Chanan‐Khan, Asher

Abstract Background: BT062 (Biotest AG Dreieich, Germany) is an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), comprising the anti-CD138 chimerized MAb (nBT062) and the maytansinoid DM4 as a cytotoxic agent. It is designed to bind to CD138 on cancer cells, and then release DM4 after internalization to cause cell death. CD138 (Syndecan-1) is highly overexpressed on various solid tumors and in hematological malignancies, and represents one of the most specific target antigens for identification of multiple myeloma (MM) cells. BT062 was investigated as a single agent and found to have an acceptable tolerability profile and evidence of activity in patients with heavily pretreated relapsed and/or refractory MM (1). Preclinical studies showed enhanced anti-MM activity when BT062 was combined with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Len/Dex). Based on these data, a Phase I/IIa study in MM was initiated to evaluate the safety and efficacy of BT062 in combination with Len/Dex. Objectives: To determine the dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs), the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), the recommended phase II dose (RPTD), pharmacokinetics (PK), and anti-MM activity of increasing doses of BT062 (days 1, 8, and 15, every 4 weeks) used in combination with Len (25 mg, daily on days 1-21) and low dose Dex (40 mg on days 1, 8, 15, and 22) in patients with relapsed and/or refractory MM. Methods: This is a prospective, open label, multicenter Phase I/IIa study. The Phase I part includes dose escalation, and the Phase IIa the expansion of the RPTD cohort. Patients aged ≥18 years with relapsed and/or refractory MM who have failed at least one prior therapy were eligible to participate. Prior treatment with Len and/or Dex was allowed. Patients with clinical response (or no evidence of progressive disease) and without unacceptable toxicities were eligible for additional treatment cycles. Patients were enrolled in cohorts of at least 3 at each dose level; DLT in the first cycle triggered cohort expansion. Toxicities were assessed by CTCAE v4 and clinical response was assessed according to International Myeloma Working Group criteria. Results: The maximum administered dose (MAD) was 120 mg/m². Two of six patients treated at this dose had a DLT: mucosal inflammation (CTC grade 3) and anemia (CTC grade 3). The MTD was defined as 100 mg/m² and selected as RPTD. Additional patients are being treated at this RPTD to further evaluate safety and efficacy. Enrollment into the study is ongoing. As of July 2014, a total of 45 patients had received BT062 at dose levels of 80 mg/m² (N=3), 100 mg/m² (N=36) or 120 mg/m² (N=6). Fifteen patients discontinued study treatment: 5 for disease progression, 7 for adverse events, 1 died (not treatment related) and 2 for withdrawal of consent. The other 30 patients remain on treatment. The median treatment duration was 123 days (range 1–597). The median number of prior therapies was 3 (range 1–11). 68% of patients had prior exposure to both Len and bortezomib, 73% of patients had prior Len exposure, and 30% were Len-refractory. According to preliminary data from this ongoing study, about 89% of reported Adverse Events (AEs) were CTC grade 1 or 2. The most common reported AEs were diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, and hypokalemia. Amongst the 36 patients across all dose levels currently evaluable for efficacy, the overall response rate (ORR) is 78%; including 1 stringent complete response, 2 complete responses, 10 very good partial responses, and 15 partial responses. Two patients achieved a minor response and 6 patients disease stabilization, resulting in a clinical benefit in 100% of the evaluable patients. The ORR was 83% among the 30 evaluable patients receiving the RPTD. Interestingly, the ORR was 70% among the 23 patients with prior exposure to Len and bortezomib, and among 10 patients refractory to prior treatment with Len. Conclusion: Preliminary data from this ongoing study indicate that BT062 is well tolerated in combination with Len/Dex at dose levels that induce responses in patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma, including patients with prior exposure to both Len and bortezomib and patients refractory to prior treatment with Len. Updated results on safety and efficacy will be presented. References Heffner et al, BT062, an Antibody-Drug Conjugate Directed Against CD138, Given Weekly for 3 Weeks in Each 4 Week Cycle: Safety and Further Evidence of Clinical Activity. Blood. 2012; 120: Abstract 4042. Disclosures Kelly: Celgene: Speakers Bureau. Heffner:Amgen: Honoraria, Research Funding; Biotest: Research Funding; Dana Farber CI: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Gilead: Research Funding; Idera: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Honoraria, Research Funding; Onyx: Research Funding; Spectrum: Research Funding; Talon Therapeutics: Research Funding. Somlo:Millennium: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Siegel:Celgene: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Onyx: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Millennium: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Munshi:Celgene: Consultancy; Onyx: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Sanofi-Aventis: Consultancy; Ocopep: Consultancy, Equity Ownership, Patents & Royalties. Jagannath:Celgene: Consultancy; Millennium: Consultancy; Sanofi: Consultancy. Lonial:Millennium: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Research Funding; Onyx: Consultancy, Research Funding. Ailawadhi:Millennium: Consultancy, Honoraria. Barmaki-Rad:Biotest AG: Employment. Chavan:Biotest Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Patel:Biotest Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Wartenberg-Demand:Biotest AG: Employment. Haeder:Biotest AG: Employment. Anderson:Celgene: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Millennium: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Onyx: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Gilead: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Sanofi Aventis: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Oncopep: Equity Ownership; Acetylon: Equity Ownership.

Abstract Background: The proteasome is an established and druggable target for the treatment of plasma cell-related malignancies including Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM). WM cells as a consequence of high immunoglobulin production and increased B-cell receptor (BCR) mediated proliferation upregulate proteasome activity. Additionally, microenvironmental influence mediated through BCR signaling directly influences Bcl-2 and its BH3 family members, supporting tumor cell survival. Indeed, WM patients derive significant clinical benefit from proteasome-inhibitor (PI) based therapy with agents such as bortezomib and carfilzomib. However, resistance to PI develops over time and for these patients the optimal choice and sequence of therapy has yet to be determined. Using our WM models of PI-resistance we interrogated molecular events within the BCR and Bcl-2 pathways to determine therapeutic potential of targeting these crucial pathway in PI-resistance. Materials & Methods: WM cell lines (BCWM.1 and MWCL-1) and carfilzomib-resistant (CR) subclones (BCWM.1/CR and MWCL-1/CR) were used in experiments. Gene-expression and long-noncoding (LNC) RNA analysis was performed (Arraystar) and validated by real-time PCR. Bortezomib, carfilzomib, ABT199 and ibrutinib were purchased from Sellekchem. Results: To determine the functional impact of BCR and Bcl-2 signaling in PI-resistance, as well as therapeutic sensitivity of PI-resistant cells to their inhibitors (ibrutinib, ABT-199, respectively), we established and characterized WM cell lines resistant to carfilzomib. BCWM.1/CR cells showed approximately 20-fold resistance to carfilzomib (IC50 = 92.75nM) and MWCL-1/CR cells approximately 10-fold resistance (Fig. 1A). Both CR clones also displayed some cross-resistance to bortezomib. Gene expression and LNC-RNA profiling demonstrated several changes between carfilzomib-resistant vs. sensitive WM cells. Analysis of proteasome-related mRNA revealed downregulation of PSMB5, PSMB1, PSMB2 and PSMB8. Similarly, profiling of BCR-associated genes demonstrated decreased expression of several components, including BTK and SPI1. This observation functionally manifested as reduced sensitivity to the BTK-inhibitor ibrutinib, wherein CR cells displayed 1.5 - 2 fold growth resistance to ibrutinib on 72hr MTS assay. Next we examined the expression of Bcl-2 family members in CR cells. Intriguingly, we observed that Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 were significantly downregulated but XIAP (inhibitor of apoptosis) was significantly increased in CR cells vs. wildtype WM cells- both at transcriptional and translational levels. This suggested that upon acquisition of CR, a transcriptional shift towards XIAP occurs to accommodate sustained therapeutic stress from carfilzomib and maintain steady antiapoptotic composure. To test if the PI-resistant cells have moved away from their survival dependence on Bcl-2, we treated CR cells to increasing concentrations of the Bcl-2-specific inhibitor, ABT199, and as anticipated, CR cells displayed reduced apoptosis in presence of ABT199 compared to wildtype WM cells (32% annexin-V staining vs. 50%, respectively) (Fig. 1B). Conclusions: Our study sheds insight into the differential drivers of PI-resistance particularly towards carfilzomib, in WM cells. We demonstrate that acquisition of CR is associated with downregulation of Bcl-2 and Mcl-1, which is countered by upregulation of XIAP- an event that renders CR cells resistant to ABT199 (as it targets only Bcl-2). Likewise, downregulation of BCR-related components in CR cells was associated with reduced sensitivity towards ibrutinib. These observations suggest that acquisition of resistance to PI such as carfilzomib can impact future treatment with agents such as ibrutinib or ABT199. Our preclinical models provide rationale or early sequencing of ibrutinib or ABT199 in therapeutic planning of WM patients prior to induction of PI resistance. Figure 1. Figure 1. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Abstract Background: While B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling is essential for the development, of normal B cells, its aberrant hyper-activation results in neoplastic transformation of B-lymphocytes. Recent investigations using small molecule inhibitors validate the BCR pathway as a valuable target. Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) is one of the components of a signaling hub that transduces signals from the BCR into the cell for its activation and has been shown to be a therapeutic target. Ibrutinib (PCI-32765), an irreversible BTK inhibitor has shown clinical efficacy in CLL, mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) and Waldenströms macroglobulinemia (WM). Ibrutinib binds to cysteine-481 of the BTK protein and blocks its phosphorylation, resulting in termination of BCR-mediated activation of cells with a concomitant induction of death. Despite the clinical success of ibrutinib, a high percentage of patients achieve only partial response and eventually acquire resistance to the drug, resulting in aggressive relapse of the disease. A mutation of Cys481-Ser in BTK (ibrutinib-BTK binding site) has been reported to be one of the reasons for the development of ibrutinib resistance (IR). To understand the mechanisms resulting in acquisition of IR, we developed preclinical models of IR in WM and MCL. Materials: Ibrutinib was obtained from Pharmacyclics, CA. Validated human WM models (BCWM.1, RPCI-WM1 and MWCL.1 cell lines) and human MCL models (Jeko-1 and Maver cell lines) were used for the study. Results: BTK was constitutively phosphorylated at Y223 and Y551 in all the cell lines tested and this was inhibited by ibrutinib in a dose dependent manner. Phosphorylation of other kinases in the cascade such as SYK (Y323 and Y525/526) and PLCg2 (Y759 and Y1217) were also inhibited while AKT phosphorylation at both Ser473 and Thr308 was consistently increased in presence of ibrutinib. Treatment with ibrutinib induced cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase by 24h followed by apoptosis. Cell growth assays (MTS assay) showed that BCWM.1 was the most sensitive cell line followed by MWCL-1, RPCI-WM1, Maver and Jeko-1. Exposure of WM and MCL cells for prolonged periods of time with progressively increasing concentrations of ibrutinib resulted in outgrowth of clones (IR WM and MCL cell lines) that were resistant to apoptosis with a slow growth rate as compared to wild type parental cells. IR cells attained 2 – 20 fold resistance to ibrutinib as compared to the respective parental lines as determined by MTS assay. Sequence analysis of the BTK gene in all the cell lines revealed no mutation in IR cells at Cys481 suggesting that in an acquired IR state, resistance to ibrutinib can be developed independent of BTK Cys481 mutation. Interestingly, we found p-BTK levels to be markedly reduced in IR cells. Ibrutinib reversal experiments suggested that while a continuous presence of ibrutinib is needed for inhibition of BTK phosphorylation, a stable IR state could be maintained (for >1 month) in the absence of ibrutinib. This suggested the cells reliance on a parallel survival pathway, independent of BTK phosphorylation. Focused mRNA (Nanostring nCounter assay) and immunoblot analysis revealed significant changes in the expression profiles of several cellular elements. These included transcription factors such as PU.1, IRF4, BLIMP1, BCL-6 b-catenin as well as the phosphorylated ERK1/2, STAT1 and 3 suggesting a reprogramming of critical cellular networks, which IR tumor cells might be utilizing to overcome ibrutinib-induced cytotoxicity. Importantly, we observed that IR cells retained high levels of p-AKT and showed an increase in expression of BCL2 family members, as well as BCL-2 itself. Treatment of IR cells with ibrutinib +/- MK2206 (AKT inhibitor), or ABT-199 (BCL-2 inhibitor), synergistically induced cytotoxicity in IR cells, suggesting the importance of these parallel survival pathways (AKT/BCL2) in maintaining an IR state. Conclusion: Here we demonstrate that in the absence of BTK Cys481 mutation, an IR state is associated with reprogramming of transcriptional networks countering ibrutinib-induced toxicity by activation of AKT and BCL-2. Our current data exposes multiple vulnerabilities within IR cells, which can be therapeutically exploited to potentially delay onset of IR, by targeting alternative oncogenic mechanisms that are activated in presence of sustained BTK inhibition. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Abstract Abstract 201 Background: Pomalidomide at doses of 2 or 4 mg/d has demonstrated excellent activity in patients with relapsed multiple myeloma (MM). Between November 2007 and March 2012, we opened 6 sequential phase 2 trials and treated 345 patients with relapsed MM with pomalidomide at differing doses with weekly dexamethasone (Pom/dex). Results of 164 of these patients have been previously published. Here we describe long term follow up of these patients as well as results of an additional 181 patients with relapsed MM treated with the Pom/dex regimen. Methods: The six cohorts consisted of: Cohort 1 (N=60): relapsed MM with 1–3 prior regimens, 2 mg dose; Cohort 2 (N=34): lenalidomide (LEN) refractory, 2 mg dose; Cohort 3 (N=35): BZ)/LEN refractory, 2 mg dose; Cohort 4 (N=35): BZ/LEN refractory, 4 mg dose; Cohort 5 (N=60) LEN refractory, 1–3 prior regimens, 4 mg dose; and Cohort 6 (N=120) LEN refractory, 4 mg dose. Pomalidomide was given orally 2 mg daily or 4mg daily on days 1–28(cohorts 1–5) or 1–21 (cohort 6) of a 28-day cycle with oral dexamethasone given 40 mg daily on days 1, 8, 15 and 22. Response was assessed by the International Myeloma Working Group Uniform Response criteria. All patients received aspirin 325 mg daily for deep venous thrombosis (VTE) prophylaxis or full dose anticoagulation. Results: A total of 345 patients were enrolled across all 6 cohorts. One patient was ineligible and excluded from analysis. The median age was 64 years (32–88). The median time since diagnosis was 53 months. The median number of prior therapies was 3 (1–14). 147 (44%) had high-risk molecular markers by mSMART criteria. Prior therapies consisted of thalidomide 52%, lenalidomide 87%, bortezomib 75%, autologous stem cell transplant 70% and allogeneic transplant 3%. The median follow-up is 10.4 months (5.4–34 months). Sixty-seven percent are alive and 32% remain progression free. 46 patients are continuing to receive treatment. The most common toxicities (grade 3 or higher) were neutropenia (31%), anemia (16%), thrombocytopenia (12%), pneumonia (8%) and fatigue (8%). VTE was seen in 10 patients (3%). Outcomes are shown in Table 1. Across all 6 cohorts confirmed responses of partial response (PR) or better were seen in 34%. The response rate in all patients with mSMART high risk status was 30.6%. Responses and duration of response (DOR) in those with high risk molecular markers include: 17p– 19 of 56 (34%) DOR 8.2 months; t(4;14) 6 of 24 (25%) and DOR 4.8 months; t(14;16) 7 of 11(64%) and DOR 9.5 months; deletion 13 by cytogenetics 13 of 37 (35%) with DOR 8.2 months. In a multivariate analysis, only LDH > ULN, number of prior regimens, and prior BZ therapy were predictive of a shorter TTP and factors associated with a poor OS following initiation of pomalidomide therapy included B2M > 5.5, LDH > ULN,number of prior regimens, and prior BZ therapy. Conclusions: Pom/dex is active and well tolerated even in heavily pretreated patients and those with high risk molecular markers. Remissions are durable. Response rates and toxicity are similar between the 2 mg and 4 mg doses. Disclosures: Lacy: Celgene: Research Funding. Stewart:Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria. Reeder:Celgene: Mayo Clinic receives funding from Celgene to support clinical trials Other, Research Funding.

Abstract Background:The pathological behavior of Waldenströms macroglobulinemia (WM) cells relies on aberrant B-cell receptor (BCR), and Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling and is intricately supported by malfunctions in initiation of apoptosis. In this dynamic, a complex shift between functionally active pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins from the Bcl-2 family occurs and bestows the malignant cells with a significant survival advantage. This defective apoptotic signaling is associated with aggressive clinical behavior, chemoresistance, and a poor prognosis in many B-cell cancers, including WM. Thus, BCR/TLR induced proliferation and abnormal apoptotic signaling due to dysregulation of Bcl-2 signaling, act in concert for the assurance of the malignant WM cells survival. Clinically, mitigation of BCR signaling with the first in class BTK inhibitor, ibrutinib, has shown promising results in WM and other B-cell cancers. However, clinical responses to the BTK inhibitor alone are less than optimal and development of ibrutinib-resistant disease is being recognized as an important and impending dilemma. We have previously shown the utility of disrupting pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein interactions in WM, chronic lymphocytic leukemia and multiple myeloma and that this functional interference results in re-sensitization (or heightened sensitivity) of tumor cells towards chemoimmunotherapy. As such, we examined the effects of ABT-199, a Bcl-2 specific small molecule inhibitor, in preclinical models of WM. Importantly; we conducted this investigation in proprietarily developed WM cells that have acquired resistance mechanisms towards either ibrutinib (IR WM subclones) or bortezomib (BR WM subclones). Materials:WM cell lines (BCWM.1, MWCL.1 and RPCI-WM1; WT cells) including their bortezomib resistant (BR) or ibrutinib resistant (IR) subclones were used in this study. Results: An initial comparison of Bcl-2 family members, Bcl-2, Mcl-1, BCL-xL, A1 (anti-apoptotic members), Noxa, Puma, Bim (pro-apoptotic initiators) and Bak and Bax (pro-apoptotic effectors), revealed that BR WM cells express increased levels of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members, particularly Bcl-2, relative to WT cells. Similarly, A1 and Bcl-2 levels were up regulated in IR cell lines suggesting that the Bcl-2 mediated survival pathway is involved in resistance to both bortezomib and ibrutinib. Cell growth (MTS) assays using ABT-199 indicated that both BR and IR cells were equally sensitivity to Bcl-2 inhibition, with an IC50 ranging between 2 – 4mM. ABT-199 induced a dose dependent increase in MOMP with concomitant induction of apoptotic cell death, the latter confirmed by observation of PARP-1 cleavage. ABT-199 induced an intrinsic apoptotic program with the activation of caspase 9 and caspase 3 in all the cells tested. This data indicated the Bcl-2 pathway as being relevant and essential in WM cell lines even under drug resistant conditions. To evaluate the priming effect of ABT-199 on bortezomib and ibrutinib induced cell death, MTS assays were performed with these drugs in presence of IC25 concentrations of ABT-199. The addition of ABT-199 significantly reduced the IC50of both bortezomib and ibrutinib in WT, BR and IR cells. This suggested that re-sensitization of BR and IR cells towards either bortezomib or ibrutinib, respectively, was possible in presence of ABT-199. Further, combined addition of ABT-199 with bortezomib or ibrutinib showed synergistic cell death (combination index range: 0.004 – 0.6, CalcuSyn, Biosoft UK) in BR or IR WM cells, respectively. Conclusion: Dysregulation of Bcl-2 signaling is associated with the pathogenesis and promotion of drug resistance in B-cell cancers, including WM. Our report is first to highlight in WM preclinically, the antiproliferative effect of disrupting Bcl-2, through use of ABT-199. Altogether, our data suggests that therapeutic interference of Bcl-2 function with ABT-199 complements the anti-WM activity of ibrutinib or bortezomib in a synergistic manner and can in fact restore sensitivity of either drug in WM cells that are resistant to proteasome or BTK inhibitors. Focused mRNA and protein profiling analyses are currently underway to delineate the mechanisms accounting for synergy observed between concomitant Bcl-2/BTK inhibition as well Bcl-2/proteasome inhibition. Disclosures Ansell: Biothera: Research Funding. Martin:Janssen: Honoraria. Coleman:Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Millennium: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Onyx: Speakers Bureau.

Abstract Abstract 757 Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia seen in adults. Previous population-based research in CLL has not represented the current ethnic makeup and diversity within the US population. We undertook a large Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) based analysis to assess disparities in outcome among different ethnic subgroups of CLL patients, so that therapeutic resources can be utilized effectively. Methods: The SEER-18 Registry (1973–2009) was used to retrieve a population of 60,293 patients with established diagnosis of CLL (Histology code: 9823). The cohort was restricted to adults (>18 yrs) diagnosed after January 1, 1992, since ethnic minorities were underrepresented in SEER prior to that. Cases reported in death certificate/autopsy, those without a confirmatory diagnosis, those with ethnicity recorded as unknown/other or those that did not have follow up post diagnosis were excluded. Using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for confounding variables, association between patient characteristics and survival (overall; OS and CLL-specific; CLLSS) was evaluated. Analysis was performed utilizing the SAS software (v9.2). All statistical tests were two-sided with a significance level of 5%. Results: A total of 37,834 patients (22,581 males; 60%, 15,253 females; 40%) were included in the final analysis. Age group (yr) cohorts included: 18–44 (861; 2%) 45–54 (3,587; 9%), 55–64 (7,684; 20%), 65–74 (10,966; 29%), and ≥75 (14,736; 39%). For survival trends over time, stratification by year of diagnosis was used: 1992–1999 (9,837; 26%), 2000–2004 (14,129; 37%), 2005–2009 (13,868; 37%). Stratification by race/ethnicity included: White (32,980; 87%), African-American (AA: 2,486; 7%), Hispanic (1,536; 4%), Asian (737; 2%), and Native American (NA: 95; 0.25%). Median age ranged from 68 yr (AA and Asian) to 71 yr (Whites) (Figure 1). For survival analysis, NA ethnic group was excluded due to their small numbers. Females had a significantly better median OS (8.3 yr vs. 6.4 yr; p<0.001) as well as CLLSS (p<0.001) than males, when evaluated for the whole population and across different age groups. Both, OS and CLLSS progressively and significantly (p<0.001) declined with advancing age. Progressive significant improvement was seen in OS over time across cohorts by year of diagnosis (6.3 yr, 7.3 yr, 7.4 yr; p<0.001). This improvement in OS persisted over time for age groups <75 yr, but for ≥75 yr, the improvement was lost in the most recent time period cohort (2005–2009). The percentage of patients dying of CLL has decreased progressively over time suggesting an improvement in therapy. Among various ethnicities, Asians had the best (7.5 yr) and AA had the worst (4.8 yr) OS (p=0.006) (Figure 2) and CLLSS (p<0.001). In a multivariate model, AA continued to have the worst OS across all age groups (p<0.001), while Whites had the best OS in age groups <75 yr and Asians had the best among patients ≥75 yrs. Percentage of patients dying from CLL was highest in AA across age groups, but lowest for Whites in age groups <75 yr, while in Hispanics in patients ≥75 yr. Trends in CLLSS were noted to be more heterogeneous among ethnicities than trends in OS. Conclusions: This report presents the largest population-based analysis of patient characteristics including ethnicity and survival in CLL in the era of novel therapeutic agents. Older patients had worse OS among all ethnic subgroups. Progressive improvement in CLLSS was noted over time suggesting a possible impact of new therapeutics, however this was not seen in ≥75 yr patients. AA patients had the worst OS among all ethnicities and age groups. This survival difference was most significant and pronounced in younger patients, which has important implications. For example, this survival disadvantage may represent poor access to optimal healthcare warranting development of new initiatives directed towards this ethnic minority. On the other hand discrete biological variants may underlie the more aggressive disease biology in younger AA patients underscoring the need to further investigate and delineate the molecular biology of CLL in ethnic minorities. Studies of outcome disparities are important not only for evaluating disease characteristics but also management needs of specific patient populations and are critical for designing programs to deliver optimal healthcare to ethnically diverse populations. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Abstract Background: Outcomes in multiple myeloma (MM) have significantly improved, leading to higher prevalence of this disease. Increasing efforts have been made by various agencies to educate patients (pts), manage quality of life (QoL) and survivorship. A global impact of these efforts including pt awareness, disease knowledge and participation in their care, as well as the physical and emotional impact of MM and its treatments (Rx) has not been assessed. We undertook an international, pt-reported survey to investigate these factors and understand any underlying disparities. Methods: A 61-question patient-reported questionnaire (MM-Q), addressing global aspects of MM pts care (components in Figure 1) was used. MM-Q was administered in collaboration with the International Myeloma Foundation (IMF). To limit responses by MM pt only, “SmartPatient” MM community members and IMF Support Group Leader list were invited to complete the survey. Some of the questions were mandatory, and those with missing responses were withdrawn from the final analysis of that pts MM-Q. Categorical and continuous variables were compared among groups using the Chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests, respectively using SAS software (v9.3) with a two-sided significance level of 0.05. Results: Survey responses are available from 894/1240 (72%) individuals thus far. Average survey completion time was 16 minutes. Data from 746 MM-Q was included in this analysis with 466 (62.5%) complete responses. Pts from United States (US) represented 85.7% of the responders (majority from New York State). Ethnicity (n=590) was reported as non-Latino by 97%, race (n=580) was reported as White by 95%, family history of MM was reported by 19 pts and 81 reported prior history of a primary malignancy (most common, 37% non-melanoma skin cancer). Living situation questions (n=538) revealed majority were in a household of 2 (62%), were unemployed/on public assistance (53.5%), travelled alone to medical appointments (74%), with travel times varying from <30 min (55%) to >1 hr (17%). Majority (83%) had no prior knowledge of MM, 63% were patient support group members, and 92% did MM-related research on internet. With respect to MM Rx (n=524), 70% had been on Rx within 3 months and 12% reported non-compliance. Prior Rx included thalidomide (30%), lenalidomide (66%), pomalidomide (11.5%), bortezomib (63.5%), carfilzomib (11%), steroids (100%), and clinical trial participation in 25% pts. Side effects from Rx/QoL in prior 3 months (n=403) are summarized in figure 2. Pts satisfaction with Rx/treating staff (n=378) revealed majority felt their Rx to be effective (92%), right for them (87%) and side effects were as expected (84%). In general, pts acknowledged positive attributes of the Rx staff (worked towards same goal; 91%, participated in decisions; 81%, honesty 89%, confidence; 92%), and their doctor's explanations regarding Rx (benefits; 84%, side effects; 74%, test results; 83%), with the exception of emotional effects of Rx (48%). 94% pts rated their care as good/excellent and 95% were willing to participate in a follow-up survey. Stratification of statistically significant responses by geographical categories, age and time since diagnosis are shown in table 1 and analysis by occupation and educational status is ongoing. Conclusions: We conducted a large patient-reported survey to understand the current state of awareness among MM pts and a global impact of the diagnosis and its Rx on them. We showed that majority of pts who accessed the survey responded (72%), which may be a product of literacy, education and access to technology. Majority of the pts were White and non-Latino, highlighting the possible role of access and awareness in ethnic minorities. We report the large prevalence of psychophysical burden of MM and its Rx in MM pts. In general, MM pts had a high rate of satisfaction related to the Rx and their healthcare providers, but the frequency of discussion regarding emotional effects of Rx between doctors and pts was conspicuously low (48%) and the more recently diagnosed pts were less likely to be satisfied with their treating staff. We also demonstrated significant behavioral pattern differences in geographical, age and time-since-diagnosis subgroups, some of which may be sociocultural, while others may be a result of more patient awareness and understanding of the disease. This knowledge will be very helpful in devising MM survivorship strategies. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Abstract Abstract 601 Background: Despite therapeutic advances and availability of novel agents, multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable malignant disorder and strategies to improve survival are being actively sought. One such approach is the use of maintenance therapy with lenalidomide (Revlimid®; R), which has shown PFS benefit, without conclusive evidence of OS benefit except in a selected population (CALGB100104). Shrinking resources with rising healthcare costs warrant careful assessment of the financial impact of expensive anticancer therapeutics in context with the true benefit to patients. Methods: This analysis was not supported or solicited by any pharmaceutical industry. For our pharmacoeconomic study we selected the MM-015 trial; a large (n=459) double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase III study that investigated the efficacy of continuous R maintenance after initial therapy with melphalan/prednisone/lenalidomide (MPR) in a uniform cohort of patients (≥65 years, newly diagnosed MM, transplant ineligible). The three study arms were MP, MPR and MPR followed by R maintenance (MPR-R). The cost-effectiveness model included medical costs (drugs, office visits, laboratory tests) and costs of treatment-related adverse events (AEs) for an individual patient. Drug costs were calculated from the average wholesale price, using average US adult weight of 80kg. Office visit and laboratory test costs were obtained using Medicare reimbursement fees. Costs of AEs were obtained from peer-reviewed publications. Incidence of AEs was obtained from the published MM-015 trial. Costs were valued in 2011 US dollars. Cost calculations included: (1) computing distribution of the numbers of induction and maintenance courses completed by patients treated with each of these regimens; (2) computing the per-course probabilities of the occurrence of individual AEs during induction and maintenance for each of these toxicities; (3) combining these data with the treatment costs and costs of individual AEs to compute cumulative cost of treatment through 40 maintenance cycles and cumulative cost of treatment per progression-free survivor. Summary measures computed for each treatment: (1) average cumulative cost per patient (ACCP) treated; (2) average cumulative cost per progression free survivor (ACCPFS), representing the average cumulated cost/patient who is progression free at that time. The distribution of courses received was obtained from the MM-015 publication. Data on subsequent therapy at the time of disease progression was not available. Results: Median follow up reported in the published study was 30 months. Median PFS was 13 months (MP), 14 months (MPR) and 31 months (MPR-R) in the three arms. Table 1 summarizes the calculated ACCP and the ACCPFS of each regimen for induction and maintenance treatment. MPR-R was the most expensive of the three arms in terms of total cumulative costs, with an ACCP of $231,314, compared to $166,211 for MPR and $17,972 for MP. However, taking the efficacy of each regimen into account (ACCPFS), MPR greatly exceeds both MPR-R and MP ($1,540,139 vs. $516,322 vs. $309,346), while the difference between MPR-R and MP was less distinct. Figure 1 illustrates the exponential increase in ACCPFS of MPR, compared to MPR-R and MP. Conclusions: From a cost-effectiveness perspective, if MPR is used as the induction regimen, maintenance with R should be strongly considered, as MPR without maintenance does not confer any significant benefit over MP, while incurring a much higher cost. However, the overall cost of MPR-R is substantial with no reported OS benefit at present. In the absence of clear survival benefit the financial burden of prolonged treatment becomes an important factor to consider prior to adopting this therapeutic strategy in MM. As part of a global strategy for addressing healthcare costs, it is important to consider this in appropriate medical decision making for patients, and to include cost-effectiveness analyses as a part of large prospective clinical trial efforts. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Abstract Abstract 3925 Introduction: CLL patients (pts) who relapse following purine-analog or bendamustine-based treatments have a poor prognosis. These pts have limited therapeutic options and novel agents with alternative mechanisms of action are needed. Several phase 1 and 2 trials in rel/ref CLL showed promising activity with escalating dose regimens of lenalidomide (LEN). In other phase II studies improved clinical responses to lenalidomide appeared to correlate with dose levels > 5mg/day. This phase 2 trial investigates the safety of LEN initiated at 3 different starting doses followed by a step-wise dose escalation as tolerated in rel/ref CLL. Methods: In this ongoing trial, eligible pts with rel/ref CLL who have received ≥ 1 prior treatment regimen containing purine-analog or bendamustine are being enrolled. The objectives of this study are to evaluate primarily the safety and secondarily the efficacy of different LEN dose regimens. Pts are randomized 1:1:1 to receive a double-blinded starting dose of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg oral LEN on days 1–28 of each 28-day cycle. In all 3 treatment arms, the dose is escalated by 5 mg increments every 28 days to reach a maximum dose of 25 mg/d, depending on tolerability. In instances of poor tolerability, dose reductions also occur in 5 mg steps. Pts are stratified by relapsed versus refractory status to their last purine-analog or bendamustine-based treatment regimen and according to age (< 65 vs ≥ 65 years). Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) prophylaxis comprises of oral hydration and allopurinol 300 mg/day and is initiated ≥ 3 days prior to starting study drug and for a minimum of the first 3 treatment cycles. A total of 105 pts are planned for enrollment to the study. Per protocol, unblinded interim analyses were conducted by the independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMC) after 18 subjects completed 1 cycle and continue at 13-week intervals. Results: To date, 95 pts are enrolled at a median age of 64 years (range 32–81). Enrolled pts are primarily male (67%) and Caucasian (92%). Cytogenetic data are available for 73 pts; 21% have del(17p), 55% have del(13q), 25% have del(11q), and of 72 patients evaluable for trisomy 12, 11 patients (15%) tested positive. IGVH is unmutated in 77% of 77 evaluable pts and 44% of 84 evaluable pts are ZAP70-positive. Based on the Binet and Rai staging systems 9 (10%), 25 (26%) and 24 (25%) of subjects are stage A, B and C, respectively; 7 (7%), 12 (13%) and 16 (17%) subjects are low, intermediate or high-risk disease, respectively. For 2 (2%) subjects the Binet/Rai staging is currently unknown. Overall, 19 pts (20%) received prior bendamustine-containing treatment and 71 pts (75%) received prior fludarabine-based treatment. The median number of prior therapies was 3 (range 1–10). Most common hematological grade ≥ 3 AEs include neutropenia (62%) and thrombocytopenia (34%). At baseline, 19% of pts presented with grade 1–2 neutropenia. The most common non-hematological ≥ grade 3 AEs include pneumonia (13%), tumor flare (13%), and fatigue (11%). TLS was reported in 3 pts (3%): grade 1, 3, and 4. In total, 8 grade 5 events were reported, 3 of which were suspected to be related to LEN: 2 cases of pneumonia and 1 death for unknown cause. At the time of the cut-off, 59 pts (62%) have discontinued treatment. Most common reasons for treatment discontinuation include disease progression (n = 20) and AEs (n = 20). To date, 47 pts (49%) have dose escalated above their starting dose levels of which 12 patients escalated to the highest dose level (25 mg daily). 18 subjects have had no dose level reduction or escalations and 1 patient is still in the first cycle of the study. Average duration of treatment is 6.5 cycles, and median number of cycles is 4. Efficacy evaluations are completed monthly after 3 months of study drug treatment. At time of the data reporting, 5 pts were on study drug but did not reach the first assessment at cycle. For the 90 pts evaluable for response, the investigator's assessment indicates 2 pts (2%) reached CR, 36 (40%) achieved PR, 33 (37%) patients had SD, and 19 (21%) pts progressed. Conclusion: The independent DMC, as of 14 June, 2012 (N=95), recommended that accrual into all three treatment arms should continue as planned, suggesting all three starting doses were well tolerated. To date, the ORR is 42% and 49% of pts were dose escalated at least once. In this rel/ref CLL population LEN appears active, and completion of accrual will clarify the appropriate dose at which to initiate therapy. Disclosures: Wendtner: Celgene Corporation: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Roche: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; GSK: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Mundipharma: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Off Label Use: use of lenalidomie in relapsed/refractory CLL. Hallek:Celgene Corporation: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Hillmen:Celgene Corporation: Honoraria. Gregory:Celgene Corporation: Honoraria, Research Funding. Stilgenbauer:Celgene Corporation: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Kipps:Celgene Corporation: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Purse:Celgene Corporation: Employment, Equity Ownership. Zhang:Celgene Corporation: Employment, Equity Ownership. Mei:Celgene Corporation: Employment.

Abstract Abstract 728 Background: LM, an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), is designed to specifically kill CD56+ cancer cells and contains a potent maytansinoid cytotoxic agent (DM1) attached to a CD56-targeting antibody. MM shows CD56 expression in >70% of cases. LM has demonstrated single agent clinical activity and an acceptable safety profile in relapsed/refractory (rel/ref) MM patients. Preclinical studies showed enhanced anti-MM activity when LM was combined with Len/Dex. To further study the safety and efficacy of LM in combination with Len/Dex, a phase I study was conducted in rel/ref patients. This abstract reports updated results on the safety and efficacy of LM/Len/Dex and preliminary results on the pharmacokinetics (PK) and immunogenicity studies. Methods: Primary study objectives were to determine the safety, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D), anti-MM activity and PK of LM in combination with standard oral (PO) doses of Len (25 mg po, daily on days 1–21) and Dex (40 mg po on D 1, 8, 15, and 22) in CD56+ rel/ref MM patients who have received at least 1 prior therapy. LM was given intravenously (IV) on D 1, 8, and 15 on a 28-day cycle. Dose escalation was conducted in new cohorts of patients to define the MTD, which was then further evaluated in a dose-expansion cohort. Adverse events (AEs) were assessed using CTCAEv3 criteria, and dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) determination was based on the occurrence of AEs that were probably or definitely attributed to the study regimen. Efficacy was assessed using the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) criteria. Enrollment has completed and 16 patients remain on study. Results: Forty-four patients were enrolled, 41 are currently evaluable for safety and 32 are evaluable for efficacy. The median number of prior therapies was 2 (range 1–11), 62% of patients had prior Len exposure and 33% were Len refractory. LM doses of 75 (N = 11), 90 (N=4), and 112 (N =6) mg/m2 were evaluated in the dose-escalation phase. The most common AE was peripheral neuropathy (PN), which occurred more frequently at higher LM doses (55% at 75 mg/m2 and 100% at 90 and 112 mg/m2); Grade 3 PN was seen only in patients treated at 90 mg/m2 or above. PN emerged, in most cases, in cycles >3 and was manageable with LM dose modification. During dose escalation, 1 patient experienced Grade 4 neutropenia and hyperuricemia. The 75 mg/m2 LM dose was considered the MTD based on overall tolerability and the lower incidence of PN observed, and was further tested to determine its suitability as the RP2D in the dose expansion portion of the study (N=23 patients, 19 patients available for safety evaluation). Grade 1–2 PN occurred in 8 patients (42%) and grade 3 PN was observed only in 1 pt in the dose-expansion cohort. Two patients developed grade 3 tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). Other grade 3 AEs reported in 1 patient each (5%) in the dose-expansion cohort consisted of neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, hemolytic anemia, and LDH increase. Efficacy was observed across all dose levels and the overall response rate (ORR) was 59%, including 1 patient each with stringent complete response (sCR) and complete response (CR), 8 patients with very good partial remission (VGPR), and 9 patients with partial remission (PR). No immunogenicity against the antibody (HAHA) or DM1 component (HADA) of LM was detected. PK results from 18 patients treated at 75 mg/m2 indicate LM Cmax and exposure in this combination regimen is consistent with LM monotherapy. Conclusions: Based on all available safety data, 75 mg/m2 was considered the RP2D. LM at 75mg/m2 in combination with Len and Dex has shown objective evidence of clinical activity with an acceptable safety profile. Disclosures: Off Label Use: Lorvotusumab mertansine is not FDA approved for treatment of multiple myeloma alone or in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone as is investigated in this trial. Running:ImmunoGen, Inc.: Employment. Murphy:ImmunoGen, Inc.: Employment. Guild:ImmunoGen, Inc.: Employment. Carrigan:ImmunoGen, Inc: Employment. Ladd:ImmunoGen, Inc.: Employment. Wolf:ImmunoGen, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. O'Leary:ImmunoGen, Inc.: Employment. Ailawadhi:Millenium Pharmaceuticals: Speakers Bureau.