1996;87:1571-1578
25.  Lu D, Thompson JD, Gorski GK, Rice NR, Mayer MG, Yunis JJ. Alterations at the rel locus 
in human lymphoma. Oncogene. 1991;6:1235-1241
26.  Hirama T, Koeffler HP. Role of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors in the development of 
cancer. Blood. 1995;86:841-854
27.  Chiarle R, Budel LM, Skolnik J, Frizzera G, Chilosi M, Corato A, Pizzolo G, Magidson J, 
Montagnoli A, Pagano M, Maes B, De Wolf-Peeters C, Inghirami G. Increased proteasome 


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65
degradation of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27 is associated with a decreased overall 
survival in mantle cell lymphoma. Blood. 2000;95:619-626
28.  Pham LV, Tamayo AT, Yoshimura LC, Lo P, Ford RJ. Inhibition of constitutive NF-kappa 
B activation in mantle cell lymphoma B cells leads to induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. 
J Immunol. 2003;171:88-95
29.  Bogner C, Ringshausen I, Schneller F, Fend F, Quintanilla-Martinez L, Hacker G, Goetze K, 
Oostendorp R, Peschel C, Decker T. Inhibition of the proteasome induces cell cycle arrest and 
apoptosis in mantle cell lymphoma cells. Br J Haematol. 2003;122:260-268
30.  A G. Report of a Phase II Study of Proteasome Inhibitor Bortezomib  in Patients with Relapsed 
or Refractory Indolent or Aggressive Lymphomas. Amer Soc Hematol: Blood; 2003
31.  Assouline S et al. A Phase II study of Bortezomib in patients with Mantle Cell lymphoma. 
Proc Amer Soc of Hematol: Blood; 2003
32.  Richardson PG, Barlogie B, Berenson J, Singhal S, Jagannath S, Irwin D, Rajkumar SV, 
Srkalovic G, Alsina M, Alexanian R, Siegel D, Orlowski RZ, Kuter D, Limentani SA, Lee S, 
Hideshima T, Esseltine DL, Kauffman M, Adams J, Schenkein DP, Anderson KC. A phase 2 study 
of bortezomib in relapsed, refractory myeloma. N Engl J Med. 2003;348:2609-2617
33.  Wilson WH et al. Idiotype Vaccine and Dose-Adjusted EPOCH-Rituximab Treatment in 
Untreated Mantle Cell Lymphoma: Preliminary Report on Clinical Outcome and Analysis of 
Immune Response. American Soc of Hematol: Blood; 2003:102(111) #358
34.  Rosenwald A, Wright G, Wiestner A, Chan WC, Connors JM, Campo E, Gascoyne RD, 
Grogan TM, Muller-Hermelink HK, Smeland EB, Chiorazzi M, Giltnane JM, Hurt EM, Zhao H, 
Averett L, Henrickson S, Yang L, Powell J, Wilson WH, Jaffe ES, Simon R, Klausner RD, 
Montserrat E, Bosch F, Greiner TC, Weisenburger DD, Sanger WG, Dave BJ, Lynch JC, Vose J, 
Armitage JO, Fisher RI, Miller TP, LeBlanc M, Ott G, Kvaloy S, Holte H, Delabie J, Staudt LM. 
The proliferation gene expression signature is a quantitative integrator of oncogenic events that 
predicts survival in mantle cell lymphoma. Cancer Cell. 2003;3:185-197
35. Liotta, L.A., et al., Protein microarrays: Meeting analytical challenges for clinical applications. 
Cancer Cell, 2003. 3(4): p. 317-25.
36. Espina, V., et al., Protein microarrays: Molecular profiling technologies for clinical specimens. 
Proteomics, 2003. 3(11): p. 2091-100.
37. Zha, H., et al., Similarities of prosurvival signals in Bcl-2-positive and Bcl-2-negative follicular 
lymphomas identified by reverse phase protein microarray. Lab Invest, 2004. 84(2): p. 235-44.
38. Adams, J., The proteasome: structure, function, and role in the cell. Cancer Treat Rev, 2003. 
29 Suppl 1: p. 3-9.
39. Goy, A., et al., Phase II study of proteasome inhibitor bortezomib in relapsed or refractory B-
cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. J Clin Oncol, 2005. 23(4): p. 667-75.
40. Richardson PG, et al., N Engl J Med 2005; 352:2487-98. 
41. Blade J, Samson D, Reece D, Apperley J, Bjorkstrand B, Gahrton G et al. Criteria for 
evaluating disease response and progression in patients with multiple myeloma treated by high-
dose therapy and haemopoietic stem cell transplantation. Myeloma Subcommittee of the EBMT. 
European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplant. Br J Haematol 1998; 102 (5):1115-23.


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Abbreviated Title:  EPOCH-R-B +/- B Maintenance in MCL
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16 APPENDIX A: PROCEDURE FOR SERUM SEPARATION
This procedure is for use with blood tubes or syringes containing no anticoagulant.  In some cases 
the blood will be received in vacutainer tubes containing a serum separator.  Use of these serum 
separator tubes (SST) simplifies the recovery of serum after centrifugation since the gel separator 
will be found between the cell layer and the serum.
Complete all required data entry.  Prepare transmittal form to accompany sample.  Assign each 
sample a unique Sample Accession Number.  Contact the Clinical Support Laboratory at (301) 846-
5125 to receive one or more Sample Accession Numbers for use. Laboratory staff can also be 
contacted by email:
To:  Theresa Burks – burkst@mail.nih.gov
CC:  Helen Rager (Supervisor) – ragerh@mail.nih.gov
CC:  Dr. Mingzhu Zhu (Lab Head) – zhum@mail.nih.gov
The sample should be allowed to clot at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.  If possible 
the sample should be processed immediately after clotting.  If it is not possible to proceed 
immediately the sample should be refrigerated or placed in a sealed bag on wet ice until processing 
can be performed.  Both the draw time and time when processing was completed should be recorded.
Set the centrifuge temperature to 4C.  Centrifuge the sample for 10 minutes at 2000 rpm (approx. 
1170 x g) in the RC-3B centrifuge with no brake (2300 rpm Sorvall RT6000B).  The centrifugation 
time does not include the time required for the rotor to reach the target speed.  To determine 
centrifugation speed for different centrifuge/rotor combinations see the centrifuge manual or visit the 
following website: 
http://researchlink.labvelocity.com/tools/conversionTools/CentrifugationTool.jhtml
Prior to initiating sample processing or during the centrifugation step label 2 ml Nunc cryovials 
(NUNC 368632 1.8 ml round bottom cryovial or equivalent) with the sample Accession Number.  If 
multiple blood tubes have been received for a single patient/timepoint also label a 15 or 50 ml 
polypropylene tube depending on expected recovery volume.
Carefully remove the serum layer (the translucent first layer of fluid) without disturbing the clot.  Do 
not attempt to recover serum from the side of the retracted clot as doing so will result in 
contamination of the serum.  If it is noted that the serum has not been cleanly removed transfer the 
recovered serum to a 15 ml polypropylene tube and repeat centrifugation.
If only a single tube of blood was received for serum recovery aliquot directly to the labeled Nunc 
cryovials at 1ml per vial (1 10ml tiger top (SST) or red top vacutainer = approximately 4 vials, 2 
tubes = >6 vials).  
If multiple blood tubes are received for a single patient/timepoint, transfer the serum from each tube 
into a single 15 or 50 ml centrifuge tube.  Mix the contents by repeated pipetting or by replacing the 
lid and inverting the tube at least 6 times prior to aliquoting.
Transfer filled vials to the -70C freezer.  If the laboratory does not have access to a -70C freezer (or 
colder storage such as vapor phase LN2) the serum should be frozen solid on dry ice before transfer 
to the -20C freezer.  If samples are held at temperatures outside the range of –60 to -86C please 
note the storage temperature on the transmittal form.
Include any comments concerning adequacy of the specimen (e.g., gross hemolysis) on the 
transmittal form.  


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17 APPENDIX B: EPOCH ADMIXTURES: PREPARATION AND ADMINISTRATION
Preparation
All 3-in-1 admixtures dispensed from the Pharmacy will contain a 24-hour supply of etoposide, 
doxorubicin, and vincristine, PLUS 40 mL overfill (excess) fluid and a proportional amount of 
drug to compensate for volume lost in parenteral product containers and administration set tubing.
Etoposide Dose
Volume of Fluid 
Containing a Daily Dose
Volume of Overfill
(fluid + drug)
Total Volume in the Product
(including overfill)
≤ 130 mg
528 mL
40 mL
568 mL
> 130 mg
1056 mL
40 mL
1096 mL
Before dispensing 3-in-1 admixtures, Pharmacy staff will:
[1] Purge all air from the drug product container,
[2] Attach an administration set appropriate for use with a portable pump,
[3] The set will be primed close to its distal tip, and
[4] The set will be capped with a Luer-locking cap.
Pre-printed product labeling will identify the ‘Total Volume To Infuse’ and the ‘Volume of 
Overfill (fluid + drug)’.
Bags will be exchanged daily for four consecutive days to complete a 96-hour drug infusion (unless 
treatment is interrupted or discontinued due to un-anticipated events).
Administration
Portable pumps used to administer etoposide + doxorubicin + vincristine admixtures will be 
programmed to deliver one of two fixed volumes at one of two corresponding fixed rates based on 
the amount of etoposide and fluid that is ordered (see the table, below).
Etoposide 
Dose
Total Volume 
to Infuse per 
24 hours
Volume of Overfill
(drug-containing fluid)*
Administration 
Rate
≤ 130 mg
528 mL
40 mL
22 mL/hour
> 130 mg
1056 mL
40 mL
44 mL/hour
*DO NOT attempt to infuse the overfill.
At the end of an infusion, some residual fluid is expected because 
overfill (excess fluid and drug) was added; however, nurses are asked to 
return to the Pharmacy for measurement any drug containers that appear 
to contain a greater amount of residual drug than expected.
Example at right:
The amount of fluid remaining in a bag after 
completing a 24-hour infusion (1056 mL delivered).


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18 APPENDIX C: PREGNANCY REPORTING FORM 


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ICF_003.pdf: 
PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
Version Date: 11/08/2021
Page 1 of 20
CC pre rCR ICF template v. 12.01.20
MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Wyndham H. Wilson, M.D., Ph.D.
STUDY TITLE: 
Randomized Phase II Study of Dose-Adjusted EPOCH-
Rituximab-Bortezomib Induction Followed by Bortezomib 
Maintenance versus Observation in Untreated Mantle Cell 
Lymphoma with Microarray Profiling and Proteomics
STUDY SITE:
NIH Clinal Center
Cohort: 
Standard 
Consent Version:  
11/08/2021 
WHO DO YOU CONTACT ABOUT THIS STUDY? 
Principal Investigator: 
Wyndham H. Wilson, M.D., Ph.D.
Phone: 240-760-6092
Email: wilsonw@mail.nih.gov
This consent form describes a research study and is designed to help you decide if you would like 
to be a part of the research study.  
The remaining document will now describe the research study in more detail.  This information 
should be considered before you make your choice. Members of the study team will talk with you 
about the information in this document. Some people have personal, religious, or ethical beliefs 
that may limit the kinds of medical or research interventions in which they would want to 
participate. Take the time you need to ask any questions and discuss this study with NIH staff, and 
with your family, friends, and personal health care providers.
If the individual being asked to participate in this research study is not able to give consent for 
themselves, you, as the Legally Authorized Representative, will be their decision-maker and you 
are being asked to give permission for this person to be in this study. For the remainder of this 
document, the term “you” refers to you as the decision-maker and/or the individual being asked to 
participate in this research.  
IT IS YOUR CHOICE TO TAKE PART IN THE STUDY
You may choose not to take part in this study for any reason. If you join this study, you may change 
your mind and stop participating in the study at any time and for any reason. In either case, you 
will not lose any benefits to which you are otherwise entitled. However, to be seen at the NIH, you 
must be taking part in a study or are being considered for a study. If you do choose to leave the 
study, please inform your study team to ensure a safe withdrawal from the research.  
WHY IS THIS STUDY BEING DONE?
This is a clinical research study to test a new investigational approach using VELCADE® 
(Bortezomib) For Injection with EPOCH-R chemotherapy to treat your mantle cell lymphoma. 
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
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VELCADE® (bortezomib) for Injection is a drug under development by Millennium 
Pharmaceuticals, Inc.  VELCADE has received FDA approval for the treatment of multiple 
myeloma patients who have received at least one prior therapy and have demonstrated disease 
progression on the last therapy. Additionally, in October 2014, VELCADE received FDA 
approval for the treatment of Mantle Cell Lymphoma. VELCADE is still currently under 
investigation for other indications. VELCADE is the type of drug known as a “proteasome 
inhibitor.”  It has been studied in about 9000 patients with various types of cancer. VELCADE 
enters cells and affects the way they divide. VELCADE interferes with a substance found inside 
cells in your body.  Mantle cell lymphoma is a form of cancer of the white blood cells called 
lymphocytes.  In mantle cell lymphoma, the abnormal lymphocytes multiply and accumulate in 
lymph nodes and elsewhere.  Standard treatment with chemotherapy can often control the mantle 
cell lymphoma for a period of time but in most patients, the disease does not go entirely away or 
comes back.  In this study, we are testing VELCADE® in combination with EPOCH-R 
chemotherapy. 
We hope that this is also the case in newly diagnosed mantle cell lymphoma and that the addition 
of this drug to EPOCH-R will lead to better cure rates. EPOCH (each letter stands for one of the 
drugs used in the combination) uses standard chemotherapy drugs and has been shown to have a 
high degree of effectiveness in lymphomas. Recent evidence indicates that the effects of 
chemotherapy may be improved by the use of a new drug called Rituximab. In fact, we recently 
carried out a study using EPOCH-Rituximab in newly diagnosed mantle cell lymphoma and 
found that 92% of the patients had a complete remission after this combination. We hope that by 
adding VELCADE, the results will be as good if not better. Once chemotherapy is finished, we 
will assign patients by chance to receive VELCADE or not. For patients who are not assigned to 
receive this, they will be offered VELCADE, if their disease returns. Our hope is that this so 
called ‘maintenance therapy’ will improve the overall cure rate and increase the amount of time 
before the disease returns.
Why are you being asked to take part in this study?
You have been invited to participate in this study because you have mantle cell lymphoma.  
Description of Research Study 
The study is divided into 3 parts.  Before being enrolled in the study, you will undergo a series of 
tests to determine if you are eligible for the study and to determine the extent (called stage) of your 
lymphoma.  If you are found not to be eligible for the study, you will be referred back to your 
home physician.  If you are eligible, we will ask you to undergo a lymph node biopsy before you 
start any treatment. In the first part of the study, you will receive VELCADE by itself. We will 
repeat the biopsy after you have received the second dose of the drug. Both of these biopsies are 
optional; we will ask you later if you agree to have the biopsies. In the second part of the study, 
you will receive a series of treatments with EPOCH-R-Bortezomib. It usually takes 18 weeks to 
complete this part of the study.  In the third part, you will be assigned by chance to receive or not 
to receive VELCADE. If you are assigned to receive it, you will receive 4 doses of VELCADE 
every 8 weeks approximately. You will continue receiving VELCADE for up to 18 months. If 
before the end of 18 months, your disease returns, then the VELCADE will stop. If you have been 
assigned not to receive the VELCADE, you will be offered VELCADE if the disease returns.
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
Version Date: 11/08/2021
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MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
What will happen if you take part in this research study?
Part A: VELCADE alone 
You will first receive VELCADE alone. You will receive 1 cycle in total – that will be 4 
doses of the drug given over 2 weeks. The VELCADE will be given by injection into the 
vein. This is given in approximately 30 seconds. Then 3 to 4 weeks from starting Part A, you 
will begin treatment with EPOCH-R and VELCADE. If your mantle cell lymphoma is too 
advanced, your doctor may decide to skip this part and have you start treatment in Part B.
Part B: EPOCH-R-B treatment  
Each chemotherapy treatment period is called a cycle.  The cycle is repeated every three 
weeks and the chemotherapy drugs are administered only during the first five days of every 
cycle.  EPOCH-R-B consists of prednisone by mouth on days 1 to 5, and etoposide, 
doxorubicin, and vincristine as an infusion over days 1 to 5 (total of 96 hours), and 
cyclophosphamide on day 5 by vein.  You will receive the infused drugs as an outpatient 
through a lightweight, portable infusion pump, about the size of a portable tape recorder.  
The pumps deliver the therapy through an intravenous catheter which is placed in your vein 
beforehand.  You will be taught about the use and care of the pump and what to do if it stops 
working.  The rituximab will be given by vein over several hours on day 1, immediately 
before the chemotherapy infusion begins, and the VELCADE will be given by vein over 30 
seconds before the rituximab on day 1 and again on day 4. Cyclophosphamide will be given 
by intravenous injection over about 15 minutes on day 5, immediately after the chemotherapy 
infusion is completed.  Each cycle lasts 3 weeks:  5 days of chemotherapy followed by 16 
days of no chemotherapy.  You will receive 6 cycles of EPOCH-R-B.  If your lymphoma 
grows, however, EPOCH-R-B will be discontinued.  After each EPOCH-R-B treatment, we 
give another drug, G-CSF, to help your normal bone marrow cells recover from the 
chemotherapy and produce normal white cells.  You will be taught how to inject the G-CSF 
under your skin (like an insulin shot) each day beginning on day 6 of each cycle and 
continuing for 10 days.  If your white blood cell count is still very low on the day treatment is 
due to begin again, the chemotherapy may be delayed and the G-CSF restarted until recovery 
of the white count.  Because several of the chemotherapy drugs can lower your resistance to 
infection, you will receive an antibiotic called Bactrim for three days each week while you 
are on chemotherapy.  If you are allergic to this antibiotic, you will receive a different drug 
that has the same function.
Part C: VELCADE alone 
After you have completed the EPOCH-R-B therapy, you will be assigned by chance to 
receive or not to receive VELCADE alone. If you are assigned by chance to not receive it 
and your disease relapses, you will be offered it at this time. If you are assigned to receive 
VELCADE after EPOCH-R-B, the VELCADE will be given every 56 days, as 4 doses over 
11 days. There will then be a break of 45 days before the next cycle. If you are not assigned 
to receive VELCADE but your disease relapses, you will be offered VELCADE as 4 doses 
over 11 days with a break of 17 days before the next cycle. The time over which you receive 
the 4 doses and the break before the next 2 doses is called a cycle. You will continue to 
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
Version Date: 11/08/2021
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MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
receive cycles like this for a period of up to 18 months or until your disease comes back or 
progresses. The VELCADE will be given by vein over 30 seconds.  
Research Tests, Biopsies and Imaging 
Research studies will be performed on your blood, bone marrow, tumor tissue or other fluids to 
look at different genes and proteins that may be involved in the development of your lymphoma 
or the reaction of the immune system.  Your blood will be tested for your HLA type.  This test is 
to identify surface groups of proteins which are unique to each person. We plan to do a tissue 
biopsy before you start treatment and a further biopsy a day after treatment has begun. Both of 
these biopsies are optional; we will ask you later if you agree to have the biopsies. Biopsies 
requiring major surgery (e.g., in the chest or the abdomen) will not be performed for research 
purposes alone but only if absolutely necessary for your medical care.  The progress of your 
response will be followed by CT scans of your body and blood tests.  
As part of your clinical evaluation and follow up we will use CT scans and Positron Emission 
Tomography (PET) scan to determine the extent of your disease and response to treatment. In 
addition, we will do one CT scan and up to two PET scans for research purposes to look for any 
early effect of the VELCADE you will receive.  Some patients may also undergo up to two 
biopsies under CT guidance for research purposes. This radiation is for research purposes only 
and is not necessary for your medical care. Positron emission tomography (PET) uses a 
radioactive sugar molecule called fluorodeoxyglucose, or FDG for short. This sugar is similar to 
glucose, an ordinary form of sugar that the body uses for fuel. The FDG is labeled with a type of 
radioactive element, an isotope, called Fluorine-18 (F-18) that emits particles called positrons 
that can be detected by a special camera and viewed on a computer screen.   The FDG used for 
the research PET scans is an FDA approved agent. 
You will not be eligible for the PET scan if:

You weigh more than 350 lbs. Weight in excess of 350 pounds will exceed the weight 
limit for the scanner table.

You need conscious sedation in order to perform the research PET scan

Technical problems with the scanner would significantly delay your treatment
In addition, if you are a woman of childbearing potential, you must have a negative pregnancy 
test.
The FDG-PET scan will be done in the Nuclear Medicine or PET Department of the NIH 
Clinical Center.  Prior to the test you will not be allowed to eat (including mints, sugar 
containing medicine or gum) or drink anything but water for 6 h. If possible you should drink 2 
to 3 glasses of water before the test. The FDG will be injected into the vein after which you will 
rest quietly in a room for 1 hr after which the PET scan will be performed. Just before the initial 
scan, you will be asked to empty the bladder. 
The PET camera is shaped like a doughnut and looks like a CT scanner. You will be asked to lie 
very still on a table within the machine and flat on the back with the arms over the head or to the 
side. Your head will lie on a soft cradle. For about 11/2 hour the picture-taking process will take 
place depending on your height. As part of the PET scan we will do a “transmission scan” with 
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
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MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
the same scanner or using a CT to determine your body thickness and to align any abnormalities 
seen on the FDG scan with anatomical findings on CT. A PET technologist will be present at all 
times and a physician will be available throughout the procedure. If for any reason you feel that 
cannot continue, the scanning can be stopped and you can be removed from the scanner 
immediately. However, the information from the scan may be lost at that time. After the scan is 
finished, you will be asked to empty the bladder again every 1 1/2 hours for 6 hours to eliminate 
the radioactive sugar.  One blood sample may be drawn during the PET scan to determine the 
blood sugar levels.
The most amount of blood to be drawn during any study visit/cycle is expected to be about 8.6 
tablespoons.
Additional Research Testing
What tests will be done on my samples?
Your blood and tissue that is collected will be used to look for specific changes in the DNA 
in tumors that could be used to develop new ways of diagnosing and treating cancer, and to 
understand more about lymphoma.   DNA (also called deoxyribonucleic acid) are the 
molecules inside cells that carry genetic information and pass it from one generation of cells 
to the next – like an instruction manual. Normal tissue contains the DNA (instructions) that 
you were born with, DNA in tumor cells has changed – or mutated – and we think that 
change in the DNA is what causes tumors to form and to grow, forming the cancer genome 
or DNA.  In order to determine which parts of the DNA have mutated, we will compare the 
DNA in your tumor cells to DNA from your normal cells.  When we are examining these 
pieces of your DNA, it is possible that we could identify possible changes in other parts of 
your DNA that are not related to this research.  These are known as “incidental medical 
findings”. 
These include: 

Changes in genes that are related to diseases other than cancer 

Changes in genes that are not known to cause any disease. These are known as 
normal variations. 

Changes in genes that are new and of uncertain clinical importance. This means that 
we do not know if they could cause or contribute to a disease or if they are normal 
variations. 
However, the analyses that we perform in our laboratory are for research purposes only; they 
are not nearly as sensitive as the tests that are performed in a laboratory that is certified to 
perform genetic testing. Changes that we observe unrelated to our research may or may not 
be valid.  Therefore, we do not plan to inform you of the results of testing on your tissue and 
blood that is performed in our research lab.  However, in the unlikely event that we discover 
a finding believed to be clinically important based on medical standards at the time we first 
analyze your results, we will contact you. This could be many years in the future.   We will 
ask you to have an additional tube of blood drawn to verify the findings we have seen in our 
lab. If the results are verified, you will be re-contacted and offered the opportunity to come to 
NIH to have genetic education and counseling to explain this result.  If you do not want to 
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
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CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
come to NIH, a referral to a local genetic healthcare provider will be provided and the 
consultation will be at your expense.
Who else besides the investigators on this study will know the results of my sample 
testing?
Once we obtain any of the samples listed above, the investigators take all your personal 
information off those samples and label them with a study code number.  Only the 
investigators on this study know who the sample came from.  The key linking your personal 
information with the code number is kept in a secure computer data base, with access only to 
key research staff who will be discussing this study with you.  Once the sample has been 
labeled with a code, it is sent to a variety of NIH laboratories for storage and testing.  No one 
testing your samples will be able to link the results to you personally.  Specimens obtained 
during your participation in this study may be sent for testing to investigators outside of NCI 
or the NIH.  All samples will be coded to protect your privacy and no personal information 
will be included.  Other investigators on this study will have access to limited clinical and 
biologic data such as age, gender and disease status.
Your individual genomic data and health information will be put in a controlled-access 
database.  This means that only researchers who apply for and get permission to use the 
information for a specific research project will be able to access the information.  Your 
genomic data and health information will not be labeled with your name or other information 
that could be used to identify you.  Researchers approved to access information in the 
database have agreed not to attempt to identify you.
How long will your samples be stored?
The samples collected during this study will be stored for as long as the study is open.  When 
this study is closed, we will keep the samples for future research.
When you are finished taking the drugs (treatment)  
This depends on how you have responded to the therapy.  If all evidence of disease has 
disappeared, we will schedule periodic visits to the Clinical Center for follow-up examination 
and tests.  If the disease does not disappear entirely or if it should recur after having disappeared 
for a period of time, then you may need further therapy.  At that time you will be given the 
opportunity of participating in additional research protocols that may be appropriate for you.  If 
no such protocols are available, you will be returned to the care of your local physician.  It is 
important to stress that participation in this protocol does not constitute a promise of long-term 
medical care here at the Clinical Center.  It is conceivable that participation in this study may 
make you ineligible to participate in certain other research protocols because the requirements 
for entry onto these protocols may not allow patients who have already been treated with certain 
drugs or who have had certain side effects from previous treatment.  You may decide now not to 
receive treatment on this protocol, or you may choose at any point in time to stop the treatment 
and withdraw from the protocol; in either case you will be returned to the care of your referring 
physician.  
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
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RISKS OR DISCOMFORTS OF PARTICIPATION
In order to determine whether this study is suitable for you, a number of tests will have to be 
done.   Some or all of these tests will be repeated during and after the chemotherapy at different 
times.  Depending on the tests you had before coming here, these may include blood and urine 
tests, studies of lung function, CT or MRI scans, colonoscopy with biopsies, radioisotope scans, 
and biopsies of tumor tissue, bone marrow, liver, or other sites.  
You should talk to your doctor about any side effects that you have while taking part in the 
study.
Risks and side effects related to the treatment are identified below.
Study Treatment Risks
You may have side effects while on the study. Everyone taking part in the study will be watched 
carefully for any side effects. However, doctors do not know all the side effects that may happen. 
Side effects may be mild or serious. Your health care team may give you medicines to help 
lessen side effects. In some cases, side effects can be serious or long-lasting or may never go 
away. There is also the risk of death from either the treatment or your/your child’s disease.
Side effects of Velcade alone
VELCADE should not be taken if you are overly sensitive to bortezomib (VELCADE), boron or 
mannitol. You face some risks or discomforts when you are treated with the study drug, 
VELCADE.  You are at risk of experiencing all, some, or none of these symptoms and they may 
vary in severity. The severity may be mild, moderate or severe, up to and including death.  Any 
symptoms or conditions that you have before you start study drug may worsen. Also, there is 
always a chance that a rare or previously unknown risk may occur.   If any of these symptoms 
occur, you must tell your doctor who may give you other drugs to ease any discomfort you 
experience.  Your doctor may decrease or withhold the dose of VELCADE.  Other drugs and 
supplements may affect the way VELCADE works.  Tell your doctor about all drugs and 
supplements you are taking while participating in this study. In addition, if a severe reaction to 
the study drug occurs, your doctor may permanently stop the study treatment.  
Most Common VELCADE Risks:
The most common risks are those that have occurred in greater than or equal to 30% of patients 
who have received VELCADE:

weakness, fatigue, and general discomfort 

gastrointestinal effects such as constipation, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting 

fever very commonly with shaking chills

painful sensations or numbness and tingling in hands and feet which may not get better 
after stopping VELCADE.  Uncommonly, the nerves that control things like your heart 
rate, gut movement and urinary bladder may be affected.

lowered platelets that may increase the chance of bleeding 

lowered red cells or anemia which may make you feel tired
Very Common VELCADE Risks:
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The very common risks are those that have occurred in 10-29% of patients who have received 
VELCADE:

decrease in white blood cells called neutrophils or lymphocytes that may increase your 
risk of infection and is uncommonly associated with fever.

You may have lowered white blood cells or have lowered red blood cells at the same time

loss of appetite, which may result in dehydration and/or weight loss

abdominal pain 

symptoms of flu and other upper respiratory tract infections, such as chills, sore throat, 
and runny nose

aches and pains in muscles and joints; and back pain

skin rash 

cough, feeling short of breath, lung infections including pneumonia and commonly 
bronchitis

headache

dizziness

Herpes virus such as shingles (herpes zoster) that can sometimes cause local pain that 
does not go away for a while and herpes simplex virus. Shingles can sometimes spread 
over large parts of the body. Both may also affect the eyes or brain, but this is 
uncommon.

problems sleeping and feeling anxious   
Common VELCADE Risks:
Common risks are those that have occurred in 1-9% of patients who have received VELCADE: 

changes in heart rate and heart beat that can cause you to possibly feel light-headed, 
dizzy, faint, short of breath, and/or have chest pain.  This may also cause you to feel 
confused. An uncommon risk is a possible life threatening abnormal heart beat.

new or worsening heart failure (which may appear as shortness of breath, swelling in the 
legs, and/or chest pain) or decreased heart function that can uncommonly be severe.  If 
you have heart failure or other diseases that put you at risk of getting heart failure, you 
should tell your doctor.  

lowered blood pressure that can commonly cause you to feel dizzy or faint when you 
stand up. You should not drive or operate any dangerous tool or machines if you have 
these symptoms.

accumulation of fluid in and around the lungs

decreased level of oxygen in the blood

infection and/or inflammation of the eyes or eyelids

painful sores of the mouth and/or throat, which may make swallowing difficult

heartburn, acid reflux and stomach bloating

severe bleeding, including bleeding in the stomach and intestines (gut) that may be linked 
with low platelet counts, and blood clotting changes.  Uncommonly, this bleeding may 
cause bloody diarrhea and/or bloody vomit.  

skin rash with itching and redness. An uncommon risk is a severe, life-threatening or 
deadly rash with skin peeling and mouth sores.
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
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
swelling in the arms and legs, and weight gain

nosebleeds

deterioration in kidney function

infections of the bladder, sinuses, throat, stomach and intestines, and skin and the area of 
skin where your catheter is placed

nerve pain after herpes infection

severe muscle weakness and paralysis (not being able to move your arms and legs)

changes in blood sugar have been reported in a few diabetic patients receiving medicine 
for diabetes. If you are taking medicines for diabetes you may need close monitoring of 
your blood sugar levels.

blood in the urine

confusion  

abnormal liver tests. Uncommon risks are hepatitis, and liver failure in patients who got 
many other drugs and had other serious medical problems.

reduction in white blood cell count

lowered amount of potassium and sodium in your blood and increase in the amount of 
calcium in your blood.

muscular weakness 

blurred vision

changes in the way things taste
Uncommon VELCADE Risks:
Uncommon risks are those that have occurred in less than 1% of patients who have received 
VELCADE:

pain, redness, swelling and infection in the area of the skin where VELCADE is injected 
into the vein.

pain in the mouth and throat when swallowing

decrease in or loss of hearing

intestinal obstruction (blockage of the gut) that may get better on its own and not need 
surgery inflammation of the intestines, pancreas or stomach

fungal infections in the mucous membranes such as the mouth and throat, and 
uncommonly in the skin and nails   

life-threatening infections in the blood (sepsis)

coughing up blood

bleeding in the brain and subdural hematoma, which is bleeding between the skull and 
your brain

inflammation of the layers surrounding your heart or collection of fluid around the heart 
may cause chest pain or breathing problems and can be life-threatening or lead to death.  
If you have new or worsening chest pain or breathing problems you should tell your 
doctor. 

rapid death of cancer cells that may let toxins into the blood and injure organs, such as 
the kidneys

allergic reactions that may include skin swelling and/or swelling of the face or throat and 
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could be severe or life threatening

inflammation and fluid build up in the lungs, or pus build up between the layers 
surrounding the lungs that may cause bleeding problems, and can be life-threatening or 
lead to death.  Increased blood pressure in the lungs, called pulmonary hypertension, has 
also been reported.  This can also cause breathing problems, and can be life-threatening.   
If you have new or worsening breathing problems you should tell your doctor.

changes in the brain that may cause convulsions and confusion

A syndrome called “posterior reversible leukoencephalopathy syndrome” that affects the 
brain and may cause headaches, changes in your vision, changes in your mental status, or 
seizures, but is usually reversible.

loss of some to all vision affecting one or both eyes, which may be caused by damage to 
the nerve in the eye.  Loss of vision may or may not be reversible.

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML); PML is a rare, serious infection of 
the brain that is caused by a virus already in your body at the time of treatment onset. 
Persons with a weakened immune system may develop PML. PML can result in death or 
severe disability. Tell your study doctor immediately if you have any of the following 
symptoms or if anyone close to you notices these symptoms: confusion or problems 
thinking, loss of balance or problems walking, difficulty speaking, decreased strength or 
weakness on one side of your body, blurred vision or loss of vision.
Side Effects of EPOCH-R-B
Likely:

Lowered white blood cell count that may lead to infection

Lowered platelets which may lead to an increase in bruising or bleeding

Lowered red blood cells which may cause anemia, tiredness, or shortness of breath

Should low counts occur, they can be treated with blood products (transfusions), 
antibiotics, and there may be a reduction in the amount of drug given to you

Constipation

Fatigue or tiredness

Painful tingling and numbness of fingers and/or toes

Hair loss

Fever and/or chills

Time away from work

Urine colored red for a day or two after the doxorubicin infusion

Fingernail and toenail changes

Tearing or dry eyes

Runny nose

Bony pain
Less Likely:

Nausea and/or vomiting

Loss of appetite, change in taste and weight loss

Temporary shortness of breath or dizziness while receiving rituximab
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


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
Headaches

Muscle aches and muscle weakness

Hoarseness or pain in the jaw

Elevated blood sugar levels

Elevated or decreased blood pressure

Confusion

Mouth & throat sores. Temporary irritation to the mouth may lead to mouth ulcers 
(similar to canker sores). Medications to numb the mouth may ease the mouth 
discomfort.

Stomach ulcers

Skin rashes and/or dry skin

Loss of control of muscles or reflexes

Abnormalities in blood results such as elevated liver enzymes, low blood protein and low 
blood calcium

Mood changes such as agitation or depression

Trouble sleeping
Rare, But Serious:

Severe constipation may result in abdominal pain and cramping

Bladder irritation with painful and bloody urine

Damage to the heart muscle

Skin rash that may be serious and life-threatening

Allergic reaction that may be severe or life-threatening. Symptoms may include difficulty 
breathing, low blood pressure, fast heart rate, and sweating.

Severe hepatitis (liver infection) in those patients who are carriers of the hepatitis virus. 
Patients who may have had prior exposure to the hepatitis B and C virus may be at an 
increased risk of recurrence of the virus that may lead to severe liver damage that can be 
life-threatening. You doctor will screen you for the hepatitis virus before beginning 
treatment on this study. If you test positive for the virus, you will be closely monitored 
for signs of the infection, and you will be treated, if appropriate, by your doctor.
Other Study Risks
Blood samples:  The possible side effects of drawing blood include pain, bleeding, and 
bruising at the site of the draw.  Sometimes you may have dizziness, light-headedness, or 
fainting.  Rarely there is infection with redness and irritation of the vein.
Biopsies, including colonoscopy:  Biopsies will, when possible, be done under local 
anesthesia.  The risks associated with bone marrow biopsies include pain, bleeding, and local 
infection.  Risks of biopsies include pain, bleeding, infection, and the risks to the particular 
area undergoing surgery.
If the doctor feels as though you need a colonoscopy, risks of colonoscopy with biopsies 
include discomfort and bleeding from the rectum; rarely the colon may be punctured and if this 
occurs, it is serious and may require surgery.   A separate consent describing all of the 
complications and side effects of colonoscopy with biopsies will be obtained from you.
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
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Intravenous catheter risks:  In order to receive EPOCH-R-B therapy you will need to have 
an intravenous catheter placed.  This catheter is usually placed in the arm, chest or neck area 
into a major vein inside your chest.  We usually remove the catheter after each cycle but on 
occasion it can be left in for several cycles.  The catheter is necessary for infusion of 
chemotherapy and for the drawing of blood.  It is usually inserted under local anesthesia.  The 
risks associated with the procedure include pain, bleeding, infection, and puncture of the 
underlying lung.  Lung puncture can result in lung collapse, which might require that a chest 
tube be placed into the chest cavity (usually for a day or two) to help the lung reinflate.  The 
long-term risks of the catheter include infection and clotting of the vein in which the catheter 
sits.  If these occur, it may be necessary to remove the catheter.  These risks will be explained 
to you in more detail at the time of the insertion.
Infection and bone marrow risks:  It is important to emphasize that when you have a 
decreased white blood cell count from the VELCADE alone or the EPOCH-R-B combination 
treatment, you are at risk of infection.  Such infections can be very serious and can even cause 
death if not quickly and properly treated.  Therefore, if you have a temperature greater than 
38.3o C (101o F), you must call your doctor immediately.  Chemotherapy may also cause your 
platelets to fall; since platelets are the blood elements that permit blood to clot, this may place 
you at increased risk of serious bleeding.  It may be necessary to give you transfusions of 
platelets if your platelet counts reach very low levels.  There is a small chance that damage to 
the normal bone marrow may eventually result in bone marrow failure, leading to a serious 
shortage of one or more kinds of cells in the blood, or to leukemia.  Because this is a relatively 
new combination of drugs, it is always possible that unanticipated side effects may occur, 
including death.
Reproductive risks:  Many of the drugs used in this treatment program are toxic to the cells 
in the ovary and testicle and may produce sterility.  Recovery of normal fertility is not well 
studied although we know that some patients treated with this combination have remained 
fertile after the therapy has been completed.  For this reason, men who are about to receive this 
treatment should, if they wish to have children in the future, consider sperm banking before 
start of the treatment.  These drugs may also be very toxic to an unborn child.  Therefore, 
adequate birth control measures (such as the contraceptive pill, condoms, diaphragm with 
contraceptive foam or ointment, contraceptive sponge, etc.) should be used by participants or 
their sexual partners while receiving treatment on this study.  Women of childbearing age will 
have a pregnancy test, which must be negative at the time of study entry.  This test requires 
that blood be drawn from a vein one or two days prior to the study.  The results of the pregnancy 
test will be made available to you prior to the initiation of the study.  In addition, you must not 
be breastfeeding a baby during this study. Your physicians will watch you closely for side 
effects and will stop treatment if any side effects become a serious threat to your life or well-
being.  Your physicians will also stop the treatments if it becomes clear that the treatment is 
not successfully controlling your disease.
If you or your partner becomes pregnant while in this study you must tell the study doctor 
immediately.  The doctor will advise you of the possible risks to your unborn baby and 
discuss options for managing the pregnancy with you.  Because of possible risks to your 
unborn baby, the study drug will be stopped permanently.
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
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Risks of blood transfusions: Rarely, patients may develop a dangerous side effect from blood 
transfusions called graft versus host disease (GVH).  This disease is caused by white cells from 
the blood transfusion that can attack your normal tissues and cause death.  GVH is preventable 
by radiating the blood before you receive it.  It is important to emphasize that you will not 
receive any radiation from the blood and the radiation procedure done on the donated blood 
will not harm you.  If you require a blood transfusion at the NIH during this study, you will 
receive blood that has been radiated.  However, if your local physician gives you a blood 
transfusion, it is important that you make sure the blood has been radiated.
Radiation risks:  During the treatment portion of the study, scans were performed more 
frequently to see how the cancer was responding to therapy.  Here we describe the risk of 
radiation exposure in follow-up only as scans are done less often and this is the portion of the 
study in which you are currently taking part.  
During your participation in this research study, you will be exposed to radiation from to up to 
one (1) CT scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis and two (2) [18F]-FDG PET scans as well 
undergo up to two (2) CT guided.  The amount of radiation exposure you will receive from 
these procedures is equal to approximately 3.9 rem. A rem is a unit of absorbed radiation.  
Every day, people are exposed to low levels of radiation that come from the sun and the 
environment around them.  The average person in the United States receives a radiation 
exposure of 0.3 rem per year from these sources.  This type of radiation is called “background 
radiation.”  No one knows for sure whether exposure to these low amounts of radiation is 
harmful to your body. 
The PET scan, CT scan and CT guided biopsies that you get in this study will expose you to 
the roughly the same amount of radiation as 13 years' worth of background radiation.  Most of 
the time, this amount of extra radiation is not harmful to you.  However, scientists believe that 
being exposed to too much radiation can cause harmful side effects.  This could include getting 
a new cancer.  We estimate that this could happen in about 1 out of every 1000 people who get 
a very large amount of extra radiation.
Psychological or Social Risks Associated with Return of Incidental or Secondary Findings 
As part of the research study, it is possible that you could learn that you have genetic risks for 
another disease or disability. This may be upsetting and, depending on what you learn, might 
create a need to make challenging decisions about how to respond. 
Although your genomic information is unique to you, you share some genomic similarities 
with your children, parents, brothers, sisters, and other blood relatives. Therefore, learning 
your research results could mean something about your family members and might cause you 
or your family distress. Before joining the study, it may be beneficial to talk with your family 
members about whether and how they want you to share your results with them.
Privacy Risks Associated with Genetic Testing 
It may be possible that genetic information from you could be used by law enforcement 
agencies or other entities to identify you or your blood relatives.
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Protections against misuse of genetic information 
This study involves genetic testing on samples.  Some genetic information can help predict 
future health problems of you and your family and this information might be of interest to your 
employers or insurers. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) is a federal 
law that prohibits plans and health insurers from requesting genetic information or using 
genetic information. It also prohibits employment discrimination based on your health 
information. However, GINA does not address discrimination by companies that sell life 
insurance, disability insurance, or long-term care insurance. GINA also does not protect you 
against discrimination based on an already-diagnosed condition or disease that has a genetic 
component.
POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATION
Most patients will have tumor shrinkage with chemotherapy.  However, we do not know if the 
addition of VELCADE will add to this benefit and do not know if you will be cured of your 
lymphoma. We do not know if you will receive personal, medical benefit from taking part in this 
study.     We do not know if you will benefit from taking part in this study, although the 
knowledge gained from this study may help others in the future who have cancer.  
ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES OR TREATMENTS 
It should be emphasized that we do not know at this point whether VELCADE combined with 
EPOCH-R with or without maintenance VELCADE is superior, inferior, or equivalent to 
standard combination chemotherapy for your disease.  Alternative procedures that could be used 
to treat your disease include:
1. Other combination drug regimens and other schedules of the same drugs used in this 
study.  For example, a chemotherapy called CHOP given in the conventional manner 
would be suitable standard therapy for your condition.  You could also receive CHOP-R 
or EPOCH-R as standard treatment.  
2. Treatment with single drugs.  This is known to produce brief responses of a few months' 
duration in many patients but to have little beneficial effect in long-term control of the 
disease.
3. Radiation (X-ray) treatments.  This can stop tumor growth in particular locations, such as 
bone, abdomen, and other sites but is not successful in controlling the disease overall 
unless the disease is very localized at the start of therapy. 
4. Surgery.  As with radiation, surgery can be successful in removing tumor from particular 
locations but cannot be used successfully to remove all lymphoma cells from the body, 
since the disease is almost always present in multiple locations.  Also, surgery cannot be 
used against tumor in some of the organs most commonly involved by lymphoma, such 
as the liver or the lungs.
5. Watching and waiting may be an option for select patients without symptoms. 
EARLY TERMINATION
You will be discontinued from this study for any of the following reasons:
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
You may be withdrawn from the study if you do not comply with the study 
requirements.

Your doctors do not feel it is in your medical best interests to be continued on this 
study.

You have had unacceptable toxicity which does not permit safe continuation on the 
study

You require another treatment.
In this case, you will be informed of the reason therapy is being stopped.
You can stop taking part in the study at any time. However, if you decide to stop taking part in 
the study, we would like you to talk to the study doctor and your regular doctor first.
If you decide at any time to withdraw your consent to participate in the trial, we will not collect 
any additional medical information about you. However, according to FDA guidelines, 
information collected on you up to that point may still be provided to Millennium 
Pharmaceuticals, Inc. or designated representatives. If you withdraw your consent and leave the 
trial, any samples of yours that have been obtained for the study and stored at the NCI can be 
destroyed upon request. However, any samples and data generated from the samples that have 
already been distributed to other researchers or placed in the research databases cannot be 
recalled and destroyed. 
USE OF SPECIMENS AND DATA FOR FUTURE RESEARCH 
To advance science, it is helpful for researchers to share information they get from studying 
human samples.  They do this by putting it into one or more scientific databases, where it is 
stored along with information from other studies. A researcher who wants to study the 
information must apply to the database and be approved.  Researchers use specimens and data 
stored in scientific databases to advance science and learn about health and disease.  
We plan to keep some of your specimens and data that we collect, use them for future research 
and share them with other researchers. We will not contact you to ask about each of these future 
uses. These specimens and data will be stripped of identifiers such as name, address or account 
number, so that they may be used for future research on any topic and shared broadly for 
research purposes. Your specimens and data will be used for research purposes only and will not 
benefit you. It is also possible that the stored specimens and data may never be used.  
Results of research done on your specimens and data will not be available to you or your doctor.  
It might help people who have cancer and other diseases in the future.  If you do not want your 
stored specimens and data used for future research, please contact us in writing and let us know 
that you do not want us to use your specimens and data. Then any specimens that have not 
already been used or shared will be destroyed and your data will not be used for future research. 
However, it may not be possible to withdraw or delete materials or data once they have been 
shared with other researchers.
Genomic Data Sharing
As part of this research study, we will put your genomic data in a large database for broad sharing 
with the research community. These databases are commonly called data repositories. The 
information in this database will include but is not limited to genetic information, race and 
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
Version Date: 11/08/2021
Page 16 of 20
CC pre rCR ICF template v. 12.01.20
MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
ethnicity, and sex.  If your individual data are placed in one of these repositories, they will be 
labeled with a code and not with your name or other information that could be used to easily 
identify you, and only qualified researchers will be able to access them. These researchers must 
receive prior approval from individuals or committees with authority to determine whether these 
researchers can access the data.
NIH policies require that genomic data be placed in a repository for sharing. Therefore, we cannot 
offer you a choice of whether your data will be shared.  If you do not wish to have your data placed 
in a repository, you should not enroll in this study
PAYMENT
Will you receive any type of payment for taking part in this study?
You will not receive any payment for taking part in this study. 
REIMBURSEMENT
Will you receive reimbursement or direct payment by NIH as part of your participation?
This study does not offer reimbursement for parents and participants, or payment of, hotel, travel, 
or meals. 
COSTS
Will taking part in this research study cost you anything? 
NIH does not bill health insurance companies or participants for any research or related clinical 
care that you receive at the NIH Clinical Center. 
If you choose to take part in the study, the following will apply, in keeping with the NIH policy:

You will receive study treatment at no charge to you. This may include surgery, 
medicines, laboratory testing, x-rays or scans done at the Clinical Center, National 
Institutes of Health (NIH), or arranged for you by the research team to be done outside 
the Clinical Center, NIH if the study related treatment is not available at the NIH. 

There are limited funds available to cover the cost of some tests and procedures 
performed outside the Clinical Center, NIH.  You may have to pay for these costs if they 
are not covered by your insurance company.

Medicines that are not part of the study treatment will not be provided or paid for by the 
Clinical Center, NIH.

Once you have completed taking part in the study, medical care will no longer be 
provided by the Clinical Center, NIH.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reviews NIH staff researchers at least yearly for conflicts 
of interest. This process is detailed in a Protocol Review Guide.  You may ask your research 
team for a copy of the Protocol Review Guide or for more information.  Members of the research 
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
Version Date: 11/08/2021
Page 17 of 20
CC pre rCR ICF template v. 12.01.20
MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
team who do not work for NIH are expected to follow these guidelines but they do not need to 
report their personal finances to the NIH.
Members of the research team working on this study may have up to $15,000 of stock in the 
companies that make products used in this study.  This is allowed under federal rules and is not a 
conflict of interest. 
Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is providing VELCADE for this study to NIH without charge.  
No NIH investigator involved in this study receives payments or other benefits from any 
company whose drug, product or device is being tested.  However, there are some non-NIH 
collaborators on this study who may receive payments or benefits, limited by the rules of their 
workplace. 
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION AND RESULTS REPORTING 
A description of this clinical trial will be available on http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov, as required 
by U.S. Law. This Web site will not include information that can identify you. At most, the Web 
site will include a summary of the results. You can search this Web site at any time.
CONFIDENTIALITY PROTECTIONS PROVIDED IN THIS STUDY  
Will your medical information be kept private? 
We will do our best to make sure that the personal information in your medical record will be kept 
private.  However, we cannot guarantee total privacy.  Organizations that may look at and/or copy 
your medical records for research, quality assurance, and data analysis include:

The NIH and other government agencies, like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), 
which are involved in keeping research safe for people.

National Institutes of Health Intramural Institutional Review Board

Qualified representatives from (Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.,), the pharmaceutical 
company who produces (VELCADE).

Some of the specimens and/or data obtained may be sent to researchers outside of the 
National Cancer Institute to perform additional research studies designed to help us better 
understand lymphoma.
Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc is collaborating with us on this study. Thus, Millennium and its 
designees will have access to your research records and data which may include:
results from procedures conducted to find out if you are eligible for the study;

information that is created or collected from you during the study, such as the results 
of any tests or procedures performed during the study;

information about your medical history and treatment included in your medical 
records.  
The above information and materials may identify you by name, address, telephone number, social 
security number, health plan number, study number, date of birth, dates relating to various medical 
procedures, or other identifying information.  You cannot participate in this study if you do not 
sign this form, authorizing the uses and disclosures of your information described below.
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
Version Date: 11/08/2021
Page 18 of 20
CC pre rCR ICF template v. 12.01.20
MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
You will be informed of any new findings related to the development or safety of VELCADE that 
may affect your willingness to continue to take part in this study.
The researchers conducting this study and the NIH follow applicable laws and policies to keep 
your identifying information private to the extent possible.  However, there is always a chance 
that, despite our best efforts, your identity and/or information about your participation in this 
research may be inadvertently released or improperly accessed by unauthorized persons.
In most cases, the NIH will not release any identifiable information collected about you without 
your written permission.  However, your information may be shared as described in the section of 
this document on sharing of specimens and data, and as further outlined in the following sections.    
Further, the information collected for this study is protected by NIH under a Certificate of 
Confidentiality and the Privacy Act. 
Certificate of Confidentiality
To help us protect your privacy, the NIH Intramural Program has received a Certificate of 
Confidentiality (Certificate). With this certificate, researchers may not release or use data or 
information about you except in certain circumstances.  
NIH researchers must not share information that may identify you in any federal, state, or local 
civil, criminal, administrative, legislative, or other proceedings, for example, if requested by a 
court.  
The Certificate does not protect your information when it:  
1. is disclosed to people connected with the research, for example, information may be used 
for auditing or program evaluation internally by the NIH; or 
2. is required to be disclosed by Federal, State, or local laws, for example, when information 
must be disclosed to meet the legal requirements of the federal Food and Drug 
Administration (FDA); 
3. is for other research;
4. is disclosed with your consent. 
The Certificate does not prevent you from voluntarily releasing information about yourself or your 
involvement in this research. 
The Certificate will not be used to prevent disclosure to state or local authorities of harm to self or 
others including, for example, child abuse and neglect, and by signing below you consent to those 
disclosures. Other permissions for release may be made by signing NIH forms, such as the Notice 
and Acknowledgement of Information Practices consent.
Privacy Act
The Federal Privacy Act generally protects the confidentiality of your NIH medical records we 
collect under the authority of the Public Health Service Act.  In some cases, the Privacy Act 
protections differ from the Certificate of Confidentiality.  For example, sometimes the Privacy Act 
allows release of information from your medical record without your permission, for example, if 
it is requested by Congress. Information may also be released for certain research purposes with 
due consideration and protection, to those engaged by the agency for research purposes, to certain 
federal and state agencies, for HIV partner notification, for infectious disease or abuse or neglect 
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
Version Date: 11/08/2021
Page 19 of 20
CC pre rCR ICF template v. 12.01.20
MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
reporting, to tumor registries, for quality assessment and medical audits, or when the NIH is 
involved in a lawsuit.  However, NIH will only release information from your medical record if it 
is permitted by both the Certificate of Confidentiality and the Privacy Act.
POLICY REGARDING RESEARCH-RELATED INJURIES  
The NIH Clinical Center will provide short-term medical care for any injury resulting from your 
participation in research here. In general, no long-term medical care or financial compensation for 
research-related injuries will be provided by the NIH, the NIH Clinical Center, or the Federal 
Government. However, you have the right to pursue legal remedy if you believe that your injury 
justifies such action.
PROBLEMS OR QUESTIONS
If you have any problems or questions about this study, or about your rights as a research 
participant, or about any research-related injury, contact the Principal Investigator, Wyndham H. 
Wilson, wilsonw@mail.nih.gov, 240-760-6092. You may also call the NIH Clinical Center Patient 
Representative at 301-496-2626, or the NIH Office of IRB Operations at 301-402-3713, if you 
have a research-related complaint or concern.
CONSENT DOCUMENT 
Please keep a copy of this document in case you want to read it again.
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021


PATIENT IDENTIFICATION
Consent to Participate in a Clinical Research Study
NIH-2977 (4-17)
File in Section 4: Protocol Consent (#1)
Version Date: 11/08/2021
Page 20 of 20
CC pre rCR ICF template v. 12.01.20
MEDICAL RECORD
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE IN AN NIH CLINICAL RESEARCH STUDY
Adult Research Participant: I have read the explanation about this study and have been given the opportunity 
to discuss it and to ask questions. I consent to participate in this study.
Signature of Research Participant
Print Name of Research Participant
Date
Legally Authorized Representative (LAR) for an Adult Unable to Consent: I have read the explanation 
about this study and have been given the opportunity to discuss it and to ask questions. I am legally authorized 
to make research decisions on behalf of the adult participant unable to consent and have the authority to provide 
consent to this study. As applicable, the information in the above consent was described to the adult participant 
unable to consent who agrees to participate in the study.
Signature of LAR
Print Name of LAR
Date
Investigator:
Signature of Investigator
Print Name of Investigator
Date
Witness should sign below if either: 
1. A short form consent process has been used to enroll a non-English speaking subject or
2. An oral presentation of the full consent has been used to enroll a blind or illiterate subject
Signature of Witness*
Print Name of Witness
Date
*NIH ADMINISTRATIVE SECTION TO BE COMPLETED REGARDING THE USE OF AN 
INTERPRETER:
An interpreter, or other individual, who speaks English and the participant’s preferred language facilitated
the administration of informed consent and served as a witness. The investigator obtaining consent may not 
also serve as the witness.
An interpreter, or other individual, who speaks English and the participant’s preferred language facilitated
the administration of informed consent but did not serve as a witness. The name or ID code of the person 
providing interpretive support is:
.
IRB NUMBER: 05C0170
IRB APPROVAL DATE: 11/19/2021