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Furman, Richard R.

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1677-7626

Mayo Clinic

NewYork–Presbyterian Hospital

Citations 32

Outcome of Ibrutinib Treatment by Baseline Genetic Features in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory CLL/SLL with del17p in the Resonate-17 Study
Jones, Jeffrey A. , Mato, Anthony R. , Österborg, Anders , Thirman, Michael J. , Furman, Richard R. , İlhan, Osman , Keating, Michael J. , Call, Timothy G. , Brown, Jennifer R. , Li, Yunfeng , Eckert, Karl , James, Danelle F. , Chu, Alvina D., Hallek, Michael , Stilgenbauer, Stephan , Coutré, Steven , Hillmen, Peter , Tam, Constantine S. , Siddiqi, Tanya , Chang, Betty Y , O’Brien, Susan

Blood | October 13, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 833-833

10.1182/blood.v126.23.833.833 Get It

Abstract Background: Patients (pts) with deletion 17p (del17p) CLL follow an aggressive clinical course and experience poor outcomes with chemoimmunotherapy. Ibrutinib, an oral inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), is approved for pts with CLL with ≥1 prior therapy and for pts with del17p CLL (including first-line). In the phase 2 RESONATE-17 study (PCYC-1117), ibrutinib demonstrated high efficacy with a favorable risk-benefit profile in del17p CLL/SLL (O'Brien, ASH 2014). We evaluate the baseline genetic features and prognostic factors of these pts to determine their impact on outcome. Methods: Pts with del17p CLL or SLL defined by peripheral blood FISH who failed ≥1 therapy received 420 mg oral ibrutinib once daily until progression or unacceptable toxicity. Using the primary analysis data cut, the overall response rate (ORR; iwCLL 2008 criteria by investigators), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were assessed by subgroup. Results: Among 144 treated pts (137 CLL, 7 SLL), the median age was 64 (range 36-89). At baseline, 63% of pts had Rai stage III or IV disease, and 39% had received ≥3 prior therapies. Baseline cytogenetics included del11q (16%), del13q (74%), and trisomy 12 (17%), in addition to del17p in all pts. Of 116 pts with valid baseline genomic samples, IGHV status was unmutated in 84%; genomic variants that included mutations, rearrangements, insertions, deletions, and copy number variants affecting coding regions were identified as follows: ATM (14%), BIRC3 (3%), BTK (1%), MYC (2%), MYD88 (2%), NOTCH1 (16%), PLCG2 (3%), SF3B1 (27%), and TP53 (92%), which were consistent with previously identified mutations in pts with CLL (Wang, NEJM 2011; Winkelmann, Haematologica 2015). At a median follow-up of 11.5 months, the investigator-assessed ORR including partial response with lymphocytosis (PR-L) for all treated pts was 83% (17% PR-L). Median PFS and OS were not reached, with 12-month PFS and OS rates of 79% and 84%. Any-grade adverse events (≥15%) included diarrhea (36%), fatigue (31%), cough (24%), arthralgia (22%), nausea (19%), hypertension (19%), anemia (19%), pyrexia (17%), decreased appetite (17%), muscle spasms (17%), neutropenia (17%), and peripheral edema (15%). Serious AEs occurred in 40% of pts (38% ≥ grade 3). ORR, 12-month PFS, and 12-month OS are presented by subgroup for baseline characteristics, cytogenetics, and genomic variants (Table). There were no substantial differences in response rates and survival outcomes in the subgroups with and without baseline cytogenetic aberrations or genomic variants (Table). Response rates were similar for pts with and without NOTCH1 or SF3B1 variants. Of 11 pts with del17p CLL who developed Richter transformation, baseline aberrations included ATM (n=2), SF3B1 (n=3), and/or NOTCH1 (n=3); none had BIRC3 variants. Overall at baseline, there were 3 pts with a PLCG2 mutation (L163F, H193Q, P236L), and 1 with a BTK mutation (R236Q); all achieved a best overall response of PR-L or better. None had received prior therapy with a BTK or PI3K inhibitor. Two pts had a baseline MYD88 mutation (L265P, L142F) with a best overall response of PR in 1 pt. Two pts had baseline MYC amplifications with 5 of 5 exons amplified to 6 and 7 copies, respectively; 1 pt achieved a best overall response of PR. Conclusions: These results provide further evidence of ibrutinib's robust clinical activity and encouraging survival outcomes in this high-risk population regardless of baseline cytogenetic aberrations or genomic variants. The prognostic role of these clinical characteristics and genetic anomalies will continue to be elucidated with longer term follow-up of this population. Figure 1. Investigator-assessed efficacy outcomes by subgroups Figure 1. Investigator-assessed efficacy outcomes by subgroups Disclosures Stilgenbauer: AbbVie: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Jones:Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding. Coutre:AbbVie: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Mato:Celgene: Consultancy, Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses, Research Funding; TA Therapeutics: Research Funding; Gilead: Consultancy, Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses. Hillmen:AbbVie: Honoraria, Research Funding; Roche Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Research Funding; Novartis: Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Honoraria, Research Funding; Gilead: Honoraria, Research Funding. Tam:Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Osterborg:Gilead: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria, Research Funding; GSK: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding. Siddiqi:Pharmacyclics: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Speakers Bureau. Thirman:Gilead: Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Research Funding. Furman:Gilead: Consultancy; Acerta Pharma BV: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Li:Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Employment. Eckert:Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Employment. Chang:Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Employment. James:Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Employment. Chu:Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Employment. Hallek:Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Speakers Bureau. O'Brien:Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Research Funding.
A Phase II Trial of Ofatumumab in Subjects with Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia,
Furman, Richard R. , Eradat, Herbert, DiRienzo, Christine, Hayman, Suzanne R. , Avignon, Nathalie A., Leonard, John P. , Coleman, Morton , Switzky, Julie, Liao, Qiming , Shah, Damini N., Lisby, Steen, Lin, Thomas S., Hofmeister, Craig C. , Advani, Ranjana H.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 118 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3701-3701

10.1182/blood.v118.21.3701.3701 Get It

Abstract Abstract 3701 Background: Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) is an indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL) characterized by production of a monoclonal IgM paraprotein and variable CD20 expression due to the downregulation of CD20 as B cells differentiate into plasma cells. Rituximab monotherapy (R) achieves an overall response rate (ORR) of 25–50% in therapy naïve and relapsed WM and is associated with IgM flares in 25–75% of patients (pts) that potentially lead to hyperviscosity due to a rapid rise in IgM. Ofatumumab (OFA) is a fully human monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody approved for the treatment of fludarabine and alemtuzumab-refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and has demonstrated activity in indolent B-NHL. Since OFA is active in CLL, with its low CD20 expression, we initiated a phase II single-arm trial of OFA in pts with WM. We report primary endpoint data from this study. Methods: Pts (age ≥ 18 years) with WM requiring therapy by 2nd International Workshop on WM (IWWM) criteria were eligible. Cycle 1 (C1) of therapy consisted of OFA 300 mg week 1 and 1000 mg weeks 2–4 (Treatment Group A [TGA]) or OFA 300 mg week 1 and 2000 mg weeks 2–5 (TGB). Premedication included acetaminophen and antihistamine (all infusions) and glucocorticoid (infusions 1 and 2). Pts with grade 3–4 infusion-related adverse events (AEs) during weeks 1 and 2 also received glucocorticoid during weeks 3–5. Pts with stable disease (SD) or a minor response (MR) at week 16 of cycle 1 were eligible to receive a re-dosing cycle (C2) consisting of OFA 300 mg week 1 and 2000 mg weeks 2–5. The primary endpoint was ORR assessed by 3rd IWWM criteria. Toxicity was assessed according to NCI-CTCAE, v 3.0. Results: Thirty-seven pts were enrolled between March 2009 and February 2011. Median age was 63 years (range 43–85); 22 pts were male. Median IgM level was 3.11 g/dL (range 0.81–8.64); median hemoglobin (hgb) was 9.8 g/dL (range 5.3–13.2). Nine pts were treatment naïve; 28 pts had received a median of 3 prior therapies (range 1–5) including R (25 pts) and purine analog (14 pts). The first 15 pts were enrolled in TGA and the next 22 pts in TGB; pt characteristics were similar in both groups. Thirty-four pts completed C1; 1 pt withdrew after 1 dose and 2 pts received only 3 doses due to serious AEs (SAEs). Eleven pts achieved partial response (PR) and 7 achieved MR after C1 (ORR=49%; 95% CI [32%, 66%]). Twelve pts received C2, after which 4 pts improved their response (1 MR to PR, 1 SD to PR, 2 SD to MR) and 1 nonevaluable pt attained MR. After C1 and C2, the ORR was 59% (13 PR, 9 MR; 95% CI [42%, 75%]). Responses were seen in 67% (6/9) of therapy naïve pts, 57% (16/28) of relapsed pts, 52% (13/25) of pts who had prior R, 75% (9/12) of R-naïve pts, 64% (16/25) of pts with IgM < 4 g/dL and 50% (6/12) of pts with IgM ≥ 4 g/dL. ORR was 47% (7/15) in TGA and 68% (15/22) in TGB. ORR in TGA was negatively affected by prior R exposure and IgM ≥ 4 g/dL, whereas ORR in TGB was not affected by prior therapy, prior R or IgM level. Fifteen of 26 (58%) pts with hgb < 11.0 g/dL experienced ≥ 3.0 g/dL increase in hgb (range 3.0–7.1). Infusion-related events occurred with dose 1 in 30 (81%) pts and with dose 2 in 21 (57%) pts; all infusion events were grade 1–2 except 4 grade 3 events (1 rash, 1 chest pain, 1 chest discomfort, 1 back pain). Fifteen pts developed 22 infections including 8 upper respiratory tract, 4 urinary tract (UTI) and 4 sinus infections; all infections were grade 1–2 except 1 grade 3 UTI. One pt developed grade 3 febrile neutropenia. In total, there were 14 grade 3–4 AEs (all grade 3). Five pts developed 8 SAEs possibly related to OFA. One pt withdrew due to grade 3 hemolytic anemia. Two pts with baseline IgM of 6.63 and 4.75 g/dL required plasmapheresis for grade 3 renal insufficiency and hyperviscosity symptoms, respectively, with resolution of symptoms and were able to complete C1. Two pts developed IgM flare, defined as > 25% rise in IgM followed by subsequent MR or PR. Conclusions: OFA is clinically active in pts with WM, with an acceptable toxicity profile and a lower incidence (5%) of IgM flare. The ORR to OFA was 59% (TGA 47%, TGB 68%) including a 50% ORR (TGA 17%, TGB 83%) in pts with IgM ≥ 4.0 g/dL. Pts' anemia responded to OFA with 58% of pts with baseline hgb < 11.0 g/dL experiencing ≥ 3.0 g/dL increase in hgb. TGB achieved ORR > 60% in all pt groups regardless of prior therapy or baseline IgM level. A higher dose of OFA appeared to be more effective in pts previously exposed to R or with baseline IgM ≥ 4.0 g/dL. Further study of OFA in WM is warranted. Disclosures: Furman: Genentech: Speakers Bureau; GlaxoSmithKline: Speakers Bureau. Off Label Use: • Ofatumumab is an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of fludarabine- and alemtuzumab-refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and is currently under development for the treatment of B-cell malignancies (chronic lymphocytic leukemia, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, Waldenstroms macroglobulinemia and follicular lymphoma), as well as autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis). Eradat:Millennium: Speakers Bureau; Genentech, A Roche Company: Speakers Bureau. DiRienzo:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Leonard:GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy. Advani:GSK: Research Funding. Switzky:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Liao:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Shah:GSK: Employment. Lisby:Genmab A/S: Employment. Lin:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment.
Inhibition Of The Deubiquitinating Enzymes UCHL5 and USP14 Is Lethal To Waldenströms Macroglobulinemia Cells
Chitta, Kasyapa S., Kuranz, Maja, Ansell, Stephen M. , Novak, Anne J. , Martin, Peter , Furman, Richard R. , Coleman, Morton , Linder, Stig , Chanan‐Khan, Asher , Paulus, Aneel , Akhtar, Sharoon , Roy, Vivek

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1823-1823

10.1182/blood.v122.21.1823.1823 Get It

Abstract Background Waldenströms macroglobulinemia (WM) is a lymphoplasmacytic subtype of Non-Hodgkins lymphoma in which specific molecular changes lead to unrestricted cell proliferation and overproduction of immunoglobulin-M. These processes require exquisite coordination between growth promoting transcription factors (NFkB) and cell homeostatic systems. The bioavailability of various transcription factors and cell cycle proteins is primarily regulated by the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS). Moreover, the proteolytic machinery ensures proper elimination of unwanted or misfolded proteins, which when disrupted leads to protein accumulation and apoptotic cell death. The 26S proteasome is a barrel shaped structure with a 20S catalytic core that is flanked by 19S caps on either side. 26S proteasomes are critical for WM cell survival, which is clinically evident, as up to 80% of WM patients treated with the proteasome inhibitor (PI) bortezomib have derived significant benefit. Traditional PI such as bortezomib and carfilzomib have been designed to target the B5 catalytic core within the 26S proteasome. However, proteasomes are capable of altering conformation of their proteolytic subunits in response to inflammation and stress, which can lower the effectiveness of these PI. The 19S cap is the regulatory complex and functions in unfolding and deubiquitinating the proteins before their entry into the 20S complex using constitutive deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBS). Recently, it has been demonstrated that inhibition of the DUBS, UCHL5 and USP14 results in cell death in a variety of tumor types but more so in cancer cells that rapidly divide or have a high protein turnover rate. Aim To define the anti-WM activity of the novel DUB inhibitor, b-AP15 in preclinical models of WM. Methods The WM cell lines BCWM.1, RPCI-WM1 and MWCL-1 were used for experiments in this analysis. Proteasomal activity was measured using synthetic fluorogenic peptide substrates. Apoptosis was determined by annexin-V/PI staining and mitochondrial membrane permeability (MOMP) was assessed using TMRM followed by flow cytometry. Protein profiling was done via immunoblot analysis. Results As reported by D’Arcy et al in their characterization of the b-AP15 molecule, inhibition of UCHL5 and USP14 by b-AP15 does not disrupt proteasomal activity conferred by the b-catalytic subunits. We confirmed these findings by treating WM cells with single agent bortezomib (10nM), carfilzomib (10nM), b-AP15 (100nM) or all three agents in combination to assess chymotrypsin-like, caspase-like and trypsin-like proteasomal activity using fluorogenic peptide substrates. Further, when used in combination with the other PI, PI-mediated chymotrypsin-like activity remained inhibited in the presence of b-AP15. Next, we sought to determine if b-AP15 treatment could induce WM cell death. Annexin-v staining showed that b-AP15 (500uM) induced apoptosis in all WM cell lines (28 – 60% cell death) with variable responses noted among the 3 models. Treatment with b-AP15 increased MOMP while also inducing the cleavage of caspases-9 and 3 and PARP-1 suggesting that the anti-WM activity of b-AP15 is mediated through the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. As components of the NFkB signaling cascade lie downstream to the UPS, we examined the effects of b-AP15 on this pathway. When treated with the DUB-inhibitor, nuclear translocation of NFkB was reduced in a time dependent manner. Interestingly, treatment with b-AP15 increased the phosphorylation of the mitogen activated protein kinase-p38 (p38) in all the WM cell lines tested. Treatment of WM cells with b-AP15 in presence of the p38 inhibitor, SB203580, resulted in a synergistic induction of cell death. Conclusion b-AP15 is a novel DUB inhibitor that disrupts two regulatory enzymes (UCHL5 and USP14) present in the 19S proteasomal cap. Results presented here demonstrate that b-AP15 induces apoptosis in in vitro models of WM and with in vivo analysis underway, is a potential therapeutic in WM. We would like to acknowledge the Waterfall Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Research Fund, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the International Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Foundation for their continued support. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
At-101 Induces Apoptosis Waldenström Macroglobulinemia Cells Resistant to Bortezomib.
Chitta, Kasyapa S., Miles, Kiersten Marie, Ghoshal, Pushpankur , Stein, Leighton C., Coleman, Morton , Furman, Richard R. , Craig, Hofmeister, Hayman, Suzanne R. , Lee, Kelvin P. , Chanan‐Khan, Asher , Craig, Hofmeister C.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 2861-2861

10.1182/blood.v114.22.2861.2861 Get It

Abstract Abstract 2861 Poster Board II-837 Bcl-2 protein family has the unique capability to balance between the cell survival and death by regulating the expression of its individual members. AT-101 is a BH3 mimetic and a potent inducer of noxa and puma, the natural ligands of BH3 family proteins. It is known to bind and inhibit the anti-apoptotic functions of Bcl-2 family members Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL and Mcl-1. In vitro it has been shown to induce apoptosis in several tumor models systems including multiple myeloma. In this report we investigated the effect of AT-101 on a model cell line, BCWM.1 (a known WM cell line, BCWM.1/WT), representing Waldenström Macroglobulinemia. This disease is characterized by the presence of lymphoplasmacytic cells in the bone marrow and the secretion of IgM monoclonal protein into the serum. Several conventional therapies are available but the disease remains incurable. Therefore there remains a need to develop new therapies for this orphan disease. Recently, bortezomib (a proteasomal inhibitor) has shown promising anti-WM activity with enhanced responses when combined with traditional therapies. But continued treatment with bortezomib result in the development of resistance in the clinic. We developed an in vitro model of bortezomib resistance from BCWM.1 (hereafter referred as BCWM.1/BR). These cells also developed cross resistance to conventional therapies used for WM such as fludarabine and doxorubicin. Biological characterization of this cell line demonstrated Bcl-2 as a potentially important therapeutic target. We therefore assessed the effect of AT-101 to identify preclinically if this could be a potential clinical strategy in future. AT-101 induced a dose and time dependent inhibition in the viability of both BCWM.1/WT as well as BCWM.1/BR cells. Cell death was observed at as low as 1uM concentration of AT-101 and at 10uM a maximum of 50-70% death was observed by 24h. While BCWM.1/WT cells showed a significant death at 12h, treatment with AT-101 induced cell death in BCWM.1/BR cells as early as 6h. These results indicate that AT-101 induced a potent and quick inhibition in viability in BCWM.1/BR cells as compared to their parental wild type cells. Investigation into the mechanism of cell death showed that AT-101 induced apoptosis in a mitochondrial dependent pathway in these cells. A comparative analysis of the signal transduction pathways operated in BCWM.1/WT and BCWM.1/BR cells showed that many of the cellular activation and survival pathways such as AKT, ERK1/2 that are present in BCWM.1 cells are inhibited in the resistant cells. Interestingly, BCWM.1/BR cells expressed a fivefold increase in the Bcl-2 protein as compared to BCWM.1/WT cells suggesting a Bcl-2 dependent survival of these cells in the absence of other cellular activation and survival signals. Increased susceptibility of BCWM.1/BR cells to AT-101 thus can be understood to be a direct consequence of an increased expression of Bcl-2 and a dependence of the resistant cells on Bcl-2 family of anti-apoptotic proteins for their survival. Results presented in this report suggest that AT-101 has a unique therapeutic potential against Waldenström Macroglobulinemia that is independent of resistance to bortezomib. These observations highlight bcl-2 as a potential target, and AT-101 as possible therapeutic avenue for WM patients. Disclosures: Chanan-Khan: Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Millennium: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Immunogen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau.
Efficacy and Safety of Ibrutinib in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia or Small Lymphocytic Leukemia with 17p Deletion: Results from the Phase II RESONATE™-17 Trial
Jones, Jeffrey A. , Mato, Anthony R. , Österborg, Anders , Thirman, Michael J. , Furman, Richard R. , İlhan, Osman , Keating, Michael J. , Call, Timothy G. , Brown, Jennifer R. , Stevens-Brogan, Michelle, Li, Yunfeng , Fardis, Maria, Clow, Fong, James, Danelle F. , Chu, Alvina D., O’Brien, Susan , Coutré, Steven , Hillmen, Peter , Tam, Constantine S. , Siddiqi, Tanya , Hallek, Michael , Stilgenbauer, Stephan

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 327-327

10.1182/blood.v124.21.327.327 Get It

Abstract Background: Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with deletion of the short arm of chromosome 17 (del 17p) follow an aggressive clinical course and demonstrate a median survival of less than 2 years in the relapsed/refractory (R/R) setting. Ibrutinib (ImbruvicaTM), a first-in-class Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, has been approved for previously treated patients with CLL and for patients with del 17p CLL. We report results from the primary analysis of the Phase II RESONATETM-17 (PCYC-1117-CA) study, designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of single-agent ibrutinib for treatment of patients with R/R del 17p CLL or small lymphocytic leukemia (SLL). Methods: Patients with del 17p CLL or SLL who failed at least one therapy were enrolled to receive 420 mg oral ibrutinib once daily until progression. All patients receiving at least one dose of ibrutinib were included in the analysis. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR) per an independent review committee (IRC). Other endpoints included duration of response (DOR), progression-free survival (PFS), and safety of ibrutinib. Results: Among 144 treated patients (137 with CLL, 7 with SLL), the median age was 64 (48% 65 years or older) and all had del 17p. Baseline characteristics included 63% of patients with Rai Stage III or IV disease, 49% with bulky lymphadenopathy of at least 5 cm, and 10% with lymphadenopathy of least 10 cm. The median baseline absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) was 32.9 x 109/L with 57% of patients with a baseline ALC at least 25.0 x 109/L. Baseline beta-2 microglobulin levels were at least 3.5 mg/L in 78% of patients (range 1.8-19.8 mg/L), and lactate dehydrogenase levels were at least 350 U/L in 24% of patients (range 127-1979 U/L). A median of 2 prior therapies (range 1-7) was reported. Investigator-assessed ORR was 82.6% including 17.4% partial response with lymphocytosis (PR-L). Complete response (CR)/complete response with incomplete bone marrow recovery (CRi) were reported in 3 patients. IRC-assessed ORR is pending. At a median follow up of 13.0 months (range 0.5-16.7 months), the median PFS (Figure 1) and DOR by investigator determination had not been reached. At 12 months, 79.3% were alive and progression-free, and 88.3% of responders were progression-free. Progressive disease was reported in 20 patients (13.9%). Richter transformation was reported in 11 of these patients (7.6%), 7 of the cases occurring within the first 24 weeks of treatment. Prolymphocytic leukemia was reported in 1 patient. The most frequently reported adverse events (AE) of any grade were diarrhea (36%; 2% Grade 3-4), fatigue (30%; 1% Grade 3-4), cough (24%; 1% Grade 3-4), and arthralgia (22%; 1% Grade 3-4). Atrial fibrillation of any grade was reported in 11 patients (7.6%; 3.5% Grade 3-4). Seven patients reported basal or squamous cell skin cancer and 1 patient had plasma cell myeloma. Most frequently reported Grade 3-4 AEs were neutropenia (14%), anemia (8%), pneumonia (8%), and hypertension (8%). Major hemorrhage was reported in 7 patients (4.9%, all Grade 2 or 3). Study treatment was discontinued in 16 patients (11.1%) due to AEs with 8 eventually having fatal events (pneumonia, sepsis, myocardial or renal infarction, health deterioration). At the time of data cut, the median treatment duration was 11.1 months, and 101 of 144 patients (70%) continued treatment with ibrutinib. Conclusions: In the largest prospective trial dedicated to the study of del 17p CLL/SLL, ibrutinib demonstrated marked efficacy in terms of ORR, DOR, and PFS, with a favorable risk-benefit profile. At a median follow up of 13 months, the median DOR had not yet been reached; 79.3% of patients remained progression-free at 12 months, consistent with efficacy observed in earlier studies (Byrd, NEJM 2013;369:32-42). The PFS in this previously treated population compares favorably to that of treatment-naïve del 17p CLL patients receiving fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab (FCR) (Hallek, Lancet 2010;376:1164-74) or alemtuzumab (Hillmen, J Clin Oncol 2007;10:5616-23) with median PFS of 11 months. The AEs are consistent with those previously reported for ibrutinib (Byrd, NEJM 2014;371:213-23). These results support ibrutinib as an effective therapy for patients with del 17p CLL/SLL. Figure 1 Figure 1. Disclosures O'Brien: Amgen, Celgene, GSK: Consultancy; CLL Global Research Foundation: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Emergent, Genentech, Gilead, Infinity, Pharmacyclics, Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding; MorphoSys, Acerta, TG Therapeutics: Research Funding. Jones:Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Research Funding. Coutre:Janssen, Pharmacyclics: Honoraria, Research Funding. Mato:Pharamcyclics, Genentech, Celegene, Millennium : Speakers Bureau. Hillmen:Pharmacyclics, Janssen, Gilead, Roche: Honoraria, Research Funding. Tam:Pharmacyclics and Janssen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Siddiqi:Janssen: Speakers Bureau. Furman:Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. Brown:Sanofi, Onyx, Vertex, Novartis, Boehringer, GSK, Roche/Genentech, Emergent, Morphosys, Celgene, Janssen, Pharmacyclics, Gilead: Consultancy. Stevens-Brogan:Pharmacyclics: Employment. Li:Pharmacyclics: Employment. Fardis:Pharmacyclics: Employment. Clow:Pharmacyclics: Employment. James:Pharmacyclics: Employment. Chu:Pharmacyclics: Employment, Equity Ownership. Hallek:Janssen, Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Research Funding. Stilgenbauer:Pharmacyclics, Janssen Cilag: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding.
A Phase II Trial of Ofatumumab In Subjects with Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia.
Furman, Richard R. , Eradat, Herbert, Switzky, Julie, Hayman, Suzanne R. , Avignon, Nathalie A., Leonard, John P. , Coleman, Morton , Liao, Qiming , Shah, Damini N., Brownell-Buttich, Stephanie, Lisby, Steen, Lin, Thomas S., Hofmeister, Craig C. , Leonard, John P.

Blood | October 9, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1795-1795

10.1182/blood.v116.21.1795.1795 Get It

Abstract Abstract 1795 Background: Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia (WM) is an indolent B-cell lymphoma characterized by a heterogeneous population of lymphocytes, plasmacytoid lymphocytes and plasma cells with variable CD20 expression. Rituximab (R) achieves an overall response rate (ORR) of 25–50% in relapsed/refractory WM and is associated with IgM flares, manifested by a rapid rise in IgM, potentially leading to complications of hyperviscosity. Ofatumumab (OFA) is a fully human monoclonal antibody that targets an epitope encompassing both the large and small extracellular loops of CD20 and effectively induces complement-dependent cytotoxicity of B-lymphoma cells. OFA is approved for the treatment of fludarabine- and alemtuzumab-refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and has demonstrated clinical activity in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Given the efficacy of OFA in CLL, with its decreased CD20 antigen density, similar to WM where CD20 is down-regulated with differentiation of cells into plasma cells, a Phase II, open-label, single-arm trial of OFA in patients (pts) with WM was initiated to examine the safety and efficacy of OFA in this population. We report data from a planned interim analysis, which was performed to examine IgM flare, toxicity and response data. Methods: Pts (age ≥18 years) with WM requiring therapy by 2nd International Workshop on WM criteria were eligible. Pts received OFA 300 mg week 1 and 1000 mg weeks 2–4. Premedication included acetaminophen and antihistamine (all infusions) and glucocorticoid (infusions 1 and 2). Pts who experienced grade 3–4 infusion-related adverse events (AEs) during weeks 1 and 2 also received glucocorticoid during weeks 3 and 4. The primary endpoint was ORR assessed by 3rd International Workshop on WM criteria, and toxicity was assessed according to NCI-CTCAE, v3.0. Results: Fifteen pts were enrolled between March 2009 and January 2010. Median age was 59 years (range 43–85), and 9 pts were male. Pts had a median IgM level of 3.70 g/dL (range 1.21–6.62) and median hemoglobin (hgb) of 9.8 g/dL (range 5.3–11.7). Three pts were previously untreated; 12 pts had received a median of 3 therapies (range 2–5), including 11 pts who had received R, and 7 pts who had received a purine analog. Fourteen pts completed all 4 infusions of OFA. One pt withdrew from study after infusion 3 due to a drug-related serious AE (SAE). One pt had cryoglobulinemia, which interfered with IgM assessment. Of the 14 pts with evaluable IgM levels, 3 achieved partial response (PR), and 3 achieved minor response (ORR=43%) 8 weeks to 5 months after start of OFA therapy. One of 3 previously untreated pts and 5 of 12 relapsed pts responded. Four of 11 pts who had received prior R and 2 of 4 R-naïve pts responded. Five of 9 pts with IgM <4 g/dL and 1 of 5 pts with IgM >4 g/dL responded. Four pts with a median hgb of 8.0 g/dL (range 5.3–9.2) experienced ≥2.8 g/dL increase in hgb, including 3 pts who had >5 g/dL increase; median time to reach hgb ≥11.0 was 4 weeks. Infusion-related events occurred with dose 1 (300 mg) in 12 pts and with dose 2 (1000 mg) in 7 pts; all infusion events were grade 1–2 except 2 grade 3 events (rash, serum sickness). Nine pts developed 11 infections: 7 URI, 2 UTI, 1 sinusitis, 1 oral candidiasis (all grade 2). One pt developed grade 3 febrile neutropenia. Two pts developed SAEs possibly related to OFA. One pt developed grade 3 Coombs-negative hemolytic anemia after infusion 3 resulting in study withdrawal, and 1 pt with a baseline IgM level of 6.62 g/dL developed grade 3 renal insufficiency due to a rapid rise in IgM and cast nephropathy 6 weeks after starting OFA. One additional pt, with a baseline IgM level of 4.69 g/dL, developed a rapid rise in IgM and hyperviscosity symptoms. Both pts with a rapid rise in IgM underwent plasmapheresis with resolution of symptoms. No other OFA-related hematologic toxicity was observed. Conclusions: OFA has an acceptable toxicity profile, although a rapid rise in IgM requiring plasmapheresis was observed in 2 pts with high baseline IgM levels. OFA shows clinical activity in pts with WM, including those who relapse after R therapy, with rapid improvement in hgb and slower reduction of IgM levels. Based on the acceptable safety profile in this study and the dose of OFA approved for refractory CLL, the study was amended to increase the OFA dose to 2000 mg and allow a 2nd cycle of therapy for pts who do not attain PR after cycle 1. Accrual to the amended study is ongoing. Disclosures: Furman: GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Genentech: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Cephalon, Inc.: Speakers Bureau; Celegene: Consultancy; Calistoga: Consultancy. Off Label Use: Ofatumumab is an investigational anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, currently under development for the treatment of B-cell malignancies (chronic lymphocytic leukemia, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, Waldenstroms macroglobulinemia and follicular lymphoma) as well as autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis). Switzky:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment, Research Funding; Genmab: Employment, Research Funding. Leonard:GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy. Liao:GSK: Employment. Shah:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment; Genmab: Research Funding. Brownell-Buttich:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Lisby:Genmab A/S: Employment. Lin:GlaxoSmithKline: Consultancy, Employment.
Randomized comparison of ibrutinib versus ofatumumab in relapsed or refractory (R/R) chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma: Results from the phase III RESONATE trial.
Byrd, John C. , Brown, Jennifer R. , Reddy, Nishitha , Jäger, Ulrich, Devereux, Steve, Furman, Richard R. , Cymbalista, Florence, Fardis, Maria, McGreivy, Jesse, Clow, Fong, James, Danelle F. , Hillmen, Peter, O’Brien, Susan , Barrientos, Jacqueline C. , Kay, Neil E. , Coutré, Steven , Tam, Constantine S. , Mulligan, Stephen P. , Devereux, Steve, Barr, Paul M. , Kipps, Thomas J.

Journal of Clinical Oncology | January 3, 2019 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 15_suppl | Pages: LBA7008-LBA7008

10.1200/jco.2014.32.15_suppl.lba7008 Get It

Targeting CD38 with daratumumab is lethal to Waldenström macroglobulinaemia cells
Paulus, Aneel , Manna, Alak , Akhtar, Sharoon , Paulus, Shumail M., Sharma, Mayank , Coignet, Marie V. , Jiang, Liuyan , Ansell, Stephen M. , Allan, John N. , Furman, Richard R. , Aulakh, Sonikpreet , Chanan‐Khan, Asher , Sher, Taimur , Manochakian, Rami , Ailawadhi, Sikander , Chanan-Khan, Asher A., Paulus, Aneel , Roy, Vivek , Witzig, Thomas E. , Ailawadhi, Sikander

British Journal of Haematology | August 7, 2018 | Volume: 183 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 196-211

10.1111/bjh.15515 Get It

SummaryCD38 is expressed on Waldenström macroglobulinaemia (WM) cells, but its role as a therapeutic target remains undefined. With recent approval of the anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibody, daratumumab (Dara), we hypothesized that blocking CD38 would be lethal to WM cells.In vitroDara treatment of WM cells (including ibrutinib‐resistant lines) elicited antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), complement‐dependent cytotoxicity (CDC), antibody‐dependent cell phagocytosis (ADCP) and direct apoptosis.In vivo, Dara treatment was well tolerated and delayed tumour growth in RPCI‐WM1‐xenografted mice. CD38 is reported to augment B‐cell receptor (BCR) signalling; we noted that Dara significantly attenuated phosphorylated SYK, LYN, BTK, PLCγ2, ERK1/2, AKT, mTOR, and S6 levels, and this effect was augmented by cotreatment with ibrutinib. Indeed, WM cells, including ibrutinib‐resistant WM cell lines treated with the ibrutinib + Dara combination, showed significantly more cell death through ADCC, CDC, ADCP and apoptosis relative to single‐agent Dara or ibrutinib. In summary, we are the first to report thein vitroandin vivoanti‐WM activity of Dara. Furthermore, we show a close connection between BCR and CD38 signalling, which can be co‐targeted with ibrutinib + Dara to induce marked WM cell death, irrespective of acquired resistance to ibrutinib.
Novel Richter Syndrome Xenograft Models to Study Genetic Architecture, Biology, and Therapy Responses
Braggio, Esteban , Allan, John N. , Zamò, Alberto , Tam, Wayne , Chadburn, Amy , Furman, Richard R. , Allan, John N , Zamò, Alberto , Braggio, Esteban , Vaisitti, Tiziana , Arruga, Francesca , Serra, Sara , Deaglio, Silvia

Cancer Research | May 7, 2018 | Volume: 78 | Issue: 13 | Pages: 3413-3420

10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-4004 Get It

Abstract Richter syndrome represents the evolution of chronic lymphocytic leukemia into an aggressive tumor, most commonly diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The lack of in vitro and in vivo models has severely hampered drug testing in a disease that is poorly responsive to common chemoimmunotherapeutic combinations as well as to novel kinase inhibitors. Here we report for the first time the establishment and genomic characterization of two patient-derived tumor xenograft (PDX) models of Richter syndrome, RS9737 and RS1316. Richter syndrome xenografts were genetically, morphologically, and phenotypically stable and similar to the corresponding primary tumor. RS9737 was characterized by biallelic inactivation of CDKN2A and TP53, monoallelic deletion of 11q23 (ATM), and mutations of BTK, KRAS, EGR2, and NOTCH1. RS1316 carried trisomy 12 and showed mutations in BTK, KRAS, MED12, and NOTCH2. RNA sequencing confirmed that in both cases &gt;80% of the transcriptome was shared between primary tumor and PDX. In line with the mutational profile, pathway analyses revealed overactivation of the B-cell receptor, NFκB, and NOTCH pathways in both tumors, potentially providing novel tumor targets. In conclusion, these two novel models of Richter syndrome represent useful tools to study biology and response to therapies of this highly aggressive and still incurable tumor. Significance: Two patient-derived xenograft models of Richter syndrome represent the first ex vivo model to study biology of the disease and to test novel therapeutic strategies. Cancer Res; 78(13); 3413–20. ©2018 AACR.
Randomized comparison of ibrutinib versus ofatumumab in relapsed or refractory (R/R) chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma: Results from the phase III RESONATE trial.
Byrd, John C. , Brown, Jennifer R. , Reddy, Nishitha , Jäger, Ulrich, Devereux, Steve, Furman, Richard R. , Cymbalista, Florence, Fardis, Maria, McGreivy, Jesse, Clow, Fong, James, Danelle F. , O’Brien, Susan , Barrientos, Jacqueline C. , Kay, Neil E. , Coutré, Steven , Tam, Constantine S. , Mulligan, Stephen P. , Devereux, Steve, Barr, Paul M. , Kipps, Thomas J. , Hillmen, Peter

Journal of Clinical Oncology | February 24, 2017 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 18_suppl | Pages: LBA7008-LBA7008

10.1200/jco.2014.32.18_suppl.lba7008 Get It

LBA7008 Background: Treatment options for CLL/ SLL patients (pts) who fail chemoimmunotherapy are limited. We report interim results from a phase III randomized study of ibrutinib (ibr), a first in class covalent BTK inhibitor, vs ofatumumab (ofa) in R/R CLL/SLL. The Data Monitoring Committee recommended this analysis be considered final, based on meeting the primary and a key secondary endpoint. Methods: R/R CLL/SLL pts who failed ≥1 therapy received 420 mg oral ibr daily until progression or IV ofa 300/2000mg for 12 doses. Primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) assessed by an independent review committee (IRC). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), IRC assessed overall response rate (ORR) and safety. Results: Of 391 pts enrolled (median age 67 years; 40% ≥70 years; 57% Rai stage III/IV disease; 30% del 17p), 195 were randomized to ibr and 196 to ofa. Ibr pts had median 3 prior therapies vs 2 for ofa. Median follow-up was 9.4 months (m). Ibr significantly lengthened PFS (median not reached vs 8.1 m; HR 0.215, CI 0.146–0.317, p<0.0001; 78.5% risk reduction), and significantly improved OS (median not reached; HR 0.434, CI 0.238–0.789, p=0.0049) compared with ofa. ORR was 42.6 vs 4.1% (p<0.0001) and ORR+PR with lymphocytosis was 62.6 vs 4.1% for ibr vs ofa. Similar effects were seen in del17p and purine analog refractory subsets. In each arm 2 pts had confirmed Richter’s transformation. Most frequent adverse events (AE) for ibr vs ofa were diarrhea (47.7 vs 17.8%) fatigue (27.7 vs 29.8%), and nausea (26.2 vs 18.3%). Atrial fibrillation was more frequent with ibr (5.1 vs 0.5%). Major hemorrhages were reported in 1.0 vs 1.6% for ibr vs ofa. Drug discontinuation due to AE was 4.1 vs 3.6% for ibr vs ofa. 86% of ibr pts were continuing treatment. 57 pts randomized to ofa with confirmed PD had initiated ibr at cross-over. Conclusions: Compared with ofa, ibr significantly improved PFS, OS and ORR in pts with R/R CLL/SLL. The safety profile was comparable with that previously reported (Byrd NEJM 2013). These results support ibr as a beneficial therapy for R/R CLL patients irrespective of del 17p or purine analog refractory disease. Clinical trial information: NCT01578707.