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Bayer, Blaise

Mayo Clinic

BriaCell Therapeutics Corp., Philadelphia, PA

Citations 16

Liquid biopsy to stratify metastatic breast cancer progression risk using multi-analyte cell subtyping prior to systemic therapy.
Ali, Amama, Cristofanilli, M, Reduzzi, Carolina, Williams, William, DiPriore, Giuseppe, Bayer, Blaise, Chumsri, Saranya, Susiriwatananont, Thiti , Eiamprapaporn, Panuch , Iwase, Toshiaki, Ueno, Naoto Tada, Duffy, Alexis B. , Tang, Cha-Mei, Cristofanilli, Massimo , Reduzzi, Carolina , Williams, William V. , Chumsri, Saranya , Iwase, Toshiaki , Tang, Cha-Mei, Adams, Daniel L.

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 28, 2026 | Volume: 44 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: No page available

10.1200/jco.2026.44.16_suppl.e15060 Get It

e15060 Background: In metastatic Breast Cancer (mBC) Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) are an established prognostic indicator of patients (pts) with highly aggressive disease, poor clinical outcomes, and poor response rates to therapy. However, CTCs are typically found in < 20% of mBC pts and many pts without CTCs also progress. Cancer associated macrophage-like cells (CAMLs) are inflammatory tumor macrophages also found in blood, in > 90% of mBC, and are indicators of poor clinical outcomes independent of CTCs. We conducted a prospective study to model CTC & CAML subtypes from 212 mBC pt blood samples prior to induction of new systemic therapies to optimize and validate risk models based on 2-year outcomes of Progression-free survival (PFS) & Overall survival (OS). Methods: An observational multi-institutional prospective study was conducted on 212 mBC pts prior to induction of a new line of therapy who were progressing on their current therapy. Anonymized (7.5ml) whole blood samples were taken prior to therapy induction and filtered by CellSieve filtration. Quantities and subtypes of CTCs & CAMLs were categorized by their expression of CK+/CD45+/CD14+ for CAMLs and CK+/CD45-/CD14- for CTCs. PFS (RECIST v1.1) and OS hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated by censored univariate & multivariate analysis at 2 years. Results: Pt median age was 51 years (range 25-92); TNBC (44%), ER/PR+ (30%), HER2+ (15%). Pts were treated with chemotherapy alone (18%), immune checkpoint inhibitor (46%), targeted (40%), hormone (8%) and unknown (5%). 38% (81/212) pts had ≥1 CTCs which correlated with significantly poorer PFS (HR = 1.9; 95%CI 1.3-2.7; p = 0.0016) and OS (HR = 2.0; 95%CI, 1.3-3.0; p = 00025), with the most significant risk at ≥8 CTCs (14% pts), PFS (HR = 3.8; 95%CI, 2.1-6.9; p < 0.0001) and OS (HR = 7.2; 95% CI, 3.4-14.9; p < 0.0001). Independently, 93% (n = 196/212) of pts had ≥1 CAML, with a threshold of >40um size (84% pts) had significantly poorer PFS (HR = 2.0; 95% CI, 1.2-3.1; p = 0.0032), but not OS (HR = 1.5; 95%CI, 0.9-2.7; p = 0.1169). However, a threshold of >125um size CAML (43% pts) also had significantly poorer PFS (HR = 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.7; p = 0.0013) and OS (HR = 1.6; 95% CI, 1.0-2.5; p = 0.0233). By combining models, the best outcomes were seen in pts with 0 CTCs & 0 CAMLs (mPFS = 12.6 & mOS = 21.3), followed by 0 CTCs & ≥40um CAMLs (mPFS = 5.2 & mOS = 17.5) and 0 CTCs & ≥125um CAMLs (mPFS = 4.9 & mOS = 15.2). Poorer outcomes were seen with ≥1 CTCs (mPFS = 3.3 & mOS = 13.5) and the worst outcomes with ≥8 CTCs (mPFS = 2.5 & mOS = 4.8). Conclusions: CTCs were uncommon in mBC pts but correlated with very poor clinical outcomes. In parallel analysis, CAMLs were common with CAML size correlating with increasingly poorer outcomes. By combining CTC & CAML subtypes, mBC pts were more accurately stratified by risk of progression and death. Additional multivariate studies correlating treatment class and tumor response rates are ongoing.
Monitoring PD-L1 expression in circulating cancer associated cells for prediction of clinical outcomes in metastatic breast cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Muthuraj, Sonia, Cristofanilli, M, Reduzzi, Carolina, Williams, William, Priore, Giuseppe Del, Bayer, Blaise, Tang, Cha-Mei, Chumsri, Saranya, Cristofanilli, Massimo , Reduzzi, Carolina , Williams, William V. , Priore, Giuseppe Del, Tang, Cha-Mei, Adams, Daniel L. , Chumsri, Saranya

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 28, 2026 | Volume: 44 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: No page available

10.1200/jco.2026.44.16_suppl.e14535 Get It

e14535 Background: Anti-programmed cell death ligand PD-L1/PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are approved for metastatic breast cancer (mBC) patients (pts) with a tumor combined positive score (CPS) ≥10% in their tissue. However, many pts with < 10% CPS may also respond to ICIs. Recent studies in lung cancer have shown that circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and tumor-macrophage fusion cells (TMFCs) both express, and may upregulate, PD-L1 which is predictive for ICI responses. We initiated a prospective study to monitor PD-L1 in CTCs & TMFCs in mBC pts prior to receiving systemic ICIs to correlate their PD-L1 expression to progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) at 24 months. Methods: We conducted a multi-institutional prospective pilot study of n = 102 pts with pathologically confirmed mBC, having failed ≥1 prior lines of therapy, prior to receiving ICIs (n = 52 Pembrolizumab, n = 39 Retifanlimab, n = 5 Atezolizumab, and n = 1 Nivolumab). Anonymized blinded peripheral blood samples (7.5ml) were procured prior to ICI induction (T0) and (~40 days after ICI induction (T1). TMFCs & CTCs were isolated using Cellsieve microfilters with average PD-L1 expressions measured then categorized as negative/low or high. Tumor CPS was categorized as negative/low (< 10%) or high (> 10%). We compared TMFC PD-L1 to tissue CPS by linear regression. TMFC/CTC PD-L1 expression and tissue PD-L1 CPS were compared to pts’ PFS and OS by Cox proportional univariate and multivariate analysis over 24 months. Results: Of n = 102 pts, median age = 59 years (range 32-77); 42% (43/102) were ER+, 33% (33/102) were PR+, 5% (5/102) were HER2+, and 56% (57/102) were triple-negative. 32% (32/102) had an ECOG score of 0, 25% (26/102) had ECOG 1, and 43% of scores were unavailable. N = 42 pts had available tumor CPS data, which did not correlate to TMFC/CTC PD-L1 at T0 or T1. Pts with high CPS did not significantly predict for PFS (HR = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.3-1.9; P = 0.7627) nor OS (HR = 0.54; 95% CI, 0.2-1.7; P = 0.4471). Pts with high TMFC/CTC PD-L1 at T0 also did not significantly predict for PFS (HR = 0.74; 95% CI, 0.5-1.2; P = 0.2799) nor OS (HR = 0.84; 95% CI, 0.4-1.6; P = 0.7220). However, of the n = 82 pts who provided T1 samples, high CTC/TMFC PD-L1 at T1 was significant for better PFS (HR = 2.55; 95% CI, 1.6-4.2; P = 0.0004) and better OS (HR = 2.06; 95%CI, 1.1-3.8; P = 0.0309). Conclusions: In this study of mBC pts treated with PD-L1 ICIs, tissue CPS did not correlate with PD-L1 expression in CTCs or TMFCs. Further, neither CPS nor baseline PD-L1 in CTC/TMFCs predicted for clinical outcomes in ICI therapies. However, PD-L1 in CTC/TMFCs ~40 days post-induction of ICI did predict for better response rates. While this study suggests predictive value of monitoring PD-L1 in blood during ICI therapies, further studies are required to refine and validate these findings.
Monitoring blood-based biomarkers as early predictors of progression-free survival in a randomized Bria-ABC phase 3 trial for advanced metastatic breast cancer: An ongoing analysis.
Nangia, Chaitali, Kahn, Adriana, Negret, L., Williams, William, Bayer, Blaise, DiPriore, Giuseppe, Duffy, Alexis B. , Chumsri, Saranya, Adams, Daniel L., Nangia, Chaitali, Kahn, Adriana , Williams, William V. , Chumsri, Saranya

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 27, 2026 | Volume: 44 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: 2652-2652

10.1200/jco.2026.44.16_suppl.2652 Get It

2652 Background: Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) are prognostic for poor outcomes in metastatic Breast Cancer (mBC), however CTCs are uncommon in mBC (<20%) and many pts without CTCs often progress. Cancer associated macrophage-like cells (CAML) are prognostic inflammatory pro-tumorigenic PD-L1 expressing macrophages common in mBC pt blood (>90%). In a previous randomized phase II trial, CTC & CAML decreases post Bria-IMT induction correlated with clinical benefit. Bria-IMT is an allogenic whole cell vaccine engineered to express tumor associated antigens & GM-CSF, promoting adaptive & innate immune responses. The ongoing Bria-ABC (NCT06072612) phase 3 study compares Bria-IMT to physician’s choice (TPC) in late stage mBC. We present interim results, without treatment arm comparison, for Progression Free Survival (PFS) by CTC & CAML changes as the exploratory part of the trial. Methods: This still blinded ongoing multicenter randomized open label Phase 3 trial evaluates Bria-IMT+ checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) vs TPC in mBC pts lacking approved therapies. Pts are randomized 1:1:1 to Bria-IMT+CPI, TPC, or Bria-IMT monotherapy (discontinued after 150 pts). The Bria-IMT consists of cyclophosphamide, irradiated SV-BR-1-GM cells, micro-dose pegylated α IFN at each inoculation site. CPI is administered day -3 to 3. TPC followed standard of care. Blinded anonymized blood was taken at baseline (BL), prior to therapy & 2nd (T1) taken at cycle 3 (~4 weeks post initiation). CTCs & CAMLs, and PD-L1 expressions, were quantified using LifeTracDx liquid biopsy with analysis of PFS by censored univariate analysis. Results: At time of analysis, >250 consented, >170 randomized, 119 had BL and 78 had T1. Median age 56 yrs [34–83], median 6 [2–13] prior lines of therapy, 31% TNBC, 62% ER+/PR+, & 15% HER2+. ≥1 CTCs were found in 25% (30/119) at BL & 22% (17/78) at T1. ≥1 CAMLs were found in 93% (111/119) at BL & 95% (74/78) at T1. At BL, ≥1 CTC was not significant for PFS (HR=1.7, CI95% 1.0-2.9, p=0.0513), but ≥2 CTCs was significant for worse PFS (HR=1.8 CI95% 1.1-3.1, p=0.0480). At T1, ≥1 CTCs nor ≥2 CTCs correlated with PFS (HR=0.9, p=0.8392) & (HR=1.6, p=0.1079), respectively. Further, a decrease in CTCs was seen in 11 pts but did not correlate with PFS (HR=0.7, p=0.6552). ≥1 CAML at BL nor T1 correlated with PFS (HR=1.2 CI95% 0.7-2.0, p=0.6811) or (HR=0.9 CI95% 0.7-2.5, p=0.5307), respectively. However, 51 pts (65%) had a decrease or stable CAML counts between BL & T1 which did significantly correlate with better PFS (HR=2.2 CI95% 1.2-3.9, p=0.0154). Conclusions: In an ongoing analysis of a heavily treated mBC pts, we observed that in the entire blinded population, 65% of pts had stability/drop in CAMLs significantly correlated with better PFS. Treatment arm specific comparisons will not be unblinded until completion of the designated milestone (144 mortalities). Clinical trial information: NCT06072612 .
Quality of life and treatment tolerability of Bria-IMT + CPI in metastatic breast cancer.
Chumsri, Saranya, McCann, Kelly , Kahn, Adriana Matutino, Negret, L., Vaughn, Christopher, Bayer, Blaise, Aghajanian, Tamar, Priore, Giuseppe Del, Nangia, Chaitali, Chumsri, Saranya , Kahn, Adriana , Aghajanian, Tamar, Priore, Giuseppe Del, Nangia, Chaitali

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 27, 2026 | Volume: 44 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: 1107-1107

10.1200/jco.2026.44.16_suppl.1107 Get It

1107 Background: Bria-IMT is an allogeneic whole cell immunotherapy expressing tumor associated antigens and GM-CSF to stimulate adaptive and innate immunity. The phase 3 Bria-ABC trial (NCT06072612) evaluates Bria-IMT + retifanlimab vs physician’s choice in MBC w/ no meaningful therapeutic options. Characterization of on-trial pt experience, including quality of life (QOL) and tolerability, remains clinically relevant yet underreported. We evaluated QoL and toxicity to assess feasibility of home self administration. Methods: EORTC QLQ-C30 at baseline (BL) and subsequent visits. Raw item responses were aggregated into domain scores. Changes quantified as absolute point differences; domain scores defined as medians of constituent items. Lower functional/symptom and higher global scores indicate better outcomes. Wilcoxon matched pairs test assessed change from BL. Missing QoL data handled by observed cases approach. QoL evaluated at BL, V3, V6, and V9. TWiST and TOX summarized descriptively. TOX defined as cumulative time w/ grade ≥3 TEAEs w/o progression; TWiST as time w/o grade ≥3 toxicity or progression. TOX and TWiST constitute component health states for planned QTWiST analysis pending mature OS. Results: At submission, 251 pts screened, 173 randomized, 147 treated. 75% Caucasian, 20% other, 5% not reported; median 6 prior lines (2-15); ECOG 2 -6%; intracranial mets 9%; 42% HR+, 37% TNBC, 12% HER2+. Median 5 QoL assessments/pt completed. 127 pts completed ≥2 assessments. Paired data available at V3 52%, V6 17%, V9 6%. Global health medians BL 5.0, V3 5.0, V6 5.0, V9 4.5. Score maintenance/improvement: @V3 63% (p=0.7), V6 62%, V9 71%. Functional domains: role (BL 1.5, V3 2.0, V6 2.0, V9 2.0; maintenance 62.7% [p=0.02], 52.4%, 71.4%). Physical (BL 1.0, V3 2.0, V6 2.0, V9 2.0; maintenance 68.7% (p=0.002), 47.6% (p=0.03), 71.4%), cognitive (BL 1.5, V3 1.5, V6 1.5, V9 1.5; maintenance 63.6%, 61.9%, 85.7%). Emotional (BL 1.5, V3 1.5, V6 1.5, V9 1.5; maintenance 75.8% (p=0.9), 81.0%, 85.7%). Social (BL 1.5, V3 1.5, V6 2.0, V9 2.5; maintenance 58.5%, 75.0%, 57.1%). Symptoms: nausea/vomiting (1.0 throughout; maintenance V3 73%, V6 86%, V9 86%), fatigue median 2.0 all timepoints; maintenance 61%, 67%, 71%), pain (BL/V3 1.5, V6/V9 2.0; maintenance V3 57% [p=0.03], V6 62% [p=0.9], V9 86%). TWiST and TOX restricted mean 3.12 mo and 0.63 mo, respectively; 83.2% and 16.8% of observed follow-up. Pts w global health maintenance demonstrated longer median TWiST v deterioration (4.3 v 2.7 mo). ECOG stable in 78% (n=99). Conclusions: Heavily pretreated MBC pts in Bria-ABC demonstrated stable global health and key functional domains. Findings support sustained QoL in advanced disease. TWiST demonstrates meaningful benefit w/o significant toxicity. Ongoing follow up will further characterize durability of pt-reported outcomes and clinical correlation. Results support decentralized care and potential home self administration. Clinical trial information: NCT06072612 .
Survival with Bria-IMT + CPI in advanced metastatic breast cancer at 12 and 24 months.
Nangia, Chaitali, Chumsri, Saranya, Rowland, Kendrith M., Negret, L., Bayer, Blaise, Aghajanian, Tamar, Williams, William, Priore, Giuseppe Del, Calfa, Carmen, Nangia, Chaitali, Chumsri, Saranya , Aghajanian, Tamar, Williams, William V. , Priore, Giuseppe Del, Calfa, Carmen

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 27, 2026 | Volume: 44 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: 1108-1108

10.1200/jco.2026.44.16_suppl.1108 Get It

1108 Background: Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) remains limited by resistance and cumulative toxicity in heavily pretreated patients. Bria-IMT combines a whole-cell vaccine (SV-BR-1-GM) with anti-PD-1 (CPI) to enhance tumor antigen presentation and overcome immune exhaustion. SV-BR-1-GM is an irradiated breast cancer cell line engineered to secrete GM-CSF, promoting HLA class I and II antigen presentation and T-cell activation. We identified a subset with durable clinical benefit and biologic correlates. Methods: Phase I/II evaluating the Bria-IMT regimen (SV-BR-1-GM with CPI (pembrolizumab or retifanlimab). In the phase II portion, pts were randomized 1:1 to CPI initiation at cycle 1 (C1) or delayed start at cycle 2 (C2). Two SV-BR-1-GM formulations were administered: IFNγ-stimulated (IFγ) or unstimulated (≠IFγ). Baseline circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses to SV-BR-1-GM were assessed as biomarkers. Progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using Kaplan Meier (KM). Subgroup comparisons (CPI sequencing, IP formulation, DTH status, and baseline CTC status) are exploratory. Results: 32 phase 2 pts were randomized: median age 61 (range 41-80); median prior lines 6 (range 2-13); PFS 3.5 mo (95% CI 3.0 - 4.2); OS 9.5 mo (95% CI 7.0 - 17.4). Among CPI C1 vs C2 starts: median OS 13.3 v 7.4mo (HR 0.8; 95% CI 0.4-1.9, p = 0.6); OS KM probability at 12 mo 47% v 58%. Median OS w ≠IFγ v IFNγ IP =16.6 v 9.1 mo (HR 0.58; 95% CI 0.2-1.4, p = 0.23); OS KM at 12 mo 52.4% v 27.3%. DTH+ v DTH- median OS 11.9 v 4.7 mo (HR 0.0009; p = <0.001), OS KM @12 mo 48% v 0%. CTCs <5 v > 5 at baseline had median OS 16.6 v 5.5 mo (HR 0.005; 95% CI 0.0003-0.09, p < 0.001), OS at 12 mo 49% vs 33%. Among long term survivors @12mo, OS probability 44.0% (95% CI 26.2-59.7%) and @24 mo 26% (95% CI 12.1-42.4%). Median follow up 25.8 with PFS 5.4 mo. 5 received ≠IFγ formulation v 1 w IFNγ. All 6 (3 with CPI @C1, 3@C2) experienced delayed type hypersensitivity reaction to inoculation. 67% of long responders matched HLA at >1 allele, 33% no match. Grade ≥3 AEs in 47% of pts, most common injection site rxn, nausea, fatigue; no tx related D/C; no unexpected safety signals. Conclusions: In heavily pretreated MBC, Bria-IMT demonstrated a tolerable safety profile and the emergence of a long-term survivor cohort. Durable survival was observed beyond 12 and 24 months. Differential survival favoring Ph3 formulation, DTH positivity, lower baseline CTC burden, and early CPI sequencing was observed. These findings support prospective validation of DTH and CTC as predictive biomarkers and the continued use of the Ph3 IP formulation in the ongoing phase 3 study Bria-ABC (NCT06072612). Clinical trial information: NCT06072612 .
Abstract CT137: QOL outcomes in Bria-ABC late stage metastatic phase 3 trial
Chumsri, S, Nangia, Chaitali S., Kahn, Adriana , Negret, Lawrence, Calfa, Carmen, Bayer, Blaise, Priore, Giuseppe Del, Aghajanian, Tamar, Williams, William, McCann, Kelly, McCann, Kelly , Chumsri, Saranya , Nangia, Chaitali, Negret, L., Calfa, Carmen, Priore, Giuseppe Del, Aghajanian, Tamar, Williams, William V.

Cancer Research | April 17, 2026 | Volume: 86 | Issue: 8_Supplement | Pages: CT137-CT137

10.1158/1538-7445.am2026-ct137 Get It

Abstract Background: Bria-IMT™ is an allogeneic whole cell immunotherapy expressing tumor associated antigens and GM-CSF, designed to stimulate adaptive and innate immune responses. The ongoing multicenter phase 3 Bria-ABC trial (NCT06072612) evaluates Bria-IMT + Retifanlimab vs physician’s choice in pts with metastatic breast cancer who have exhausted standard therapies. Quality of life characterization in this advanced disease setting is clinically relevant yet underreported. Methods: QOL was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QOL Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) at baseline (BL) and treatment visits. Raw item responses (scale: 1 - 4 for functional/symptom items; 1 - 7 for global health ; lower scores = better functional/symptom outcomes; higher scores = better global health) were aggregated into domain scores. Changes from BL were quantified as absolute point differences on response scales and domain level scores are the median of constituent items. Changes from BL assessed using Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank tests. ECOG status assessed at BL and each treatment visit. TEAEs graded per CTCAE. Missing QOL data handled using observed cases approach. We report QoL outcomes at visits (V) BL, 3, 6, and 9 to characterize pt experience during treatment. Results: As of data cut date, 235 pts have been screened, 169 randomized,129 treated. Median age: 60. 74% Caucasian; 18% other; 8% not reported; median 6 prior lines (2-15); ECOG 2: 7%, intracranial mets: 11%. 51% of pts HR+, 37% TNBC, 10% HER2+, 2% not reported. mPFS 2.9 mo (95% CI, 2.3 - 3.7), median of 5 QoL assessments per pt. Of 127 pts who completed ≥2 EORTC QLQ-C30 assessments, 67 (52%), 21 (17%), and 7 (6%) had paired data available at V3, 6, and 9, respectively. Global health status remained stable (median: BL 5.0, V3 5.0, V6 5.0, V9 4.5; 63% of pts reported maintenance or improvement at V3 [p=0.7], V6: 62%, V9: 71%). Functional domains: physical (median: BL 1.0, V3 2.0, V6 2.0, V9 2.0; 68.7% , 47.6% [p=0.03], 71.4% maintenance), role (BL 1.5, V3 2.0, V6 2.0, V9 2.0; 62.7% [p=0.02], 52.4%, 71.4% maintenance), emotional (BL 1.5, V3 1.5, V6 1.5, V9 1.5; 75.8% [p=0.9], 81.0%, 85.7% maintenance), cognitive (BL 1.5, V3 1.5, V6 1.5, V9 1.5; 63.6% [p=0.2], 61.9%, 85.7% maintenance), and social functioning (BL 1.5, V3 1.5, V6 2.0, V9 2.5; 58.5% [p=0.06], 75.0%, 57.1% maintenance). Symptoms: fatigue (median 2.0 at all timepoints; 61%, 67%, 71% maintenance), nausea/vomiting (1.0 throughout; 73% maintenance at V3 [p=0.8], V6 86% , V9 86%), and pain (1.5 at BL and V3, increasing to 2.0 at V6 and V9, w/ 57% maintenance at V3 [p=0.03], V6 62% [p=0.9], and V9 86%. ECOG status remained stable in 78% (n = 99) of pts during treatment. Most common TEAEs were fatigue, nausea, anemia, and constipation; w/ 45% Grade 3 or 4; 84% &lt; grade 3. QoL trends consistent w/ observed ECOG status and AE profiles. Conclusion: Heavily pretreated metastatic breast cancer pts demonstrated stability in overall health status and key functional domains during treatment. These findings are encouraging w/ a meaningful QOL in a population with advanced disease and limited therapeutic options. These observations and AE profile support decentralized clinical trial initiatives including home self-administration. Ongoing follow up will further characterize the durability of pt reported outcomes and their relationship w/ clinical status. Citation Format: Saranya Chumsri, Chaitali Nangia, Adriana Kahn, Lawrence Negret, Carmen Calfa, Blaise Bayer, Giuseppe Del Priore, Tamar Aghajanian, William Williams, Kelly McCann. QOL outcomes in Bria-ABC late stage metastatic phase 3 trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2026; Part 2 (Late-Breaking, Clinical Trial, and Invited Abstracts); 2026 Apr 17-22; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2026;86(8_Suppl):Abstract nr CT137.
Impact of HLA matching on clinical outcomes in a phase 2 trial of Bria-IMT plus anti PD1 in advanced breast cancer.
Calfa, Carmen , Nangia, Chaitali, Rowland, Kendrith M. , Boccia, Ralph V., Knecht, John George, Bayer, Blaise, López-Lago, Miguel A., Williams, William L., Wiseman, Charles L., Priore, Giuseppe Del, Chumsri, Saranya , Barve, Minal , Williams, William

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 28, 2025 | Volume: 43 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: No page available

10.1200/jco.2025.43.16_suppl.e13124 Get It

e13124 Background: Bria-IMT, an allogeneic whole-cell cancer vaccine (SV-BR-1-GM), was administered w/ an anti PD1 checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) to evaluate its safety and efficacy in advanced/metastatic breast cancer (MBC). SV-BR-1-GM breast cancer cells were engineered to directly stimulate anti-tumor immunity through expression of tumor associated antigens and secretion of GM-CSF to enhance endogenous dendritic cell activation. Addition of a CPI potentiates SV-BR-1-GM action by overcoming the immune suppressive tumor microenvironment and may have a differential impact vs monotherapy SV-BR-1-GM. Methods: In this exploratory analysis of the Phase 1 + randomized Phase 2, HLA matching status was assessed to explore potential correlations w/ clinical outcomes. Pts were stratified by overall HLA match by Class I or II (0 vs ≥1 matches), formulation and MBC subtype to assess objective response rate (ORR), clinical benefit rate (CBR), progression free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Partial HLA matching (≥1 Class I and ≥1 Class II allele) was also analyzed. Results: In the total pt population, the ORR was 10%, CBR 56%, PFS 3.2 months and OS 9.9 months. In those pts treated w/ the phase 3 formulation, ORR was 15%, CBR 63%, PFS 3.6 months and OS 13.4 months. Using available HLA data (n = 52), 25% had 0, 34.6% 1, 32.6% 2, and 8% ≥3 matches. While OS and PFS were greater (Undefined vs 8.5 mos ; p = .02) in pts without an HLA match compared w/ those w/ ≥1 match (see Table), ORR and CBR were similar. This was also the case for pts who had 0 HLA Class I matches vs those w/ ≥1 Class I match (15.6 vs 7.2 mos; p = .002). ORR, CBR, PFS and OS were generally similar for pts who had 0 Class II HLA matches vs those w/ ≥1 match. Pts who matched at least at 1 Class I and 1 Class II allele had a higher ORR and CBR than those who matched at a single Class I or a single Class II allele although PFS and OS were similar between the groups. Similar observations were seen for pts treated w/ the phase 3 formulation. Conclusions: Matching at Class I seemed to decrease PFS & OS, but did not have a similar effect on ORR and CBR. Both matched and non matched pts demonstrated favorable OS and response rates. These findings support further investigation into specific mechanisms and the clinical significance of HLA matching in immunotherapy response. A randomized phase 3 trial is ongoing comparing Bria-IMT vs treatment of physician's choice (NCT06072612). Clinical trial information: NCT03328026 . n (Evaluable) % of Cohort Best ORR Best CBR PFS OS Full Cohort 52 (41) 10% 56% 3.2 9.9 No Match (Overall) 13 (10) 25% 20% 60% 4.2 Undefined Any Match (Overall) 39 (31) 75% 6% 55% 3 8.5 MHC Class I No Match / Any Match 27 (20) / 25 (21) 52% / 48% 10% /10% 55% /57% 3.5 / 2.7 15.6 / 7.23 MHC Class II Any Match 27 (19) 52% 11% 63% 3.2 11.4 MHC Class I&II Match 13 (9) 25% 22% 77% 2.8 8.6 Phase 3 Formulation (N=35) 35 (27) 15% 63% 3.57 13.43 No Match (Phase 3 Formulation) 11 (9) 31% 22% 67% 5.6 Undefined MHC Class I&II Match (Phase 3 Formulation) 11 (7) 31% 29% 71% 2.7 7.23
Update on phase III pivotal trial of Bria-IMT + CPI vs physician’s choice in advanced metastatic breast cancer (BRIA-ABC).
Chumsri, Saranya , O’Shaughnessy, Joyce , Vaughn, Christopher, Rinn, Kristine , Negret, L., Stein, Regina, Bayer, Blaise, Salgado, Marcela, Priore, Giuseppe Del, Hurvitz, Sara A. , Ali, Azka , Brufsky, Adam

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 28, 2025 | Volume: 43 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: No page available

10.1200/jco.2025.43.16_suppl.tps1138 Get It

TPS1138 Background: The SV-BR-1-GM breast cancer cell line activates anti-tumor immunity by expressing tumor associated antigens and secreting GM-CSF which enhances dendritic cell activation and promotes adaptive (T-cell mediated) and innate (dendritic and NK cell) immune responses. The cells are also engineered to optimize immune recognition through pt specific HLA antigen matching. SV-BR-1-GM acts through direct antigen presentation and CD4+ T-cell activation and, when combined w/ checkpoint inhibitors (CPIs), has demonstrated clinical benefit in 54 heavily pretreated metastatic breast cancer (MBC) pts. In pts w/ disease progression following CPI therapy, similar or improved progression free survival (PFS) compared to their prior treatment regimen. Disease control following antibody drug conjugates was observed in 40%of pts. Clinical benefit was seen in 5 out of 8 pts w/ untreated intracranial metastases. CD8+ Immuno-PET imaging suggests systemic activation, w/ increased CD8+ tumor infiltrating lymphocytes at both primary and metastatic tumor sites, as well as lymphoid organs. Optimized sequencing of CPI w/ SV-BR-1-GM and its latest phase 3 formulation have shown enhanced clinical outcomes, including improved overall survival (OS) (median 13.4 mos), PFS (3.6 mos), and clinical benefit rate (CBR; 61%).These findings have informed refinements to the ongoing pivotal, registration enabling Phase 3 trial, designed to optimize pt selection and treatment sequencing strategies. Methods: This ongoing multicenter, randomized, open label Phase 3 trial evaluates Bria-IMT + CPI vs. Treatment of Physician’s Choice (TPC) in MBC pts lacking approved curative therapies. Pts are randomized 1:1:1 to Bria-IMT + CPI, TPC, or Bria-IMT monotherapy (discontinued after 150 enrollments to prioritize combination arms). The Bria-IMT regimen consists of: Day -2: Cyclophosphamide 300 mg/m², Day 0: 20M irradiated SV-BR-1-GM cells, Day 2/3: 0.1 mcg pegylated α interferon at each inoculation site. CPI infusion is administered Day -3 to 3. Cycles q3w. TPC regimens follow site specific SOC. Imaging q6w (first 2 cycles), then q8w. Eligibility includes all MBC subtypes, including CNS mets, and permits prior CPI therapy ( >21 days pre-treatment). There will be 100 sites across the U.S., Canada, and ex-North America w/ an enrollment target of 404. The trial is currently active at 59 sites with 217 sub investigators. To date, 67 pts screened: 46 randomized (median age 56 yrs [34–83], median 6 [2–13] prior lines of therapy. The primary endpoint is OS, with an interim analysis at 144 events targeting a hazard ratio of 0.6. Secondary endpoints: PFS, overall response rate, CBR, CNS event free survival, and TWiST. Safety analyses ongoing; pt reported outcomes assess subjective treatment impact. Clinical trial information: NCT03328026 .
Bria-IMT + checkpoint inhibitor: Phase I/II survival results compared to benchmark trials in metastatic breast cancer.
Chumsri, Saranya , Nangia, Chaitali, Rowland, Kendrith M. , Boccia, Ralph V., Knecht, John George, Bayer, Blaise, Salgado, Marcela, Williams, William L., Wiseman, Charles L., Priore, Giuseppe Del, Calfa, Carmen , Barve, Minal , Williams, William

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 28, 2025 | Volume: 43 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: 1096-1096

10.1200/jco.2025.43.16_suppl.1096 Get It

1096 Background: Bria-IMT is a combination immunotherapy consisting of allogeneic whole cell cancer vaccine (SV-BR-1-GM) administered w/ immune checkpoint inhibitor (CPI). SV-BR-1-GM breast cancer cells are engineered to directly stimulate anti tumor immunity via expression of tumor associated antigens and secretion of GM-CSF to enhance dendritic cell activation. Addition of CPI potentiates SV-BR-1-GM to overcome the immune suppressive tumor microenvironment. Methods: This Ph I/randomized Ph II study evaluated the Bria-IMT regimen in pts w/ metastatic breast cancer; CTX (300 mg/m²) on day -2/-3, SV-BR-1-GM and CPI on Day 0, w/ low dose peg interferon α at inoculation sites on day 2 (±1) . Phase II pts were randomized 1:1 to receive CPI at cycle 1 or cycle 2. Two SV-BR-1-GM formulations (w/ vs w/o IFNγ incubation) were evaluated. Biomarkers included cancer-associated macrophage-like cells, circulating tumor cells, PD-L1 scores, and delayed-type hypersensitivity skin tests. Results: 54 pts (22 Ph I, 32 Ph II) enrolled; 11 received pembrolizumab, 44 retifanlimab (1 crossover). 33 (61%) pts were ER+/PR+/HER2-, 18 (33%) TNBC, 3 (6%) HER2+. Median OS, PFS, ORR, and CBR were evaluated against two pivotal Ph 3 trials, ASCENT 1 (SG in TNBC) and TROPiCS-02 2 (SG in HR+/HER2- MBC) (see Table 1). In randomized pts, C1 vs C2 CPI had PFS (3.7 vs 3.2 mos, P=0.09) and OS (11.4 vs 7.4 mos, P=0.19). Pts receiving Ph 3 formulation (w/o IFNγ; N=37) had greater PFS (3.6 vs 2.6 mos, P=0.01) and OS (13.4 vs 6.9 mos, P=0.01). Bria-IMT was well tolerated w/ no Tx related D/Cs. Conclusions: The Bria-IMT Ph 3 formulation cohort OS was comparable to ASCENT and TROPiCS-02 (13.43 vs 11.8, 14.4 mos), exceeding TPC arms (6.9, 11.2 mos). CBR (61%) compared favorably to ASCENT (40%) and TROPiCS-02 (34%); ORR (14%) matched or exceeded TPC arms (4%, 14%). These outcomes were observed in a more heavily pretreated population, demonstrating Bria-IMT’s clinical activity. Randomized Ph 2 results suggest efficacy and safety in heavily pretreated MBC, w/ no significant OS difference between C1 and C2 CPI initiation and 22% of pts still in active survival follow up. Superior outcomes w/ the Ph 3 formulation support its continued evaluation. A randomized Ph 3 trial is ongoing, comparing Bria-IMT vs treatment of physician’s choice (NCT06072612). Clinical trial information: NCT03328026 . Trial (Cohort) Age (Median, Range) Prior Therapies (Median) OS (Median, mos) PFS (Median, mos) ORR (%) CBR (%) Bria-IMT (Overall Cohort) 61 (38-81) 6 (2-13) 9.9 (1.8-30.3) 3.6 10% 55% Bria-IMT (Ph 3 Formulation) 62 (44-80) 6 (2-13) 13.43 (1.8-30.3) 3.6 (1.8-16.5) 14% 61% ASCENT (SG) 54 (27-82) 4 (2-17) 11.8 4.8 31% 40% ASCENT (TPC) 53 (27-81) 4 (2-14) 6.9 1.7 4% 8% TROPiCS-02 (SG) 57 (49-65) 3 14.4 5.5 21% 34% TROPiCS-02 (TPC) 55 (48-63) 3 11.2 4 14% 22% References: Bardia A et al. J Clin Oncol. 2024 May 20;42(15):1738-1744Rugo, Hope S et al. The Lancet, Volume 402, Issue 10411, 1423 – 1433.
Association of mitotic circulating tumor cells with clinical outcomes in metastatic breast cancer.
Duffy, Alexis B. , Williams, William L., Bayer, Blaise, Chumsri, Saranya , Tang, Cha‐Mei , Cristofanilli, Massimo , Reduzzi, Carolina , Williams, William, Iwase, Toshiaki , Ueno, Naoto Tada , Adams, Daniel L.

Journal of Clinical Oncology | May 28, 2025 | Volume: 43 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: No page available

10.1200/jco.2025.43.16_suppl.e15045 Get It

e15045 Background: Increased cancer cell mitosis in tumor tissue is widely regarded as an indicator of aggressive disease, a predictor of shorter survival, and an indicator of response to specific anthracycline based chemotherapies. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are cancer cells that detach from primary tumors, enter the bloodstream, and seed metastatic sites, which in patients (pts) with metastatic breast cancer (mBC) are also predictors of poor prognosis and reduced therapy response. Furthermore, small preliminary studies have identified a specific subtype of mitotic CTCs that appears to correlate with poor survival rates compared to CTC detection alone. However, larger studies have yet to be conducted to validate the clinical utility of mitotic CTCs. In this large multi-institutional prospective study, we isolated CTCs from the blood of n = 155 mBC pts to subtype mitotic CTCs to assess progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) over 2 years. Methods: Peripheral blood samples (7.5ml) were prospectively collected from n = 155 mBC pts progressing on systemic therapies and prior to new systemic therapy induction (i.e., chemotherapy n = 90, hormone therapy n = 13, immunotherapy n = 51, targeted therapy n = 62). Samples were processed using CellSieve microfilters to isolate CTCs via size exclusion and fluorescently stained for CD45, Cytokeratin, and DAPI. CTCs were imaged, enumerated, and subtyped based on the presence of ≥1 mitotic event, using established visual indicators. PFS and OS were assessed over 2 years by censored univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: CTCs were detected in ~45% (n = 70/155) of pts, while mitotic CTCs were identified in a subset of this group, ~23% (n = 35/155). The presence of any CTC was associated with poor outcomes (PFS HR = 2.16, 95%CI = 1.4-3.2, p = 0.0002 and OS: HR = 2.51, 95%CI = 1.5-4.0, p = 0.0002). The presence of mitotic CTCs correlated with significantly poorer outcomes (PFS: HR = 5.6, 95%CI = 3.1-10.2, p < 0.0001 and OS: HR = 7.3, 95%CI = 3.7-14.5, p < 0.0001). Overall, pts with no CTCs had a median PFS (mPFS) of 7 months and median OS (mOS) of 24 months, pts with non-mitotic CTCs had a mPFS of 6 months and mOS of 15 months; pts with both CTCs and mitotic CTCs had a mPFS of 3 months and mOS of 5 months. Notably, 97% of pts with a mitotic CTC progressed within 6 months, regardless of systemic therapy type. Interestingly at 2 years, a sole non-progressive pt with a mitotic CTC was receiving alpelisib (a specialized PI3KCA inhibitor). Conclusions: Overall, the detection of CTCs indicated poor outcomes in pts, with mitotic CTCs correlating with significantly more aggressive disease and further reduced survival rates regardless of systemic therapy type. This study highlights the need for larger, more comprehensive studies to expand upon and validate these findings.