Geyer, Susan

Introduction The tumor ecosystem in multiple myeloma (MM) involves complex interactions among various cell types, including clonal plasma cells (PCs) and immune cells. Previous research has indicated that the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment's metabolite and lipid profiles differ between MM patients and those with precursor conditions. This study aims to explore if differences in cell composition, metabolic phenotype of clonal PCs, and the spatial organization of various cell types are linked to the early versus late progression of high-risk smoldering MM (SMM) to MM. Methods We identified high-risk SMM patients using the IMWG 20-2-20 criteria, focusing on early progressors (EP), who progressed to MM within one year, and later progressors (LP), who progressed after more than four years. Using a high-dimensional single-cell spatial imaging platform, CODEX (CO-Detection by indEXing), we identified clonal PCs and immune cell types as well as their metabolic phenotypes at the single-cell level, in paired FFPE BM samples at SMM diagnosis and at the time of progression to MM. Our validated panel included markers such as CD3e, CD4, CD8, CD14, CD20, CD31, CD38, CD45, CD66a, CD68, CD138, HLA-DR, ASCT2, pNRF2, GLUT1, LDHA, ATPA5, CPT1A, and Citrate synthase. We employed single-cell segmentation, artifact cleanup, signal thresholding, and spatial analysis. Repeated measure models accommodated multiple regions of interest (ROIs) per patient and accounted for potential intrapatient correlation, while Poisson models estimated incidence rate ratios (RR) of cell types. Spatial statistical models evaluated cell type segregation and integration at the time of SMM diagnosis. Results Single cell events were acquired from 6 unique SMM patients who had paired FFPE BM samples from the time of their SMM diagnosis and at the time of their progression to MM. There were 3 EP SMM patients (Time to Progression (TTP):8, 8, 10 mos) and 3 LP SMM patients (TTP: 51, 58, 117 mos). The median number of single cell events identified per patient slide sample was 104,390 (Range: 24,357 - 314,877). We identified 8 main cell types: PCs, CD4+ T-cells, CD8+ T-cells, B-cells, granulocytes, Monocyte/Macrophages and two groups of other immune cells. The PCs and the remainder of the non-PCs were further classified based on the expression of the following metabolic markers: ASCT2 (Glutamine importer), CPT1A (Fatty acid metabolism), GLUT1 (Glucose importer), LDHA (Glycolysis), Citrate synthase and ATPA5 (Oxidative Phosphorylation). There was a higher RR of granulocytes (RR 2.1, CI 1.6-2.8, p<0.001) in EP compared to LP samples at the time of SMM diagnosis, but a lower RR of CD4 T cells (RR 0.40, CI 0.3-0.6, p< 0.001). Focusing on metabolic phenotypes of the PCs, we observed higher incidence RR of most metabolic markers: ASCT2 (RR=1.77; p=0.032), ATPA5 (RR=1.25; p<0.001), CPT1a (RR=2.42; p=0.015), and LDHA (RR 2.13; p<0.001) in EP compared to LP samples at the time of SMM diagnosis. However, GLUT1 had a lower incidence RR in EP patients (RR=0.79; p<0.001). The same modeling for non-PCs at the time of SMM diagnosis yielded higher expression of LDHA (RR=1.98; p<0.001) and ASCT2 (RR=3.3; p=0.002). Using the x and y coordinates and the corresponding phenotype classifications, we performed spatial statistical modeling based on spatial point processes to generate aggregated measures of how different types of cells of interest interacted. CD4 T cells were more isolated in LPs compared to EPs (p =0.046). Segregation indices for PCs and CD4 T cells indicated that they were more integrated/collocated in EPs. Granulocytes were more isolated in EPs although the difference was not as pronounced (p= 0.07). PCs were more integrated with granulocytes (p=0.06) and B cells (p=0.07) in LP patients. Further analyses of paired samples at the time of progression to MM will be reported at the time of the presentation. Conclusion This study is the first to provide whole-slide, single-cell, spatial proteomic characterization of clonal PCs and immune cells in the FFPE BMs of high-risk SMM patients with varying progression times to MM. Distinct metabolic pathway markers in clonal PCs and their spatial relationships with immune cell subsets are closely associated with the risk of progression to MM. These findings illuminate the complex interactions between the metabolic states of clonal PCs and their spatial orientation relative to immune cells in the pathogenesis of MM.

Introduction Clinical trials are the avenue whereby the effects of interventions on health-related outcomes are evaluated. It is imperative that these trials are diverse and inclusive to reduce disparities in overall health outcomes as individuals can experience the same disease differently. When populations are not underrepresented in clinical trials, the results are not generalizable. Despite efforts to facilitate diverse representation across clinical trials, including guidance from the United States Food and Drug Administration, gaps persist in regard to understanding approaches to achieve this goal. With this in mind, we designed an international survey-based research study with the primary objectives to understand current tools and tactics investigators are employing in their clinical research and to identify gaps to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Methods This study was approved through the Institutional Review Board at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The survey was developed using QuestionPro software (Austin, TX, USA). The target population for this study was the members of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) along with individuals who attended or were presenting authors at the 2023 ASH Annual Meeting, and individuals on the “This Week in Blood email list.” Surveys were distributed via email to potential participants between April and July 2024. Reminder emails were sent on 2 occasions. The survey was also advertised via various social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn). No incentives were provided for completion of the survey. In the introductory email, participants were assured of the anonymous nature of the survey and were instructed to proceed only if they consented to participate voluntarily in this research study. Results The survey was viewed by 5171 individuals. There were 774 total responses, for a response rate of 15%. Complete responses were provided by 502 respondents. Fifty-seven percent of survey respondents were based in the United States and 56% were ASH members. Seventy-one percent of respondents were clinicians, of which the majority (74%) were primarily adult providers and 86% reported hematology as their clinical specialty, a large proportion of whom were malignant hematologists. Regarding clinical research involvement over the last 5 years, 29% identified as sub investigators, 23% were site principal investigators (PI) in multicenter studies, and 19% reported roles as overall PI for studies. Respondents reported employing tactics to enhance DEI in all phases of prospective clinical research studies. Nineteen percent stated that they engage patients in the research planning phase, in protocol design, review and revision. During the implementation phase, 21% reported outreach to community providers to increase trial awareness and encourage patient referrals. Patient groups were engaged to disseminate study findings in language that patients can understand by 22% of respondents. Among the tools that were used, the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use Guidance on Clinical Practice was the most frequently reported tool in the planning phase (24%). Respondents reported no consistent use of any tool or tactic during the implementation and dissemination phases of clinical research and a large proportion reported using no tools to enhance DEI in their studies. Seventy-four percent of respondents reported that they had received no formal training or guidance on how to incorporate DEI principles and enhance DEI in clinical research. There were mixed opinions on the importance of incorporating DEI principles into clinical research, ranging from acknowledging the significance to dismissal of the concept. The majority of survey respondents (79%) indicated willingness to participate in a learning community developed by ASH. Conclusions The findings from this survey not only shed light on what resources and strategies investigators are employing most and at what stages of their clinical research, but also highlight a critical need for more training on and awareness of resources for incorporating DEI principles into clinical research. Results of this study will empower ASH to develop comprehensive resources that resonate with the dynamic needs of trialists in the pursuit of a more equitable and effective approach to clinical research.

ImportanceKidney light chain (AL) amyloidosis is associated with a risk of progression to kidney replacement therapy (KRT) and death. Several studies have shown that a greater reduction in proteinuria following successful anticlonal therapy is associated with improved outcomes.ObjectiveTo validate graded kidney response criteria and their association with kidney and overall survival (OS).Design, Setting, and ParticipantsThis retrospective, multicenter cohort was conducted at 10 referral centers for amyloidosis from 2010 to 2015 and included patients with kidney AL amyloidosis that was evaluable for kidney response and who achieved at least hematologic partial response within 12 months of diagnosis. The median follow-up was 69 (54-88) months. Data analysis was conducted in 2023.ExposureFour kidney response categories based on the reduction in pretreatment 24-hour urine protein (24-hour UP) levels: complete response (kidCR, 24-hour UP ≤200 mg), very good partial response (kidVGPR, >60% reduction in 24-hour UP), partial response (kidPR, 31%-60% reduction), and no response (kidNR, ≤30% reduction). Kidney response was assessed at landmark points (6, 12, and 24 months) and best kidney response.Main Outcomes and MeasuresCumulative incidence of progression to KRT and OS.ResultsSeven-hundred and thirty-two patients (335 women [45.8%]) were included, with a median (IQR) age of 63 (55-69) years. The median (IQR) baseline 24-hour proteinuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate was 5.3 (2.8-8.5) g per 24 hours and 72 (48-92) mL/min/1.73m2, respectively. In a competing-risk analysis, the 5-year cumulative incidence rates of progression to KRT decreased with deeper kidney responses as early as 6 months from therapy initiation (11%, 12%, 2.1%, and 0% for kidNR, kidPR, kidVGPR, and kidCR, respectively; P = .002) and were maintained at 12 months and 24 months and best kidney response. Patients able to achieve kidCR/kidVGPR by 24 months and at best response had significantly better OS compared with kidPR/kidNR. Kidney progression, defined as a 25% or greater decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate, was associated with cumulative incidence of progression to KRT and OS.Conclusions and RelevanceThe results of this cohort study suggest that graded kidney response criteria offers clinically and prognostically meaningful information for treating patients with kidney AL amyloidosis. The response criteria potentially inform kidney survival based on the depth of reduction in 24-hour proteinuria levels and demonstrate an OS advantage for those able to achieve kidCR/kidVGPR compared with kidPR/kidNR. Taken together, achievement of at least kidVGPR by 12 months is needed to ultimately improve kidney and patient survival.

Abstract Clonal cytopenia of undetermined significance (CCUS) represents a distinct disease entity characterized by myeloid-related somatic mutations with a variant allele fraction of ≥2% in individuals with unexplained cytopenia(s) but without a myeloid neoplasm (MN). Notably, CCUS carries a risk of progressing to MN, particularly in cases featuring high-risk mutations. Understanding CCUS requires dedicated studies to elucidate its risk factors and natural history. Our analysis of 357 patients with CCUS investigated the interplay between clonality, cytopenia, and prognosis. Multivariate analysis identified 3 key adverse prognostic factors: the presence of splicing mutation(s) (score = 2 points), platelet count of <100 × 109/L (score = 2.5), and ≥2 mutations (score = 3). Variable scores were based on the coefficients from the Cox proportional hazards model. This led to the development of the clonal cytopenia risk score (CCRS), which stratified patients into low- (score of <2.5 points), intermediate- (score of 2.5 to <5), and high-risk (score of ≥5) groups. The CCRS effectively predicted 2-year cumulative incidence of MN for low- (6.4%), intermediate- (14.1%), and high-risk (37.2%) groups, respectively, by the Gray test (P < .0001). We further validated the CCRS by applying it to an independent CCUS cohort of 104 patients, demonstrating a c-index of 0.64 (P = .005) in stratifying the cumulative incidence of MN. Our study underscores the importance of integrating clinical and molecular data to assess the risk of CCUS progression, making the CCRS a valuable tool that is practical and easily calculable. These findings are clinically relevant, shaping the management strategies for CCUS and informing future clinical trial designs.

Abstract The survival of patients achieving a cardiac complete response in light chain amyloidosis, defined as N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide ≤350 pg/mL or B-type natriuretic peptide ≤80 pg/mL, was similar to that of a matched general population, with estimated 5-year survival rates of 93% and 95%, respectively.

Abstract BACKGROUND Craniopharyngiomas, primary brain tumors of the pituitary-hypothalamic axis, can cause significant clinical sequelae. Treatment using surgery, radiation, or both often entails significant morbidity. In prior work, we demonstrated that ninety-five percent of papillary craniopharyngiomas (PCP) harbor BRAF V600E mutations (Brastianos et al. Nature Genetics 2014). In this multicenter National Cancer Institute cooperative group trial (Alliance A071601), we evaluated the safety and efficacy of BRAF/MEK inhibition in patients with PCP without prior irradiation. METHODS Eligible patients, with measurable disease and whose PCP screened positively for BRAF mutations, without prior radiation, received the BRAF/MEK inhibitor combination vemurafenib/cobimetinib in 28-day cycles. The primary endpoint of objective response rate at 4 months based on centrally determined volumetric data was evaluated in 16 patients on this single arm phase 2 trial. RESULTS Based on volumetric response criteria by central radiology review, 15 of 16 patients (94%; 95% CI: 70% to 100%) had a durable objective partial response to therapy. Thus, this study met primary endpoint for overall response rate. The median tumor reduction was 91% (range of 68% to 99%). Median follow-up was 22 months (95% CI: 19 to 30 months) and median number of treatment cycles was 8. Median progression-free survival and duration of response were not yet reached. Three patients progressed during follow-up after therapy was discontinued; none have died. The sole non-responder stopped treatment after eight days due to toxicity. Grade 3 toxicities at least possibly related to treatment occurred in 12 patients (rash in 6 patients). Grade 4 toxicities were observed in two patients: hyperglycemia (n=1) and increased creatine phosphokinase (n=1). Three patients discontinued treatment for adverse events. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that BRAF/MEK inhibitors are a safe and effective treatment for PCP without prior irradiation. Support: U10CA180821, U10CA180882; U24CA196171, U10CA180868 (NRG); Genentech; . ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03224767.

7530 Background: Oncolytic virotherapy is a novel immunomodulatory therapeutic approach currently under study for relapsed refractory (R/R) hematologic malignancies. The engineered Vesicular Stomatitis Virus VSV-IFNβ-NIS used in this study encodes interferon beta (IFNβ) and sodium iodine symporter (NIS). Virally-encoded IFNβ serves as an index of viral proliferation and enhances host anti-tumor immunity. Herein, we report the updated results of the phase 1 clinical trial NCT03017820 of a one-time administration of systemic VSV-IFNβ-NIS among patients (pts) with R/R multiple myeloma (MM), T cell Lymphoma (TCL) and Acute myeloid Leukemia (AML) with particular focus on the TCL cohort treated at the highest dose level (DL4) without Ruxolitinib. Methods: VSV-IFNβ-NIS was administered as a single IV dose following a classical 3+3 phase I trial, starting at 5e9 TCID50 DL1 through 1.7e11 TCID50 DL4. A dose expansion cohort of 8 additional R/R TCL pts was added at DL4 in view of an initial signal of activity. The primary objective was to determine the maximum tolerated dose of VSV-IFNβ-NIS as a single agent. Secondary objectives were determination of safety profile and preliminary efficacy of VSV-IFNβ-NIS. Adverse events (AEs) are reported based on CTCAE V4; cytokine release syndrome (CRS) grading was based on Lee (Blood 2014) criteria. Results: To date, a total of 43 pts received VSV-IFNβ-NIS: MM (N=21), TCL (N=21) and AML (N=1). In the TCL cohort: at DL4 Group A (no Ruxolitinib), 12 pts were registered, but only 11 pts were treated (mycosis fungoides (MF) N=3; ALK- ALCL N=1; PTCL-NOS N=2; AITL N=4; Nodal PTCL, TFH N=2; ages 33-79). These pts received a median of 3 lines of therapy (range: 1-5). No dose limiting toxicities were observed. Grades 3 and higher AEs were hematologic with transient lymphopenia (63.6%), neutropenia (36.4%) being the most common. The non-hematologic AEs observed included unique toxicities such as CRS grades 1-2 (81.8%); the transient transaminitis grade 1-2 (36.4%) and grade 3 (27.3%) along with thrombocytopenia grade 1-2 (63.6%) and grade 3 (18.2%) were a reflection IFNβ toxicity. All the AEs observed were short lived. Responses were seen in pts with PTCL. At DL4, in pts with systemic PTCL (N=9), there were 5 responses including 3 complete responses (CR) with two long-lasting at 24 months, an ongoing 15 month CR, and a 5 month CR, and 2 partial responses (PR) lasting 5 months in one pts and 6 months in the other. Conclusions: These updated results of single agent VSV-IFNβ-NIS which include pts with PTCL treated at the highest dose level and a dose expansion cohort demonstrates not only the safety of VSV-IFNβ-NIS but also a strong efficacy signal in pts with PTCL with impressive durable responses. Two expansion cohorts at DL4 have been added (20 additional PTCL, 10 B-cell lymphoma pts) to obtain additional data on tolerability and efficacy and biomarkers of response in these pts. Clinical trial information: NCT03017820 .

Abstract Overall Survival estimates from diagnosis are valuable for guiding treatment, but do not consider the years already survived. Conditional survival (CS) provides dynamic survival predictions over time. This study was conducted to estimate CS at 1–8 years from diagnosis and the impact of baseline prognostic factors on CS in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. This is a retrospective study including 2556 MM patients diagnosed between 2004–2019. CS (t|s) was defined as the probability of surviving t years given survival of s years. Median age was 64 years. Median follow-up was 6.2 years and median overall survival from diagnosis was 7.5 years. The 5-year CS estimates at s = 0, 1, 2, 3, and 5 years were 0.64, 0.61, 0.61, 0.61, and 0.58, respectively. On multivariate analysis, age ≥ 65 and proteasome inhibitor + immunomodulatory-based induction were associated with decreased survival and increased survival, respectively, retained at 5 years. The adverse impact of 1q gain/amplification, high-risk IgH translocation, and ISS-3 was significant at 1 and 3 years but not 5 years. Chromosome 17 abnormality was associated with decreased survival only at 1 year. Among MM patients, 5-year CS was stable at 1–5 years from diagnosis. The prognostic impact of high-risk cytogenetic factors decreased with additional years survived.

Abstract Context Decreased first-phase insulin response (FPIR) during intravenous glucose tolerance testing (IVGTT) is an early indicator of β-cell dysfunction and predictor of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Objective Assess whether oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) measures could serve as FPIR alternatives in their ability to predict T1D in autoantibody positive (Aab+) subjects. Design OGTT and IVGTT were performed within 30 days of each other. Eleven OGTT variables were evaluated for (1) correlation with FPIR and (2) T1D prediction. Setting Type 1 Diabetes TrialNet “Oral Insulin for Prevention of Diabetes in Relatives at Risk for T1D” (TN-07) and Diabetes Prevention Trial-Type 1 Diabetes (DPT-1) studies clinical sites. Patients TN-07 (n = 292; age 9.4 ± 6.1 years) and DPT-1 (n = 194; age 15.1 ± 10.0 years) Aab + relatives of T1D individuals. Main outcome measures (1) Correlation coefficients of OGTT measures with FPIR and (2) T1D prediction at 2 years using area under receiver operating characteristic (ROCAUC) curves. Results Index60 showed the strongest correlation in DPT-1 (r = -0.562) but was weaker in TN-07 (r = -0.378). C-peptide index consistently showed good correlation with FPIR across studies (TN-07, r = 0.583; DPT-1, r = 0.544; P < 0.0001). Index60 and C-peptide index had the highest ROCAUCs for T1D prediction (0.778 vs 0.717 in TN-07 and 0.763 vs 0.721 in DPT-1, respectively; P = NS), followed by FPIR (0.707 in TN-07; 0.628 in DPT-1). Conclusions C-peptide index was the strongest measure to correlate with FPIR in both studies. Index60 and C-peptide index had the highest predictive accuracy for T1D and were comparable. OGTTs could be considered instead of IVGTTs for subject stratification in T1D prevention trials.