Conditions: Renal Cell Carcinoma, Metastatic
Keywords: ESK981
Allocation: NON_RANDOMIZED | Intervention model: PARALLEL
Enrollment: 8
Healthy volunteers: no

Brief summary:
The objective of the trial is to determine the clinical efficacy of ESK981 in combination with nivolumab therapy in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Detailed description:
The study was terminated early due to changes in the RCC treatment landscape which limited the patient population. Due to this early termination no subjects were enrolled into Cohort B.

Arms:
arm 1: ESK981: 160 mg (4 capsules) PO daily for 5 consecutive days followed by a 2-day off drug in each week, repeated weekly in 4-week (28-day) cycles arm 2: ESK981: 160 mg (4 capsules) PO daily for 5 consecutive days followed by a 2-day off drug in each week, repeated weekly in 4-week (28-day) cycles

Nivolumab: 480 mg/dose IV, Day 1 of each 28-day cycle

Interventions: intervention 1: ESK981 intervention 2: Nivolumab
Intervention descriptions: intervention 1: ESK981: 160 mg (4 capsules) PO daily for 5 consecutive days followed by a 2-day off drug in each week, repeated weekly in 4-week (28-day) cycles intervention 2: 480 mg/dose IV, Day 1 of each 28-day cycle

Protocol document:
Prot_SAP_000.pdf: 
UMCC 2018.052 
    
Multi-center Trial of ESK981 in Combination With Nivolumab in Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma 
    
NCT03562507


 
 
PROTOCOL UMCC 2018.052 
ERICA: Phase 2 Multi-Center Trial of ESK981 in Combination with Nivolumab in Patients With  
Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma  
 
 
 
Principal Investigator:  
Ajjai Alva, MD 
 
 
 
 
Hematology/Oncology 
 
 
 
 
University of Michigan  
 
 
 
 
7310 Cancer Center 
 
 
 
 
1500 E. Medical Center Drive 
 
 
 
 
Ann Arbor, MI 48109 
 
 
 
 
Phone: (734) 936-0091 
 
 
 
 
Fax: (734) 615-2719 
 
 
 
 
Email: ajjai@umich.edu 
 
 
IND #:  
 
 
139688 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Coordinating Center 
 
University of Michigan 
 
 
Biostatistician: 
 
Ryan Ross, MS 
 
 Cancer Data Sciences Shared Resource -Biostatistics 
 
 
 
 
M4011 SPH II, University of Michigan 
 
 
 
 
1415 Washington Heights 
 
 
 
 
Ann Arbor MI 48109-2029 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Phone: (734) 764-5450 
 
 
 
 
Email: rydaro@umich.edu 
 
 
Study Drug: 
 
 
ESK981 (other names: CEP-11981) – Investigational  
 
 
 
 
Nivolumab (Opdivo) - Standard of care 
 
 
Initial version:  
 
April 10, 2018 
Amended: 
 
 
June 8, 2018 
 
 
 
November 30, 2018 
 
 
 
April 4, 2019 
 
 
 
April 2, 2020 (COVID-19 Appendix) 
 
 
 
August 7, 2020 
 
 
 
 
NOTE: To effectively manage the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, changes to protocol-required item 
were made to minimize or eliminate immediate hazards or to protect the life and well-being of research 
participants (e.g., to limit exposure to COVID-19). These changes are listed in Appendix 3 of the protocol 
(Study Management during COVID-19). 
 
 


 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
ABBREVIATIONS………………………………………………………………………………………….1 
STUDY SCHEMA ............................................................................................................................ 2 
STUDY SYNOPSIS ......................................................................................................................... 3 
1.1 
Disease Background ....................................................................................................... 7 
1.2 
Study Agent(s) Background and Associated Known Toxicities ...................................... 9 
1.3 
Rationale ....................................................................................................................... 21 
2.0 
STUDY OBJECTIVES AND ENDPOINTS .......................................................................... 22 
2.1 
Primary Objective .......................................................................................................... 22 
2.2 
Secondary Objectives ................................................................................................... 22 
2.3 
Exploratory Objective .................................................................................................... 22 
2.4 
Primary Endpoint ........................................................................................................... 23 
2.5 
Secondary Endpoints .................................................................................................... 23 
2.6 
Exploratory Endpoint ..................................................................................................... 23 
3.0 
PATIENT ELIGIBILITY ........................................................................................................ 23 
3.1 
Inclusion Criteria ............................................................................................................ 23 
3.2 
Exclusion Criteria .......................................................................................................... 24 
4.0 
SUBJECT SCREENING AND REGISTRATION PROCEDURES ...................................... 25 
5.0 
TREATMENT PLAN ............................................................................................................ 26 
5.1 
Treatment Dosage and Administration .......................................................................... 26 
5.2 
Toxicities and Dosing Delays/Dose Modifications ........................................................ 27 
5.3 
Concomitant Medications/Treatments ........................................................................... 28 
5.4 
Other Modalities or Procedures..................................................................................... 29 
5.5 
Duration of Therapy ....................................................................................................... 29 
5.6 
Off Treatment Criteria .................................................................................................... 29 
5.7 
Patient Replacement ..................................................................................................... 29 
6.0 
SCHEDULE OF ASSESSMENTS ....................................................................................... 30 
7.0 
MEASUREMENT OF EFFECT ............................................................................................ 31 
7.1 
Antitumor Effect- Solid Tumors ..................................................................................... 31 
7.2 
Safety/Tolerability .......................................................................................................... 36 
8.0 
ADVERSE EVENTS ............................................................................................................ 36 
8.1 
ESK981 (formally known as CEP-11981) ..................................................................... 36 
8.2 
Nivolumab...................................................................................................................... 38 
8.3 
Adverse Event Reporting Requirements ....................................................................... 38 
8.4 
Definitions ...................................................................................................................... 38 


 
 
8.5 
Adverse Event Characteristics ...................................................................................... 39 
8.6 
Serious Adverse Event Reporting Guidelines ............................................................... 40 
8.7 
Routine Reporting ......................................................................................................... 41 
8.8 
Reporting of Unanticipated Problems ........................................................................... 41 
8.9 
Early Stopping Rules ..................................................................................................... 41 
9.0 
DRUG INFORMATION ........................................................................................................ 41 
9.1 
ESK981 ......................................................................................................................... 41 
9.2 
Nivolumab...................................................................................................................... 48 
10.0 SPECIAL STUDIES ............................................................................................................. 49 
10.1 
Sample Collection Guidelines ....................................................................................... 49 
10.2 
Specimen Banking ........................................................................................................ 49 
11.0 STATISTICAL CONSIDERATIONS .................................................................................... 49 
11.1 
Study Design/Study Endpoints ...................................................................................... 50 
11.2 
Sample Size and Accrual…………………………………………………………………….50 
11.3 
Early Stopping Due to Toxicity……………………………………………………………....50 
11.4 
Data Analyses Plans ..................................................................................................... 50 
12.0 DATA MANAGEMENT ........................................................................................................ 51 
13.0 DATA AND SAFETY MONITORING ................................................................................... 51 
14.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE AND AUDITS .............................................................................. 52 
15.0 CLINICAL MONITORING PROCEDURES ......................................................................... 52 
16.0 REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................... 54 
APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................ 56 
APPENDIX 1        Karnofsky Performance Scale………………………………………………...…56 
APPENDIX 2        Medications with the Potential for Drug-Drug Interactions ........................... 57 
APPENDIX 3        Study Management During COVID-19 ......................................................... 59 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


 
1 
 
ABBREVIATIONS 
 
AE 
Adverse Event 
ALT 
Alanine Aminotransferase 
ALC 
Absolute Lymphocyte Count 
AST 
Aspartate Aminotransferase 
BUN 
Blood Urea Nitrogen 
CBC 
Complete Blood Count 
CMP 
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel 
CR 
Complete Response 
CT 
Computed Tomography 
CTCAE 
Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events 
CTSU 
Clinical Trials Support Unit 
DLT 
Dose Limiting Toxicity 
DSMC 
Data and Safety Monitoring Committee 
ESK981 
Study Drug 
H&P 
History & Physical Exam 
HRPP 
Human Research Protections Program 
IND 
Investigational New Drug 
IRB 
Institutional Review Board 
IV (or iv) 
Intravenously 
MTD 
Maximum Tolerated Dose 
NCI 
National Cancer Institute 
ORR 
Overall Response Rate 
OS 
Overall Survival 
PBMCs 
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells 
PD 
Progressive Disease 
PFS 
Progression Free Survival 
PI 
Principal Investigator 
p.o. 
per os/by mouth/orally 
PR 
Partial Response 
PRC 
Protocol Review Committee 
RCC 
Renal Cell Carcinoma 
SAE 
Serious Adverse Event 
SD 
Stable Disease 
SGOT 
Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase 
SPGT 
Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase 
UaP 
Unanticipated Problem 
WBC 
White Blood Cells 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


 
2 
 
STUDY SCHEMA 
 
 
 
 


 
3 
 
STUDY SYNOPSIS 
Title 
ERICA: Phase 2 Multi-Center Trial Of ESK981 and Nivolumab In 
Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma  
Phase 
II 
Methodology 
Single arm; two cohorts  
Study Duration 
54-60 months (24-30 months for accrual, estimated 6 months for 
treatment, and 24 months of follow-up) 
Study Center(s) 
Multi-Center: 2 sites total including lead site: University of Michigan 
Objectives 
Primary Objectives 
 
To determine the clinical efficacy of ESK981 in combination with 
nivolumab therapy in patients with metastatic renal cell 
carcinoma. 
 
Secondary Objectives  
 
To assess the clinical efficacy of ESK981 monotherapy in 
patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma.  
 
 
To determine the safety and tolerability of ESK981 monotherapy 
and in combination with nivolumab in patients with metastatic 
renal cell carcinoma. 
 
Exploratory Objectives 
 
To determine the quality of life of patients enrolled on the study 
as reflected in patient-reported outcomes. 
 
Number of Subjects 
47 objective response evaluable patients 
Inclusion Criteria 
 
Histologic diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma (any histology 
except medullary carcinoma or collecting duct carcinoma is 
acceptable) with radiologic or histologic evidence of metastatic 
disease. 
 
 
Prior treatment with up to one (and only one) anti-VEGF or 
VEGFR inhibitor (small molecule or antibody). 
 
 
Must have measurable disease as per Response Evaluation 
Criteria in Solid Tumors, version 1.1 (RECIST 1.1) criteria. 
 
 
Must be of age ≥ 18 years at time of informed consent. 
 
 
Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written 
informed consent. 
 
 
Karnofsky performance status ≥ 60. 
 
 
Most recent systemic therapy or most recent radiation therapy 
≥2 weeks of first study drug dose. 
 
 
Recovery to baseline or < Grade 1 CTCAE v.4.03 from toxicities 
related to any prior treatments, unless AE(s) are clinically non-
significant and/or stable on supportive therapy. 
 


 
4 
 
 
Women of childbearing potential must have a negative serum or 
urine pregnancy test within 28 days prior to registration. Women 
of non-childbearing potential are defined as those who have no 
uterus, ligation of the fallopian tubes, or permanent cessation of 
ovarian function due to ovarian failure or surgical removal of the 
ovaries. All others are considered women of child bearing 
potential.  
 
 
Adequate organ and marrow function. 
 
Exclusion Criteria 
 
Prior treatment for metastatic disease with >1 anti-
VEGF/VEGFR inhibitor. 
 
 
Prior treatment with anti-PD/PD-L1/CTLA4/IDO antibody (for 
Cohort B patients only) or ESK981 (for Cohort A and Cohort B 
patients). 
o 
Prior mTOR inhibitors or glutaminase inhibitors are 
allowed. 
 
 
Untreated brain metastases or spinal cord compression.  
o 
Patients with suspected or known treated brain 
metastases at screening should have a MRI (preferred) 
or CT preferably with IV contrast of the brain prior to 
study entry. Patients whose brain metastases have been 
treated may be considered if they have completed their 
treatment for brain metastasi(e)s at least 4 weeks prior 
to study registration AND they show radiographic and 
clinical stability (by CT or MRI brain imaging, obtained 
after treatment to the brain metastases). In addition, any 
neurologic symptoms that developed either as a result of 
the brain metastases or their treatment must have 
resolved or be stable without the use of steroids at daily 
doses greater than 10 mg prednisone or equivalent for 
at least 14 calendar days prior to the start of treatment.   
 
 
Uncontrolled hypertension defined as blood pressure >150/90 
despite at least 2 anti-hypertensive medications as assessed by 
2 blood pressure readings taken at least 1 hour apart during 
screening. 
 
 
Major surgical procedure or significant traumatic injury within 6 
weeks prior to study registration (> 6 weeks prior to registration 
is permitted as long as they have fully recovered from any such 
procedure). 
 
 
History of another primary malignancy except for: malignancy 
treated with curative intent and no known active disease for ≥2 
years, adequately treated non-melanoma skin cancer without 
current evidence of active disease, adequately treated 
carcinoma in situ without current evidence of active disease, 
Gleason ≤ 6 prostate cancer. 
 
 
Angina, myocardial infarction symptomatic congestive heart 
failure, cerebrovascular accident, transient ischemic attack, 
arterial embolism, pulmonary embolism, PTCA or CABG within 
the past 3 months. 
 


 
5 
 
 
History of gastrointestinal perforation or fistula in the past 6 
months, or while previously on antiangiogenic therapy, unless 
underlying risk has been resolved (e.g. through surgical 
resection or repair). 
 
 
The patient has known hypersensitivity to gelatin or lactose 
monohydrate. 
 
 
The patient has received any investigational drug within 28 days 
prior to registration or 5 half-lives of the investigational drug, 
whichever is shorter. 
 
 
History of bleeding disorders (e.g. pulmonary hemorrhage, 
significant hemoptysis, menometrorrhagia not responding to 
hormonal treatment) ≤ 6 weeks before Cycle 1 Day1. 
 
 
The patient is on a chronic daily medication known to be a 
severe or moderate inhibitor or inducer by Micromedex of 
CYP1A2, CYP2C8, or CYP3A4 at registration.  
 
 
Systemic corticosteroids greater than the equivalent of 10 mg of 
prednisone or equivalent alternative steroid (except physiologic 
dose for adrenal replacement therapy) or other 
immunosuppressive agents (such as cyclosporine or 
methotrexate) and any other medications that could potentially 
impact the efficacy or safety of the study as judged by the 
treating investigator are NOT permitted from time of registration 
to subjects completing protocol therapy unless clinically 
indicated to manage adverse events or life threatening or 
serious conditions as determined by the treating investigator. 
 
 
Have any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, would 
compromise the ability of the subject to meet or perform study 
requirements. 
 
Study Product(s), Dose, 
Route, Regimen 
Cohort A (n = 11) – ESK981 given PO 160 mg 5 consecutive days 
followed by a 2-day off drug in each week, repeated weekly in 28 day 
cycles  
 
Cohort B (n = 36): ESK981 given PO 160 mg 5 consecutive days 
followed by a 2-day off drug in each week, repeated weekly in 28 day 
cycles in combination with nivolumab 480 mg IV on D1 every 28 day 
cycles as safety lead-in. If no safety signals are identified, we will accrue 
19 additional subjects for a total of 36 subjects in the combination cohort 
B. 
 
Duration of Administration 
Until disease progression or intolerable toxicity or subject withdraws 
consent 
Reference Therapy 
None for Cohort A; Nivolumab alone (historical) for Cohort B 


 
6 
 
Statistical Methodology 
The primary objective of the study is to determine the efficacy of ESK981 
in combination with Nivolumab in Cohort B.    Cohort B will use the Mini-
max Simon two-stage design.  A null response rate is assumed to be 
25% with a response rate of interest of 45%.  Assuming a 5% type I error 
and 80% power, the first stage will accrue 17 objective response 
evaluable patients.  If the study passes the criteria at the interim 
analysis, then stage 2 will open and accrue another 19 response 
evaluable patients for a total of 36 patients.  
 
Cohort A will determine the efficacy of ESK981 monotherapy.  Assuming 
a response rate of clinical interest with monotherapy is 25% and null 
response proportion of 5% with a 1-sided type I error=0.102 there is 80% 
power with 11 patients to detect a response rate of 25%.   


 
7 
 
1.0 
BACKGROUND AND RATIONALE 
1.1 
Disease Background 
Renal cell carcinoma is inherently resistant to cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiation, and hormone 
therapy [2], [3]. Until 2005, the mainstay of treatment was immunotherapy with IL-2 or interferon, 
both of which result in modest response rates at the expense of significant toxicity. Advances in the 
understanding of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tumor biology led to the discovery that most patients 
with RCC have mutations of the von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene that lead to gene 
silencing [4]. Silencing of the VHL gene was found to result in Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor 
(VEGF) overexpression.  VEGF (also known as vascular permeability factor and VEGF-A) is a 
tumor-secreted cytokine with critical importance in both normal and tumor-associated angiogenesis. 
When the VHL gene is mutated or inactivated, the VHL protein cannot bind to hypoxia inducing 
factor alpha (HIFα). This leads to the accumulation of HIF1α and binding of HIF1α to HIF1β. The 
HIF1α/HIF1β heterodimer translocates to the nucleus and activates transcription of target genes 
such as VEGF and PDGF [5]. 
 
Elevated VEGF levels have important pathologic consequences as VEGF is able to induce 
endothelial cell division and migration [6], promote endothelial cell survival through protection from 
apoptosis [7] and reverse endothelial cell senescence [8]. Because of these factors, VEGF has 
been called the most potent proangiogenic protein described to date [9]. Sustained angiogenesis is 
one of the six essential alterations in cell physiology that dictates malignant growth [10]. All cells, 
including malignant ones, are unable to survive unless they are within 100 μm of a capillary vessel. 
Thus, budding cancerous cells must develop angiogenic ability to continue to grow and multiply 
[10]. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a signal protein that stimulates angiogenesis and 
is the major regulator of angiogenesis in normal and malignant tissue [11].  
 
The discovery of the importance of VEGF in RCC tumor biology led to the development of VEGF 
targeted therapy for patients with metastatic kidney cancer. Since 2006, seven different VEGF 
tyrosine kinase inhibitors have been approved for the treatment of RCC. Initial response rates to 
treatment with a front line VEGF TKI are 30-40%. However, these responses are not sustainable 
and disease progression occurs after a median of 9-14 months [12], [13], [14]. 
 
There are various hypotheses regarding why resistance to VEGF inhibitors develops. One of the 
most probable is the development of alternative pathways for angiogenesis. Studies in RCC 
xenograft models have shown that during initial treatment with a VEGF tyrosine kinase inhibitor, 
there is necrosis and devascularization of the microvasculature, ultimately leading to complete 
cessation of blood flow. However, just prior to the development of resistance, there is restoration of 
blood flow suggesting that the tumor has escaped the previously achieved block on angiogenesis 
[15]. 
 
One of the most likely angiogenesis escape mechanisms is upregulation of the Ang2/Tie2 axis. Tie-
2 is a tyrosine kinase whose expression is largely restricted to endothelial cells [16]. It has four 
known ligands, angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1), angiopoietin-2 (Ang- 2), angiopoietin 3 (Ang-3) and 
angiopoietin-4 (Ang-4) [17], [18], [19], [20]. Ang1/Tie2 signaling plays an important role in the 
maturation and stabilization of the vasculature by recruitment of peri-endothelial cells [21]. In 
contrast, Ang2 functions as a natural antagonist of Ang1 and the Tie2 receptor, and is only 
expressed at sites of vascular remodeling with active angiogenesis, including pathologic 
angiogenesis as seen in tumors [17]. It has been shown that VEGFR-2 inhibition leads to up-
regulation of members of the angiopoietin family [22] and at times of disease progression in RCC 
patients treated with sunitinib, Ang2 levels were shown to increase [23].  
 
Several pre-clinical xenograft studies have demonstrated that Ang-2 blockade leads to suppression 
of tumor growth [24] (Figure 1), [25]. Additional evidence shows that Ang-2 mediated angiogenesis 
may be a later phenomenon in tumor development. In a mouse xenograft model tumor growth 
inhibition was more robust when treatment was initiated in more established tumors, suggesting that 
larger tumors are more dependent on Ang2 [25]. Finally, there is some evidence that Ang2 may 
contribute to metastases as overexpression of Ang2 lead to distant metastases in a breast cancer 
xenograft model [26]. 
 


 
8 
 
 
Figure 1: Inhibition of A431 tumor xenograft growth with a systemically administered Ang2- neutralizing agent. 
Treatment was initiated 3 days post injection of tumor cells. Ab536 was dosed thrice weekly. 
 
While Ang2 may have a role in many tumor types, it may be particularly important in the 
tumorigenesis of renal cell carcinoma as demonstrated by the significantly higher levels of Ang2 in 
RCC as compared to other tumor types [27] (Figure 2). 
 
 
 
Figure 2: RT-PCR analysis of multiple tumor types shows that Ang2, VEGF, Ang1, VEGFR2, and CD31 are 
highly expressed in patients with ccRCC versus other tumor types (bladder, lymphoma, lung, laryngeal, 
ovarian, prostate, gastric, breast, colorectal, and pancreatic tumors). Ang2 and VEGF are also highly 
expressed in ccRCC versus normal kidney tissue. Data are expressed as means ± SD. *P < 0.05, **P < 0.01, 
***P < 0.001. [27] 
 
Given the extensive pre-clinical data suggesting the deleterious effect of Ang-2 on tumor growth 
and angiogenesis, Ang2 inhibitors have been evaluated for the treatment of patients with metastatic 
renal cell carcinoma. In a phase II study by Atkins et al [28], trebananib (an Ang1/2 inhibitor) was 
combined with sunitinib for the treatment of treatment naïve metastatic renal cell carcinoma. This 
combination led to impressive response rates of 58-63%, notably higher than front line response 
rates with sunitinib or pazopanib of 25-31% [29] (Figure 3).  


 
9 
 
 
 
Figure 3: Maximum change from 
baseline in the sum of longest 
diameters (SLD) of target lesions at 
the time of the primary analysis for 
patients who received (A) trebananib 
10 mg/kg once per week in cohort A 
or (B) trebananib 15 mg/kg once per 
week in Cohort B 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Median overall survival was also 
improved as compared to 
historical controls treated with sunitinib or pazopanib with a median overall survival of 36 months 
(as compared to historical controls of 28-29 months [29]). Unfortunately, the combination of these 
drugs was associated with increased toxicity as compared to sunitinib alone and the combination 
has not been further evaluated in metastatic renal cell carcinoma. 
1.2 
Study Agent(s) Background and Associated Known Toxicities 
1.2.1 
Treatment Background 
ESK981, formally known as CEP-11981, is a novel oral multi-TKI originally developed by Cephalon 
[30]. The compound was initially identified as an oral angiogenesis inhibitor targeting several 
important pathways involved in the 
angiogenic response, but without the 
off-target activities of other TKIs, like 
sunitinib and sorafenib, resulting in 
adverse events. ESK981 has potent 
activity 
in 
kinases 
implicated 
in 
angiogenesis 
including 
vascular 
endothelial growth factor receptor 1 
(VEGFR-1), VEGFR-2, and Tie-2, 
(IC50 of 3, 4, 22nM, respectively). 
ESK981 treatment potently inhibited 
HUVEC capillary tube formation and 
aortic ring explant angiogenesis in 
vitro, 
and 
inflammation-induced 
angiogenesis in Tucker mice and 
several VEGF-induced angiogenesis 
models in vivo. ESK981 was tested in 
a dose-escalating phase I clinical trial 
to determine its pharmacokinetics and 
pharmacodynamics in patients with 
advanced, relapsed, or refractory solid 
tumors[31]. ESK981 was acceptably 
tolerated up to a dose of 97.4 mg/m2 
(maximum tolerated dose) that was 
determined to be the recommended 
phase II dose. Most adverse events were grade 1 or grade 2 and included fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, 
Figure 4. Kinases overexpressed in mCRPC (in red) and 
their in vitro inhibition with 25 nM ESK981 (blue). 
Log-fold change of kinases in mCRPC relative to benign prostate assessed 
from a compendia of RNA-seq data. Rank ordered inhibition profile of 25 
nM ESK981 determined in in vitro kinase assays. Intensity of color is 
associated with log-fold change or inhibitory activity. 
 


 
10 
 
decreased appetite, abdominal pain, back pain, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, and 
dyspnea. Grade 3/4 neutropenia was observed in the highest-dose cohorts. More importantly, up to 
85% of patients achieved stable disease when measured at ≥6 weeks in cohorts receiving ≥73.0 
mg/m2.  
 
After Cephalon was acquired by TEVA, further development of the compound was halted due to 
TEVA’s decision to discontinue internal oncology drug development and focus on other therapeutic 
areas. Due to the exciting data seen in pre-clinical prostate cancer models highlighted in this proposal, 
Esanik Therapeutics (in which Dr. Chinnaiyan serves on the Scientific Advisory Board), acquired the 
rights to develop ESK981 in prostate cancer and other indications.  To better understand the 
mechanism of action in prostate cancer, the kinase screen was repeated with modern kinase assays 
and lower drug concentrations, identifying novel mutant oncogenic kinases inhibited by ESK981 at 
single digit nanomolar potency.  The new screen also confirmed the potency of ESK981 against TKs 
involved in angiogenesis as well as a number of other kinases involved in cancer processes including 
PDGFRA, PDGFRB, RET, FGFR1, FGFR2, AURKA, and AURKB among others (IC50 of 43, 12, 9, 
92, 80, 12, and 17nM, respectively).  We carried out a preliminary analysis of the top kinases 
overexpressed (by RNA-seq) in 
mCRPC and kinases most inhibited 
by ESK981 to provide leads to 
identify the kinase target in mCRPC 
(Figure 2). Importantly, as our 
preliminary 
data 
will 
cover, 
ESK981, 
at 
nanomolar 
levels, 
induces 
robust 
vacuolization 
associated with activation of the 
autophagy pathway, suggesting 
that a kinase involved in this 
pathway was being inhibited. Other 
MTKIs, such as cabozantib and 
crizotinib, 
did 
not 
have 
this 
autophagic 
vacuolization 
effect 
even 
at 
high 
micromolar 
concentrations. In vitro data also 
suggested combined effects with 
enzalutamide 
and 
continued 
sensitivity in enzalutamide-resistant 
cell lines. Interestingly, in addition 
to AR+ prostate cancer cell lines, 
AR- prostate cancer cell lines were 
similarly 
sensitive 
to 
ESK981 
intimating its potential use in small 
cell/neuroendocrine 
variants 
of 
prostate cancer. In vivo, ESK981 
monotherapy inhibited castrated 
VCaP xenograft growth in a dose-
dependent fashion. Tumors from mice treated with ESK981 displayed vacuolization associated with 
autophagy as well as marked decreases in proliferation (by Ki67 staining). 
 
Interestingly, in addition to AR+ prostate cancer cell lines, AR- prostate cancer cell lines were similarly 
sensitive to ESK981, intimating its potential use in small cell/neuroendocrine variants of prostate 
cancer.  In vivo, ESK981 monotherapy inhibited castrated VCaP xenograft growth in a dose-
dependent fashion. Tumors from mice treated with ESK981 displayed vacuolization associated with 
autophagy as well as marked decreases in proliferation (by Ki67 staining).  Interestingly, autophagy 
is an evolutionarily conserved and orderly process of degradation and destruction of cellular 
components (Figure 3). As part of this process, double membraned vesicles known as 
autophagosomes are formed by engulfing cytoplasmic constituents, which then fuse with lysosomes 
to initiate degradation and recycling [1]. Exaggerated activation of the autophagic process can be 
observed as gross vacuolization of cells. Monoallelic loss of beclin-1, a gene critical for the autophagy 
pathway, has been found in 40 to 75% of human breast, prostate, and ovarian cancers[1, 32]. Thus, 
 
Figure 5. Overview of the autophagy pathway 
Adapted from Yang et al.[1] The ULK kinase pathway is the key proximal 
kinase complex that controls autophagy. It can be regulated by a number 
of up-stream kinases including receptor tyrosine kinase (RTKs), PI3K, AKT, 
and TOR. The beclin1 complex is a mediator of autophagy. LC3 processing 
is a key step in autophagosome maturation. Chloroquine and Bafilomycin 
A1 block late stage autophagy by blocking lysosomal fusion. ESK981 
presumably activates autophagy in CRPC by inhibiting an upstream TK.  


 
11 
 
autophagy has been considered an important tumor suppressive pathway, and sustained activation 
of autophagy in tumor cells leads to apoptosis. A number of approaches to regulate the autophagy 
pathway are being explored clinically in the treatment of cancer [1].    
1.2.2 
Nonclinical activity 
ESK981 is an orally active inhibitor of a number of receptor tyrosine kinases, specifically human TIE-
2, VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, and FGFR-1, with concentrations resulting in 50% inhibition of activity 
(IC50) of 22±6 nM, 4±1 nM, 3±1 nM, and 13±2 nM, respectively, in enzyme-based assays. These 
kinase targets have been shown to have essential and non-redundant roles in tumor angiogenesis 
and vascular maintenance, and ESK981 is designed to inhibit tumor growth by blocking these 
processes. ESK981 shows comparable activity against a number of other kinases including 
tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) A (3 nM), TrkB (5 nM), receptor tyrosine kinase (RET) (5 nM), B 
lymphocyte kinase (Blk) (8 nM), hemopoietic cell kinase (Hck) (13 nM), lymphocyte-specific protein 
tyrosine kinase (Lck) (12 nM), TGF-ß activated kinase 1 (TAK1) (14 nM), and mammalian STE20-like 
kinase 2 (MST2) (21 nM). Some of these kinases are also known to be involved in tumor growth and 
survival. ESK981 demonstrates a significant concentration-related activity in a range of experimental 
systems, including VEGF-A, -C, -D-induced, Angiopoietin-1-induced, and fibroblast growth factor-2 
(FGF2)-induced human and murine endothelial cell proliferation, chemotaxis, migration, and survival 
in vitro; and microvessel outgrowth and branching in primary rat aortic ring explant cultures ex vivo. 
Preclinical studies 
Significant oral anti-angiogenic efficacy has been observed in VEGF-A-induced, tumor-induced and 
inflammation-induced neo-vascularization models in rodents. Sustained dose-related anti-tumor 
activity has been demonstrated with ESK981 in vitro across a panel of human and murine tumor cell 
lines. Significant dose-related and exposure driven in vivo anti-tumor efficacy is observed with 
ESK981 in multiple subcutaneous (melanoma, glioblastoma, breast carcinoma, prostate carcinoma) 
and orthotopic human and rodent solid (colon carcinoma, renal carcinoma, and glioblastoma) and 
hematologic (acute leukemia) tumor xenograft models in normal and immunocompromised hosts. 
Depending upon tumor models with differing dosing regimens, ESK981 exhibits dose-related tumor 
growth inhibitory and anti-angiogenic effects as well as sustained partial and complete tumor 
regressions when administered as monotherapy. Specific intermittent oral dosing schedules (drug 
dosing/drug holidays) of ESK981 using once daily and twice daily dosing regimens demonstrate 
significant anti-tumor efficacy (tumor growth inhibition and partial and complete regressions). In both 
solid and hematologic tumor models, however, daily and twice daily continuous administration is 
optimal. ESK981 is generally well tolerated when administered chronically with cytotoxic agents (e.g., 
temozolomide [TMZ]), and the combination of ESK981 with TMZ conferred a significant benefit on 
median survival of orthotopic human glioblastoma-bearing animals relative to that achieved with TMZ 
alone. In a series of pharmacologic anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic studies conducted in various 
murine strains, the maximum tolerated dose of ESK981 is 60 mg/kg/day or higher in syngeneic, nude, 
and severe immunocompromised mice (SCID) mice, and 30 mg/kg/day or higher in non-obese 
diabetic, severely immunocompromised (NOD-SCID) tumor-bearing mice.   
 
ESK981 has been intensively evaluated pre-clinically in human prostate cancer at the University of 
Michigan. In our preliminary assessment we evaluated the growth inhibitory effect of ESK981 against 
a library of tyrosine kinase inhibitors consisting of 167 compounds in DU145 cells. We found that 
ESK981 exhibited potent growth inhibition at 300nM concentration compared to Src inhibitors (KX2-
391, Dasatinib and HER2 inhibitor (Mubritinib) that were reported to be efficacious in DU145 cells, 
whereas crizotinib and cabozantinib exhibited no such growth inhibitory effect at comparable 
concentrations (Fig. 6a). Among the 168 compounds, only ESK981 triggered a cytoplasmic 
vacuolization morphology that prompted us to further investigate its functional significance (Fig. 6b). 
Using 7 prostate cancer cell lines, we examined their sensitivity to ESK981 in long-term survival 
assays. After 2 weeks of growth, cells were stained with crystal violet and subsequently quantified. 
ESK981 exhibited IC50 values ranging from 35nM to 192nM. In contrast, cabozantinib and crizotinib 
exhibited only micromolar IC50 values in the cell lines tested (Fig. 6c).  
 
The morphological alterations triggered by ESK981 led us to explore whether the autophagy pathway 
is involved. Initially, we investigated ESK981-associated cellular vacuole in combination with various 
autophagic pathway inhibitors. The anti-malarial drug, chloroquine, has been used as an inhibitor of 


 
12 
 
autophagy and lysosomal fusion. Strikingly, chloroquine completely negated the cellular vacuolization 
effects of ESK981 in DU145 cells after a 6-hour incubation. The phenotype was recapitulated by 
another lysosome inhibitor bafilomycin (BF) as well as early autophagasome inhibitor 3-
Methyladenine (3-MA). This strongly suggested that ESK981-induced vacuolization involves the 
autophagy process (Fig. 7a). We next employed CYTO-ID autophagy detection kit (Enzo) to visualize 
cytoplasmic vacuoles in DU145 cells (Fig. 7b); quantified fluorescent intensity showed dose-
dependent induction of autophagy signal in LNCaP and VCaP cells as well (Fig. 7c). Five prostate 
cell lines (VCaP, LNCaP, MDA-PCa-2b, LNCaP-AR and PC3) have been tested thus far exhibited 
LC3 cleavage in a ESK981 dose-dependent manner (Fig. 7d) suggesting that autophagy activation. 
 
We observed that ESK981 increased cytokine CXCL10 secretion in cell culture medium in an 
autophagy-dependent manner, thus, we hypothesized that ESK981 may play a role in immune cell 
recruitment. These preliminary data led us to expand our investigation to immune response using 
syngeneic mouse prostate cancer Myc-CaP cells. We confirmed that ESK981 is effective in Myc-CaP 
cells and has lower IC50 than cabozantinib or crizotinib (Fig. 8a) and autophagy and CXCL10 were 
increased upon ESK981 treatment in Myc-CaP cells (Fig. 8b-c). Finally, we wanted to test whether 
ESK981 is able to potentiate immune checkpoint blockade. In immune competent mice, ESK981 and 
immune checkpoint inhibitor, anti-PD1 in combination exerted maximum tumor inhibition (Fig. 9a-b). 
With tumor inhibition, autophagy was observed in individual tumors upon ESK981 treatment (Fig. 9c). 
Overall, our data demonstrate that ESK981, alone or in combination with anti-PD1 therapy, is a 
promising candidate for clinical development; it targets a novel pathway and shows greater efficacy 
than tyrosine kinase inhibitors commonly in use.  
 
 
 
 
 


 
13 
 
 
 
Figure 6. Prostate cancer cell lines are more sensitive to ESK981 than FDA-approved MTKIs 
Cabozantinib or Crizotinib. 
A, Percentage viability of DU145 for 300nM ESK981 and other 167 tyrosine kinase inhibitors 
compared to vehicle control. Top 5 most inhibitory compounds are listed in the table, as well as 
cabozantinib and crizotinib (highlighted in orange). ESK981 is highlighted in red. 
B, Morphological differences of 300nM ESK981, crizotinib or cabozantinib treated nuclear restricted 
RFP expressing DU145. 
C, A long-term survival assay was used to calculate half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) after 
2 weeks of incubation with serial dilutions of indicated drugs. Top, Long-term survival assays of VCaP 
prostate cancer cells exposed to MTKIs. Bottom, (IC50) of ESK981, crizotinib and cabozantinib in a 
panel of prostate cancer cell lines.  
 
 


 
14 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Figure 7. ESK981 induced cellular vacuolization is part of autophagy activation. 
A, Autophagy inhibitors negated ESK981 induced cellular vacuolization. Morphology of DU145-RFP 
cells treated with ESK981, and various autophagy inhibitors 3-Methyladenine (3-MA), chloroquine 
(CQ), bafilomycin (BF) alone and in combination of for 6 hours. Red indicates nuclei. 
B, Autophagic vacuoles were visualized by green fluorescence in DU145 treated with either control 
or ESK981 for 24 hours, and nuclei were indicated by blue. 
C, VCaP and LNCaP cells were treated with increasing concentration of ESK981 for 24 hours, and 
autophagic activity were measured by CYTO-ID kit, and quantification of autophagy activity is shown 
on right. Rapamycin served as a positive control for autophagy induction. 
D, Protein levels of LC3 in indicated prostate cancer cell lines. 
 
 
Figure 8. Mouse prostate cancer cell Myc-CaP is sensitive to ESK981.  
A, IC50 of ESK981, cabozantinib, crizotinib were determined in Myc-CaP cells. 
B, LC3 protein levels were determined by western blot in Myc-CaP treated with various concentration 
of ESK981 for 24 hours. 
C, Mouse CXCL10 mRNA levels were measured by qPCR in Myc-CaP cells treated with various 
concentration of ESK981 for 24 hours. 
 


 
15 
 
 
 
 
Figure 9. ESK981 enhances immune checkpoint blockade in mouse prostate cancer model. 
A, Schematic illustration of study design 
B, Tumor volume of Myc-CaP after indicated treatments. 
C, Protein levels of LC3 and Myc were detected in individual tumors. 
 
 
Preclinical work in three kidney carcinoma cell lines demonstrated that ESK981 remains potent in inhibiting 
kidney cancer cell proliferation with nanomolar IC50 concentration (Figure. 6, unpublished data). Additionally, 
ESK981 is able to robustly induce dose-dependent autophagy (Figure. 7, unpublished data). Meanwhile, 
ESK981 enhances the Th1-type chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10 expression (Figure. 8, unpublished data) 
through STAT1-dependent pathway (Figure. 9, unpublished data). Thus treatment with ESK981 alone led 
to higher levels of CXCL9 and CXCL10 expression and when in combination with an anti-PD1 agent, the 
immune response should be dramatically enhanced. 
 


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16 
 
 
  
 
Figure 10. IC50 of ESK981 has been determined in several human kidney cancer cell lines in vitro. 
A704, Caki-1 and A498 have 40.8, 146.9 and 830nM respectively.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Figure 11. ESK981 induces dose-dependent autophagy in human kidney cancer cell lines.  
 
A 7 0 4
C a k i-1
A 4 9 8
0
2 0 0
4 0 0
6 0 0
8 0 0
1 0 0 0
E S K 9 8 1
IC 5 0, n M


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17 
 
 
Figure 12. ESK981 dose-dependently enhances interferon gamma signaling induced CXCL10 and CXCL9 
mRNA expression in human kidney cancer cell lines. 
 
 


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18 
 
 
 
Figure 13. ESK981 enhances interferon gamma signaling activation through STAT1 dependent 
pathway. 
 
 
1.2.3 
Clinical Activity 
Phase I open-label, dose-escalating study pharmacokinetics 
ESK981 was tested in an open-label dose-escalating Phase 1 clinical trial to determine its 
pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) in patients with advanced, relapsed, or refractory 
solid tumors (Study C11981/1047/ON/US, NCT00875264) [31]. After daily oral administration of 
ESK981 to cancer patients, the median tmax
 
values for ESK981 were typically in the range of 2 to 4 
hours (Table1 and Table 2). However, for most of the dose groups there appeared to be considerable 
inter-patient variability in this pharmacokinetic parameter. The reason(s) for the large inter-patient 
variability in tmax
 
is(are) not presently known, but may be related to the fed/fasted state of the patients 
or other unknown factors which could potentially influence drug absorption (e.g., disease state, 
concomitant medications).  
 


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19 
 
Table 1. Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters for SK981 in Cancer Patients on Day 1 of 
Daily Oral Administration of ESK981 
 
 
Table 2. Mean (SD) Pharmacokinetic Parameters for ESK981 in Cancer Patients on Day 15 of 
Daily Oral Administration of ESK981 
 
After reaching peak plasma levels, ESK981 declined in a bi-phasic manner that was characterized by 
an initial phase of drug distribution and a slower terminal elimination phase. For some profiles, 
however, only the later phase was evident due to what appeared to be a more prolonged period of 
drug absorption. The mean t1/2
 
of the terminal elimination phase was generally in the range of 
approximately 8 to 10 hr; however, the values tended to be slightly larger after multiple doses at the 
higher dose levels (i.e., doses ≥55 mg/m2) (Table 1 and Table 2).  
The systemic exposures (i.e., Cmax
 
and AUC) of patients to ESK981 generally increased with 
increasing dose across the dose range evaluated on both days 1 and 15 (Table 1 and Table 2). There 
were some dose groups for which the mean values of Cmax
 
and AUC did not show an increase relative 
to the values from the preceding 1 or 2 dose levels; however, this result was not surprising given the 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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20 
 
large inter-patient variability and the fact that most dose increments were less than 40%. Nonetheless, 
the overall results obtained are not suggestive of the presence of any obvious non-linearity in 
absorption and/or elimination of ESK981 in this dose range.  
After once-daily administration of ESK981 at doses ranging from 3.0 to 126.6 mg/m2, there was a 
small to moderate amount of accumulation of the compound in plasma at each dose level. The overall 
mean observed accumulation ratio (Robs) for ESK981 was 1.5 (range = 1.1 to 1.9), which was slightly 
larger than the value predicted from the single-dose data (overall mean Rpred
 
= 1.2; range = 1.0 to 1.3) 
(Table 1 and Table 2). Although the mean Robs
 
was slightly larger than the Rpred, this is not believed to 
be a strong indication of the presence of any time-dependent pharmacokinetic processes. 
1.2.4 
Clinical safety and efficacy 
 
Adverse events 
All 43 patients experienced ≥1 adverse event, and 38 patients (88.3 %) were deemed to have had 
adverse events possibly, probably, or definitely related to study drug. The most frequently reported 
adverse event of any grade was fatigue (n= 22, or 51 %). Other frequently reported adverse events 
(≥20 % of patients) were nausea (47 %), diarrhea (33 %), decreased appetite (33 %), abdominal pain 
(30 %), back pain (28 %), vomiting (28 %), constipation (28 %), headache (28 %), dizziness (28 %), 
and dyspnea (23 %). These adverse events were reported at a similar frequency between dosage 
cohorts, and no relationship with dose was evident. Most adverse events were grade 1 or grade 2.  
Grade 3 or 4 adverse events occurred in 16 (37 %) patients across dosing cohorts (14 [32.6 %] Grade 
3 and Grade 2 [4.7 %] Grade 4). Treatment-related grade 3 or 4 adverse events were most frequent 
in the 97.4 mg/m
2 cohort. Grade 3 or 4 laboratory hematologic toxicities were reported in 8 (18.6 %) 
patients across dosage cohorts. The most common grade 3 or 4 laboratory hematologic toxicity was 
lymphopenia, which occurred in 8 patients and across dosage cohorts (5.9, 29.6, 55.0, 97.4, and 126.6 
mg/m
2). Grade 4 leukopenia occurred in 1 patient in the 126.6 mg/m
2 cohort. Grade 3 or Grade 4 
neutropenia also occurred in 2 patients in the 97.4 mg/m
2 cohort (Grade 3) and in 1 patient in the 
126.6 mg/m
2 cohort (Grade 4).  
 
Serious adverse events occurred in 12 patients; most were deemed unlikely or not related to CEP-
11981. Three patients (1 patient in the 97.4 mg/m
2 cohort and 2 patients in the 126.6 mg/m
2 cohort) 
experienced serious adverse events that were categorized as possibly or definitely related to ESK981: 
pyrexia, hemolytic anemia, hyperbilirubinemia, dyspnea, neutropenia, ECG change, and chest 
discomfort. No deaths occurred during the study.  
 
Tumor response 
Of 43 patients who received ≥1 dose of study drug, 37 patients were evaluated for tumor response. 
Although no enrolled patients had complete or partial response according to RECIST criteria, 19 of 37 
(51 %) patients evaluated for tumor response had stable disease at ≥6 weeks; 18 had disease 
progression. The frequency of stable disease (defined as <30 % decrease and <20 % increase in the 
sum of the longest diameter of the target lesions) was higher in cohorts receiving doses ≥73.0 mg/m
2 
(8 of 14 [57.1 %] patients) compared with cohorts receiving ≤55.0 mg/m
2 (11 of 29 [37.9 %] patients) 
(Figure 14).  
 


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21 
 
Figure 14. Best overall tumor response per cohorta at >/= 6 weeks 
Depicts tumor response, with bars above the x-axis indicating patients (n = 19) who achieved stable 
disease and bars below the x-axis indicating patients (n = 18) with disease progression. aNo patient 
achieved complete or partial response. bSix patients were not evaluable at dosages of 19.7, 29.6, 
55.0, and 126.6 mg/m2 (n = 1, each); 97.4 mg/m2 (n = 2) 
 
 
 
1.3 
Rationale 
 
ESK981 monotherapy 
ESK981 has cleared a dose-escalating phase I clinical trial and demonstrated favorable 
pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in patients with advanced, relapsed, or refractory solid 
tumors with up to 85% of patients achieving stable disease at doses ≥73.0 mg/m2.  
ESK981 is an orally active multi-targeted receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor that inhibits the human 
receptor for Angiopoietin-1 and Angiopoietin-2 (TIE-2), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 
(VEGFR-2), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1 (VEGFR-1), and fibroblast growth factor 
receptor-1 (FGFR-1) receptor tyrosine kinases. In addition to its effects on the angiogenesis 
promoting receptors VEGF and TIE-2, ESK981 treatment also induced robust cellular vacuolization 
indicative of cell death by autophagy, a mechanism not observed with other multiple tyrosine kinase 
inhibitors like crizotinib and cabozantinib. 
 
A phase 1 study has shown the compound to be safe and tolerable [31]. The most frequently 
reported adverse event of any grade was fatigue (n = 22, or 51 %). Other frequently reported 
adverse events (≥20 % of patients) were nausea (47 %), diarrhea (33 %), decreased appetite 
(33 %), abdominal pain (30 %), back pain (28 %), vomiting (28 %), constipation (28 %), headache 
(28 %), dizziness (28 %), and dyspnea (23 %). These adverse events were reported at a similar 
frequency between dosage cohorts, and no relationship with dose was evident. Most adverse events 
were grade 1 or 2. Although no enrolled patients had complete or partial response according to 
RECIST criteria, 19 of 37 (51 %) patients evaluated for tumor response had stable disease at 
≥ 6 weeks. Of note, the majority of patients on this trial had tumor types that have been historically 
refractory to TKIs. The 0% response rate is similar to response rates seen when other VEGF-TKIs 
have been tried in non-kidney cancers such as colorectal cancer [33]. 


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22 
 
 
Given the significant pre-clinical rationale for use of an Ang-2 inhibitor in renal cell carcinoma that 
has become resistant to VEGF inhibition and the safety shown in a prior phase 1 trial, we propose a 
single center phase 2 trial of ESK981 in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma who have 
progressed despite treatment with a VEGF-TKI.  
 
Nivolumab in renal cell carcinoma 
Nivolumab (Opdivo) a PD-1 antibody, is FDA approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell 
carcinoma after disease progression on prior anti-angiogenic therapy. In the CHECKMATE-025 trial,  
nivolumab demonstrated improved overall survival compared with everolimus in the randomized 
clinical trial setting (25 months vs 19.6 months, HR 0.73, p-value 0.0018) [34].  
 
ESK 981 in combination with anti-PD1 immunotherapy 
VEGF inhibition in combination with immunotherapy in the form and anti-PD1 or anti-PD-L1 therapy 
has already been demonstrated in other drug combinations. Bevacizumab, an anti-VEGF therapy, in 
combination with atezolizumab (anti-PD-L1), was studied in ten patients with previously untreated 
metastatic RCC, and was well-tolerated. In this small cohort, there were 4 partial responses and 4 
patients with stable disease [35]. A randomized multi-arm phase III clinical trial is currently ongoing 
evaluating the combination of lenvatinib, a multikinase inhibitor, with either everolimus or 
pembrolizumab compared with sunitinib in patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma 
(NCT02811861).  
 
Given the superior activity of ESK981 compared to other small molecule VEGFR inhibitors 
especially potent inhibition of Tie-2 and additional autophagy inducing activity of ESK981, 
and the emerging clinical data on synergy between VEGFR inhibition and anti-PD1/L1 
antibody immunotherapy, we propose a two-cohort phase II study. We first seek to evaluate the 
safety of ESK981 monotherapy in a safety cohort of 11 patients (Cohort A), after which accrual of 
Cohort B will begin, with a safety lead-in of six patients to establish a safe dose of ESK981 in 
combination with flat dose nivolumab at 480 mg IV. Subsequently, an expansion of Cohort B will be 
accrued to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the combination of ESK981 at the previously established 
safe dose in conjunction with nivolumab.  Subjects in cohort A cannot cross-over into Cohort B. 
 
2.0 
STUDY OBJECTIVES AND ENDPOINTS 
2.1 
Primary Objective 
2.1.1 
To determine the clinical efficacy of ESK981 in combination with nivolumab therapy in 
patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. 
2.2 
Secondary Objectives  
2.2.1 
To assess the clinical efficacy of ESK981 monotherapy in patients with metastatic renal cell 
carcinoma.  
  
2.2.2     To determine the safety and tolerability of ESK981 monotherapy and in combination with 
nivolumab in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. 
2.3 
Exploratory Objective 
2.3.1  
To determine the quality of life of patients enrolled on the study as reflected in patient-
reported outcomes. 
 
 


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23 
 
 2.4 
Primary Endpoint 
2.4.1 
To assess the objective response rate (complete response and partial response) by RECIST 
1.1 in metastatic renal cell cancer to the combination of ESK981 and nivolumab therapy.   
 2.5 
Secondary Endpoints  
2.5.1     To assess the objective response rate (complete response and partial response) by RECIST 
1.1 in metastatic renal cell cancer to ESK981 monotherapy. 
 
2.5.2     To determine frequency and severity of adverse events by CTCAE criteria of ESK981 in 
patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. 
 
2.5.3 
To evaluate secondary efficacy measures such as overall survival, progression free survival, 
duration of therapy, duration of response to ESK981 monotherapy in Cohort A and to the 
combination in Cohort B; response by combined RECIST v1.1 and irRECIST and irRECIST 
progression free survival (Cohort B only). 
 2.6 
Exploratory Endpoint 
2.6.1     Health-related quality of life assessment changes from baseline using EuroQoL-5D will be 
described using descriptive statistics. 
 
3.0 
PATIENT ELIGIBILITY 
Subjects must meet all of the inclusion and exclusion criteria to be enrolled to the study. Study treatment 
may not begin until a subject is enrolled. No eligibility waivers will be granted for this clinical trial. 
 
3.1 
Inclusion Criteria 
3.1.1 
Histologic diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma (any histology except medullary carcinoma or 
collecting duct carcinoma is acceptable) with radiologic or histologic evidence of metastatic 
disease. 
 
3.1.2 
Prior treatment with up to one (and only one) anti-VEGF or VEGFR inhibitor (small molecule 
or antibody). 
 
3.1.3 
Must have measurable disease as per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, 
version 1.1 (RECIST 1.1) criteria. 
 
3.1.4 
Must be of age ≥ 18 years at time of informed consent. 
 
3.1.5 
Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent. 
 
3.1.6 
Karnofsky performance status ≥ 60. 
 
3.1.7 
Most recent systemic therapy or most recent radiation therapy ≥2 weeks of first study drug 
dose. 
 
3.1.8 
Recovery to baseline or ≤ Grade 1 CTCAE v.4.03 from toxicities related to any prior 
treatments, unless AE(s) are clinically non-significant and/or stable on supportive therapy. 
 
3.1.9 
Women of childbearing potential must have a negative serum or urine pregnancy test within 
28 days prior to prior to registration. Women of non-childbearing potential are defined as 
those who have no uterus, ligation of the fallopian tubes, or permanent cessation of ovarian 
function due to ovarian failure or surgical removal of the ovaries. All others are considered 
women of child bearing potential.  


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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24 
 
 
3.1.10 Adequate organ and marrow function as defined below: 
 
System 
Laboratory Value 
Hematological 
Absolute Neutrophil Count 
(ANC) 
≥ 1.5 K/mm3 
Hemoglobin (Hgb) 
≥ 9 g/dL 
Platelets (Plt) 
≥ 100,000/mm3 
Renal 
Calculated creatinine clearance 
Serum creatinine ≤  1.5 times the upper limit 
of normal OR creatinine clearance 
>30mL/min by Cockcroft-Gault formula 
Hepatic 
Total Bilirubin 
≤ 1.5 × upper limit of normal (ULN) 
Aspartate aminotransferase 
(AST) 
≤ 2.5 × ULN (≤ 3 × ULN with known hepatic 
metastases) 
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 
≤ 2.5 × ULN (≤ 3 × ULN with known hepatic 
metastases) 
Prothrombin time (PT) and 
activated partial thromboplastin 
time (aPTT) levels  
≤ 1.5x ULN  
(If patient is receiving anticoagulation that is 
expected to alter these levels, should be in 
targeted therapeutic range for that agent) 
 
 
3.2 
Exclusion Criteria 
 
3.2.1 
Prior treatment for metastatic disease with >1 anti-VEGF/VEGFR inhibitor. 
 
3.2.2 
Prior treatment with anti-PD/PD-L1/CTLA4/IDO antibody (for Cohort B patients only) or 
ESK981 (for Cohort A and Cohort B patients). 
 
Prior mTOR inhibitors or glutaminase inhibitors are allowed. 
 
3.2.3 
Untreated brain metastases or spinal cord compression.  
 
Patients with suspected or known treated brain metastases at screening should 
have a MRI (preferred) or CT preferably with IV contrast of the brain prior to study 
entry. Patients whose brain metastases have been treated may be considered if 
they have completed their treatment for brain metastasi(e)s at least 4 weeks prior to 
study registration AND they show radiographic and clinical stability (by CT or MRI 
brain imaging, obtained after treatment to the brain metastases). In addition, any 
neurologic symptoms that developed either as a result of the brain metastases or 
their treatment must have resolved or be stable without the use of steroids at daily 
doses greater than 10 mg prednisone or equivalent for at least 14 calendar days 
prior to the start of treatment.   
 
3.2.4 
Uncontrolled hypertension defined as blood pressure >150/90 despite at least 2 anti-
hypertensive medications as assessed by 2 blood pressure readings taken at least 1 hour 
apart during screening 
 
3.2.5 
Major surgical procedure or significant traumatic injury within 6 weeks prior to study 
registration.  (>6 weeks prior to registration is permitted as long as they have fully recovered 
from any such procedure). 
 


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25 
 
3.2.6 
History of another primary malignancy except for: malignancy treated with curative intent 
and no known active disease for ≥2 years, adequately treated non-melanoma skin cancer 
without current evidence of active disease, adequately treated carcinoma in situ without 
current evidence of active disease, Gleason ≤ 6 prostate cancer. 
 
3.2.7 Angina, myocardial infarction symptomatic congestive heart failure, cerebrovascular accident, 
transient ischemic attack, arterial embolism, pulmonary embolism, percutaneous angioplasty 
or Coronary arterial bypass surgery within the past 3 months. 
 
3.2.8 History of gastrointestinal perforation or fistula in the past 6 months, or while previously on 
antiangiogenic therapy, unless underlying risk has been resolved (e.g. through surgical 
resection or repair). 
 
3.2.9 
The patient has known hypersensitivity to gelatin or lactose monohydrate. 
 
       3.2.10 The patient has received any investigational drug within 28 days prior to registration or 5 
half-lives of the investigational drug, whichever is shorter. 
 
3.2.11 History of bleeding disorders (e.g. pulmonary hemorrhage, significant hemoptysis, 
menometrorrhagia not responding to hormonal treatment) ≤ 6 weeks before Cycle 1 Day 1. 
 
3.2.12 The patient is on a chronic daily medication known to be a severe or moderate inhibitor or 
inducer by Micromedex of CYP1A2, CYP2C8, or CYP3A4 at registration.  
 
3.2.13  Systemic corticosteroids greater than the equivalent of 10 mg of prednisone or equivalent 
alternative steroid (except physiologic dose for adrenal replacement therapy) or other 
immunosuppressive agents (such as cyclosporine or methotrexate) and any other 
medications that could potentially impact the efficacy or safety of the study as judged by the 
treating investigator are NOT permitted from time of registration to subjects completing 
protocol therapy unless clinically indicated to manage adverse events or life threatening or 
serious conditions as determined by the treating investigator. 
 
              3.2.14 Have any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, would compromise the ability of 
the subject to meet or perform study requirements. 
 
4.0 
SUBJECT SCREENING AND REGISTRATION PROCEDURES 
 
Patient registration for this trial will be centrally managed by the Coordinating Center of The University of 
Michigan Rogel Cancer Center as described below: 
 
A potential study subject who has been screened for the trial and who has signed the Informed Consent 
document will be initially documented by the participating site on a Screening and Enrollment Log.  
 
It is the responsibility of the local site investigator to determine patient eligibility prior to submitting patient 
registration request to the Coordinating Center. After patient eligibility has been determined, a copy of the 
completed Eligibility Worksheet together with all the pertinent de-identified source documents will be 
submitted by the requesting site to the Coordinating Center, by email to CTSU-Oncology-
Multisite@med.umich.edu.  
 
The Multi-Site Coordinator (MSC) of the Coordinating Center will review the submitted documents and 
process the registration. Sites should inform the Multi-Site Coordinator of a potential registration by 5 p.m. on 
the day prior to registration.  Same day registrations cannot be guaranteed.   
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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26 
 
An email will be sent by the MSC to the requesting site registrar to confirm patient registration and to provide 
the study identification number that has been assigned to the patient. In addition, a copy of the completed 
Eligibility Worksheet signed and dated by the MSC, will be sent back to the requesting site registrar. 
 
Patients found to be ineligible for participation after being consented will be considered screen failures, and 
documented as such in a Screening and Enrollment Log. These patients will not have study identification 
number assigned to them, and will not receive study treatment. 
5.0 
TREATMENT PLAN 
5.1 
Treatment Dosage and Administration 
Protocol treatment must start within 14 business days of enrollment to the study. 
 
There are 2 cohorts for accrual with Cohort A being accrued first.  Cohort B will follow and will have 
2 stages of accrual.  Cohort A will accrue 11 patients to ESK981 monotherapy treatment.  Then 
Cohort B (combination therapy) will begin accrual of 17 patients to the first stage and if the interim 
analysis permits, the second stage will accrue an additional 19 patients.   
 
5.1.1 
Therapy with ESK981 will include starting dose of 160 mg (4 capsules) PO daily for 5 
consecutive days followed by a 2-day off drug in each week, repeated weekly in 28 day 
cycles.  Patients will continue treatment until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. 
 
 
REGIMEN DESCRIPTION 
 
Agent 
Premedications; 
Precautions 
 
Dose 
 
Route 
 
Schedule 
Cycle 
Length  
ESK981 
n/a 
160 mg 
PO 
Once daily for 
5 consecutive 
days of every 
week (5 days 
on followed by 
2 days off) 
28 days 
 
Nivolumab 
(solution for 
injection) 
Per institutional 
guidelines, none 
mandated. 
480 mg/dose  IV infusion 
over 30-60 
minutes with 
a sterile, 
nonpyrogenic, 
low protein 
binding 0.2 to 
1.2 
micrometer 
in-line filter. 
Follow with 
saline flush. 
Day 1  
28 days 
 
 
 
Dose Level 
Dose of ESK981 
Dose of Nivolumab 
Level 0 
160 mg 
Fixed at 480 mg flat dose 
Level -1 
120 mg 
Fixed at 480 mg flat dose 
Level -2 
80 mg 
Fixed at 480 mg flat dose 
 
 
Dose-Limiting Toxicity (DLT) 
Dose limiting toxicity (DLT) will be defined as any Grade 3 or higher toxicity (as defined by CTCAE 
4.03) that occurs during the DLT evaluation period (Cycle 1 i.e. 28 days) EXCEPT laboratory 
abnormalities that are not clinically relevant or significant. 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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27 
 
 
Subjects will be given a pill diary and instructed to complete it every cycle.  Doses missed by 6 or 
more hours or vomited will be skipped and not made up but will be recorded on the diary as missed 
or vomited. The subject will be advised not to take any additional doses, but to wait for the next 
scheduled dose. 
5.2 
Toxicities and Dosing Delays/Dose Modifications 
Any patient who receives treatment on this protocol will be evaluable for toxicity. Each patient will be 
assessed for the development of toxicity according to the Time and Events Table (Section 6.1). 
Toxicity will be assessed according to the NCI Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events 
(CTCAE), version 4.03. Dose adjustments should be made according to the system showing the 
greatest degree of toxicity.  
 
 
 
Table 5.2.1 Hematological Toxicities 
 
 Hematological Toxicity Dose Reductions for ESK981 
ANC1 
Platelets 
Action 
≥ 1,500/L or 
>100,000/L 
None. 
 
1000-1499/L or 
 
75,000-99,000/L 
-1st Occurrence: Hold current dose until ANC ≥ 
1,500/L and platelets ≥ 100,000/L. Do not 
replace missed doses. Restart next treatment at 
1 dose lower.  
-2nd Occurrence: Hold current dose until ANC ≥ 
1,500/L and platelets ≥ 100,000/L. Do not 
replace missed doses. Restart next treatment at 
1 dose lower if available or discontinue if not 
available 
-3rd Occurrence: Discontinue protocol therapy. 
 
 
500-999/L or 
 
50,000-74,000/L 
-1st Occurrence: Hold current dose until ANC ≥ 
1,500/L and platelets ≥ 100,000/L. Do not 
replace missed doses. Restart next treatment at 
1 dose lower if available or discontinue if not 
available. 
 -2nd Occurrence: Hold current dose until ANC ≥ 
1,500/L and platelets ≥ 100,000/L. Do not 
replace missed doses. Restart next treatment at 1 
dose lower if available or discontinue if not 
available. 
-3rd Occurrence: Discontinue protocol therapy. 
 
<500/L or 
 
<50,000/L 
-1st Occurrence: Hold current dose until ANC ≥ 
1,500/L and platelets ≥ 100,000/L. Restart 
next treatment at 1 dose lower if available or 
discontinue if not available. 
-2nd Occurrence: Discontinue protocol therapy.  
1Note: G-CSF (Filgrastim) may be added for low ANC on day of treatment BEFORE a dose reduction 
is instituted at treating physician’s discretions. Neulasta® is NOT allowed. 
 
Treatment-Emergent Non-hematological Toxicities: (EXCEPT non-clinically relevant/significant 
laboratory abnormalities):      


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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28 
 
 
 
NCI CTCAE Grade 
ESK981 
Nivolumab 
1 
No change from original starting 
dose  
No change from original starting 
dose, supportive care as required 
2  
Hold until resolved to ≤ Grade 1, 
then reduce by 1 dose level if 
available or discontinue if not 
available 
Hold until resolved to ≤ Grade 1,  
supportive care as required and 
then resume treatment  
Second episode of 
grade 2 or 1st episode of 
≥ grade 3 toxicity 
Hold until resolved to ≤ Grade 1, 
then reduce by 1 dose level if 
available or discontinue if not 
available 
Discontinue treatment 
Third episode of grade 2 
or 2nd episode of ≥ 
grade 3 toxicity 
Discontinue treatment 
 
 
Note: The drug modifications for toxicity only apply to the drug the toxicity is attributed to (i.e. the 
offending drug), and the other drug could be continued without modification.  
 
Note: Any drug holds for toxicity can continue for a maximum duration of 12 weeks. Beyond that, the 
offending drug shall be permanently discontinued. The other drug can be continued. 
5.3 
Concomitant Medications/Treatments 
Systemic corticosteroids greater than the equivalent of 10 mg of prednisone or equivalent alternative 
steroid (except physiologic dose for adrenal replacement therapy) or other immunosuppressive 
agents (such as cyclosporine or methotrexate) and any other medications that could potentially 
impact the efficacy or safety of the study as judged by the treating investigator are NOT permitted 
from time of registration to subjects completing protocol therapy unless clinically indicated to 
manage adverse events or life threatening or serious conditions as determined by the treating 
investigator. 
 
Subjects are prohibited from receiving the following therapies during the Screening and Treatment 
Phase of this trial:   
 
Immunotherapy not specified in this protocol  
 
Chemotherapy not specified in this protocol 
 
Investigational agents other than ESK981 or checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy  
 
Neulasta®  
 
Live vaccines within 30 days prior to the initial study treatment administration through the 
last dose of study treatment. Examples of live vaccines include, but are not limited to, the 
following: measles, mumps, rubella, varicella/zoster, yellow fever, intranasal influenza, 
rabies, BCG (tuberculosis vaccine), and typhoid vaccine.   
 
If precluded by local regulations, live vaccines should not be given for 120 days after 
the last dose of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy is administered.  
 
Systemic glucocorticoids or other immunosuppressive drugs for any purpose other than to 
modulate symptoms from a drug-related AE of immunologic etiology (refer to Section 5.2 – 
Dose Modification). The use of physiologic doses of corticosteroids may be approved after 
consultation with the Study PI.  
o 
Use of prophylactic corticosteroids to avoid allergic and other adverse reactions 
(e.g., to IV contrast dye or transfusions) is permitted. 
o 
Use of intermittent inhaled steroids or local injection of corticosteroids is permitted 
upon consultation with the Principal Investigator. 
o 
Physiologic doses of prednisone ≤10 mg (or equivalent) per day. 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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29 
 
5.4 
Other Modalities or Procedures 
No other modalities or procedures will be used in this protocol. 
5.5 
Duration of Therapy 
In the absence of treatment delays due to adverse events, treatment may continue until one of the 
criteria listed in Section 5.6 apply. Patients will be followed for up to 24 months after removal from 
treatment or until death, whichever occurs first. Patients removed from treatment for unacceptable 
adverse events will be followed by phone call or clinic visit until resolution or stabilization of the 
adverse events.  
5.6 
Off Treatment Criteria  
Patients can be taken off study treatment at any time at their own request with a withdrawal of 
informed consent, or they may be withdrawn at the discretion of the investigator for safety, 
behavioral or administrative reasons. The reason(s) for discontinuation from study treatment will be 
documented and may include: 
 
Disease progression as defined in Section 7.0 or evidence of clinical progression as 
determined by treating investigator; 
 
Subject has intolerable toxicity from study therapy despite supportive measures and 
maximum permitted dose modifications and holds per protocol; 
 
Patient withdraws informed consent (termination of treatment and follow-up for any 
reason); 
 
Loss of ability to freely provide informed consent through imprisonment or involuntary 
incarceration for treatment; 
 
Patient is unable to comply with protocol requirements; 
 
Treating physician determines continuation on the study would not be in the patient’s 
best interest; 
 
Development of second malignancy (except for basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell 
carcinoma of the skin or Gleason ≤ 6 prostate cancer) that requires treatment, which 
would interfere with this study; 
 
Lost to Follow-up. If a research subject cannot be located to document survival after a 
period of 2 years, the subject may be considered “lost to follow-up.” All attempts to 
contact the subject during the two years must be documented; 
 
Termination of the study by the University of Michigan; 
 
Patient completes protocol treatment and follow-up. 
5.7 
Patient Replacement 
 
Patients who are not evaluable for objective response (as defined in Section 7.1.1) will be replaced. 
 
 
 
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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30 
 
6.0 
SCHEDULE OF ASSESSMENTS 
6.1   Time and Events Table 
1 cycle (C) = 28 days (D).  
Trial Period 
 
Screening 
(-28 to -1 
days) 
C1D1 
C2D1 
C3D1 
C4D1 
Additional 
Cycles… 
EOT7 
Follow-Up8 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
30 days 
from last 
dose    
(+/- 7 
business 
days) 
Every 12 
weeks (+/-14 
business 
days) for up 
to 24 
months/death 
Informed Consent 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tumor tissue 
specimen (15 FFPE 
slides required; 
blocks preferred) 
identified 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Blood for banking 
 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
History, PE, 
Concomitant Meds, 
Vital Signs1 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
 
PT/INR, aPTT 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Karnofsky 
Performance Status 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
 
Pregnancy Test for 
WOBCP2 
X 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Toxicity (include DLT) 
Evaluations12 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
 
CBC with differential, 
platelets3 
X 
X13 
X13 
X 
X 
X 
X 
 
COMP4 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
 
TSH 
X 
Every 12 weeks from Cycle 1 Day 1 5 
 
 
QoL (EQ-5D-5L) 
 
X 
X 
X 
 
X14  
 
X 
Pill Diary 
collection/handing out 
 
X 
X 
X 
X 
X 
 
 
Tumor response 
assessment 6 (CT 
chest, CT or MRI 
abdomen/pelvis; CT 
or MRI brain if 
clinically indicated) 
X 
 
 
X 
 
X 6 
 
X 
Treatment 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ESK9819, 10 
(Cohort A and B) 
 
X       
X      
X      
X      
X         
 
 
Nivolumab11 
(Cohort B only) 
 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
 
X 
 
 
 
Survival Status 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X 
 
1. 
Vital signs will include weight, temperature, pulse, respirations, blood pressure; height will be obtained at screening only. 
2. 
WOCBP: Women of child bearing potential; either urine or serum pregnancy test. 
3. 
CBC with diff includes total WBC, hemoglobin, hematocrit and differential of the WBC including absolute counts. Other 
checks are at discretion of treating investigator. 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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31 
 
4. 
COMP or Comprehensive metabolic profile includes sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, BUN, creatinine, AST, ALT, 
alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin. 
5. 
TSH: Every 12 weeks from Cycle 1 Day 1 (i.e. Cycle 4 Day 1; Cycle 7 Day 1, etc.).  
6. 
Window of +/- 7 business days. Imaging will be with or without intravenous contrast, before or on associated visit. CT or MRI 
brain with (preferred) or without IV contrast if suspected or known brain metastases. Frequency of tumor assessments will be 
q2 cycles (i.e. q 8 weeks) for first 4 assessments beyond baseline and then q 3 cycles (i.e. 12 weeks) subsequently until 
withdrawal of consent/death/2 years from C1 D1 whichever is later. If CR/PD, should be confirmed with repeat imaging after 
an interval of at least 4 weeks. In follow-up, if subjects are on alternative therapies, no mandated imaging but data from 
routine imaging will be captured at least every 12 weeks if available (+/- 7 business days). 
7. 
End of treatment visit may or may not be the same day as a planned study visit. If it is not on a planned study visit, the 
minimum assessments listed in the schedule must be completed. 
8. 
Follow-up may be conducted by phone call or a clinic visit. 
9. 
Study drug(s) must be started within 14 business days from time of enrollment. 
10. ESK981 will only be given on days 1-5 of each week of each treatment cycle followed by 2 days off.  
11. Nivolumab will be administered on Day 1  of each treatment cycle in Cohort B. 
12. All Serious Adverse Events (SAEs) occurring from the initial study treatment administration through 60 days following the last 
dose of the study treatment should be reported to the Coordinating Center.  Any SAEs occurring after 60 days following the 
last dose of the study treatment that are believed to be related to study drug should also be reported to the Coordinating 
Center. 
13. CBC with diff must be obtained weekly during Cycles 1 and 2.  For patients who experience no ≥ Grade 3 hematological 
toxicity during Cycles 1 and 2, monthly blood counts will be obtained during subsequent cycles. 
14. QOL obtained Cycles 1-3, 5, 7 and 9 then q 3 cycles (12 weeks) subsequently 
 
NOTE: 
All assessments have a window of ± 3 business days unless otherwise mentioned. 
 
7.0 
MEASUREMENT OF EFFECT 
7.1 
Antitumor Effect- Solid Tumors 
 
Immunotherapy drugs such as nivolumab can initially cause inflammation in the early stages of 
treatment. Immune-related RECIST (irRECIST) utilizes RECISTv1.1 but considers an inflammatory 
response (or “pseudo-progression”) as normal. The main difference between RECISTv1.1 and 
irRECIST is that patients can stay on trial after the first progressive disease (PD) assessment (as 
per RECISTv1.1) if using immune-related RECIST criteria. This PD per RECISTv1.1 is then re-
labeled as immune related stable disease (irSD) per irRECIST and requires addition of 
unidimensional measurements of all new lesions (that meet the definition of target lesion) to be 
added to the sum of longest diameters (SLD) calculation for response assessment. Importantly, 
immune-related progression (irPD) must be confirmed by a follow-up scan at least 4 weeks (within 4-
8 weeks) following the initial PD/irSD assessment in order to take the patient off the trial.  
 
Subjects that are deemed to have clinical progression and/or unstable should not be continued on 
therapy after PD (per RECISTv1.1) and are therefore not required to have repeat tumor imaging for 
confirmation as per irPD definition. It is at the discretion of the treating investigator whether to 
continue a subject on study treatment until repeat confirmatory imaging is obtained. This clinical 
judgment decision by the site investigator should be based on the subject’s overall clinical condition, 
including performance status, clinical symptoms, and laboratory data.  
7.1.1 
Definitions 
Evaluable for toxicity. All patients will be evaluable for toxicity if they have received at least 1 
dose of ESK981. 
 
Evaluable for objective response. Only those patients who have measurable disease 
present at baseline, have received at least 2 cycle(s) of therapy, and have had their disease 
re-evaluated will be considered evaluable for response. These patients will have their 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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32 
 
response classified according to the definitions stated below. (Note: Patients who exhibit 
objective disease progression prior to the end of cycle 2 will also be considered evaluable.) 
7.1.2 
Disease Parameters 
Measurable disease. Measurable lesions are defined as those that can be accurately 
measured in at least one dimension (longest diameter in the plane of measurement is to be 
recorded) with a minimum size of: 
 
 
10mm by CT scan (irrespective of scanner type) for studies with a slice thickness of 
<5mm or twice the slice thickness or MRI 
 
10mm caliper measurement by clinical exam (lesions which cannot be 
             accurately measured with calipers should be recorded as  
             non-measurable)          
 
20mm by chest X-ray (if clearly defined and surrounded by aerated lung) 
                           
                         All tumor measurements must be recorded in millimeters (or decimal fractions of     
                         centimeters). 
 
Malignant lymph nodes: To be considered pathologically enlarged and measurable, a lymph 
node must be ≥15mm in short axis when assessed by CT scan (CT scan slice thickness 
recommended to be no greater than 5 mm). At baseline and in follow-up, only the short axis 
will be measured and followed. 
 
Note: Tumor lesions that are situated in a previously irradiated area will only be considered 
measurable, if they have had subsequent progression by at least 5 mm. 
 
Non-measurable disease. All other lesions (or sites of disease), including small lesions (<10 
mm using CT scan), are considered non-measurable disease. Bone lesions without 
measurable soft tissue component, leptomeningeal disease, ascites, pleural/pericardial 
effusions, lymphangitis cutis/pulmonis, inflammatory breast disease, abdominal masses (not 
followed by CT or MRI), and cystic lesions are all non-measurable. 
 
Target lesions. All measurable lesions up to a maximum of 2 lesions per organ and 5 lesions 
in total should be identified as target lesions and recorded and measured at baseline. 
Target lesions should be selected on the basis of their size (lesions with the longest 
diameter), be representative of all involved organ, but in addition should be those that lend 
themselves to reproducible repeated measurements.  
 
For Cohort B only: If a non-nodal lesion is either not present or is initially measured 
with longest diameter <10mm as a non-target then grows to >10mm after baseline, 
this lesion then becomes a new target lesion as per irRECIST criteria. The non-
nodal longest diameter is then added to the sum of diameters, and patient response 
is calculated with the new lesion. 
 
Lymph nodes merit special mention since they are normal anatomical structures which may 
be visible by imaging even if not involved by tumor. Pathological nodes which are defined as 
measurable and may be identified as target lesions must meet the criterion of a short axis of 
≥15mm by CT scan. Only the short axis of these nodes will contribute to the baseline sum. 
The short axis of the node is the diameter normally used by radiologists to judge if a node is 
involved by solid tumor. Nodal size is normally reported as two dimensions in the plane in 
which the image is obtained (for CT scan this is almost always the axial plane; for MRI the 
plane of acquisition may be axial, sagittal or coronal). The smaller of these measures is the 
short axis. For example, an abdominal node which is reported as being 20mm x 30mm has 
a short axis of 20mm and qualifies as a malignant, measurable node. In this example, 20mm 
should be recorded as the node measurement. All other pathological nodes (those with short 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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33 
 
axis ≥10mm but <15 mm) should be considered non-target lesions. Nodes that have a short 
axis <10mm are considered nonpathological and should not be recorded or followed. 
A sum of the diameters (longest for non-nodal lesions, short axis for nodal lesions) for all 
target lesions will be calculated and reported as the baseline sum diameters. If lymph nodes 
are to be included in the sum, then as noted above, only the short axis is added into the 
sum. The baseline sum diameters will be used as reference to further characterize any 
objective tumor regression in the measurable dimension of the disease.  
 
For Cohort B only: If a non-target lymph node grows to >15mm after baseline, this 
node then becomes a new target lesion as per irRECIST. The nodal short axis is 
then added to the sum of diameters, and patient response is calculated with the new 
lesion. 
 
Non-target lesions. All other lesions (or sites of disease) including pathological lymph nodes 
should be identified as non-target lesions and should also be recorded at baseline. 
Measurements are not required and these lesions should be followed as ‘present’, ‘absent’, 
or in rare cases ‘unequivocal progression’ (more details to follow). In addition, it is possible 
to record multiple non-target lesions involving the same organ as a single item on the case 
record form (e.g. ‘multiple enlarged pelvic lymph nodes’ or ‘multiple liver metastases’). 
7.1.3 
Guidelines for Evaluation of Measurable Disease 
All measurements should be recorded in metric notation, using calipers if clinically 
assessed. All baseline evaluations should be performed as close as possible to the 
treatment start and never more than 4 weeks before the beginning of the treatment. 
 
The same method of assessment and the same technique should be used to characterize 
each identified and reported lesion at baseline and during follow-up. Imaging based 
evaluation should always be done rather than clinical examination unless the lesion(s) being 
followed cannot be imaged but are assessable by clinical exam. 
 
Clinical lesions: Clinical lesions will only be considered measurable when they are 
superficial and >10mm diameter as assessed using calipers (e.g. skin nodules). For the 
case of skin lesions, documentation by color photography including a ruler to estimate the 
size of the lesion is suggested. As noted above, when lesions can be evaluated by both 
clinical exam and imaging, imaging evaluation should be undertaken since it is more 
objective and may also be reviewed at the end of the study. 
 
Chest X-ray: Chest CT is preferred over chest X-ray, particularly when progression is an 
important endpoint, since CT is more sensitive than X-ray, particularly in identifying new 
lesions. However, lesions on chest X-ray may be considered measurable if they are clearly 
defined and surrounded by aerated lung. 
 
CT, MRI: CT is the best currently available and reproducible method to measure lesions 
selected for response assessment. This guideline has defined measurability of lesions on 
CT scan based on the assumption that CT slice thickness is 5mm or less. When CT scans 
have slice thickness greater than 5 mm, the minimum size for a measurable lesion should 
be twice the slice thickness. MRI is also acceptable in certain situations (e.g. for body 
scans). 
 
Ultrasound: Ultrasound is not useful in assessment of lesion size and should not be used as 
a method of measurement. Ultrasound examinations cannot be reproduced in their entirety 
for independent review at a later date and, because they are operator dependent, it cannot 
be guaranteed that the same technique and measurements will be taken from one 
assessment to the next. If new lesions are identified by ultrasound in the course of the study, 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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34 
 
confirmation by CT or MRI is advised. If there is concern about radiation exposure at CT, 
MRI may be used instead of CT in selected instances. 
 
Endoscopy, laparoscopy: The utilization of these techniques for objective tumor evaluation is 
not advised. However, they can be useful to confirm complete pathological response when 
biopsies are obtained or to determine relapse in trials where recurrence following complete 
response or surgical resection is an endpoint. 
 
Tumor markers: Tumor markers alone cannot be used to assess objective tumor response.  
 
7.1.4 
Response Criteria 
7.1.4.1 Evaluation of Target Lesions 
Patients will be evaluated according the following RECISTv1.1 response: 
Complete Response (CR): Disappearance of all target lesions, determined by two 
separate observations conducted not less than 4 weeks apart. There can be no 
appearance of new lesions. 
 
Partial Response (PR): At least a 30% decrease in the sum of the longest diameter 
(LD) of target lesions, taking as reference the baseline sum LD. There can be no 
appearance of new lesions. 
 
Progressive Disease (PD): At least a 20% increase in the sum of the LD of target 
lesions (with a minimum absolute increase of 5 mm), taking as reference the 
smallest sum LD recorded since the treatment started, or the appearance of one or 
more new lesions. 
 
Stable Disease (SD): Neither sufficient shrinkage to qualify for PR (taking as 
reference the baseline sum LD) nor sufficient increase to qualify for PD (taking as 
reference the smallest sum LD since the treatment started). 
 
For Cohort B only: 
After the first PD assessment per RECISTv1.1 (=irSD per irRECIST), patients will be 
evaluated for irPD at least 4 weeks apart according to the following definition: 
 
Immune-related Progressive Disease (irPD): At least a 20% increase in the sum of 
the LD of target lesions (with a minimum absolute increase of 5 mm), taking as 
reference the smallest sum LD recorded since the treatment started, or appearance 
of new lesions since the last evaluation. 
 
7.1.4.2 Evaluation of Non-Target Lesions 
Complete Response (CR): Disappearance of all non-target lesions.  All lymph nodes 
should be non-pathological in size (<10 mm short axis) 
 
Non-CR/Non-OD: Persistence of one or more non-target lesion(s). 
 
Progressive Disease (PD): Appearance of one or more new lesions and/or 
unequivocal progression of existing non-target lesions. 
 
Although a clear progression on non-target lesions in absence of stable target 
lesions is exceptional, the opinion of the treating physician should prevail in such 
circumstances.  


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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35 
 
7.1.4.3 Evaluation of Best Overall Response 
The best overall response is the best response recorded from the start of the 
treatment until disease progression/recurrence (taking as reference for progressive 
disease the smallest measurements recorded since the treatment started). The 
patient's best response assignment will depend on the achievement of both 
measurement and confirmation criteria. 
 
 
Evaluation as per combined RECISTv1.1/irRECIST 
 
Target 
Lesions 
Non-Target 
Lesions 
New 
Lesions 
Overall 
Response 
per 
RECISTv1.1 
Overall 
Response 
per 
irRECIST 
(Cohort B 
only) 
Confirmed Response 
for this Category 
Requires: 
CR 
CR 
No 
CR 
NA 
>4 wks. confirmation 
CR 
CR 
Non-CR/PD 
No 
PR 
NA 
>4 wks. confirmation 
PR 
CR 
Non-CR/PD 
No 
SD 
CR 
Non-CR/PD 
No 
SD 
NA 
Documented at least 
once >4 wks. from 
baseline 
PD 
Any 
Any 
PD 
irSD 
>4 wks. confirmation 
Any 
PD* 
Any 
Any 
Any 
Yes 
PD 
Any 
Any 
NA 
irPD 
No further confirmation 
required 
Any 
PD* 
Any 
Any 
Any 
Yes 
* 
Only in exceptional circumstances, unequivocal progression in non-target lesions may be 
accepted as disease progression. 
 
Note: Patients with a global deterioration of health status requiring discontinuation of treatment 
without objective evidence of disease progression at that time should be reported as 
“symptomatic deterioration”. Every effort should be made to document the objective 
progression even after discontinuation of treatment. 
          NA=not applicable 
 
Note: If subjects respond to treatment and are able to have their disease resected, the patient’s response 
will be assessed prior to the surgery. 
 
7.1.4.4 Treatment Beyond Progression – Cohort B only 
Accumulating evidence indicates a minority of subjects treated with immunotherapy 
may derive clinical benefit despite initial evidence of PD. 
 
Subjects treated on Arm B will be permitted to continue study treatment beyond 
initial RECISTv1.1 defined PD, assessed by the investigator, as long as they meet 
the following criteria: 
 
 
Investigator determined clinical benefit 
 
Tolerance of study drug 
 
Stable performance status 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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36 
 
 
Treatment beyond progression will not delay an imminent intervention to 
prevent serious complications of disease progression (e.g., CNS 
metastases) 
 
A radiographic assessment/ scan should be performed within 4-8 weeks of initial 
investigator-assessed progression to determine whether there has been a decrease 
in the tumor size or continued PD (termed irPD). The assessment of clinical benefit 
should be balanced by clinical judgment as to whether the subject is clinically 
deteriorating and unlikely to receive any benefit from continued treatment. 
 
If the investigator feels that the subject continues to achieve clinical benefit by 
continuing treatment, the subject should remain on the trial and continue to receive 
monitoring according to the Time and Events Table (Section 6.1). 
 
Immune-related Progressive Disease (irPD): For the subjects who continue study 
therapy beyond progression, further progression is defined as an additional 10% 
increase in tumor burden with a minimum 5 mm absolute increase from time of initial 
PD, unequivocal worsening of NT lesions, or appearance of new lesions since the 
last evaluation. This includes an increase in the sum of diameters of all target 
lesions and/ or the diameters of new measurable lesions compared to the time of 
initial PD. Study treatment should be discontinued permanently upon documentation 
of further progression (i.e. irPD). 
 
7.1.5 
Duration of Response 
Duration of overall response: The duration of overall response is measured from the time 
measurement criteria are met for CR or PR (whichever is first recorded) until the first date 
that recurrent or progressive disease is objectively documented (taking as reference for 
progressive disease the smallest measurements recorded since the treatment started). 
 
 
 
Duration of stable disease: Stable disease is measured from the start of the treatment until 
the criteria for progression are met, taking as reference the smallest measurements 
recorded since the treatment started.  
7.1.6 
Progression-Free Survival 
Progression-free survival (PFS) is defined as the duration of time from start of treatment to 
time of progression or death, the event that occurs first. 
7.2 
Safety/Tolerability 
 
 Analyses will be performed for all patients having received at least one dose of study drug. The 
study will use the CTCAE version 4.03 for reporting of non-hematologic adverse events 
(https://www.eortc.be/services/doc/ctc/CTCAE_4.03_2010-06-14_QuickReference_5x7.pdf) and 
modified criteria for hematologic adverse events. 
8.0 
ADVERSE EVENTS 
8.1 
ESK981 (formally known as CEP-11981) 
8.1.1 
Contraindications 
Because of the potential for drug-drug interaction, the concurrent use of all other drugs, 
over-the-counter medications, and alternative therapies must be documented in the 
patient’s record.  


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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37 
 
8.1.2 
Special Warnings and Precautions for Use 
ESK981 is metabolized via CYP1A2, CYP2C8, and CYP3A4. Inhibitors of CYP1A2, 
CYP2C8, and CYP3A4 have the potential to increase plasma concentration of ESK981. 
Inducers of CYP1A2, CYP2C8, and CYP3A4 have the potential to decrease plasma 
concentrations of ESK981. Concomitant use of a medication known to be a potent 
inhibitor of CYP1A2, CYP2C8, or CYP3A4, or a potent inducer of CYP1A2, CYP2C8, or 
CYP3A4 should be avoided unless deemed to be medically necessary by the 
investigator. In addition, nonclinical studies have identified the potential for ESK981 to 
inhibit CYP3A4/5 (Ki 2.2μM).  ESK981 has the potential to increase plasma concentration 
of concomitant mediations that are CYP3A4/5 substrates. Caution should be used, or 
alternative treatments considered, if concomitant treatment with CYP3A4/5 substrates 
that have a narrow therapeutic range is needed (see Appendix 2).    
 
Adverse Reactions 
     Side effects: The most frequently reported AE of any grade was fatigue (51%). 
Other frequently reported AEs (≥ 20% of patients) were nausea (47%), diarrhea 
(33%), decreased appetite (33%), abdominal pain (30%), back pain (28%), vomiting 
(28%), constipation (28%), headache (28%), dizziness (28%), and dyspnea (23%). 
These AEs were reported at a similar frequency between dosage cohorts, and no 
relationship with dose was evident. 
 
 
Treatment-Emergent Adverse Events of Grades 3, 4, and 5 Severity:  
Grade 3 or Grade 4 AEs occurred in 37% of patients across dosing cohorts ([32.6%] 
Grade 3 and [4.7%] Grade 4). Treatment-related Grade 3 or Grade 4 AEs were 
most frequent in the 97.4 mg/m2 cohort. Grade 3 or Grade 4 laboratory hematologic 
toxicities were reported in 18.6 % of patients across dosage cohorts. The most 
common Grade 3 or Grade 4 laboratory hematologic toxicity was lymphopenia, 
which occurred across dosage cohorts (5.9, 29.6, 55.0, 97.4, and 126.6 mg/m2). 
Grade 4 leukopenia occurred in a single patient in the 126.6 mg/m2 cohort. Grade 3 
or Grade 4 neutropenia also occurred in two patients in the 97.4 mg/m2 cohort 
(Grade 3) and in one patient in the 126.6 mg/m2 cohort (Grade 4). No Grade 5 AEs 
occurred. 
 
 
Serious Adverse Events  
Serious adverse events (SAEs) occurred were deemed unlikely or not related to 
ESK981. Three patients (1 patient in the 97.4 mg/m2 cohort and two patients in the 
126.6 mg/m2 cohort) experienced SAEs that were categorized as possibly or 
definitely related to ESK981: pyrexia, hemolytic anemia, hyperbilirubinemia, 
dyspnea, neutropenia, ECG change, and chest discomfort.  There were no deaths 
occurred during the study. 
 
 Procedure in case of Pregnancy  
The effect of ESK981 in pregnant and lactating women is not known, and the 
exposure of a fetus or nursing infant is considered a potential risk. ESK981 can 
cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman based on its mechanism 
of action. Subjects receiving ESK981 are advised to use two acceptable methods of 
birth control (one of which must include a condom as a barrier method of 
contraception) starting at the time of screening for an ESK981 study and continuing 
throughout the course of treatment and for at least six months after ESK981 is 
discontinued.  
 
If during the conduct of the clinical trial, a male subject impregnates his partner, the 
subject should report the pregnancy to the investigator. The investigator should 
report the pregnancy to the Coordinating Center as an SAE within 24 hours of 
awareness of the event. The expected date of delivery or expected date of the end 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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38 
 
of the pregnancy, last menstruation, estimated fertility date, pregnancy result and 
neonatal data etc., should be included in this information.  
 
The investigator should report the outcome of the pregnancy (independent of 
outcome, e.g., full term delivery, pre-term delivery, spontaneous abortion, induced 
abortion, stillbirth, death of newborn, congenital anomaly [including anomaly in a 
miscarried fetus, etc.] in accordance with the same reporting procedure as for SAEs. 
The date of outcome of the pregnancy, gestational age, date of birth and neonatal 
data etc., should be included in this information. 
 
8.2 
Nivolumab 
Refer to the current package insert for nivolumab contraindications and adverse reactions. 
 
8.3 
Adverse Event Reporting Requirements 
Adverse event (AE) monitoring and reporting is a routine part of every clinical trial and is done to 
ensure the safety of subjects enrolled in the studies as well as those who will enroll in future studies 
using similar agents. Data on adverse events will be collected from the time of the initial study 
treatment administration through 60 days after the last dose of study treatment.  
In addition to new events, any increase in the frequency or severity (i.e., toxicity grade) of a pre-
existing condition that occurs after the patient begins study treatment is also considered an adverse 
event. 
8.4 
Definitions 
8.4.1 Adverse Event 
An adverse event (AE) is any untoward medical occurrence in a patient receiving study 
treatment and which does not necessarily have a causal relationship with this treatment. An 
AE can be any unfavorable and unintended sign (including an abnormal laboratory finding), 
symptom, or disease temporally associated with the use of an experimental intervention, 
whether or not related to the intervention.  
 
 
Diagnostic and therapeutic non-invasive and invasive (i.e., surgical) procedures will not 
be reported as adverse events. However, the medical condition for which the procedure 
was performed must be reported if it meets the definition of an adverse event unless it is 
a pre-existing (prior to protocol treatment) condition. 
 
 
Abnormal laboratory values or test results constitute adverse events if they induce 
clinical signs or symptoms or require therapy. They are to be captured under the signs, 
symptoms or diagnoses associated with them. 
8.4.2 Serious Adverse Event 
An adverse event is considered “serious” if, in the view of either the investigator, it results in 
any of the following outcomes: 
  
o 
Death 
If death results from (progression of) the disease, the disease should be reported as 
event (SAE) itself. 
 
o 
A life-threatening adverse event 
An adverse even is considered ‘life-threatening’ if, in the view of either the investigator 
[or sponsor], its occurrence places the patient or subject at immediate risk of death. It 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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39 
 
does not include an adverse event that, had it occurred in a more severe form, might 
have caused death.  
 
o 
Inpatient hospitalization or prolongation of existing hospitalization for > 24 hours. 
 
o 
A persistent or significant incapacity or substantial disruption of the ability to conduct 
normal life functions 
 
o 
A congenital anomaly/birth defect 
 
o 
Important medical event 
Any event that may not result in death, be life-threatening, or require hospitalization may 
be considered serious when, based upon appropriate medical judgment, they may 
jeopardize the patient and may require medical or surgical intervention to prevent one of 
the outcomes listed in this definition of “Serious Adverse Event”. Examples of such 
medical events include allergic bronchospasm requiring intensive treatment in an 
emergency room or at home; convulsions that do not result in inpatient hospitalization or 
the development of drug dependency or drug abuse. 
 
Previously planned (prior to signing the informed consent form) surgeries should not be 
reported as SAEs unless the underlying medical condition has worsened during the course 
of the study. Preplanned hospitalizations or procedures for preexisting conditions that are 
already recorded in the patient’s medical history at the time of study enrollment should not 
be considered SAEs. Hospitalization or prolongation of hospitalization without a precipitating 
clinical AE (for example, for the administration of study therapy or other protocol-required 
procedure) should not be considered SAEs. However, if the preexisting condition worsened 
during the course of the study, it should be reported as an SAE. 
 
8.4.3 Expected Adverse Events 
An adverse event (AE) is considered “expected” if: 
 
For approved and marketed drugs or devices, those adverse events are described 
in the approved Package Insert (Label).  
 
For investigational new drugs or devices, those adverse events are described in the 
FDA Investigator’s Brochure.  
 
In clinical research studies, information on expected adverse events is also 
summarized in the protocol and in the consent document.   
8.4.4 Unexpected Adverse Event 
An adverse event (AE) is considered “unexpected” if it is not described in the Package 
Insert, Investigator’s Brochure, in published medical literature, in the protocol, or in the 
informed consent document.  
8.5 
Adverse Event Characteristics 
8.5.1 
CTCAE Term 
(AE description) and grade: The descriptions and grading scales found in the NCI Common 
Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 4.03 will be utilized for AE 
reporting. All appropriate treatment areas should have access to a copy of the CTCAE 
version 4.03. A copy of the CTCAE version 4.03 can be down loaded from the CTEP web 
site. (https://www.eortc.be/services/doc/ctc/CTCAE_4.03_2010-06-
14_QuickReference_5x7.pdf 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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40 
 
8.5.2 
Attribution of the AE 
The investigator or co-investigator is responsible for assignment of attribution. 
Definite – The AE is clearly related to the study treatment. 
Probable – The AE is likely related to the study treatment. 
Possible – The AE may be related to the study treatment. 
Unlikely – The AE is doubtfully related to the study treatment. 
Unrelated – The AE is clearly NOT related to the study treatment. 
8.6 
Serious Adverse Event Reporting Guidelines 
All serious adverse events (SAEs) and unanticipated problems (UPs), regardless of causality to 
study drug, will be reported to the Principal Investigator and also to the Coordinating Center.  All 
SAEs and UPs must be reported to the Coordinating Center within 24 hours of first awareness of the 
event.  Events should be reported using the Coordinating Center SAE form as available in the study 
database.  A copy of the Coordinating Center SAE form as available in the study database should be 
sent to the Coordinating Center via fax at 734-232-0744 or via email to CTSU-Oncology-
Multisite@med.umich.edu within 24 hours of the site’s knowledge of the event.  
Follow-up information should also be reported within 24 hours of receipt of the information by the 
investigator. 
All SAEs and UPs will be reported to the IRB per current institutional standards. 
The Coordinating Center will disseminate information regarding SAEs and UPs to the participating 
sites within 5 days of review of the information by the Coordinating Center’s Principal Investigator (or 
designee in the event of extended absence) only in the case that the event(s) is believed to be 
related (i.e., possibly, probably, or definitely) to the study drug. The Coordinating Center will be 
responsible for reporting of events to the FDA and supporters, as appropriate (outlined below). 
8.6.1 
Reporting procedures to Esanik  
All Serious Adverse Events (SAEs) occurring from the initial study treatment administration 
through 60 days following the last dose of the study treatment will be reported by the 
Coordinating Center to Esanik.  Any SAEs occurring after 60 days following the last dose of 
the study treatment that are believed to be related to study drug will also be reported to 
Esanik.  
The Coordinating Center will send the initial completed SAE Form within 24 hours of receipt 
via email to Esanik: 
  
 
Email: drugsafety@esanik.com. The Coordinating Center will confirm receipt of the 
email by calling 858-693-9158  
  
 
If only limited information is initially available or an ongoing SAE changes in its intensity or 
relationship to the study drug, or if new information becomes available, a follow-up report will 
be generated and sent to Esanik within 24 hours of receipt.   
8.6.2 
Reporting procedures to the FDA 
In this trial, serious unexpected adverse events believed to be definitely, probably or 
possibly related to the study treatment will be reported to the Food and Drug Administration 
via the MedWatch 3500A. The Michigan IND/IDE Assistance Program (MIAP) (University of 
Michigan) will assist the IND Sponsor in reporting SAEs to the FDA that meet the reporting 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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41 
 
requirements in 21 CFR 312.32. This reporting could include the initial report and follow-up 
reports when appropriate for the event. 
 
 
All correspondence to the FDA by sponsor-investigator should be provided to Esanik. 
8.7 
Routine Reporting 
All other adverse events- such as those that are expected, or are unlikely or definitely not related to 
the study participation- are to be reported annually as part of regular data submission. 
8.8 
Reporting of Unanticipated Problems 
There are types of incidents, experiences and outcomes that occur during the conduct of human 
subjects research that represent unanticipated problems but are not considered adverse events. For 
example, some unanticipated problems involve social or economic harm instead of the physical or 
psychological harm associated with adverse events. In other cases, unanticipated problems place 
subjects or others at increased risk of harm, but no harm occurs. 
 
Upon becoming aware of any incident, experience, or outcome (not related to an adverse event) that 
may represent an unanticipated problem, the investigator should assess whether the incident, 
experience, or outcome represents an unanticipated problem. The incident, experience or outcomes 
is considered unanticipated if it meets all of the following criteria: 
 
1. Unexpected (in terms of nature, severity, or frequency); 
2. Related or possibly related to participation in the research; and 
3. Suggests that the research places subjects or others at a greater risk of harm than was 
previously known or recognized. 
If the investigator determines that the incident, experience, or outcome represents an unanticipated 
problem, the investigator must report it to the Coordinating Center within 2 calendar days of the 
study team becoming aware of the problem and report to their local IRB as per institutional 
guidelines. 
8.9 
Early Stopping Rules  
See section 11.3 for Early Stopping Due to Toxicity. 
 
 
9.0 
DRUG INFORMATION 
9.1 
ESK981 
 
 Other names for the drug: formerly known as CEP-11981 
 
 Description: ESK981 drug product is an off-white to orange opaque, hard gelatin capsule containing 1 
mg, 5 mg, 20 mg or 40 mg (free base equivalents) of ESK981 monotosylate. The drug product is 
packaged in a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottle with a child resistant closure and an induction-
sealed inner seal. The formulation also contains lactose monohydrate.  
 
 Classification - type of agent: Small molecular inhibitor of multiple tyrosine kinases such as vascular 
endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR-1), VEGFR-2, and Tie-2, (IC50 of 3, 4, 22nM, 
respectively) 
 


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42 
 
 Pharmacokinetics:  
 
Note: CEP-11981 refers to the development name for ESK981. 
The pharmacokinetic, ADME, and toxicokinetic characteristics of CEP-11981 have been extensively 
studied in Sprague Dawley rats and cynomolgus monkeys after intravenous and oral doses and 
preliminarily in Balb/c nude mice after oral doses. In order to facilitate comparisons between studies and 
species, all doses are presented in this summary as milligrams of CEP-11981 free base per kilogram of 
body weight, regardless of the form administered, unless specifically noted otherwise. 
The intravenous dose in rats was administered in 3% dimethylsulfoxide, 30% Solutol®, and 67% 
phosphate-buffered saline at a volume of 1 mL/kg. In monkeys, the intravenous vehicle was 47.4% 
polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400, 31.1% water, 20.7% hydroxy-β-cyclodextrin (HPBCD), and 0.8% 
Pluronic® F-68 at a volume of 0.5 mL/kg. Pharmacokinetic parameters obtained after single intravenous 
(bolus) administration of CEP-11981 are summarized in Table 3. 
Table 3. Pharmacokinetics After Single Intravenous Administration of ESK981 
 
In rats, the systemic clearance is low relative to the estimated total hepatic plasma flow; the volume of 
distribution is approximately that of total body water. There are apparent sex-related differences in the 
pharmacokinetics of CEP-11981 in rats, with lower clearance and longer half-life in female rats than in 
male rats. The volume of distribution is numerically less in female rats, but the significance of this 
difference is doubtful. 
In monkeys, the half-life is similar to that in rats, but the systemic clearance is substantially larger than 
that in rats, as is the volume of distribution. The difference in clearance is consistent with the higher rate 
of metabolism of CEP-11981 in incubations with monkey liver microsomes than with rat liver 
microsomes. The origin of the larger volume of distribution in monkeys is not known. 
Pharmacokinetic parameters obtained after single, low-dose oral administration of CEP-11981 are 
summarized in Table 4. 


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43 
 
Table 4. Pharmacokinetics After Single Oral Administration of CEP-11981 
 
Dose administration in the mice was as a suspension of the free base in 0.6% methylcellulose:Tween 
80 (99.5:0.5) at a volume of 25 mL/kg. In the rats and monkeys, the dose was administered as a 
suspension of the tosylate salt in Ora-Plus oral suspending vehicle at volumes of 2 and 5 mL/kg, 
respectively. 
Significant oral bioavailability was obtained in both rats and monkeys. The lack of an intravenous 
comparator dose in mice precluded calculation of the absolute bioavailability in that species, but the 
similarity in systemic exposure in mice relative to rats would suggest that oral bioavailability is 
comparable. 
The effect of fed versus fasted state on the pharmacokinetics of CEP-11981 was assessed in a 
preliminary study in rats. Cmax and AUC0-6 were minimally affected by the fed/fasted state of the 
animals, but the tmax was shifted from 2.7 to 5.3 hours post dose when the animals had been fed before 
dosing. 
At higher oral doses of CEP-11981, there was evidence of dose-dependent pharmacokinetics in all 3 
species. In mice, single-dose systemic exposure increased in a slightly more than dose-proportional 
manner between 1 and 10 mg/kg, but did not show consistent further increase at 20 or 30 mg/kg. After 
23 daily doses, the dose response and concentrations were similar to those after single doses at 1, 3, 
or 10 mg/kg, but were approximately 2 times higher in the 20- and 30-mg/kg groups on day 23 versus 
day 1 of dosing. Systemic exposure after multiple daily doses of 20 and 30 mg/kg was dose-related, 
although not dose-proportional, relative to that at 10 mg/kg. 
In male rats, Cmax was approximately dose proportional between 5 and 15 mg/kg, but was less than dose 
proportional between 15 and 40 mg/kg. The increase in AUC0-∞ was greater than dose-proportional 
between 5 and 15 mg/kg, but was approximately dose proportional between 15 and 40 mg/kg. 
In monkeys, increases in both Cmax and AUC0-∞ were greater than dose proportional between 3 and 13.5 
mg/kg. Similar (i.e., greater-than-dose-proportional) increases in systemic exposure were also noted in 
a preliminary study that tested single oral doses as high as 100 mg/kg in monkeys. 
Due to changes in the form of CEP-11981 that was obtained from successive synthetic campaigns, a 
series of single-dose oral studies were conducted in rats and monkeys to which different forms of the 
compound and/or different dosage regimens were administered. The outcome of those studies indicated 
that milled CEP-11981 tosylate, administered as a suspension in aqueous methylcellulose, provides 
systemic exposures that are in the targeted ranges in both species, and it is that form with which the 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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44 
 
bulk of the nonclinical toxicity testing was done and which will be the form of the compound used in early 
clinical testing. 
The tissue distribution of [14C]-CEP-11981 was studied in male albino (Sprague Dawley) and pigmented 
(Lister hooded) rats after single doses orally at 10 mg/kg and intravenously at 1 mg/kg, respectively, as 
the tosylate salt. Radioactivity was broadly distributed, with highest concentrations (exclusive of the 
gastrointestinal tract) in the liver, kidney, and adrenal gland. 
Minimal radioactivity was detected in barriered tissues, i.e., brain and testis, but there was apparent 
association with melanin-containing structures such as uveal tract and pigmented skin in the pigmented 
animals. The bulk of the radioactivity was removed from the tissues during the 168- and 24-hour test 
periods in the albino and pigmented animals, respectively. 
CEP-11981 is extensively metabolized in vitro by liver microsomes from male Swiss CD1 mice, male 
Sprague Dawley rats, male New Zealand rabbits, male beagle dogs, male cynomolgus monkeys, and 
humans. The relative order of loss of parent compound during 20 minutes of incubation was: monkeys 
> humans > mice ≈ dogs > rats ≈ rabbits. 
Incubations with individual recombinant human CYP enzymes suggested that 3 enzymes, i.e., CYP1A2, 
CYP2C8, and CYP3A4, may play significant roles in the metabolic elimination of CEP-11981. Other CYP 
enzymes that were also capable of metabolizing the compound in vitro are either minimally expressed 
in adult human liver (i.e., CYP1A1 and CYP3A7) or are polymorphic, being expressed in a minority of 
individuals (i.e., CYP3A5). The results of experiments assessing the effect of CYP-specific inhibitors on 
loss of CEP-11981 during incubation with human liver microsomes also identified CYP3A enzymes as 
playing a key role in metabolic elimination of the compound. 
After oral administration of [14C]-CEP-11981, radioactivity was predominantly recovered in the feces in 
both rats and monkeys, with less than 1% of the radiochemical dose recovered in urine of either species. 
Metabolic profiling was hence conducted in rat bile, in which parent [14C]-CEP-11981 was the most 
prominent radioactive component, especially in the female rat. 
The most prominent metabolite in both sexes, but especially in the male, was a monohydroxylated 
derivative. Overall, the reactions previously observed in vitro, i.e., ring hydroxylation, N-demethylation, 
and reduction (didehydrogenation) accounted for all of the CEP-11981-derived compounds detected in 
vivo. 
The potential for CEP-11981 to affect the metabolic elimination of co-administered drugs was tested in 
vitro through examination of its capacity for induction of CYP enzymes activities in primary human 
hepatocyte cultures and for inhibition of CYP activities in human hepatic microsomal preparations. 
The levels of mRNA for CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4 were measured after incubation of 
CEP-11981 with hepatocytes for 30 hours at concentrations of 1 to 30 μM. No indication of induction 
was obtained, but suppression of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 message was observed at the highest 
concentration. However, due to apparent cellular toxicity at that concentration, this result was likely an 
artifact. 
CEP-11981 did not inhibit the activities of CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, or CYP4A9/11. 
Marginal inhibition of CYP1A2 was observed, but with an estimated Ki that is higher than exposures 
expected clinically. CYP3A4/5 activity was inhibited with a Ki of 2.6 and 2.2 μM for the 2 reactions 
examined, i.e., testosterone 6β-hydroxylation and midazolam 1′-hydroxylation, respectively. Much of the 
inhibition was reversible and competitive in nature, with a metabolism-dependent component, but at 
least some of the inhibition was irreversible for both reactions tested. 
In addition to the pharmacokinetic and ADME studies, bioanalytical and pharmacokinetic support has 
been provided to the toxicokinetics portions of nonclinical safety studies in rats and monkeys. 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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45 
 
The longest nonclinical safety study conducted to date in rats was a 4-week oral toxicity study at daily 
doses of 0 (vehicle only), 5, 10, 20 (lowered to 15 on day 8), and 40 mg/kg. CEP-11981 was administered 
as suspensions of its tosylate salt in Ora-Plus oral suspending vehicle. Key toxicokinetic parameters 
from the study are tabulated in Table 5. 
Table 5. Toxicokinetics Results for the 4-Week Oral Toxicity Study in Rats 
 
As noted in the pharmacokinetic studies, the systemic exposures were higher in female rats than in male 
rats and, in groups having both single-dose and multiple-dose datasets, were higher on day 28 than on 
day 1. Values of Cmax and AUC were dose-related over the dose range tested, but increases in AUC 
were more than dose-proportional over portions of the dose range, suggesting that 1 or more of the 
pharmacokinetic characteristics of CEP-11981 are dose-dependent. 
Two 4-week oral toxicity studies of CEP-11981 have been conducted in monkeys. In the first study (study 
DS-2006-020), daily doses of 0 (vehicle only), 5, 10, and 25 mg/kg were administered as suspensions 
of the free base in Ora-Plus oral suspending vehicle. Due to a subsequent change in the form of the 
compound to its tosylate salt, a second 4-week study (study DS-2006-042) was conducted testing daily 
doses of 0 (vehicle only) and 3 mg/kg. Key toxicokinetic parameters from the study are tabulated in 
Table 6. 
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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46 
 
Table 6. Toxicokinetics Results for the 4-Week Oral Toxicity Studies in Monkeys 
 
The monkeys did not show the sex-related differences in systemic exposure that were evident in the 
rats, but there was a suggestion, as in the pharmacokinetic studies, that some aspect(s) of the 
pharmacokinetics of the compound might be dose-dependent, especially at higher doses. 
Overall, the pharmacokinetic and ADME properties of CEP-11981 have been studied in vitro using blood 
and tissue fractions from mice, rats, rabbits, dogs, monkeys, and humans and in vivo in mice, rats, and 
monkeys. The estimated half-life in rats and monkeys after an intravenous dose is approximately 2 to 3 
hours. Despite its low aqueous solubility, CEP-11981 is generally well absorbed in mice, rats, and 
monkeys at dose levels associated with pharmacologic responses in preclinical disease models. At 
higher doses, evidence of dose-dependent pharmacokinetics has been obtained in all 3 species. After 
an oral or intravenous dose, [14C]-CEP-11981-derived radioactivity is broadly distributed into tissues, 
generally at concentrations higher than those in blood. Only in barriered tissues, e.g., brain and testis, 
are concentrations lower than those in blood. The compound is extensively metabolized, but is also 
excreted in rats via the bile as the parent drug. Excretion is predominantly in the feces in both rats and 
monkeys. 
 
Drug Interactions: Prohibited before enrollment and during administration of study treatment 
 
Concomitant systemic treatments for CRPC (other than a GnRH agonist/antagonist) are prohibited 
including: CYP-17 inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole, abiraterone), antiandrogens (e.g. bicalutamide, 
nilutamide), second generation antiandrogens (e.g. enzalutamide, ARN-509, Galeterone), 
immunotherapy (e.g. sipuleucel-T, ipilimumab) and chemotherapy (e.g. docetaxel, cabazitaxel). 
 
 
Storage and stability: ESK981 capsules should be stored refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). 
The stability of the drug substance and drug product continues to be monitored.  
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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47 
 
 
Preparation and Dispensing:  
ESK981 is supplied in 28 count HDPE bottles. 
 
 
Supply and packaging 
ESK981 monotosylate is a fully synthetic drug substance containing a core indolocarbazolone ring 
system.  ESK981 monotosylate drug substance is a yellow to orange powder that has a molecular 
weight of 649.77 g/mol. The drug substance contains 73.5% theoretical weight percent of the active 
moiety ESK981 (free base). 
 
ESK981 drug product is an off-white to orange opaque, hard gelatin capsule containing 40 mg (free 
base equivalents) of ESK981 monotosylate. The drug product is packaged in a high-density 
polyethylene (HDPE) bottle with a child resistant closure and an induction-sealed inner seal. The 
formulation also contains lactose monohydrate.    
 
 
Administration:  
Treatment will be administered on an outpatient basis.  Study drug will be affixed with a clinical label in 
accordance with regulatory requirements. This trial is open-label; therefore, the subject, the study 
team, the Sponsor and/or designee are not blinded. Treatment (name, strength or potency) is included 
in the label text; 
 
Subjects will be given a one-month (28 day) supply of study drug.  Subjects will be instructed to take 4 
capsules per, with or without food, day for 5 consecutive calendar days, then take a drug holiday for 2 
consecutive days before repeating the 5 days on-2 days off cycle in sets of 4 weeks or 28 calendar 
days.  Subjects will be asked to keep a pill diary noting the date they take their study drug. They will be 
asked to bring their pill diary to each study visit along with all used and unused study drug containers. 
 
 
Availability:  
Provided by Esanik Therapeutics, Inc. 
Under no circumstance will the study medication ESK981 be used other than as directed by the 
protocol.  
 
 
Return and Retention of Study Drug: 
The investigator is responsible for keeping accurate records of the study drug received from the 
Sponsor or designee, the amount dispensed to and returned by the subjects and the amount 
remaining at the conclusion of the trial.   
 
A member of the study team will review the pill dairy during each visit study drug is returned and 
discuss compliance or other concerns the subject may have. 
 
The investigator or designee will provide appropriate documentation that must be completed for drug 
accountability and return, or local discard and destruction if appropriate.  
 
Where local discard and destruction is appropriate, the investigator is responsible for ensuring that a 
local discard/destruction procedure is documented. 
 
 
Drug Accountability: 
The investigator, or a responsible party designated by the investigator, must maintain a careful record 
of the inventory and disposition of the investigational drug ESKI981. The drug accountability records 
will capture drug receipt, drug dispensing, drug return and final disposition.   
 
 
 


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48 
 
9.2 
Nivolumab 
 
 
Other names for the drug: Opdivo 
 
 
Description: Injection: 40 mg/4 mL and 100 mg/10 mL solution in a single-dose vial.  
 
 
Classification - type of agent: immunomodulatory; checkpoint inhibitor 
 
 
Mode of action: 
Binding of the PD-1 ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, to the PD-1 receptor found on T cells, inhibits T-
cell proliferation and cytokine production. Upregulation of PD-1 ligands occurs in some tumors 
and signaling through this pathway can contribute to inhibition of active T-cell immune 
surveillance of tumors. Nivolumab is a human immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) monoclonal antibody 
that binds to the PD-1 receptor and blocks its interaction with PD-L1 and PD-L2, releasing PD-1 
pathway-mediated inhibition of the immune response, including the anti-tumor immune 
response. In syngeneic mouse tumor models, blocking PD-1 activity resulted in decreased tumor 
growth.  
 
 
 
Pharmacokinetics:  
Nivolumab pharmacokinetics (PK) was assessed using a population PK approach for both 
single-agent OPDIVO and OPDIVO with ipilimumab.  
 
OPDIVO as a single agent: The PK of single-agent nivolumab was studied in patients over a 
dose range of 0.1 to 20 mg/kg administered as a single dose or as multiple doses of OPDIVO 
every 2 or 3 weeks. Nivolumab clearance decreases over time, with a mean maximal reduction 
(% coefficient of variation [CV%]) from baseline values of approximately 24.5% (47.6%) resulting 
in a geometric mean steady state clearance (CLss) (CV%) of 8.2 mL/h (53.9%); the decrease in 
CLss is not considered clinically relevant. The geometric mean volume of distribution at steady 
state (Vss) (CV%) is 6.8 L (27.3%), and geometric mean elimination half-life (t1/2) is 25 days 
(77.5%). Steady-state concentrations of nivolumab were reached by approximately 12 weeks 
when administered at 3 mg/kg every 2 weeks, and systemic accumulation was approximately 
3.7-fold. The exposure to nivolumab increased dose proportionally over the dose range of 0.1 to 
10 mg/kg administered every 2 weeks.  
 
 
 
 
 
Side effects:  
OPDIVO as a single agent: fatigue, rash, musculoskeletal pain, pruritus, diarrhea, nausea, 
asthenia, cough, dyspnea, constipation, decreased appetite, back pain, arthralgia, upper 
respiratory tract infection, and pyrexia.  
 
 
 
 
Drug Interactions:  
No formal pharmacokinetic drug-drug interaction studies have been conducted with OPDIVO. 
 
 
Storage and stability:  
The product does not contain a preservative. After preparation, store the OPDIVO infusion 
either:  
• at room temperature for no more than 8 hours from the time of preparation. This includes room 
temperature storage of the infusion in the IV container and time for administration of the infusion 
or  
• under refrigeration at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) for no more than 24 hours from the time of 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
________________________________________________________________________ 
 
 
49 
 
infusion preparation. Do not freeze. 
 
 
Preparation and Dispensing:  
Visually inspect drug product solution for particulate matter and discoloration prior to 
administration. OPDIVO is a clear to opalescent, colorless to pale-yellow solution. Discard the 
vial if the solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains extraneous particulate matter other than a 
few translucent-to-white, proteinaceous particles. Do not shake the vial. 
• Withdraw the required volume of OPDIVO and transfer into an intravenous container.  
• Dilute OPDIVO with either 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP or 5% Dextrose Injection, 
USP to prepare an infusion with a final concentration ranging from 1 mg/mL to 10 mg/mL.  
• Mix diluted solution by gentle inversion. Do not shake.  
• Discard partially used vials or empty vials of OPDIVO.  
 
 
Administration:  
Administer the infusion over 30-60 minutes through an intravenous line containing a sterile, non-
pyrogenic, low protein binding in-line filter (pore size of 0.2 micrometer to 1.2 micrometer). Do 
not coadminister other drugs through the same intravenous line. Flush the intravenous line at 
end of infusion. 
 
 
Availability: Commercially available 
 
Return and Retention of Study Drug: 
• Discard partially used vials or empty vials of OPDIVO.  
 
 
Drug Accountability: 
The investigator, or a responsible party designated by the investigator, must maintain a careful 
record of the inventory and disposition of the drug Nivolumab. The drug accountability records 
will capture drug receipt, drug dispensing, drug return and final disposition.   
  
10.0 
SPECIAL STUDIES 
10.1 
Sample Collection Guidelines 
Refer to Section 6.0 for tumor tissue and blood collection time points and Lab Manual for collection 
and processing details. 
10.2 
Specimen Banking 
Patient blood and tissue samples collected for this study will be retained at the University of 
Michigan. Specimens will be stored indefinitely or until they are used up. If future use is denied or 
withdrawn by the patient, best efforts will be made to stop any additional studies and to destroy the 
specimens. 
 
Specimen being stored long-term for potential use or not outlined in the protocol will be stored and 
used in compliance with the University of Michigan policy University Policy Governing Tissue 
Sample Collection, Ownership, Usage, and Disposition within all UMMS Research Repositories -  
 https://research.medicine.umich.edu/office-research/biorepository/governance-policies. 
 
11.0 
STATISTICAL CONSIDERATIONS 
The primary objective of the study is to determine the efficacy of ESK981 in combination with nivolumab 
therapy in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma who may have progressed despite treatment with 
one VEGF-TKI. Response rate, defined as the sum of complete + partial response (CR+PR), as measured 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
________________________________________________________________________ 
 
 
50 
 
by RECIST v1.1 in Cohort B (combined therapy with ESK981 and Nivolumab) will be the primary statistical 
endpoint.  
11.1 
Study Design/Study Endpoints 
A two-stage Mini-max Simon design will be used to minimize the number of patients to be treated 
with the combination therapy (Cohort B).  We assume that this combination will not be of further 
interest if the true response rate were less than 0.25 and assume that a true response rate of at 
least 0.45 would be of clinical interest. This phase II study design permits early termination of patient 
entry due to futility of efficacy after the first 17 objective response evaluable patients have been 
accrued to Cohort B if there are 4 or less responses. If the study passes the first phase, then a 
second stage of 19 more objective response evaluable patients will be accrued for a total of 36 
objective response evaluable patients. If 14 or more patients out of 36 have a response, then the 
treatment combination will be deemed successful.  This trial design has 80% power to detect a 
response rate of 45% compared to a null rate of 25% assuming a 5% type I error.   The probability of 
early termination with this design is 0.57 if the true response rate is 25%.    
 
A single stage design will be used to determine efficacy of monotherapy treatment (Cohort A) with 
ESK981 efficacy in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma will be assessed as the RECIST 
v1.1 response rate.  Assuming a response rate of clinical interest with monotherapy is 25% and null 
response proportion of 5% with a 1-sided type I error=0.102 there is 80% power with 11 patients to 
detect a response rate of 25%.  Additionally, a futility analysis assuming a response rate of 25% 
would have 5% probability of 0 responses out of 11 patients.  If 3 or more patients have a response 
with monotherapy ESK981, then the monotherapy treatment will be deemed of interest in a future 
study.  
 
Secondary endpoints of the trial include assessment of toxicity in all patients who receive any study 
treatment.  We will evaluate overall survival, progression free survival, duration of therapy, duration 
of response and QoL. 
 
11.2 
Sample Size and Accrual 
There are 2 cohorts for accrual with Cohort A being accrued first.  Cohort B will follow and will have 
2 stages of accrual.  Cohort A will accrue 11 patients to monotherapy treatment.  Then Cohort B will 
begin accrual of 17 patients to the first stage and if the interim analysis permits, the second stage 
will accrue an additional 19 patients.  Our final sample size if all stages accrue will include 47 total 
objective response evaluable patients (11+17+19).  We expect to accrue 1-2 patients per month for 
a total accrual period of 24 – 30 months.   
 
11.3 
Early Stopping Due to Toxicity 
Toxicity will be assessed in each cohort.  If the DLT proportion is >30% during cycle 1 in Cohort A 
then dosing as is planned for the combination cohort will require modification before Cohort B can 
begin.  Accrual of Cohort B will not begin until toxicity assessment of Cohort A is complete.  
 
Cohort B will assess DLT proportions in the first 6 patients. If 2 or more DLTs occur in the first 6 
patients of Cohort B, then dosing in the combination treatment in Cohort B will be decreased one 
dose level.  If a decreased dose level is opened, assessment of another 6 patients will be assess for 
DLTs; if 2 or more DLTs occur then the trial will be halted.  Accrual will be held during toxicity 
evaluation. 
11.4 
Data Analyses Plans 
The primary analysis of efficacy will report the number of patients with an objective response and the 
associated proportion with the corresponding 95% exact binomial confidence interval separately in 
each cohort.  In Cohort B, if stage 2 is initiated then the efficacy analysis methods will be adjusted 
for the interim check as described by Koyama and Chen [36]. 
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
________________________________________________________________________ 
 
 
51 
 
Toxicity will be described by grade, attribution, and body system using counts and proportions. 
Toxicity will be described separately for each cohort. 
 
Overall survival, progression free survival, duration of therapy, and duration of response 
will be displayed using a Kaplan-Meier figure and the associated median (if reached), one-year and 
two-year estimates with 95% confidence intervals using Greenwood’s formula will be reported if 
there is censoring.  If there is no censoring in the endpoint, then the standard mean (or median) and 
95% confidence interval (or 5th and 95th percentiles) will be reported. Each endpoint will be reported 
separately by cohort. 
 
Health-related quality of life assessment changes from baseline using EuroQoL-5D will be described 
using descriptive statistics. 
 
12.0 
DATA MANAGEMENT 
All information will be recorded locally and entered into Case Report Forms (CRFs) on the web-based 
electronic data capture (EDC) system of the University of Michigan. Online access will be provided to each 
site by the Coordinating Center.  
 
CRFs will be reviewed and source verified by the MSC during annual monitoring visits and prior to and 
between visits. Discrepant, unusual and incomplete data will be queried by the MSC. The investigator or 
study coordinator will be responsible for providing resolutions to the data queries, as appropriate. The 
investigator must ensure that all data queries are dealt with promptly.  
 
The data submission schedule is as follows:  
 
At the time of registration   
o 
Subject entry into the EDC 
 
Subject Status 
 
Demographics 
 
During study participation 
o 
All data should be entered online within 10 business days of data acquisition. [Information on 
dose limiting toxicity events must be entered within one business day.] Information on Serious 
Adverse Events must be entered within the reporting timeframe specified in Section 8 of the 
protocol.  
  
 
All study information should be recorded in an appropriate source document (e.g. clinic chart). 
 
13.0 
DATA AND SAFETY MONITORING 
This study will be monitored in accordance with the NCI approved University of Michigan Rogel Cancer 
Center Data and Safety Monitoring Plan, with oversight by the Rogel Cancer Center Data and Safety 
Monitoring Committee (DSMC).. 
 
The Sponsor-Investigator (S-I)/Study Principal Investigator will provide ongoing monitoring of data and 
patient safety in this trial and conduct regular data review with participating sites.The Sponsor-Investigator 
(S-I)/Study Principal Investigator and/or the Project Manager/Delegate will review data and patient safety 
issues with participating sites per a defined quarterly meeting cadence. Depending on the protocol activity, 
the meeting cadence may be more frequent. This data review meeting may be achieved via a teleconference 
or another similar mechanism to discuss matters related to: 
 Enrollment rate relative to expectations, characteristics of participants 
 Safety of study participants (Serious Adverse Event & Adverse Event reporting) 
 Adherence to protocol (protocol deviations) 
 Completeness, validity and integrity of study data 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
________________________________________________________________________ 
 
 
52 
 
 Retention of study participants 
 
Participating sites are required to ensure all pertinent data for the review period are available in the database 
at the time of the discussion. 
 
Participating sites unable to participate in the data review meeting are required to provide written 
confirmation that their site has reviewed the relevant data and patient safety issues for the review period and 
their site’s data are in alignment with the data reported in the database. Written confirmation is to be 
provided to the Project Manager/Delegate within the timeline requested to retain compliance with monitoring 
timelines. 
 
Documentation of the teleconference or alternate mechanism utilized to review items above is to be retained 
in the Trial Master File.  
 
The Project Manager/Delegate is responsible for collating the data from all participating sites and completing 
the Protocol Specific Data and Safety Monitoring Report (DSMR) form to document the data review meeting 
discussion.  
 
The DSMR will be signed by the Sponsor-Investigator (S-I)/Study Principal Investigator or designated Co-
Investigator and submitted to the DSMC on a quarterly basis for independent review. 
 
14.0 
QUALITY ASSURANCE AND AUDITS 
The DSMC can request a ‘for cause’ quality assurance audit of the trial if the committee identifies a need for 
a more rigorous evaluation of study-related issues.  
 
A regulatory authority (e.g. FDA) may also wish to conduct an inspection of the study, during its conduct or 
even after its completion. If an inspection has been requested by a regulatory authority, the site investigator 
must immediately inform the Coordinating Center that such a request has been made. 
15.0 
CLINICAL MONITORING PROCEDURES 
Clinical studies coordinated by University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center must be conducted in 
accordance with the ethical principles that are consistent with Good Clinical Practices (GCP) and in 
compliance with other applicable regulatory requirements. 
 
This study will be monitored by a representative of the Coordinating Center of the University of Michigan 
Rogel Cancer Center. Monitoring visits will be made during the conduct of the study and at study close-out. 
 
Prior to subject recruitment, a participating site will undergo site initiation meeting to be conducted by the 
Coordinating Center. This will be done as an actual site visit; teleconference, videoconference, or web-based 
meeting after the site has been given access to the study database and assembled a study reference binder.  
The site’s principal investigator and his study staff should make every effort in attending the site initiation 
meeting. Study–related questions or issues identified during the site initiation meeting will be followed-up by 
the appropriate University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center personnel until they have been answered and 
resolved. 
 
Monitoring of this study will include both ‘Centralized Monitoring’, the review of source documents at the 
Coordinating Center and ‘On-site Monitoring’, an actual site visit.  The first ‘Centralized’ visit should occur 
after the first subject enrolled completes first treatment cycle.  The study site will send the de-identified 
source documents to the Coordinating Center for monitoring.  ‘Centralized’ monitoring may be requested by 
the Coordinating Center if an amendment requires changes to the protocol procedures. The site will send in 
pertinent de-identified source documents, as defined by the Coordinating Center for monitoring.  
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
________________________________________________________________________ 
 
 
53 
 
The first annual ‘On-site’ monitoring visit should occur after the first five study participants are enrolled or 
twelve months after a study opens, whichever occurs first.  The annual visit may be conducted as a 
‘Centralized’ visit if less than three subjects have enrolled at the study site.  The type of visit is at the 
discretion of the Coordinating Center.  At a minimum, a routine monitoring visit will be done at least once a 
year, or once during the course of the study if the study duration is less than 12 months. The purpose of 
these visits is to verify: 
 
 
Adherence to the protocol 
 
Completeness and accuracy of study data and samples collected 
 
Proper storage, dispensing and inventory of study medication 
 
Compliance with regulations 
 
During a monitoring visit to a site, access to relevant hospital and clinical records must be given by the site 
investigator to the Coordinating Center representative conducting the monitoring visit to verify consistency of 
data collected on the CRFs with the original source data.  While most patient cases will be selected from 
patients accrued since the previous monitoring visit, any patient case has the potential for review.  At least 
one or more unannounced cases will be reviewed, if the total accruals warrant selection of unannounced 
cases.  
 
The Coordinating Center expects the relevant investigational staff to be available to facilitate the conduct of 
the visit, that source documents are available at the time of the visit, and that a suitable environment will be 
provided for review of study-related documents. Any issues identified during these visits will be 
communicated to the site and are expected to be resolved by the site in a timely manner.  For review of 
study-related documents at the Coordinating Center, the site will be required to ship or fax documents to be 
reviewed.   
 
Participating site will also undergo a site close-out upon completion, termination or cancellation of a study to 
ensure fulfillment of study obligations during the conduct of the study, and that the site Investigator is aware 
of his/her ongoing responsibilities. In general, a site close-out is conducted during a site visit; however, site 
close-out can occur without a site visit. 
 
 
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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54 
 
16.0 
REFERENCES 
1. 
Yang, Z.J., et al., The role of autophagy in cancer: therapeutic implications. Mol Cancer Ther, 
2011. 10(9): p. 1533-41. 
2. 
Nelson, E.C., C.P. Evans, and P.N. Lara, Jr., Renal cell carcinoma: current status and emerging 
therapies. Cancer Treat Rev, 2007. 33(3): p. 299-313. 
3. 
Coppin, C., et al., Targeted therapy for advanced renal cell carcinoma. Cochrane Database Syst 
Rev, 2008(2): p. CD006017. 
4. 
Rini, B.I. and E.J. Small, Biology and clinical development of vascular endothelial growth factor-
targeted therapy in renal cell carcinoma. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2005. 23(5): p. 1028-1043. 
5. 
Joosten, S.C., et al., Resistance to sunitinib in renal cell carcinoma: From molecular mechanisms to 
predictive markers and future perspectives. Biochim Biophys Acta, 2015. 1855(1): p. 1-16. 
6. 
Dvorak, H.F., et al., Vascular permeability factor/vascular endothelial growth factor, 
microvascular hyperpermeability, and angiogenesis. Am J Pathol, 1995. 146(5): p. 1029-39. 
7. 
Benjamin, L.E., et al., Selective ablation of immature blood vessels in established human tumors 
follows vascular endothelial growth factor withdrawal. J Clin Invest, 1999. 103(2): p. 159-65. 
8. 
Watanabe, Y., et al., Vascular permeability factor/vascular endothelial growth factor (VPF/VEGF) 
delays and induces escape from senescence in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells. 
Oncogene, 1997. 14(17): p. 2025-32. 
9. 
Rini, B.I. and E.J. Small, Biology and clinical development of vascular endothelial growth factor-
targeted therapy in renal cell carcinoma. J Clin Oncol, 2005. 23(5): p. 1028-43. 
10. 
Hanahan, D. and R.A. Weinberg, The hallmarks of cancer. Cell, 2000. 100(1): p. 57-70. 
11. 
Ferrara, N., The role of vascular endothelial growth factor in pathological angiogenesis. Breast 
Cancer Res Treat, 1995. 36(2): p. 127-37. 
12. 
Rini, B.I., et al., Axitinib with or without dose titration for first-line metastatic renal-cell 
carcinoma: a randomised double-blind phase 2 trial. Lancet Oncology, 2013. 14(12): p. 1233-
1242. 
13. 
Sternberg, C.N., et al., Pazopanib in Locally Advanced or Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: 
Results of a Randomized Phase III Trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2010. 28(6): p. 1061-1068. 
14. 
Motzer, R.J., et al., Overall Survival and Updated Results for Sunitinib Compared With Interferon 
Alfa in Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2009. 
27(22): p. 3584-3590. 
15. 
Schor-Bardach, R., et al., Does Arterial Spin-labeling MR Imaging-measured Tumor Perfusion 
Correlate with Renal Cell Cancer Response to Anti-angiogenic Therapy in a Mouse Model? (vol 
251, pg 731, 2009). Radiology, 2009. 253(3): p. 900-900. 
16. 
Schnurch, H. and W. Risau, Expression of Tie-2, a Member of a Novel Family of Receptor Tyrosine 
Kinases, in the Endothelial-Cell Lineage. Development, 1993. 119(3): p. 957-968. 
17. 
Maisonpierre, P.C., et al., Angiopoietin-2, a natural antagonist for Tie2 that disrupts in vivo 
angiogenesis. Science, 1997. 277(5322): p. 55-60. 
18. 
Suri, C., et al., Requisite role of angiopoietin-1, a ligand for the TIE2 receptor, during embryonic 
angiogenesis. Cell, 1996. 87(7): p. 1171-80. 
19. 
Davis, S., et al., Isolation of angiopoietin-1, a ligand for the TIE2 receptor, by secretion-trap 
expression cloning. Cell, 1996. 87(7): p. 1161-9. 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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55 
 
20. 
Valenzuela, D.M., et al., Angiopoietins 3 and 4: diverging gene counterparts in mice and humans. 
Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 1999. 96(5): p. 1904-9. 
21. 
Hu, B. and S.Y. Cheng, Angiopoietin-2: development of inhibitors for cancer therapy. Curr Oncol 
Rep, 2009. 11(2): p. 111-6. 
22. 
Casanovas, O., et al., Drug resistance by evasion of antiangiogenic targeting of VEGF signaling in 
late-stage pancreatic islet tumors. Cancer Cell, 2005. 8(4): p. 299-309. 
23. 
Bullock, A.J., et al., Plasma angiopoietin-2 (ANG2) as an angiogenic biomarker in renal cell 
carcinoma (RCC). Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2010. 28(15). 
24. 
Oliner, J., et al., Suppression of angiogenesis and tumor growth by selective inhibition of 
angiopoietin-2. Cancer Cell, 2004. 6(5): p. 507-16. 
25. 
Leow, C.C., et al., MEDI3617, a human anti-angiopoietin 2 monoclonal antibody, inhibits 
angiogenesis and tumor growth in human tumor xenograft models. Int J Oncol, 2012. 40(5): p. 
1321-30. 
26. 
Imanishi, Y., et al., Angiopoietin-2 stimulates breast cancer metastasis through the alpha(5)beta(1) 
integrin-mediated pathway. Cancer Res, 2007. 67(9): p. 4254-63. 
27. 
Wang, X.E., et al., The Role of Angiopoietins as Potential Therapeutic Targets in Renal Cell 
Carcinoma. Translational Oncology, 2014. 7(2): p. 188-195. 
28. 
Atkins, M.B., et al., Trebananib (AMG 386) in Combination With Sunitinib in Patients With 
Metastatic Renal Cell Cancer: An Open-Label, Multicenter, Phase II Study. Journal of Clinical 
Oncology, 2015. 33(30): p. 3431-+. 
29. 
Motzer, R.J., et al., Pazopanib versus sunitinib in metastatic renal-cell carcinoma. N Engl J Med, 
2013. 369(8): p. 722-31. 
30. 
Hudkins, R.L., et al., Synthesis and biological profile of the pan-vascular endothelial growth factor 
receptor/tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin and epidermal growth factor-like homology domains 
2 (VEGF-R/TIE-2) inhibitor 11-(2-methylpropyl)-12,13-dihydro-2-methyl-8-(pyrimidin-2-ylamino)-
4H-indazolo[5, 4-a]pyrrolo[3,4-c]carbazol-4-one (CEP-11981): a novel oncology therapeutic 
agent. J Med Chem, 2012. 55(2): p. 903-13. 
31. 
Pili, R., et al., An open-label study to determine the maximum tolerated dose of the multitargeted 
tyrosine kinase inhibitor CEP-11981 in patients with advanced cancer. Invest New Drugs, 2014. 
32(6): p. 1258-68. 
32. 
Qu, X., et al., Promotion of tumorigenesis by heterozygous disruption of the beclin 1 autophagy 
gene. J Clin Invest, 2003. 112(12): p. 1809-20. 
33. 
Saltz, L.B., et al., Phase II trial of sunitinib in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer after 
failure of standard therapy. J Clin Oncol, 2007. 25(30): p. 4793-9. 
34. 
Motzer, R.J., et al., Nivolumab versus Everolimus in Advanced Renal-Cell Carcinoma. N Engl J 
Med, 2015. 373(19): p. 1803-13. 
35. 
Wallin, J.J., et al., Atezolizumab in combination with bevacizumab enhances antigen-specific T-cell 
migration in metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Nat Commun, 2016. 7: p. 12624. 
36. 
Koyama, T. and H. Chen, Proper inference from Simon's two-stage designs. Stat Med, 2008. 
27(16): p. 3145-54. 
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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56 
 
APPENDICES 
 
 
 
APPENDIX 1 KARNOFSKY PERFORMANCE SCALE 
 
 
 
 
% 
Description 
100 
Normal, no complaints, no evidence of disease  
90 
Able to carry on normal activity, minor symptoms of disease  
80 
Normal activity with effort, some signs of symptoms of disease  
70 
Cares for self (consistent with age), unable to carry on normal activity or do active 
work/school/play  
60 
Requires occasional assistance (beyond age-appropriate care), but is able to care for 
most of their needs  
50 
Requires considerable assistance and frequent medical care  
40 
Disabled, requires special care and assistance  
30 
Severely disabled, hospitalization is indicated although death is not imminent  
20 
Hospitalization is necessary, very sick, active support treatment is necessary  
10 
Moribund, fatal processes progressing rapidly 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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57 
 
APPENDIX 2 
MEDICATIONS WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR DRUG-DRUG INTERACTIONS 
 
POTENT INHIBITORS OF THE CYP1A2, 2C8, OR 3A4 INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, THE 
FOLLOWING: 
CYP1A2 
 
FLUVOXAMINE 
 
CIPROFLOXACIN 
 
MEXILETINE 
 
PROPAFENONE 
 
ZILEUTON 
CYP2C8 
 
GEMFIBROZIL 
CYP3A4 
 
KETOCONAZOLE 
 
INDINAVIR 
 
RITONAVIR 
 
ITRACONAZOLE 
 
CLARITHROMYCIN 
 
TELITHROMYCIN 
 
APREPITANT 
 
DILTIAZEM 
 
ERYTHROMYCIN 
 
FLUCONAZOLE 
 
GRAPEFRUIT JUICE 
 
VERAPAMI 
THIS LIST IS NOT COMPREHENSIVE AS NEW INFORMATION IS CONTINUALLY BEING IDENTIFIED. 
 
POTENT INDUCERS OF THE CYP1A2, 2C8, OR 3A4 INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO, THE 
FOLLOWING: 
CYP1A2 
 
OMEPRAZOLE 
 
SMOKING 
CYP2C8 
 
RIFAMPICIN 
CYP3A4 
 
RIFAMPICIN 
 
CARBAMAZEPINE 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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58 
 
 
GRISEOFULVIN 
THIS LIST IS NOT COMPREHENSIVE AS NEW INFORMATION IS CONTINUALLY BEING IDENTIFIED. 
 
SUBSTRATES OF CYP3A4/5 WITH A NARROW THERAPEUTIC RANGE INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED 
TO: 
ALFENTANIL 
ASTEMIZOLE 
CISAPRIDE 
CYCLOSPORINE 
DIERGOTAMINE 
ERGOTAMINE 
FENTANYL 
PIMOZIDE 
QUINDINE 
SIROLIMUS 
TACROLIMUS 
TERFENADINE 
THIS LIST IS NOT COMPREHENSIVE AS NEW INFORMATION IS CONTINUALLY BEING IDENTIFIED. 
 
 
 


Protocol UMCC 2018.052 
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59 
 
APPENDIX 3 STUDY MANAGEMENT DURING COVID-19 
Due to ongoing government and clinical changes necessary to effectively manage the COVID-19 pandemic, the 
following changes to protocol-required items were made to minimize or eliminate immediate hazards or to protect the 
life and well-being of research participants (e.g., to limit exposure to COVID-19).  
 
A. COVID-19 Testing:  
 
COVID-19 is not currently being added to the protocol as part of the screening requirements, but may be 
done as part of the clinical assessment, as needed during the course of the pandemic. 
 
COVID-19 tests/results will be recorded in the subject’s source documents but will only be added as an 
Adverse/ Serious Adverse Event in the eCRF should the test yield a COVID-19 positive result.  
 
B. Study Visit Schedule: 
 
Virtual clinic visits will be allowed per clinician/subject discretion. 
 
Vitals are allowed to be measured and recorded by patient/family.  If patient has items such as blood 
pressure cuff, thermometer, weight scale, etc. at home, clinical staff may request him/her to use such 
apparatuses and record values in source documents (e.g. heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, 
weight, etc.) – noting that home equipment was used for the reading. 
 
C. Laboratory Assessments: 
 
All institutional requirements regarding in person contact with subjects and facility closures (including 
laboratories) will be followed. Blood samples will not be collected or processed when labs are closed 
due to COVID-19 restrictions. 
 
D. Study Medications: 
 
Adjustments for alternate drug administration have been permitted by the Supporter (Esanik 
Therapeutics) and Sponsor-Investigator, to allow for study medication to be shipped directly to patient’s 
home, via certified temp-controlled container for overnight delivery, with tracking number and delivery 
signature required.  
 

ICF_001.pdf: 
UMCC 2018.052
Multi-center Trial of ESK981 in Combination with Nivolumab in Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell 
Carcinoma
NCT03562507


Page 1 of 21
Consent Subtitle: UMCC 2018.052
UM Consent Version:  14Feb2019
Model Consent Version: 30Nov2018
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
CONSENT TO BE PART OF A RESEARCH STUDY
1. KEY INFORMATION ABOUT THE RESEARCHERS AND THIS STUDY
Study title: 
ERICA: Phase 2 Multi-center Trial of ESK981 in Combination with Nivolumab in Patients With 
Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma
Company or agency sponsoring the study: The University of Michigan along with support from Esanik 
Therapeutics, Inc.
Names, degrees, and affiliations of the principal investigator and study coordinator (if applicable):
Principal Investigator:  
Ajjai Alva, MD
Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, University of Michigan
1.1 Key Study Information
You may be eligible to take part in a research study.  This form contains information that will help you decide 
whether to join the study.  All information in this form is important. Take time to carefully review this information.  
After you finish, you should talk to the researchers about the study and ask them any questions you have.  You 
may also wish to talk to others such as your friends, family, or other doctors about your possible participation in 
this study.  If you decide to take part in the study, you will be asked to sign this form.  Before you do, be sure you 
understand what the study is about.
2. PURPOSE OF THIS STUDY
2.1 Study purpose: 
As researchers have learned more about the changes in cells that cause cancer, they have developed newer drugs 
that target some of these cell changes.  Targeted drugs are different from standard chemotherapy drugs and they 
sometimes work when standard chemotherapy drugs don’t.  Targeted drugs are proving to be especially 
important in kidney cancer, where traditional chemotherapy has not been shown to be very effective. 
There are two parts to this study:
The first part of the study is to test the effectiveness (how well the drug works), safety, and tolerability of the 
investigational drug ESK981 alone in patients with advanced kidney cancer. 
The second part of the study is to test the effectiveness (how well the drug works), safety, and tolerability of the 
investigational drug ESK981 when combined with an immunotherapy drug nivolumab in patients with advanced 
kidney cancer. 
Nivolumab is an immunotherapy drug that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the 
treatment of kidney cancer, classical Hodgkin lymphoma that has relapsed or progressed, metastatic melanoma (a 
type of skin cancer), previously treated advanced colorectal, urinary tract, lung, head & neck and liver cancers.  
ESK981 (formerly known as CEP-11981) is an investigational drug in this study because it has not been approved 
by the FDA for the treatment of kidney cancer or any cancers.
 
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3. INFORMATION ABOUT STUDY PARTICIPANTS (SUBJECTS)
Taking part in this study is completely voluntary.  You do not have to participate if you don't want to.  You may 
also leave the study at any time.  If you leave the study before it is finished, there will be no penalty to you, and 
you will not lose any benefits to which you are otherwise entitled. 
3.1 Who can take part in this study?
Adult men or women who have advanced kidney cancers.
There are many other inclusion and exclusion criteria (a sort of checklist) which the doctors will use to determine 
if you can participate in this study.  It is important that you discuss your full medical history and all of your 
medications with your doctor.
3.2 How many people (subjects) are expected to take part in this study?
A total of approximately 50 subjects at several institutions will take part in this study, including approximately 30 
subjects from the University of Michigan.
4.  INFORMATION ABOUT STUDY PARTICIPATION
4.1 What will happen to me in this study?  
The study team will explain the research study and answer any questions you have about the study.  If you want 
to participate in the study, the study team will request you sign this consent form prior to any activities occurring 
that pertain to the study.  Once your consent is obtained, the study team will look through your medical chart, ask 
you questions, and begin scheduling tests and procedures to determine if you are eligible for the study.  The study 
team will inform you of the types of tests and procedures required before the study begins.  
Many of the procedures that will be performed during the study, including routine blood tests, disease 
evaluations, physical examinations, vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and temperature) and 
measurement of height and weight, would normally be done as part of your standard of care regardless of study 
participation.  However, some of these may be done more frequently as a result of your participation in this study. 
Tests and procedures that are done more often than your regular medical care because of your study 
participation and that are solely for research purposes will be identified below.  The study staff will inform you of 
the types of tests and procedures you have to undergo during the study.  
During the study you must:

Follow the instructions you are given.

Come to the study center for your visits with the study doctor.

Tell the study doctor or study staff about any changes in your health and/or medications you are taking.

Tell the study doctor or study staff if you want to stop being in the study at any time.
Before starting the study:  Some exams, tests, and procedures will be required to find out if you can be in this 
study.  If you have had some of the tests recently, they may not need to be repeated.  The screening tests and 
procedures do not have to be completed in one day and you are allowed to take breaks if you have multiple 
procedures in one day.
The following tests and procedures will be performed during screening and/or at one or more study visits.  Refer 
to the study calendar below for information about which procedures will be performed at certain study visits.

Medical history: including any past treatments, surgeries, infection and autoimmune diseases.
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
Medications: It is important that you tell your doctor about all of the medications that you have been 
taking, including over the counter medicines, vitamins or herbal treatments.

Physical exam/Vital Signs: including measurement of your height (screening only), weight, blood 
pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature.

Performance status: Your ability to perform day to day activities and care for yourself 

Routine blood tests (approximately 2 teaspoons): will be drawn for tests to check blood counts, 
chemistry, thyroid health and blood markers for cancer 

Pregnancy test: (urine or blood – approximately 1 teaspoon): if you are a woman able to have children

Scans of your cancer: these could include Computed tomography (CT) of the chest, or CT or magnetic 
resonance imaging (MRI) of the upper and lower belly.  
o
A CT scan uses special x-ray equipment to make detailed pictures of body tissues and organs.  For 
the CT scan, you may be given a “contrast material” (a special dye that makes it easier for doctors 
to see different tissues in your body).  You will be asked to lie still and may be asked to hold your 
breath for a few seconds.  The CT scan is done in the Radiology Department and takes about half 
an hour.
o
A MRI scan takes an image of your head or body to observe the location and size of your tumor.  
For the MRI scan, you may be given a “contrast material” (a special dye that makes it easier for 
doctors to see different tissues in your body).  You will be asked to lie down on a narrow bed 
which will slide into a tunnel that is 6 feet long by 22 inches across and is open at each end.  You 
will be asked to lie quietly for about one hour, during which time you will hear a loud machine-
like noise.  A MRI scan takes about an hour and a half to complete. 

Toxicity evaluation: You will be asked about any side effects or illnesses you experience.

Tumor tissue: Your doctor will check to see if you have enough stored tissue sample of your tumor that 
was collected previously. You may still participate in this clinical trial even if you do not have enough 
stored tissue. This is for research purposes.  

Blood for Biomarkers (approximately 5-6 tablespoons): Will be drawn for testing for biomarkers (testing 
of substances such as proteins that tell us how the drug is working in your body).  This is for research 
purposes.  

Questionnaire: You will be asked to complete a quality of life questionnaire asking about your symptoms 
and how your disease and symptoms make you feel.  You may find some of the questions uncomfortable 
to answer.  You do not have to answer any question you do not want to answer.  This is for research 
purposes.
Study Intervention (for Research):
If you qualify to participate in the study based on the results of the screening tests and procedures, you will return 
to the study doctor’s clinic.
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The researchers will tell you which part of the study you will be participating in and what drug or drugs you will be 
getting.  There is no placebo or dummy drug in this study. Which part you participate in will depend on how far 
along we are in the study.  
For this study a cycle is defined as 28 days.
Part 1:
If you participate in Part 1 of this study you will take ESK981 by mouth on days 1-5 of each week.  You will not take 
ESK981 on days 6 and 7 of each week.
If you experience adverse events, you might have to stop taking ESK981 and if you recover from your adverse 
events, you may be able to restart the study drug.
You may continue to take ESK981 as long as you are tolerating the investigational study treatment and your 
disease has not progressed.
Part 2:
If you participate in Part 2 of this study, on day 1 of each cycle you will receive nivolumab intravenously (through a 
vein in your arm or port).  You will also take ESK981 by mouth on days 1-5 of each week.  You will not take ESK981 
on days 6 and 7 of each week.
If you experience adverse events, you might have to stop taking ESK981 and/or nivolumab and if you recover from 
your adverse events, you may be able to restart the study drug(s).
You may continue to take ESK981 and receive nivolumab for as long as you are tolerating the investigational study 
treatment and your disease has not progressed.  
The researchers will ask you to complete a drug diary to track what days you take ESK981. Please bring your drug 
diary and medication bottles (empty and/or with extra tablets) with you when you return for each appointment.
Below are general rules for taking ESK981:

Take either with food or without food

Swallow whole (do NOT chew, crush or cut the capsule)

The medication SHOULD NOT be ingested if broken, cracked or otherwise not intact. 

If you miss a dose (i.e. you do not take it within 6 hours of the scheduled time) DO NOT “make it up”.  Skip 
the missed dose and start taking ESK981 with the next scheduled dose.

If you vomit any time after taking a dose DO NOT “make it up”.  

Store in the refrigerator
Follow-up:
If you stop the study intervention for any reason you will be asked to return for end of treatment visit 30 days 
after your last dose of study intervention.
After you complete the end of treatment you will have an office visit or be contacted by a member of the study 
team every 3 months for up to 2 years from when you stopped the study intervention. 
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See the table for a summary of the study intervention and procedures.
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Study Procedures Table:
Each cycle is 28 days or 4 weeks
Procedures
Screening 
Cycle 
1 
Day1
Cycle 
2 
Day 1
Cycle 
3 
Day1
Cycle 
4 
Day1
Day 1 of 
Cycle 5 
and 
beyond
End of 
Treatment 
Visit
Follow
Up
Medical History
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Medication Review
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Physical 
Exam/vital signs
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Performance 
Status
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Pregnancy Test
X
Routine Blood 
Tests
X
X*
X*
X
X
X
X
Toxicity 
Evaluations
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Scans/Imaging of 
your cancer
X
Every 8 weeks for the first 4 assessments then 
every 12 weeks
X
Questionnaires
Cycles 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9 and then every 12 
weeks
Tumor tissue 
submission
X
Research blood
X
Survival Status
X
Every 12 
weeks
*   Routine blood tests to check blood counts will be drawn weekly in Cycles 1 and 2.  If you are tolerating the 
study intervention your routine blood tests to check blood counts will be drawn monthly after Cycle 2.
OPTIONAL Research Samples Stored for Unspecified Future Research:
Besides the information about the main study, the following information is specific to unspecified future use of 
identifiable data and/or biospecimens.  We would also like your permission to keep some of your research blood 
and tumor tissue, as well as medical information (such as gender, race, and how your cancer responded to the 
study intervention, etc.) collected in the main study so that we may study them in future research. The future 
research may be similar to this study or may be completely different and may include genetic analysis on your 
tissue. 
You can take part in the main study even if you decide not to let us keep your blood, tumor tissue and medical 
information for future research.
If you give us permission, we will use your blood, tumor tissue and medical information for future research. Even 
if you give us permission now to keep some of your blood, tissue and medical information, you can change your 
mind later and ask us to destroy it. Keep in mind, however, that once we have analyzed your blood and tissue, we 
may not be able to take the information out of our research.
We may share your blood, tumor tissue and medical information with other researchers, so that they can use it in 
their research. Once we have shared your blood, tissue and medical information with other researchers, we will 
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not be able to get it back.  Future use of your identifiable data and/or specimens will be conducted in compliance 
with applicable regulatory requirements.
You will not find out the results of future research on your blood and tumor tissue samples. Allowing us to do 
future research on your blood, tissue and medical information will not benefit you directly.
With appropriate permissions, your samples and collected information may also be shared with other researchers 
here, around the world, and with companies.
Your identifiable private information or identifiable biospecimens may be stripped of identifiers and used for 
future research studies or distributed to another researcher for future research studies without additional 
informed consent.
Research can lead to new discoveries, such as new tests, drugs, or devices. Researchers, their organizations, and 
other entities, including companies, may potentially benefit from the future research on your blood, tumor tissue 
and medical information. You will not have rights to these discoveries or any proceeds from them.
You can make your choice about whether to participate in the Optional substudy (storage of research samples for 
future use) in Section 12 of the consent. 
4.2 How much of my time will be needed to take part in this study?  
The initial screening visit will take approximately 2-5 hours.  Each study visit is expected to take approximately 4-6 
hours. 
4.3 When will my participation in the study be over? 
The maximum time you will be in the study will depend on how your disease responds to the study intervention 
and how well you tolerate the study intervention.  After you stop taking the study intervention you will be asked 
to come back for an end of treatment visit and then we will follow you either by phone or a clinic visit for up to 2 
years. Your participation may end sooner if you decide to no longer participate, your study doctor feels it is in 
your best interest to stop your study participation, your disease progresses or the study is ended.  You can stop 
participating at any time.  However, if you decide to stop participating in the study, we encourage you to talk to 
the study doctor and your regular physician first.
4.4 What will happen with my information and/or biospecimens used in this study? 
Your collected information and biospecimens may be shared with Esanik Therapeutics, Inc. Your collected 
information and biospecimens may also be shared with other researchers, both here or around the world, or with 
companies.  Any sharing is subject to contractual obligations with the Sponsor.  Additionally:

With appropriate permissions, your identifiable collected information and biospecimens may be shared, 
and/or,

Without your additional consent, your identifiable private information and identifiable biospecimens may 
be stripped of identifiers and used for future research studies or distributed to another researcher for 
future research studies.
5.  INFORMATION ABOUT RISKS AND BENEFITS
5.1 What risks will I face by taking part in the study?  What will the researchers do to protect me against these 
risks?
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The drugs used in the study may cause certain side effects and discomforts. You may have all, some, or none of 
the known side effects. There is also a risk that other rare or unknown side effects may occur. Your doctors and 
nurses will check you closely for side effects, and may give you medicines or other treatments to stop or reduce 
some of these effects. Some side effects may go away soon after the study medication is stopped, but in some 
cases, side effects may be serious, long lasting, and/or permanent. There is even a chance that a side effect may 
cause death. If you have any side effects, it is important that you report them to your study doctor or research 
staff.
These risks will be minimized by monitoring you carefully. We will provide the usual supportive care that would be
routinely given to someone with your condition. If you have side effects from the study intervention,
we will make appropriate adjustments as defined by the study protocol. You may need to discontinue the
study intervention if the side effects are too serious.
The known or expected risks are:
Side Effects ASSOCIATED WITH ESK981
By taking part in this study, you may experience the following risks from the study drug ESK981:
Very frequent (greater than 50% or >1/2 patients):

Fatigue
Frequent (20% to 50% or 1/5 to 1/2 patients):

Nausea

Diarrhea

Decreased appetite

Abdominal pain

Back pain

Vomiting

Constipation

Headache

Dizziness

Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
Less Frequent (less than 20% or less than 1/5 patients):

Reduced white blood cells, which can increase the risk of infection
Rare:

Raised body temperature (pyrexia)

Low red blood cells (hemolytic anemia), causing sever fatigue

Liver failure (hyperbilirubinemia) 

Serious difficulty breathing (dyspnea)

Severely low white blood cell counts (neutropenia), which may increase the risk of infections

Changes in your heart activity (ECG (electrocardiogram) change)

Chest discomfort
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Side Effects ASSOCIATED WITH NIVOLUMAB
Nivolumab may cause one or more of the side effects listed below.  This information is based on data from cancer 
subjects in other clinical trials with nivolumab.  In addition, there may be side effects that are not yet known that 
may occur.  You should tell your doctor or nurse right away about any possible side effects that you experience.
Very common side effects of nivolumab (occurring in ≥ 10% or ≥ 1/10 of patients) are:

Fatigue 

Rash

Musculoskeletal pain

Itchy skin

Diarrhea

Nausea

Weakness

Cough

Shortness of breath

Constipation

Decreased appetite

Back pain

Joint pain or stiffness

Upper respiratory tract infection

Fever

Headache

Abdominal pain
Common side effects of nivolumab (occurring in ≥1% to 10% or > 1/100 to 1/10 of patients): 

Alkaline phosphatase increased: lab test result associated with liver or bone abnormalities

ALT increased: lab test result associated with abnormal liver function

Amylase increased: lab test result associated with pancreas inflammation

AST increased: lab test result associated with abnormal liver function

Chills

Creatinine increased: lab test result associated with decreased kidney function

Dry mouth

Dry skin

Lipase increased: lab test result associated with pancreas inflammation

Inflammation of the colon

Inflammation of the mouth

Infusion related reaction

Itching

Loss of color (pigment) from areas of skin

Lung inflammation (pneumonitis - see details below)

Swelling, including face, arms, and legs

Thyroid gland function decreased

Thyroid gland function increased

Thyroid stimulating hormone increased: lab test result associated with abnormal thyroid function
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
Tingling, burning, numbness or weakness, possibly in arms, legs, hands and feet

Vomiting
Uncommon side effects of nivolumab (occurring in ≥0.1% to 1% or ≥ 1/1,000 to < 1/100 of patients):

Adrenal gland function decreased

Allergic reaction

Abnormal liver function blood test (bilirubin increased)

Bronchitis

Cranial nerve disorder

Diabetes

Dizziness

Dry eye

Hair loss

Heart rate increased

Heart rhythm abnormal

High blood pressure

Hives

Increased blood sugar

Inflammation of the eye

Inflammation of the heart

Inflammation of the kidney

Inflammation of the pancreas

Inflammation of the pituitary gland

Inflammation of the stomach

Inflammation of the thyroid gland

Liver inflammation

Low blood pressure

Pituitary gland function decreased

Psoriasis: characterized by patches of abnormal, scaly skin

Redness

Kidney failure

Respiratory failure

Sodium levels in blood low

Upper respiratory tract infection

Vision blurred
Rare side effects of nivolumab (occurring in ≥ 0.01% to < 0.1% or ≥ 1/10,000 to < 1/1,000 patients):

Severe allergic reaction (Anaphylactic reaction)

Damage to the protective covering of the nerves in the brain and spinal cord

Diabetes complications resulting in excess blood acids and diabetic coma

Skin inflammatory reaction (Erythema multiforme)

An autoimmune disorder associated with progressive muscle weakness or paralysis (Guillain-Barre 
syndrome)

Inflammation of blood vessels
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
Inflammation of the brain, potentially life-threatening or fatal

Lung infiltrates, associated with infection or inflammation

Muscle inflammation

Neurologic syndrome characterized by muscle weakness (Myasthenic syndrome) including, a nerve 
disease that may cause weakness of eye, face, breathing, and swallowing muscles (myasthenia gravis).

An inflammatory disorder causing muscle pain and stiffness (Polymyalgia rheumatica)

Muscle fiber released into the blood stream which could damage your kidneys (Rhabdomyolysis)

Acne-like skin condition resulting in redness of face (Rosacea)

A disease involving abnormal collections of inflammatory cells (granulomas) in organs such as lungs, skin, 
and lymph nodes (Sarcoidosis)

Inflammatory disorder of skin and mucous membranes, resulting in blistering and shedding of skin 
(Stevens Johnson syndrome)

A potentially fatal disease characterized by blistering and peeling of the top layer of skin resembling a 
severe burn (Toxic epidermal necrolysis)

Disorder of the lymph nodes which causes the lymph nodes to become enlarged, inflamed and painful, 
commonly affecting lymph nodes of the neck and possibly associated with fever or muscle and joint pains 
(Histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis or Kikuchi lymphadenitis)
Lung inflammation (pneumonitis):  It is possible that nivolumab may cause inflammation of the tissues of the 
lung.  This adverse effect has been reported infrequently in patients treated with nivolumab.  While many patients 
with x-ray or CT abnormalities have not developed any symptoms, some patients have developed mild to severe 
symptoms and in rare cases, death has occurred as a result of their lung inflammation.  Signs and symptoms of 
lung inflammation may include difficulty breathing, pain or discomfort while breathing, chest pain, cough, 
shortness of breath, increased rate of breathing, fever, low blood oxygen levels, or fatigue.  
Your study doctor and nurse will watch you closely for changes in your ability to breathe and for other signs or 
symptoms that might show you are developing this type of lung inflammation and will perform regular tests 
including physical exams, measurement of oxygen levels through non-invasive testing (i.e., pulse oximeter), blood 
tests, chest x-rays and/or CT scans. Complications, including fatal events, have occurred in patients who received 
allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) after nivolumab.
 Please inform your study doctor or nurse AT ONCE if you experience any of the following:

Any new or increased shortness of breath;

Any new or increased chest pain;

Any new or increased pain/difficulty while breathing;

Any new or increased cough or any significant change in your type of cough; for example, any new or 
increased mucous or blood in your cough;  

Any change in the amount of oxygen you require;

Any fever, fatigue, or other symptoms that occur at the same time as any changes to your breathing or 
other lung symptoms. 
If you start to develop symptoms, your study doctor will ask you to return to the clinic for additional tests, which 
could include a physical exam, measurement of oxygen levels, blood tests, chest x-rays, and/or CT scans. You will 
be monitored very closely for changes in your overall lung symptoms, monitoring may require hospitalization. You 
may require specific treatment in order to control pneumonitis. You may also be seen by a special doctor called a 
pulmonologist, who has special training to be an expert in how your lungs work.
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Prolonged treatment with medicines that suppress inflammation, sometimes needed to manage the side effects 
of nivolumab treatment, may lower your body’s ability to fight off certain infections (i.e., opportunistic infections). 
These infections may require treatment with antibiotic or antifungal medications and may be fatal.
Risks of CT Scan
The contrast substance injected during the CT scan may cause pain, burning feeling, sweating and rarely a serious 
allergic reaction that can be serious. If you know you’re allergic to iodine you must inform your doctor 
immediately. The contrast agent used in the CT scan may cause kidney damage, especially if you’re diabetic, 
dehydrated and if you’re older. In addition, your thyroid function may be affected. Please inform your doctor if 
this is the case.
CT imaging uses ionizing radiation, which increases your risk to develop cancer. Everyone is exposed to naturally 
occurring ionizing radiation every day. The amount of radiation exposure from 1 CT scan is approximately 
comparable to 1-3 years of natural background radiation. The estimated additional lifetime risk of developing a 
potentially fatal cancer from a standard CT scan is approximately 1 in 2,000.
Risks of MRI Scan
Contrast is used to improve the pictures of the inside of the body made by the MRI. Common risks of MRI include: 
feeling fearful of being in a small enclosed space (claustrophobia) when you are lying inside the MRI scanner, 
feeling uncomfortable because of the loud noises made by the machines, and feeling uncomfortable with the 
physical sensations you may feel during the process. You are also exposed to some risk because of the injected 
contrast, gadolinium-DTPA, which may cause headache, nausea, and local burning sensation.
The contrast agent, gadolinium has been linked to development of Nephrogenic Fibrosing Dermopathy (NFD) (also 
known as Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) This causes a thickening of the skin, organs and other tissues, and 
is a rare complication in patients with kidney disease that undergo an MRI with contrast material. To help prevent 
this, we will check how well your kidneys work before you have any MRIs. Because of the use of contrast, all 
female subjects who are able to have children will be required to use adequate birth control. If you have 
implanted metal objects such as a pacemaker, artificial limbs, or metal joints, you will not be able to have an MRI 
done, and may not be able to take part in this research.
Blood tests
Collection of blood samples may cause pain, bleeding, bruising or infection. It is also possible that you may feel 
lightheaded or faint. Please tell your study doctor or the study nurse if you do not feel well after having your 
blood drawn at any time during your study participation.
Questionnaires
Filling out the questionnaires could lead you to feel uncomfortable or upset. Please tell the study doctor or study 
staff if you feel uncomfortable or upset while filling out a questionnaire. You have the right to refuse to answer 
any questions. 
Research samples/Loss of Confidentiality
Your samples will be coded, however, there is a risk of loss of confidentiality of your information. If your samples 
are provided to research collaborators the following information may be made available: your diagnosis and 
treatments, the time the samples were collected in relation to your study regimen, your disease status, and 
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demographic data (for example gender, race, age, etc.).  Please ask the Study Doctor or Study Coordinator if you 
would like to know more about how your information will be protected.
Pregnancy
Women
If you are a woman of child bearing potential, you must not have sexual intercourse or you must use reliable birth 
control throughout the study and for 6 months after the last dose of study drugs. 
If you are pregnant or become pregnant or are nursing a child during the study, there may be risks to your unborn 
baby or nursing child. Some drugs cause premature (early) birth or birth defects. Nobody knows what all of these 
risks are right now.
If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during the study, immediately stop using the study drugs 
and contact the study doctor’s office immediately. You must not breast-feed an infant during the study. Please 
also inform the study doctor if you become pregnant up to 6 months after the completion of the study drugs.
If there is ANY chance that you can get pregnant, you must either agree to not have vaginal intercourse or you 
must use TWO types of birth control (one from each list below) AT THE SAME TIME.
You must use two types of birth control at the same time for medical reasons all during investigational study 
treatment (including during temporary breaks from investigational study treatment), and for at least 6 months 
after investigational study treatment has stopped. You must talk to the doctor before changing any birth control 
methods you have already agreed to use.
Primary forms 
Secondary forms
• tubal sterilization (tubes tied) 
• male latex condom with or without spermicide
• partner’s vasectomy 
• diaphragm with spermicide
• intrauterine device 
• cervical cap with spermicide
• vaginal sponge (contains spermicide)
Any birth control method can fail. The reports of birth control failing are more frequent for female patients who 
use only a single form of birth control. Using two forms of birth control at the same time greatly reduces the 
chances of pregnancy.
Men
All men must use an acceptable form of birth control while taking part in the study and for 6 months after 
investigational study treatment has stopped because the effects on sperm are not known. Acceptable forms of 
birth control are male latex condom (with or without spermicide) or vasectomy. Also, men should not donate 
sperm or semen while taking part in the study because the effects on sperm are not known.
The study doctor must follow up and document the course and the outcome of all pregnancies, even if you 
withdraw from the study or if the study has finished. If you become pregnant during the study, the study doctor 
or his/her staff will ask to contact you and your pregnancy physician for information about the pregnancy until the 
child is born and may share this information with the sponsor.
If you are male, you should advise your study doctor if you father a child while participating in this study. The 
doctor will advise you on medical attention for your partner should this be necessary. We will ask for your 
partner’s permission to collect information about the pregnancy and health of the baby.
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Let your study doctor know of any questions you have about possible side effects. You can ask the study doctor 
questions about side effects at any time.
As with any research study, there may be additional risks that are unknown or unexpected.
5.2 What happens if I get hurt, become sick, or have other problems as a result of this research?
The researchers have taken steps to minimize the risks of this study.  Even so, you may still have problems or side 
effects, even when the researchers are careful to avoid them. Please tell the researchers listed in Section 10 about 
any injuries, side effects, or other problems that you have during this study.  You should also tell your regular 
doctors.
5.3 If I take part in this study, can I also participate in other studies?
Being in more than one research study at the same time, or even at different times, may increase the risks to you.  
It may also affect the results of the studies.  You should not take part in more than one study without approval 
from the researchers involved in each study.  
5.4 How could I benefit if I take part in this study?  How could others benefit?  
You may or may not receive any personal benefits from being in this study.  However, others may benefit from 
the knowledge gained from this study.
5.5 Will the researchers tell me if they learn of new information that could change my willingness to stay in this 
study?
Yes, the researchers will tell you if they learn of important new information that may change your willingness to 
stay in this study. If new information is provided to you after you have joined the study, it is possible that you may 
be asked to sign a new consent form that includes the new information.
6.  OTHER OPTIONS
6.1 If I decide not to take part in this study, what other options do I have?
People who are not in a study are usually treated with either surgery, radiation, or with drugs.  Sometimes, 
combinations of these are used and your doctor can explain which may be best for you. These treatments can 
reduce symptoms and may stop the tumor from growing for several months or more.  The usual approaches to 
the treatment of kidney cancer are one of the following: high dose IL2 therapy, pazopanib, sunitinib, nivolumab, 
cabozantinib, axitinib, everolimus, lenvantinib with everolimus. This medication can enhance the immune 
response to your cancer and increase the amount of time without active disease.  Some of the usual approaches 
to treatment of kidney cancer (specifically nivolumab and cabozantinib) have been shown to increase survival.
Instead of being in this study, you have these options:

You may receive other available treatments for your cancer, such as those mentioned above  

You may be eligible for other cancer research studies.

You may receive treatment for pain or other symptoms only.

You may receive no treatment at all.
You should talk to your study doctor and your regular physician about each of your options and their risks and 
benefits before you decide if you want to take part in this study.
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7.  ENDING THE STUDY
7.1 If I want to stop participating in the study, what should I do?
You are free to leave the study at any time.  If you leave the study before it is finished, there will be no penalty to 
you. You will not lose any benefits to which you may otherwise be entitled.  If you choose to tell the researchers 
why you are leaving the study, your reasons for leaving may be kept as part of the study record. If you decide to 
leave the study before it is finished, please tell one of the persons listed in Section 10 “Contact Information” 
(below).
7.2 Could there be any harm to me if I decide to leave the study before it is finished? 
If you decide to leave the study early, please notify someone on the study team.  They will instruct you on how to 
stop the study safely and you will be advised whether any additional test may need to be done for your safety.
7.3 Could the researchers take me out of the study even if I want to continue to participate?
Yes. There are many reasons why the researchers may need to end your participation in the study.  Some 
examples are:

The researcher believes that it is not in your best interest to stay in the study.

You become ineligible to participate.

Your condition changes and you need treatment that is not allowed while you are taking part in the study.

You do not follow instructions from the researchers.

The study is suspended or canceled.
8.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
8.1 Who will pay for the costs of the study? Will I or my health plan be billed for any costs of the study?  
The study will pay for research-related items or services that are provided only because you are in the study.  If 
you are not sure what these are, see Section 4.1 above or ask the researchers for a list.  If you get a bill you think 
is wrong, call the researchers’ number listed in section 10.1.
ESK981 will be provided by Esanik Therapeutics, Inc. free of charge.
 You or your health plan will pay for all the things you would have paid for even if you were not in the study, like:

Health care given during the study as part of your regular care

Nivolumab 

Items or services needed to give you study drugs or devices (such as the cost of the infusion)

Monitoring for side effects or other problems

Deductibles or co-pays for these items or services

Treatment of complications
If you do not have a health plan, or if you think your health plan may not cover these costs during the study, 
please talk to the researchers listed in Section 10 below or call your health plan’s medical reviewer.
The study team has given you instructions about this research study. It is important that you follow these 
instructions carefully. If you get sick, have a medical complication, or are injured as a result of your being in the 
study, call Dr. Alva, at (734) 936-0091 or (734) 936-4000 (Hospital Operator – 24-hour paging). The doctor will 
either treat you or send you to another doctor for treatment. 
You will get free medical care for any complication, injury, or illness caused by the study drug, device, or 
procedure. Esanik and the study doctor are responsible for determining whether your condition was the result of 
your participation in the study.
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Esanik will pay for your treatment only if the need for treatment has been caused by the study drug, device or 
procedure. This means that you or your health plan must pay for any treatment that is part of your usual medical 
care or that is related to a medical condition you had before participating in the study.
By signing this form, you do not give up your right to seek payment if you are harmed as a result of being in this 
study.
8.2 Will I be paid or given anything for taking part in this study?
You will not be paid to take part in this study.
8.3 Who could profit or financially benefit from the study results?
Information obtained from this study may help the supporter Esanik Therapeutics, Inc. and/or the University of 
Michigan learn more about the causes, risks, treatments, or how to prevent this and other health problems.  
Esanik Therapeutics, Inc., the University of Michigan, and/or physicians at the university could profit financially 
from this information.
Research can lead to new discoveries, such as new tests, drugs, or devices. Researchers, their organizations, and 
other entities, including companies, may potentially benefit from the use of the data or discoveries. You will not 
have rights to these discoveries or any proceeds from them.  
9. CONFIDENTIALITY OF SUBJECT RECORDS AND AUTHORIZATION TO RELEASE YOUR PROTECTED HEALTH 
INFORMATION
The information below describes how your privacy and the confidentiality of your research records will be 
protected in this study.
9.1 How will the researchers protect my privacy?
The University of Michigan has rules to protect information about you. Federal and state laws also protect your 
privacy. Upon enrolling in this study, you will be assigned a unique identification number. All records related to 
the study will use this identification number instead of your name or other personally identifying information 
whenever possible. We will take measures to protect the privacy and security of all your personal information, but 
we cannot guarantee complete confidentiality of study data.
Medical information created by this research study may become part of your hospital medical record and may be 
forwarded to your primary doctor. Information that does not become part of your medical record will be stored in 
your study file.
You have the right to request access to your protected health information that is used or shared during this 
research and that is related to your study treatment for your disease, but you may access this information only 
after the study is completed. To request this information, please contact the researchers listed in Section 10 
“Contact Information” (below).
Genetic Risks:
The federal Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) generally makes it illegal for health insurance 
companies, group health plans, and most employers to discriminate against you based on your genetic 
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information.  This law does not protect you against genetic discrimination by companies that sell life insurance, 
disability insurance, or long-term care insurance.  Under this law:

Health insurance companies and group health plans may not request your genetic information that we 
obtain from this research

Health insurance companies and group health plans may not use your genetic information when making 
decisions regarding your eligibility or premiums

Employers with 15 or more employees may not use your genetic information that we obtain from this 
research when making a decision to hire, promote, or fire you or when setting the terms of your 
employment
GINA does not apply to the following groups; however, these groups have policies in place that provide similar 
protections against discrimination:

Members of the US Military receiving care through Tricare

Veterans receiving care through the Veteran’s Administration (VA)

The Indian Health Service

Federal employees receiving care through the Federal Employees Health Benefits Plans
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.
9.2 What information about me could be seen by the researchers or by other people?  Why?  Who might see it?
Signing this form gives the researchers your permission to obtain, use, and share information about you for this 
study, and is required in order for you to take part in the study.  Information about you may be obtained from any 
hospital, doctor, and other health care provider involved in your care, including:

Hospital/doctor's office records, including test results (X-rays, blood tests, urine tests, etc.)

Mental health care records (except psychotherapy notes not kept with your medical records)

Alcohol/substance abuse treatment records

HIV/AIDS status

Sexually transmitted disease or other communicable disease status

Health plan/health insurance records

All records relating to your condition, the treatment you have received, and your response to the 
treatment

Billing information

Demographic information

Personal information
There are many reasons why information about you may be used or seen by the researchers or others during or 
after this study.  Examples include:

The researchers may need the information to make sure you can take part in the study.  

The researchers may need the information to check your test results or look for side effects.  

University of Michigan, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and/or other government officials, auditors, 
and/or the IRB may need the information to make sure that the study is done in a safe and proper 
manner.   

Esanik Therapeutics, Inc. or safety monitors or committees, may need the information to: 
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o
Make sure the study is done safely and properly
o
Learn more about side effects 
o
Analyze the results of the study 

Insurance companies or other organizations may need the information in order to pay your medical bills 
or other costs of your participation in the study.

The researchers may need to use the information to create a databank of information about your 
condition or its treatment.

Information about your study participation may be included in your regular University of Michigan 
medical record.

Federal or State law may require the study team to give information to government agencies. For 
example, to prevent harm to you or others, or for public health reasons. 
The results of this study could be published in an article, but would not include any information that would let 
others know who you are. 
9.3 What happens to information about me after the study is over or if I cancel my permission?
As a rule, the researchers will not continue to use or disclose information about you but will keep it secure until it 
is destroyed.  Sometimes, it may be necessary for information about you to continue to be used or disclosed, even 
after you have canceled your permission or the study is over.  
Examples of reasons for this include:

To avoid losing study results that have already included your information 

To provide limited information for research, education, or other activities (This information would not 
include your name, social security number, or anything else that could let others know who you are.) 

To help the University of Michigan and government officials make sure that the study was conducted 
properly
As long as your information is kept within the University of Michigan Health System, it is protected by the Health 
System’s privacy policies.  For more information about these policies, ask for a copy of the University of Michigan 
“Notice of Privacy Practices”.  This information is also available on the web at 
http://www.uofmhealth.org/patient+and+visitor+guide/hipaa. Note that once your information has been shared 
with others as described under Question 9.2, it may no longer be protected by the privacy regulations of the 
federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
9.4 When does my permission expire?  
Your permission expires at the end of the study, unless you cancel it sooner. You may cancel your permission at 
any time by writing to the researchers listed in Section 10 "Contact Information" (below).  If you withdraw your 
permission, you may no longer be eligible to participate in this study.
10. CONTACT INFORMATION
10.1 Who can I contact about this study?
Please contact the researchers listed below to:

Obtain more information about the study

Ask a question about the study procedures or treatments

Talk about study-related costs to you or your health plan 

Report an illness, injury, or other problem (you may also need to tell your regular doctors)

Leave the study before it is finished
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
Express a concern about the study
Principal Investigator: 
Ajjai Alva, MD
Mailing Address: 
University of Michigan
1500 E. Medical Center Dr., 7316 CC
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Telephone: 
(734) 936-0091
Emergency Contact:
(734) 936-4000 (Hospital Operator - 24-hour paging)
You may also express a concern about a study by contacting the Institutional Review Board listed below.
University of Michigan Medical School Institutional Review Board (IRBMED)
2800 Plymouth Road
Building 520, Room 3214
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2800
Telephone: 734-763-4768  (For International Studies, include the appropriate calling codes.)
Fax: 734-763-1234
e-mail: irbmed@umich.edu 
If you are concerned about a possible violation of your privacy or concerned about a study you may contact the 
University of Michigan Health System Compliance Help Line at 1-866-990-0111.
When you call or write about a concern, please provide as much information as possible, including the name of the 
researcher, the IRBMED number (at the top of this form), and details about the problem.  This will help University 
officials to look into your concern.  When reporting a concern, you do not have to give your name unless you want 
to.
 
11.  RECORD OF INFORMATION PROVIDED
11.1 What documents will be given to me?
You will receive a copy of the signed and dated informed consent
Your signature in the next section means that you have received copies of all of the following documents:
This "Consent to be Part of a Research Study" document.  (Note: In addition to the copy you receive,

copies of this document will be stored in a separate confidential research file and may be entered into your 
regular University of Michigan medical record.)

Other (specify):
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12.  SIGNATURES
Consent/Assent to Participate in the Research Study
I understand the information printed on this form.  I have discussed this study, its risks and potential benefits, 
and my other choices with ______________________________________.  My questions so far have been 
answered.  I understand that if I have more questions or concerns about the study or my participation as a 
research subject, I may contact one of the people listed in Section 10 (above).  I understand that I will receive a 
copy of this form at the time I sign it and later upon request.  I understand that if my ability to consent or 
assent for myself changes, either I or my legal representative may be asked to re-consent prior to my 
continued participation in this study.
Legal Name: ________________________________________________________________________
Signature: _________________________________________________________________________
Date of Signature (mm/dd/yy): ________________________
Consent/Assent to Collect and Store OPTIONAL Research Samples for Unspecified Future Research
This project involves the option to allow the study team to keep your identifiable specimens/data for use in 
future research. I understand that it is my choice whether or not to take part in this optional research.  I 
understand that if my ability to consent or assent for myself changes, either I or my legal representative may 
be asked to re-consent prior to my continued participation in this study.
_____ Yes, I agree to let the study team keep and store my blood and tissue samples for future research.
_____ No, I do not agree to let the study team keep and store my blood and tissue samples for future 
research.
Print Legal Name: ________________________________________________________________________
Signature: _________________________________________________________________________
Date of Signature (mm/dd/yy): ________________________
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Principal Investigator or Designee
I have provided this participant and/or his/her legally authorized representative(s) with information about this 
study that I believe to be accurate and complete.  The participant and/or his/her legally authorized 
representative(s) indicated that he or she understands the nature of the study, including risks and benefits of 
participating.
Printed Legal Name: ________________________________________________________________________
Title: ______________________________________________________________________________
Signature: _________________________________________________________________________
Date of Signature (mm/dd/yy): ________________________
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UMCC 2018.052
PERSONAL CENSUS FORM
Name _______________________________________________
Date ____________________
The National Cancer Institute requires that The University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer 
Center report race and ethnicity information about people who participate in clinical research to 
ensure that all populations are offered the opportunity to participate. 
 Check here if you do not wish to provide some or all of the information below.
1. What race do you consider yourself to be? 
American Indian/Alaska Nativea
(Please select one or more)

Asianb

Black or African Americanc

Native Hawaiian or Other
Pacific Islanderd

Whitee

More than one racef
2. Do you consider yourself to be Hispanicg?           Yes                 No
________________________________________________________________________
a American Indian or Alaska Native- A person having origins in any of the original peoples of North, Central, or 
South America, and who maintains tribal affiliation or community attachment.
b Asian- A person having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the Indian 
subcontinent, including, for example, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippine 
Islands, Thailand and Vietnam.
c Black or African American- A person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa.  (Terms such as 
“Haitian” or “Negro” are sometimes used in addition to “Black” or “African American.”)
d Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander- A person having origins in any of the original peoples of Hawaii, Guam, 
Samoa, or other Pacific Islands.
e White- A person having origins in any of the original peoples of Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa.
f More than one race- (It is preferred that this be selected in addition to the selection of the specific races listed 
above, but this may also be solely selected.)
g Hispanic or Latino- A person of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central or South American, or other Spanish 
culture or origin, regardless of race.  The term “Spanish origin” is sometimes used in addition to “Hispanic” or 
“Latino.”
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