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Stewart, A. Keith

Mayo Clinic

Princess Margaret Cancer Centre

Citations 156

Phase II Testing of Lenalidomide Plus Melphalan for Previously Untreated Older Patients with Multiple Myeloma: The NCIC CTG MY.11 Trial
White, Darrell , Marcellus, Deborah, Belch, Andrew R. , Stewart, A. Keith, Chen, Christine , Kovacs, Michael J., MacDonald, David , Reece, Donna , Harnett, Erica, Chapman, Judy‐Anne W., Meyer, Ralph M., Bahlis, Nizar Jacques

Blood | April 18, 2020 | Volume: 112 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 2767-2767

10.1182/blood.v112.11.2767.2767 Get It

Abstract Introduction: The NCIC CTG previously reported the results of a dose-finding trial testing the combination of Melphalan (M) and Lenalidomide (L) in previously untreated patients with multiple myeloma who were ineligible for stem cell transplantation because of older age and/or comorbidity (White, Blood2007; 110: 63a). Using a 28-day schedule, M (dose indicated as mg/m2/day given on days 1–4) and L (dose indicated in mg/day given on days 1–21) was associated with excess toxicity with the regimens M9L10, M4L15 and M6L10. We concluded that phase II testing of M5L10 was warranted and now report the results of this testing. Methods: Previously untreated symptomatic and consenting patients with tissue-confirmed plasmacytosis and a measurable M-protein were eligible provided that they had acceptable hematologic and biochemical laboratory parameters and no precluding comorbidities. Planned treatment consisted of M 5 mg/m2 days 1–4 and L 10 mg days 1–21, given every 28 days for 12 cycles. As our intent was to determine dose levels that could be given independently of G-CSF, primary prophylaxis with G-CSF was not included but use of G-CSF for established neutropenia was permitted. A hematologic dose limiting toxicity (H-DLT) was defined as the need for 2 dose attenuations of L or 1 dose attenuation of M occurring within the first 3 treatment cycles. Responses to treatment were classified using 1998 EBMT criteria and assessed after 2 and 6 cycles of therapy. Results: The intended sample size was 41 patients; 35 patients (1 ineligible) were enrolled before the study was closed due to observing a frequency of DLTs that surpassed predefined boundaries. Of the 34 eligible patients, median age was 73.4 yrs and ISS was stage I = 13, stage II = 11 and stage III = 10. Prior to study closure, 27 patients were evaluable for DLT; 7 (26%) did not experience a DLT. Among the remaining 20 (74%) patients, non-hematologic (N=2) and hematologic (N=18) DLTs requiring dose attenuations were seen within the first 3 treatment cycles; the H-DLTs included severe or prolonged neutropenia (N=11), thrombocytopenia (N=2) or both (N=5). One fatal serious adverse event was observed, this was due to a stroke. The other non-hematologic DLT was a cranial nerve III palsy which subsequently resolved. Responses after 2 cycles were evaluable in 21 patients and included partial response (PR) = 11, minimal response = 6, no change = 2 and progressive disease (PD) = 2. For those patients without PD after 2 cycles, responses after 6 cycles were evaluable in 8 and included PR = 6, stable response = 1 and PD = 1. Conclusion: Although M + L is an active combination for previously untreated myeloma patients, the regimen is associated with considerable myelosuppression. Without the routine use of GCSF, the doses used in the MY.11 study were not tolerable. Inability to use planned doses may have compromised the efficacy of the combination.
Phase II Study of Melphalan, Prednisone and Lenalidomide Combination for Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma Patients Who Are Not Candidates for Stem Cell Transplantation
Stewart, A. Keith, Laumann, Kristina, Allred, Jake, Lacy, Martha Q. , Reeder, Craig B. , Kumar, Shaji , Rivera, Candido E., Greipp, Philip R., Hayman, Suzanne R. , Roy, Vivek , Bergsagel, P. Leif , Dispenzieri, Angela , Fonseca, Rafaël , Gertz, Morie A. , Buadi, Francis K. , Rajkumar, S. Vincent

Blood | April 18, 2020 | Volume: 112 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 2769-2769

10.1182/blood.v112.11.2769.2769 Get It

Abstract Melphalan (M), Prednisone (P) and Lenalidomide (R) are active in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). We evaluated the toxicity and efficacy of MPR in a phase I/II trial. Results of phase I part were previously reported (Blood2006, 108(11) abst 3558). M 5 mg/m2 on days (d) 1–4, 60 mg/m2 d 1–4 and R 10 mg d 1–21 of a 28 day cycle was determined as MTD for the phase II study. Methods: Patients with previously untreated MM who were not candidates for stem cell transplantation, age ≥18 yr, ECOG PS 0–3, evaluable or measurable disease, ANC >1500, platelets > 100,000 and creatinine ≤ 3.0 mg/dL were eligible. All patients received aspirin 325 mg/d as DVT prophylaxis. Routine antibacterial prophylaxis was not used. G/GM-CSF was used at the discretion of the treating physician for neutropenia. Response rate (RR), confirmed on two consecutive determinations was the primary end-point. The study had 90% power to detect a RR of at least 45%. Results: Twenty-six patients were accrued between July ’06 and Feb ’08. The median age was 74 y (64 – 87y), 17 (65%) were men. Six, 13, 6, 1 (23%, 50%, 23%, and 4%) patients had ECOG PS 0, 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Three (12%), 11 (42%) and 10 (38%) patients were ISS stage 1, 2 and 3. A total of 106 cycles were administered; median 4.5 (1–13). Seventy-seven % patients experienced at least 1 grade 3 or 4 toxicity. Neutropenia (42%/8%) and thrombocytopenia (20%/8%) were the most common grade 3/4 adverse events followed by anemia (16%/0%), fatigue (8%/4%), rash (11%/0%), and hyperglycemia (4%/0%). There were 20 treatment delays in 9 patients, and 18 dose reductions (9 in R, 11 in M and 1 P) occurred in 7 patients, most commonly because of neutropenia or thrombocytopenia. Eleven patients (42%) required G-CSF treatment. Eleven patients are currently receiving treatment; 15 have gone off study (4 completed per protocol, 3 refused, 3 adverse effects, 3 unrelated illnesses, 2 other). Median follow up of survivors is 8 m (0 – 22m). Eighteen (69 %; 95%CI 48–86) patients had a PR or better according to International Myeloma Working Group Uniform Response criteria; 3 (12 %) CR, 5 (19 %) VGPR and 10 (38%) PR. Median number of cycles before achieving a response was 2 (1 – 11). Median Progression Free and Overall Survival is 16.7m (95% CI 11.2–23.0), and 23 m (95% CI: 22 – 23), respectively. Conclusions: MPR combination is feasible with a manageable toxicity profile and has significant activity in the treatment of patients with MM who are not candidates for stem cell transplant, with an overall response rate of 69%, and a CR plus VGPR rate of 31%. Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia was the most common toxicity, seen in up to 50% of patients in this cohort of predominantly elderly patients. Dose reduction in R and/or M was required in 27% patients. No patient developed neuropathy or thromboembolic complications.
A Phase II Trial of Myeloma Induction Therapy with Cyclophosphamide, Bortezomib, and Dexamethasone (Cybor-D): Improved Response over Historical Lenalidomide-Dexamethasone Controls.
Reeder, Craig B. , Reece, Donna , Hentz, Joseph G. , Pirooz, Nicholas, Boesiger, Jacy E., Pisa, Jesus G., Kukreti, Vishal , Chen, Christine , Trudel, Suzanne , Lacy, Martha Q. , Stewart, A. Keith, Fonseca, Rafaël , Bergsagel, P. Leif , Mıkhael, Joseph , Rajkumar, S. Vincent

Blood | April 18, 2020 | Volume: 110 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 3601-3601

10.1182/blood.v110.11.3601.3601 Get It

Abstract Background: We previously reported an 85% response rate with 54% CR/nCR using a combination of cyclophosphamide (Cy), prednisone, and bortezomib (BZ) in relapsed myeloma (MM). We now report a Phase II clinical trial using a combination of Cy, BZ, and dexamethasone (Dex) [Cybor-D] in newly-diagnosed MM. We then compare the activity of this combination with historical controls treated with our current induction standard of Lenalidomide-Dexamethasone (L-Dex). Methods: 30 patients have been enrolled on Cybor-D. Treatment consists of Cy 300mg/m2 p.o. days 1, 8, 15, and 22; BZ 1.3 mg/m2 days 1, 4, 8, and 11, and Dex 40mg p.o. days 1–4, 9–12, 17–20. Prophylactic use of acyclovir, a quinolone and antifungal prophylaxis was highly recommended for all patients on study. Growth factors were allowed. As a relevant contemporaneous control for speed and depth of response, we used 33 patients treated on a recent Mayo Clinic trial of L-Dex (Rajkumar. Blood: 2005 106;4050–3). Response was defined according to IMWG criteria although in the current trial, bone marrows for confirmation of CR are not yet available on all patients. Results: At time of current analysis, 17 patients on Cybor-D were evaluable through at least one cycle for response and toxicity. Baseline characteristics included mean age of 57, 29% female, 41/24% ISS stage II/III. There were statistically more early stage patients on L-Dex; otherwise, baseline patient characteristics were similar. The mean % decline in monoclonal (M) protein from baseline following cycles 1–4 of Cybor-D were 71%, 90%, 93%, 96%. This compares favorably with L-Dex where equivalent % decline in M proteins were 66%, 77%, 80%, and 79%. Thus, in preliminary results, Cybor-D produces a more rapid initial decline and mean % reduction in M protein than L-Dex. Overall response rate (≥ PR) after one cycle of Cybor-D was 77% with 36% obtaining ≥VGPR (L-Dex 73% and 18% respectively). The % of patients obtaining ≥VGPR after each cycle was 36%, 64%, 77%, and 100% for Cybor-D as compared to 18%, 36%, 42%, and 33% for L-Dex. The overall ≥VGPR at the end of four cycles of Cybor-D is currently100% (≥ 66%nCR using older nomeclature). Major toxicities ≥ grade 3 for Cybor-D included hematologic (37%), hyperglycemia (15%) and neuropathy (11%). Conclusions: In summary, for newly-diagnosed MM patients, four cycles of Cybor-D produces more frequent, rapid and deep responses when contrasted with historical L-Dex controls. Further confirmation of response rates and effect on TTP will be required.
Once-weekly (70 mg/m2) versus twice-weekly (56 mg/m2) dosing of carfilzomib (CFZ) for patients (pts) with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM).
Stewart, A. Keith, Yang, Hui , Ma, Haijun , Klippel, Zandra, Zahlten‐Kumeli, Anita, Mezzi, Khalid, Iskander, Karim, Mateos, María‐Victoria , Moreau, Philippe , Dimopoulos, Meletios Α. , Siegel, David S. , Facon, Thierry T.F. , Berenson, James R. , Raje, Noopur , Berdeja, Jesús G. , Orlowski, Robert Z.

Journal of Clinical Oncology | March 12, 2020 | Volume: 37 | Issue: 15_suppl | Pages: e19505-e19505

10.1200/jco.2019.37.15_suppl.e19505 Get It

e19505 Background: CFZ combined with dexamethasone is approved to treat pts with RRMM, with CFZ given once-weekly at 70 mg/m2 (Kd70 QW) or twice-weekly at 56 mg/m2 (Kd56 BIW). No randomized trials have directly compared Kd70 QW with Kd56 BIW. We performed a post hoc comparison between pts who received Kd56 BIW in the ENDEAVOR trial and pts who received Kd70 QW in the A.R.R.O.W. or CHAMPION-1 trials. Methods: Data were analyzed from 3 trials of CFZ in RRMM: A.R.R.O.W. (240 pts in Kd70 QW arm; 2–3 prior therapies and refractory to most recent therapy), CHAMPION-1 (104 pts received Kd70 QW; 1–3 prior therapies), and ENDEAVOR (464 pts in Kd56 BIW arm; 1–3 prior therapies). Pts who received Kd70 QW in A.R.R.O.W. and CHAMPION-1 were pooled and compared with pts who received Kd56 BIW in ENDEAVOR. As study populations slightly varied among the 3 trials, an analysis of safety and efficacy was performed in a subgroup of pts who received 2–3 prior therapy lines and were not refractory to bortezomib (BTZ). Also, we performed regression analyses (controlling for age, ISS stage, BTZ and lenalidomide refractory status, and number of prior regimens) among all pts in the trials who received Kd70 QW or Kd56 BIW. Results: Among BTZ non-refractory pts with 2–3 lines of prior therapy, median progression-free survival (PFS) was 12.1 months (95% CI 8.4–14.3) for Kd70 QW (n = 146) and 14.5 months (95% CI 10.2–NE) for Kd56 BIW (n = 217), and the overall response rate (ORR) was 69.9% (95% CI 61.7–77.2) for Kd70 QW and 72.4% (95% CI 65.9–78.2) for Kd56 BIW. The rate of grade ≥3 adverse events (Kd70 QW vs Kd56 BIW) was 67.6% and 85.3%; among adverse events of interest, the grade ≥3 rate was 1.4% and 5.1% for cardiac failure, 3.4% and 6.0% for renal failure, and 5.5% and 15.7% for hypertension. Kd70 QW represents a convenient and well-tolerated treatment modality for pts with RRMM. In a Cox proportional hazards model, the hazard ratio for PFS (Kd70 QW vs Kd56 BIW) was 0.91 (95% CI 0.69–1.19), and in a logistic regression model the odds ratio for ORR (Kd70 QW vs Kd56 BIW) was 1.12 (95% CI 0.74–1.69). Conclusions: This post hoc analysis suggests that once-weekly Kd70 has a comparable benefit-risk profile to twice-weekly Kd56. Clinical trial information: NCT02412878, NCT01677858, NCT01568866.
Evaluating results from the multiple myeloma subset of patients treated with denosumab or zoledronic acid (ZA) in a randomized phase III study.
Willenbacher, Wolfgang , Spencer, Andrew , Alexeeva, Yulia, Stewart, A. Keith, Roodman, David, Feng, Amy, Braun, Ada, Balakumaran, Arun, Raje, Noopur , Hungria, Vânia , Facon, Thierry T.F. , Roodman, David, Terpos, Evangelos

Journal of Clinical Oncology | March 12, 2020 | Volume: 31 | Issue: 15_suppl | Pages: 8589-8589

10.1200/jco.2013.31.15_suppl.8589 Get It

8589 Background: Denosumab (dmab) is a fully human monoclonal antibody against RANKL and is superior to ZA in preventing skeletal-related events (SREs) as shown in 3 identically designed phase 3 trials (N=5723). Overall survival (OS) was balanced between treatment groups in the overall study populations of these trials. In the trial of patients (pts) with solid tumors (excluding breast and prostate) and multiple myeloma (MM), OS was longer for dmab pts with lung cancer, shorter for pts with MM, and balanced for pts with other solid tumors. This analysis further characterizes the results from the MM subset of this trial. Methods: Pts with solid tumors or MM were randomized (1:1) to receive 120 mg of SC dmab or 4 mg of IV ZA Q4W. Daily calcium and vit D supplements were strongly recommended. The primary endpoint was the time to first on-study SRE; results from the primary endpoint and lung cancer subset were previously reported. Results: Of 1776 randomized pts, 10% had MM (93 ZA, 87 dmab). OS favored ZA (hazard ratio: 2.26; 10 subject difference in deaths). 1-year OS was 83% dmab, 97% ZA. Imbalances in baseline prognostic characteristics were observed. More pts in the dmab arm had low baseline renal function (CrCl < 40 mL/min) (ZA 2 [2%], dmab 9 [10%]) and more ZA pts underwent stem cell transplant (ZA 23 [25%], dmab 15 [17%]). Additionally, more ZA pts had stage I tumors at diagnosis (ZA 13 [14%], dmab 9 [10%]) and better performance status (ECOG = 0; ZA 30 [32%], dmab 21 [24%]). Study discontinuations due to consent withdrawal or lost to follow-up were also higher in the ZA group (ZA 17 [18%], dmab 11 [13%]) and occurred earlier in the ZA arm (ZA 59%, dmab 45% within 9 months of randomization). Conclusions: In this SRE study of dmab vs ZA, pts were stratified by baseline characteristics known to affect SRE outcomes, but not by prognostic factors or concurrent anticancer therapy that may impact survival in MM. OS results in the MM cohort are difficult to interpret due to small sample size and imbalances in baseline disease characteristics, stem cell transplant therapy, and consent withdrawal or loss of follow-up that favored ZA. A phase 3 trial is currently underway, which controls for these factors in pts with MM. Clinical trial information: NCT00330759.
A phase I/II trial of cyclophosphamide, carfilzomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone (CYCLONE) in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.
Reeder, Craig B. , Libby, Edward N., Mayo, Angela, Pirooz, Nicholas, Lubben, Jade Marie, Stewart, A. Keith, Mıkhael, Joseph , Costa, Luciano J. , Bergsagel, P. Leif , Buadi, Francis K. , Dueck, Amylou C.

Journal of Clinical Oncology | March 11, 2020 | Volume: 30 | Issue: 15_suppl | Pages: 8010-8010

10.1200/jco.2012.30.15_suppl.8010 Get It

8010 Background: Carfilzomib is a proteasome inhibitor that irreversibly binds its target with favorable toxicity profile that has shown significant activity in relapsed multiple myeloma (MM). Here we used carfilzomib as the center of a 4 drug induction regimen designed for MM patients pre stem cell transplant (SCT). Methods: We conducted a phase I safety run in 6 patients with no DLT observed before expanding to phase II. The phase II regimen is shown below. Treatment was for 4 cycles with expected SCT post induction. For the phase II portion of this trial, the primary endpoint is the proportion of patients who have ≥ very good partial response to treatment. All patients received herpes zoster prophylaxis and ASA daily. Results: Twenty seven patients were enrolled. Median age was 65 (range 27-74). ORR for evaluable patients (n=17) at phase II dosing is 100%: CR 35%, VGPR 48%, PR 18% after 4 cycles of CYCLONE. Grade 3 toxicity was reported in 52% of patients and 14% experienced a grade 4 toxicity. Grade 3/4 toxicities occurring in >5% of patients included fatigue, neutropenia, lymphopenia, thromboembolism, myopathy. Toxicities of any grade seen in >20% of patients included fatigue, constipation, lethargy, thrombocytopenia, somnolence, creatinine increased, malaise. Four patients (20%) developed grade 1 sensory neuropathy; no higher grade or painful neuropathy was evident. All patients are alive. All patients advancing to SCT successfully collected stem cells. One patient with t(4;14) disease who was not transplanted has progressed. 94% remain progression free. Conclusions: The 4 drug CYCLONE regimen has remarkable efficacy (83% ≥VGPR) and manageable toxicity in newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma. Especially notable was the low incidence of neuropathy and depth of response (CR 35%) after only 4 cycles. Given the relative lack of toxicity an extension of this regimen at higher doses of carfilzomib (20/45mg/m2) has been initiated. [Table: see text]
Response rates to single-agent carfilzomib in patients refractory or intolerant to both bortezomib and immunomodulators in trial PX-171-003-A1.
Wang, Michael , Vij, Ravi , Kukreti, Vishal , Alsina, Melissa , Chanan‐Khan, Asher , Somlo, George, Kunkel, Lori, Rajangam, Kanya, Chang, Yulin , Stewart, A. Keith, Siegel, David S. , Martin, Thomas G. , Singhal, Seema , Jakubowiak, Andrzej , Jagannath, Sundar , Lonial, Sagar , Bahlis, Nizar Jacques , Buadi, Francis K. , Reu, Frederic J. , Orlowski, Robert Z.

Journal of Clinical Oncology | March 11, 2020 | Volume: 30 | Issue: 15_suppl | Pages: 8035-8035

10.1200/jco.2012.30.15_suppl.8035 Get It

8035 Background: Patients (pts) with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RR MM) who are refractory or intolerant to both bortezomib (BTZ) and immunomodulators (IMiDs; thalidomide [Thal] or lenalidomide [Len]) (ie, “double-refractory/intolerant”), have few therapeutic options and a poor prognosis. Carfilzomib (CFZ), a next generation proteasome inhibitor (PI), has shown durable single-agent activity in clinical studies including 003-A1, an open-label, single-arm phase 2b trial in RR MM. The present analysis describes clinical activity in pts from 003-A1 with double-refractory/intolerant disease and in other groups of clinical interest including pts with disease refractory to all 5 approved classes of anti-MM tx (alkylators, anthracyclines, corticosteroids, IMiDs, and PIs) in clinical use (“refractory to all approved tx”). Methods: Pts from 003-A1 with double-refractory/intolerant disease were analyzed, as were pts with disease refractory to all approved tx. CFZ was given on days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 of 28-day cycles (C), (20 mg/m2 in C1; 27 mg/m2 in C2–12). Primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included duration of response (DOR), overall survival, and safety. Results: The study ORR was 22.9% with median DOR of 7.8 mo (N=266). 228 pts (86%) with double-refractory/intolerant disease had ORRs of 20.6% and a median DOR of 7.4 mo. Conclusions: Single-agent CFZ demonstrated clinically meaningful, durable responses in pts with double-refractory/intolerant MM or disease refractory to all 5 approved classes of tx. The ORRs across groups of clinical interest were generally consistent with results for the entire study population. These results are notable for a next-generation PI and demonstrate the activity of single-agent CFZ in pts with advanced stage MM. [Table: see text]
Prediction of response to bortezomib and dexamethasone resistance in myeloma (MM) by novel mutations in the NFKB pathway
Chesi, Marta , Bruhn, Laura Kay, Stewart, A. Keith, Carpten, John, Chng, Wee Joo , Keats, Jonathan J. , Baker, A., Bruhn, Laurakay , Dispenzieri, Angela , Fonseca, Rafaël , Bergsagel, P. Leif

Journal of Clinical Oncology | March 6, 2020 | Volume: 25 | Issue: 18_suppl | Pages: 8007-8007

10.1200/jco.2007.25.18_suppl.8007 Get It

8007 Background: We recently described mutations in multiple genes in MM patients that lead to the activation of the non- canonical NF-KB pathway. Among the mutated genes, TRAF3 is the most commonly affected, and is inactivated in about 20% of patients. In this study, we further defined the clinical significance of TRAF3 inactivation in MM. Methods: Deletion of TRAF3 was identified by array- based comparative genomic hybridization using Agilent Human Genome CGH 44k oligonucleotide array and confirmed by fluorescent in situ hybridization. Mutations were detected by sequencing. We use a TRAF3 gene expression cut-off (derived from 127 Mayo clinic patients) as a surrogate for TRAF3 inactivation to investigate its association with Translocations and Cyclin D genetic subtypes, response rates, and survival using 2 large gene expression dataset: UAMS dataset (559 newly diagnosed patients treated with Total therapy II and III) and Millenium datasets (213 relapsed patients entered into randomized study of bortezomib versus dexamethasone). Results: A normalized expression level of less than 0.6 identified all but three of the known TRAF3 inactivated cases in the Mayo dataset (p<0.0001). Using this cut-off, TRAF3 inactivated cases were enriched for t(4;14) (26%, p=0.00002) and rarely D1 (mostly hyperdiploid) (9%, p=9.6E-10) in all 3 datasets. TRAF3 inactivation did not affect survival of patients treated with transplant-based therapy (UAMS and Mayo dataset) but was strongly associated with bortezomib response (89% TRAF3 low versus 40% TRAF3 normal, p0.6 had similar PFS with the two treatment. Conclusion: Mutations resulting in TRAF3 inactivation are common, particularly in non-hyperdiploid MM, and predict for response to bortezomib and resistance to dexamethasone suggesting that inhibition of the non-canonical NF-KB pathway may be one of the principle mechanisms of action of proteasome inhibitors in MM. No significant financial relationships to disclose.
Integrative Analysis of FISH, Transcriptomics and Mutational Status Predicts Responsiveness to Novel Agents in Multiple Myeloma
Campos, Cecília Bonolo de , Meurice, Nathalie , Bruins, Laura A., Polito, Alysia, Ahmann, Gregory , Tian, Shulan , Stewart, A. Keith, Stein, Caleb K. , Petit, Joachim L. , Bergsagel, P. Leif , Braggio, Esteban , Stewart, A. Keith

Blood | February 14, 2020 | Volume: 134 | Issue: Supplement_1 | Pages: 574-574

10.1182/blood-2019-130977 Get It

Introduction Despite continuous improvement of clinical outcome in multiple myeloma (MM), disease relapse remains a major challenge, leading to progressively shorter remissions and fewer treatment options. Strategies attempting to counteract this challenge include recent efforts resulting in an increase in the availability of novel promising anti-MM agents and targeting specific genetic profiles of the disease. In this context, we aim to develop predictive models of sensitivity and resistance to novel compounds by connecting an ex vivo high-throughput drug screen with genetic, transcriptomics, FISH, and clinical features. Methods Twenty compounds (afatinib, afuresertib, belinostat, buparlisib, cobimetinib, CPI-0610, crenolanib, dinaciclib, dovitinib, JQ1, LGH447, osimertinib, OTX015, panobinostat, romidepsin, selinexor, sunitinib, trametinib, venetoclax, and vorinostat) were selected based on overall promising anti-MM activity from an ex vivo high throughput drug screen with a panel of 79 single agents incubated for 24 hours. The area under the curve (AUC) was used to rank order the ex vivo responses for each compound and the lowest and highest quartile samples were identified for further analysis. Clinical data and FISH data, including t(11;14), t(4;14), t(14;16), del(17p), +1q, monosomy 13, and MYC rearrangement, were collected. Targeted DNA sequencing was performed using a 2.3 Mb custom capture panel covering 139 MM-relevant genes. mRNA-sequencing was performed and differential gene expression analysis in the highest and lowest quartile identified subsets of markers positively and negatively associated with the AUC response for a given compound. An additional unbiased selection of markers using lasso techniques was performed, resulting in predictive generalized linear models (GLM) for each agent. Responses from the remaining intermediate samples were estimated with the predictive models, with overall predictive ability assessed by correlating predicted AUCs with their actual counterparts. Results Our integrative analysis was performed on 50 primary patient samples (36% untreated and 64% relapsed MM). Venetoclax, dinaciclib, romidepsin, panobinostat, osimertinib, belinostat and selinexor were the most active compounds in the cohort. Interestingly, LGH447, dovitinib, selinexor, JQ1, OTX-015, cobimetinib, and trametinib showed increased activity in relapsed MM when compared to untreated samples (Wilcoxon Test; p&lt;0.05). We generated GLMs using an average of 92 markers (range 64-107) per compound, combining mRNA-sequencing expression with FISH and mutation data. The analysis proposed in the present study was validated through the unbiased selection of BCL2 among the subset of markers included in the GLM predicting sensitivity to venetoclax, a first-in-class orally bioavailable selective BCL2 inhibitor. Expression level of critical NF-kB and cell cycle genes, such as BIRC3, CKS1B, PAX5, NFKB2, and CCND2, were included in 60% of our predictive models. Mutations of DNA repair genes (ATM,TP53) were included in the GLMs of three epigenetic therapies, one histone deacetylase inhibitor and two BET inhibitors, associated to ex vivo resistance to the drugs. The presence of monosomy 13 was also a marker for ex vivo resistance for five epigenetic therapies, four HDAC inhibitors and one BET inhibitor. The three BET inhibitors, JQ1, CPI-0610, and OTX015, were among the compounds most accurately predicted by our integrative approach, with Spearman correlation values between 0.773-0.858. Overall, our models accurately predicted the ex vivo response for 16 (80%) of the compounds (r&gt;0.7). Five (25%) of these compounds displayed a remarkably accurate prediction model in both training (highest and lowest quartiles) and validation (intermediate quartiles) samples (r&gt;0.8). Conclusions The GLM data integration approach enabled the establishment of effective predictive models, identifying FISH, transcriptomics, and mutations of putative driver genes important in anti-MM agent responsiveness. In addition, the resulting dataset is promising for future research focusing on the discovery of novel mechanisms of action and establishing markers of sensitivity and resistance to novel compounds. We are currently increasing our dataset and seek to create an omnibus approach that predicts responses to multiple anti-MM agents simultaneously. Disclosures Bergsagel: Celgene: Consultancy; Ionis Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Janssen Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy. Stewart:Amgen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Bristol Myers-Squibb: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Ionis: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Oncopeptides: Consultancy; Ono: Consultancy; Roche: Consultancy; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy; Takeda: Consultancy.
Complementary Activation of Ccnd, MYC, RAS and NFkB By Mutations in Multiple Myeloma
Misund, Kristine , Keane, Niamh , Asmann, Yan W. , Wier, Scott Van, Ahmann, Gregory , Chesi, Marta , Stewart, A. Keith, Riggs, Daniel L. , Kortüm, K. Martin , Fonseca, Rafaël , Stewart, A. Keith, Braggio, Esteban , Bergsagel, P. Leif

Blood | November 17, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 355-355

10.1182/blood.v128.22.355.355 Get It

Abstract MYC expression is frequently dysregulated in multiple myeloma (MM). In one comprehensive study, MYC structural variations (SV) were found in nearly half of MM cases (Affer et al. Leukemia 2014). The prevalence was higher in hyperdiploid (HRD) tumors (65%) compared to non-hyperdiploid (NHRD) tumors (36%). The large amount of tumor DNA required for all of the genomic studies performed may have biased the samples analyzed (e.g., to those with higher tumor burdens). To validate the findings of recurrent MYC SV in another dataset, we analyzed the CoMMpass data. We analyzed long-insert whole genome sequencing (WGS) data from diagnostic samples in 420 patients from the IA7 release (dbGAP phs000748) for SV. The results of clinical data, processed WES (SNV), RNASeq (gene expression) and WGS (copy number) data from IA8 (http://research.themmrf.org) were used to calculate survival, RAS and NFKB pathway mutation (WES), TC class (RNA), NFKB index (RNA) and hyperdiploid index (WGS). MYC SVs were identified in 38% of tumors. They were present in 53% HRD and 28% NHRD, and by TC in 55% D1, 43% D2, 36% MMSET, 26% MAF, 13% CCND. Juxtaposition of an Ig enhancer (IgH, IgK, IgL) close to MYC was the most common MYC SV, representing ~40% of the MYC SV. Other enhancers identified have mostly been reported previously, with the most frequent being NSMCE2 (12% of SV) and TXNDC5 (5% of SV). Intrachromosomal SV (deletions, inversions, duplications) not associated with any known enhancer were also frequent (18% of SV). As expected, MYC expression was higher in tumors with MYC SV compared to those without (~2.4 fold, p-value<0.0001). We used Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) to identify activated pathways that might substitute for MYC in HRD patients without MYC SV and observed significant activation of the NFkB pathway. Interestingly, examining patients with RAS/MAPK pathway (NRAS, KRAS, BRAF, FGFR3 - abbreviated RAS) mutations (identified in 50% of all patients) the same pattern was observed: in the absence of RAS mutation, there was a significantly higher NFkB index. In general, the HRD tumors seem to have either activation of RAS and/or MYC, or activation of NFkB (Figure). There was no difference in overall survival in patients with versus those without MYC SV. We developed a clinically applicable sequencing platform to identify MYC SV, which cannot be reliably identified by FISH. We sought to validate this targeted capture approach, where in addition to the coding exons of 81 interesting genes described previously (M3P), we also pulled down the region surrounding MYC (2 Mb), IgH (0.5 Mb), IgK (50 kb) and IgL (100 kb) allowing us to additionally identify SV in MYC and Ig loci. Using this approach we identified IgH translocations in 29/30 samples with translocations previously identified by FISH (97%). Moreover, we identified MYC SV in 19/22 patients with SV previously identified by mate-pair WGS (86%). Importantly, sequencing identified the precise translocation breakpoint, and identity of the enhancer dysregulating MYC, which may be important variables. In one informative patient two different MYC SV were present at diagnosis, only one of which was still present following a partial response to four cycles of lenalidomide and dexamethasone. This suggests that the two MYC SV are in different subclones, one of which was much more sensitive to the treatment. Interestingly, the enhancer dysregulating MYC in the sensitive subclone harbors 5 strong Ikaros binding sites identified by ChIPseq, suggesting one intriguing mechanism for sensitivity to lenalidomide. To summarize, we verified in a large dataset that MYC expression is frequently dysregulated by SV in MM (38%), and the RAS/MAPK (50%) and NFKB (23%) pathways are frequently activated by mutations. Surprisingly, given their generally good prognosis, nearly half of HRD tumors seem to be MYC driven, while this is true for only a quarter of NHRD tumors. HRD tumors not driven by MYC or RAS appear to be driven by NFKB. Remarkably, the pathways most commonly activated by mutation in MM: CCND, MYC, RAS, NFKB are common to many cancers and have been studied extensively individually. To understand their clinical impact in MM we have developed a comprehensive custom capture sequencing panel that identified 97% of IgH translocations, 86% of MYC SV, and as well as SNV and CNV of 81 recurrently mutated genes. It will be important to include such a comprehensive genetic analysis to complement clinical trials in the future. Figure. Figure. Disclosures Stewart: Bristol Myers Squibb: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Takeda Oncology: Consultancy; Janssen Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy.