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Litzow, Mark R.

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9816-6302

Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic

Citations 731

Two‐dimensional speckle‐tracking strain detects subclinical cardiotoxicity in older patients treated for acute myeloid leukemia
Cascino, Gregory J. , Voss, Woo Bin, Canaani, Jonathan , Furiasse, Nicholas, Rademaker, Alfred , Ky, Bonnie , Luger, Selina M. , Altman, Jessica K. , Foran, James M. , Litzow, Mark R. , Tallman, Martin S. , Rigolin, Vera H. , Ky, Bonnie , Akhter, Nausheen

Echocardiography | November 9, 2019 | Volume: 36 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 2033-2040

10.1111/echo.14518 Get It

AbstractBackgroundPatients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are surviving longer. There are no data on changes in myocardial mechanics from standard of care low‐dose anthracycline‐based induction chemotherapy in older patients with AML. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the potential utility of strain imaging in detecting early changes in left ventricular function in this patient population after induction chemotherapy.MethodsThirty two patients enrolled in the ECOG‐ACRIN E2906 study (cytarabine and daunorubicin vs clofarabine [Genzyme/Sanofi]) from 2011 to 2014 were evaluated retrospectively. Two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) imaging with Doppler and two‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) using EchoInsight software (Epsilon imaging) were performed before and after induction chemotherapy.ResultsEighteen patients received cytarabine and daunorubicin (7 + 3) and 14 received clofarabine. The clofarabine group was older than the 7 + 3 cohort (67.8 ± 4.0 vs 63.7 ± 3.8, P = .007). There were no other significant differences in cardiac risk factors between groups. The 7 + 3 group had a decrease in average peak systolic global longitudinal (−19.1 ± 2.8 to −17.2 ± 3.0, P = .01) and circumferential strain (−29.4 ± 6.3 to −23.9 ± 4.3, P = .011). These changes were not demonstrated in the clofarabine group and were not associated with a decline in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).ConclusionsIn older AML patients, standard cytarabine and daunorubicin chemotherapy causes early changes in global longitudinal and circumferential strain not seen with clofarabine therapy. These findings demonstrate subclinical left ventricular dysfunction after exposure to low cumulative doses of anthracycline‐based induction chemotherapy and may help us better identify those patients at risk for adverse long‐term cardiovascular outcomes.
Molecular response with blinatumomab in relapsed/refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Gökbuget, Nicola , Kantarjian, Hagop M. , Brüggemann, Monika , Stein, Anthony S. , Bargou, Ralf C. , Dombret, Hervé , Heffner, Leonard T., Rigal‐Huguet, Françoise , Litzow, Mark R. , Gao, Shan , Nagorsen, Dirk , Forman, Stephen J. , Topp, Max S. , Kantarjian, Hagop , Fielding, Adele K. , O’Brien, Susan , Zugmaier, Gerhard

Blood Advances | October 21, 2019 | Volume: 3 | Issue: 20 | Pages: 3033-3037

10.1182/bloodadvances.2019000457 Get It

Key Points MRD response has value as a prognostic factor for blinatumomab treatment in R/R B-cell precursor ALL. MRD response was associated with better outcomes in terms of OS and RFS in blinatumomab-treated R/R ALL.
Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) at Time of Complete Remission Is Commonly Detected in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Patients Age ≥60 Years and Significantly Impacts Outcome Based on Post-Remission Treatment Strategies: Prospective Analysis of ECOG-ACRIN (E-A
Foran, James M. , Sun, Zhuoxin , Paietta, Elisabeth , Racevskis, Janis, Rowe, Jacob M. , Altman, Jessica K. , Al‐Kali, Aref , Zheng, Hong , Pratz, Keith W. , Broun, E. Randolph, Powell, Bayard L., O’Dwyer, Kristen M. , Zhang, Yanming , Tallman, Martin S. , Luger, Selina M. , Litzow, Mark R. , Zheng, Hong , Claxton, David F. , Lazarus, Hillard M. , Arber, Daniel A. , O'Dwyer, Kristin , Godwin, John E.

Blood | October 15, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 437-437

10.1182/blood-2018-99-113950 Get It

Abstract Background: The persistence of detectable MRD in complete remission (CR/CRi - CR with incomplete CBC recovery) has been reported to contribute to inferior outcome in younger AML patients (pts) in retrospective studies, however MRD has not been studied prospectively in older adults (age ≥60 yrs) receiving intensive therapy with curative intent. We performed a planned prospective study of MRD status after AML induction therapy in older adults, integrated into the large multicenter ECOG-ACRIN (E-A) E2906 Phase III trial. Methods Eligible patients age ≥60 yrs with AML were randomized 1:1 to receive either 'Standard' 7&3 (Dauno 60mg/m2) induction, with 2 cycles of intermediate dose Ara-C (1.5g/m2 x 12 doses; 6 doses if age ≥70) consolidation (Arm A); or single agent clofarabine (CLO) induction and consolidation (2 cycles) (Arm B). The design and primary clinical results for E2906 (n=727) have been reported previously (Foran et al, ASH #217a, 2015), demonstrating superior overall survival (OS) with standard therapy despite similar CR/CRi rates using stringent criteria, and similar 30-day induction mortality rates. Submission of diagnostic & remission bone marrow or peripheral blood samples was protocol mandated for prospective MRD assessment, and analysis was performed in the central E-A Leukemia Translational Research Lab (LTL) using 6-color multiparameter flow cytometry. MRD-positive (MRD+) was defined as ≥0.1%. LTL flow cytometric analysis was done blinded to treatment arm and outcome of patients. Only pt samples collected within +/-6 days of CR/CRi confirmation were included in this analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using X2 (categories) and Wilcoxon rank sum (continuous) tests to compare baseline patient and disease characteristics. Log-rank tests and multivariate Cox models stratified by treatment arm and adjusted for patient and disease variable (including WBC, cytogenetics, sex, performance status, secondary AML) were used to examine the MRD effect on OS and disease-free survival (DFS, relapse or death). Results The median follow-up is 47.8 months, and 297 of 685 evaluable patients (43.4%) achieved CR/CRi (Standard 44.6%; CLO 42.0%, p=ns). Remission MRD samples were only available for 147 CR/CRi patients (49.5%), owing to variability in sample viability and AML involvement, collection practices and timing of sample collection at individual sites, and patient/physician decision. 58/147 evaluable CR/CRi patients achieved MRD-negative (MRD-) status (Standard 40.7%, CLO 47.9%, p=0.74). Women (56.9% vs. men 43.1%, p=0.003) were more likely to be MRD-, but there was no other significant difference in MRD status stratified by clinical or disease features. MRD+ status at CR/CRi was associated with significantly inferior OS (p=0.031, Figure 1) and also inferior overall DFS (p=0.02); this was most pronounced for DFS after CLO (Arm B, Figure 2) (p=0.005), but not Standard (Arm A) therapy (p=0.41). The impact of MRD+ was confirmed on multivariate analysis using Cox Model Fitting, for OS: OS for All MRD+ pts, HR 1.64 (95% CI 1.00-2.68) (p=0.05); OS for Standard (Arm A) MRD+ pts, HR 1.06 (95% CI 0.51-2.21) (p=0.87); and OS for CLO (Arm B) MRD+ pts, HR 2.30 (95% CI 1.05-5.06) (p=0.04). There was a similar impact for DFS on multivariate analysis using Cox Model Fitting: DFS for All MRD+ pts, HR 1.86 (95% CI 1.16-2.98) (p=0.01); DFS for Standard (Arm A) MRD+ pts, HR 1.15 (95% CI 0.60-2.19) (p=0.67); and DFS for CLO (Arm B) MRD+ pts, HR 3.45 (95% CI 1.47-8.09) (p=0.004). Post-remission therapy was not stratified by MRD in E2906, and 33% of MRD-evaluable pts underwent allogeneic transplantation (no difference in transplant rate for MRD+ vs. MRD-). Conclusions MRD+ ≥0.1% is common (60.5%) after induction therapy in older adults & is significantly associated with inferior OS and DFS in 1st CR/CRi. However we observed excellent outcomes for MRD- pts in first CR/CRi regardless of induction regimen or post-remission therapy used. MRD+ pts in CR/CRi who went on to receive CLO consolidation had significantly poorer outcomes than those who went on to receive intermediate dose Ara-C consolidation. This observation differs strikingly from younger AML, and suggests that intensified Ara-C may abrogate the adverse impact of MRD in older pts in CR. These results strongly support incorporation of centralized MRD at the time of remission into future studies to guide optimal post-remission strategies in older pts with AML. Disclosures Foran: Agios: Research Funding; Xencor, Inc.: Research Funding. Lazarus:Pluristem Ltd.: Consultancy. Altman:Bayer: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; Pfizer: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; Boeringer Ingelheim: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; Epizyme: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; Janssen Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Immune Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Cyclacel: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; Incyte: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; GSK: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; Agios: Other: Payment to the institution to conduct the trial ; Astellas Pharma: Other; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; BMS: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Syros: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Ariad: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; FujiFilm: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; Genetech: Other: Payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work; Celator: Other: payment to the institution to conduct clinical trial work. Al-Kali:Novartis: Research Funding. Pratz:Millenium/Takeda: Research Funding; Agios: Research Funding; AbbVie: Consultancy, Research Funding; Astellas: Consultancy, Research Funding; Boston Scientific: Consultancy. Powell:Rafael Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Tallman:ADC Therapeutics: Research Funding; BioSight: Other: Advisory board; Daiichi-Sankyo: Other: Advisory board; Orsenix: Other: Advisory board; AROG: Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding; Cellerant: Research Funding.
Ibrutinib Alone or in Combination with Rituximab Produces Superior Progression Free Survival (PFS) Compared with Bendamustine Plus Rituximab in Untreated Older Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Results of Alliance North American Intergroup
Woyach, Jennifer A. , Ruppert, Amy S. , Heerema, Nyla A. , Zhao, Weiqiang , Booth, Allison M., Ding, Wei , Brander, Danielle M. , Rogers, Kerry A. , Coutré, Steven , Hurria, Arti , Lozanski, Gerard , Nattam, Sreenivasa, Litzow, Mark R. , Owen, Carolyn , Atkins, Jim, Little, Richard F. , Smith, Scott E. , Stone, Richard M. , Mandrekar, Sumithra J. , Byrd, John C. , Byrd, John C. , Ding, Wei , Bartlett, Nancy L. , Barr, Paul M. , Parikh, Sameer A. , Larson, Richard A. , Erba, Harry Paul , Abramson, Jeremy S. , Byrd, John C

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 6-6

10.1182/blood-2018-99-116653 Get It

Abstract Introduction: The most effective initial therapy for older adults with CLL has not yet been established due to the lack of comparison of chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) and targeted therapy with the Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) inhibitor ibrutinib. CIT has been the gold standard since studies showing that addition of CD20 antibody to chemotherapy prolongs survival. Bendamustine plus rituximab (BR) is one standard, more aggressive CIT regimen for patients (pts) age 65 or older. While ibrutinib has been FDA approved for untreated CLL since 2016, it has only been compared to chlorambucil, which is relatively ineffective, and never before to aggressive CIT. Additionally, the benefit of the addition of rituximab to ibrutinib in this setting has not been prospectively studied in a phase 3 trial. As part of a randomized phase 3 trial, the Alliance sought to answer these important clinical questions. Pts and Methods: Alliance A041202 is a multicenter NCI National Clinical Trials Network phase 3 study comparing BR (Arm 1) with ibrutinib (Arm 2) and the combination of ibrutinib plus rituximab (Arm 3) to determine whether ibrutinib-containing regimens are superior to CIT in terms of PFS. Additionally, this study sought to determine if adding rituximab to ibrutinib would prolong PFS over ibrutinib alone. At time of progression, pts on Arm 1 could cross over to Arm 2. Eligible pts were those age ≥ 65 years with previously untreated, symptomatic CLL. Pts had a CrCl ≥ 40 mL/min, bilirubin ≤ 1.5 x ULN, and no significant life-limiting intercurrent illness or need for warfarin treatment. Pts were stratified based upon Rai stage, Zap-70 methylation performed centrally, and del(17)(p13.1) or del(11)(q22.3) by local interphase cytogenetics and were randomized 1:1:1 to each arm. With 166 pts per arm, the trial was powered to detect an improvement in 2-year PFS from 61% in Arm 1 to 75% in Arms 2 or 3 (HR=0.586) using two one-sided log-rank tests with type I error rate of 2.5% and 90% power. The Alliance Data and Safety Monitoring Board approved the data release after meeting the protocol-defined efficacy threshold at a planned interim analysis with a one-sided critical value of 0.001538. These data were locked July 2, 2018; updated results will be presented at the meeting. Results: Between 12/9/2013 and 5/16/2016, 547 pts were registered and randomized (Arms 1: 183, 2: 182, and 3: 182). Median age was 71 years and 67% of pts were men. High-risk Rai stage (stage III/IV) was seen in 54%, unmethylated Zap-70 in 53%, and del(17p) or del(11q) by local FISH in 28%. Local vs centralized FISH was performed for del(11q) and del(17p) with agreement between local and central results in 94% (Kappa=0.80) and 97% (Kappa=0.76) of pts, respectively. 525 (96%) pts were eligible and included in the primary PFS analysis (Arms 1: 176, 2: 178, and 3: 171). With median follow-up of 32 months (mo), median PFS was 41 mo in Arm 1 and has not been reached in Arms 2 or 3 (HR comparing Arm 2 to 1 is 0.40 with one-sided p<0.0001; HR comparing Arm 3 to 1 is 0.41 with one-sided p<0.0001; HR comparing Arm 3 to 2 is 1.01 with one-sided p=0.48). 2-year PFS estimates were 74%, 87% in 2, and 88% in Arms 1, 2, and 3 respectively. At this time, there are no significant differences in overall survival (OS) among arms (p=0.87), median OS has not been reached for any arm, and 2-year OS estimates were 95%, 90%, and 94% in Arms 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Adverse events (AEs) were compared among arms using Fisher's exact tests. Grade 3+ treatment-emergent AEs were seen in 428 of 537 evaluable pts with 61%, 41%, and 38% of pts experiencing Grade 3+ heme AEs (p<0.0001) and 60%, 72%, and 71% of pts experiencing Grade 3+ non-heme AEs (p=0.03) in Arms 1, 2, and 3 respectively. Grade 5 AEs were seen in 5 (2.8%), 14 (7.8%), and 14 (7.7%) pts (p=0.07). Unexplained or unwitnessed death over the entire observation period was seen in 2 (1.1%), 7 (3.9%), and 4 (2.2%) pts (p=0.24) in Arms 1, 2, and 3 respectively. Conclusions: This international phase 3 trial demonstrates that ibrutinib produces superior PFS to standard CIT in older pts with CLL and justifies it as a standard of care treatment for pts age 65 and older. The addition of rituximab does not prolong PFS with ibrutinib. While ibrutinib represents a major therapeutic advance, toxicities and also cost justify future efforts to reduce the need for long-term continuous treatment. Support: K23CA178183, R01CA183444, U10CA180821, U10CA180882, U24CA196171, Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT01886872 Figure. Figure. Disclosures Ding: Merck: Research Funding. Bartlett:Astra Zeneca: Research Funding; ImaginAB: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Bristol-Meyers Squibb: Research Funding; Gilead: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Affimed: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Merck & Co: Research Funding; KITE: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Acerta: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Research Funding; Immune Design: Research Funding; Forty Seven: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Millennium: Research Funding. Brander:BeiGene: Other: Institutional research funding for non investigator initiated clinical trial, Research Funding; TG Therapeutics: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Institutional research funding for non investigator initiated clinical trial, Research Funding; Genentech: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Institutional research funding for non investigator initiated clinical trial, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Other: DSMB; AbbVie: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Institutional research funding for non investigator initiated clinical trial, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Teva: Consultancy, Honoraria; Acerta: Other: Institutional research funding for non investigator initiated clinical trial, Research Funding; DTRM: Other: Institutional research funding for non investigator initiated clinical trial, Research Funding. Barr:AbbVie, Gilead: Consultancy. Parikh:Gilead: Honoraria; Pharmacyclics: Honoraria, Research Funding; MorphoSys: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; AstraZeneca: Honoraria, Research Funding; Abbvie: Honoraria, Research Funding. Coutre:Celgene: Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Honoraria, Research Funding; Gilead: Research Funding; Beigene: Consultancy; AbbVie: Consultancy, Research Funding. Lozanski:Novartis: Research Funding; BI: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Stem Line: Research Funding; Coulter: Research Funding; Beckman: Research Funding. Larson:Ariad/Takeda: Consultancy, Research Funding; BristolMyers Squibb: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding. Erba:Amgen: Research Funding; Juno: Research Funding; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy, Research Funding; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy, Research Funding; MacroGenics: Consultancy; Juno: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Juno: Research Funding; Agios: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; MacroGenics: Consultancy; Incyte: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy, Research Funding; Takeda/Millenium: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Takeda/Millenium: Research Funding; Incyte: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; MacroGenics: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Astellas: Research Funding; Glycomimetics: Consultancy, Other: Chair, Data and Safety Monitoring Committee; MacroGenics: Consultancy; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Other: grant; Astellas: Research Funding; Juno: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Research Funding; Agios: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Astellas: Research Funding; Agios: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Other: grant; Pfizer: Consultancy, Other: grant; Astellas: Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding; Agios: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Incyte: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Incyte: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Jazz: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Immunogen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Jazz: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Immunogen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Glycomimetics: Consultancy, Other: Chair, Data and Safety Monitoring Committee; Pfizer: Consultancy, Other: grant; Jazz: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Immunogen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy, Research Funding; Jazz: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Immunogen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Takeda/Millenium: Research Funding; Glycomimetics: Consultancy, Other: Chair, Data and Safety Monitoring Committee; Celgene: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Takeda/Millenium: Research Funding; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy, Research Funding; Glycomimetics: Consultancy, Other: Chair, Data and Safety Monitoring Committee. Owen:Janssen: Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; AstraZeneca: Honoraria, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd: Honoraria, Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding; Merck: Honoraria; Teva: Honoraria. Abramson:Bayer: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; Merck: Consultancy; Karyopharm: Consultancy; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy; Verastem: Consultancy; Humanigen: Consultancy; Juno Therapeutics: Consultancy; Gilead: Consultancy; Celgene: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy.
Histopathologic Acute Lung Injury after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation: Clinical Findings, Radiologic Features, Treatments and Outcomes
Hashmi, Shahrukh K. , Roden, Anja C. , Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Khera, Nandita , Kennedy, Cassie C. , Litzow, Mark R. , Yadav, Hemang , Kennedy, Cassie C , Hefazi, Mehrdad , Sakemura, Reona , Roy, Vivek , Hogan, William J.

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 2113-2113

10.1182/blood-2018-99-118930 Get It

Abstract BACKGROUND Respiratory failure syndromes are common after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT), and are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. These syndromes are incompletely understood, and may be associated with histopathologic evidence of acute lung injury (ALI). The role of biopsy in this setting is controversial, with uncertain benefits and considerable procedural risk. We report the clinical, radiologic and histopathologic features of patients with biopsy-proven ALI following allo-HCT in a large multi-site retrospective series. METHODS The medical records of 1,864 consecutive adults who underwent allo-HCT at Mayo Clinic, Minnesota (n = 916), Arizona (n = 694), and Florida (n = 254) (Jan 2005-Dec 2017) were reviewed. A total of 152 patients underwent a lung biopsy: 126 bronchoscopic, 22 surgical, and 4 CT-guided biopsies (Figure 1). Patients with a histopathologic diagnosis of ALI were included in the study, and were classified into clinicopathologic subgroups per published American Thoracic Society guidelines (Am J Resp Crit Care Med, 2011). Patients whose diagnosis remained uncertain after a detailed review of the medical records were included in a separate subgroup as undifferentiated ALI. Transplant characteristics, radiologic features, pulmonary function test (PFT) results, treatments, and outcomes were compared between groups. RESULTS Clinicopathologic diagnoses in 62 patients with biopsy-proven ALI consisted of an infectious etiology in 15 (24%), cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (COP) in 15 (24%), idiopathic pneumonia syndrome (IPS) in 9 (15%), bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) in 9 (15%), diffuse alveolar hemorrhage in 3 (5%), periengraftment respiratory distress syndrome in 2 (3%), and undifferentiated ALI in 9 (15%) patients (Figure 2). Transplant characteristics were comparable between groups. Infectious pneumonia and IPS were the most common diagnoses during the first 100 days post HCT (50% and 36%, respectively). Between 100 and 365 days, a range of diagnoses were seen including infectious pneumonia (20%), COP (23%), IPS (14%), BOS (23%), and undifferentiated ALI (20%) (Table 1). In 14/15 (93%) infectious pneumonia cases, biopsy did not change management and diagnosis was concurrently established by bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) or non-invasive testing. Patients with IPS, BOS, and undifferentiated ALI more commonly had a pleural effusion (66%, 44%, and 44%, respectively). Nodular infiltrates were most commonly seen in patients with infectious pneumonia (55%). Other radiographic findings were not clearly discriminative. BOS and infectious pneumonia were more commonly associated with an obstructive PFT (78% and 33%, respectively), whereas restrictive pattern was more frequently seen in COP and IPS (50% and 57%, respectively) (Table 2). Despite a histopathologic diagnosis of ALI, 9 (15%) patients had clear clinical and radiographic evidence of BOS. Steroids were used commonly in noninfectious syndromes: 93% of patients with COP and in 100% of IPS patients. Of 4 patients with IPS who received Etanercept, 2 (50%) showed complete recovery, whereas the remaining 5 patients who did not receive Etanercept died from fulminant respiratory failure. Most common treatment response was complete recovery in COP (73%), fulminant respiratory failure leading to death in IPS (78%), and chronic respiratory failure in BOS (78%). Estimated OS was shortest in the group with IPS and undifferentiated ALI (median 5 and 17 mons, respectively), whereas patients with COP had the best prognosis (mOS not reached) followed by the infectious pneumonia and the BOS groups (mOS of 59 and 55 mons, respectively). Pulmonary complications were the most common cause of death in patients with non-infectious ALI. Lung biopsy was associated with post-procedural pneumothorax in 17 (27%) patients; 12 of whom required a chest tube. CONCLUSIONS In this largest case series to date of histopathologic ALI after allo-HCT, biopsy does not appear to meaningfully change management in the majority of patients, and is associated with substantial procedural risk. Histopathologic findings do not clearly correlate with the clinical and radiographic picture in a sizeable proportion of the patients. PFT results, BAL findings, the timing of the onset of respiratory failure after HCT, and the response to steroids seem to be of greater diagnostic and/or prognostic value. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
The Clinical Utility of Pharmacogenomics Testing in Assessing Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Therapy, Intolerance and Responses in Patients with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia
Zblewski, Darci, Gangat, Naseema , Elliott, Michelle A. , Al‐Kali, Aref , Litzow, Mark R. , Hook, C. Christopher , Mielke, Tyler, Wolanskyj, Alexandra P., Hogan, Willam, Pardanani, Animesh , Kluck, Lindsey Ann, Nedved, Adrienne, McAllister, Tammy M., Stewart, A. Keith , Patnaik, Mrinal M. , WJ, Hogan, Shah, Meera , Alkhateeb, Hassan B. , McCullough, Kristen , Smith, Matthew D. , Lazaridis, Konstantinos

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 5440-5440

10.1182/blood-2018-99-118600 Get It

Abstract Background: Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is a BCR-ABL1 driven myeloid neoplasm, with excellent response rates to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). TKI such as imatinib (IM), dasatinib (DAS), nilotinib (NIL), bosutinib (BOS), and ponatinib (PON) currently US FDA approved, have dramatically changed survival outcomes. That being said, two main challenges exist; suboptimal responses and TKI intolerance. The reason why some patients tolerate/respond to TKI better than others is unknown, but is potentially explainable based on drug metabolism. The field of pharmacogenomics (PGX) is rapidly evolving, with commercial panel's rapidly assessing metabolic pathways such as cytochrome P450 (CYP), UGTA1A, p-glycoprotein/ABCB1. We carried out this study using a 22 gene-PGX panel to assess potential causes of TKI related intolerance and suboptimal responses in compliant patients. Methods: Twenty-nine Mayo Clinic patients with CML were prospectively recruited after informed consent. Buccal swabs were utilized for PGX testing to assess variations/polymorphisms involving CYP3A4/5, 1A2, 2C9, UGT1A1, amongst others (www.Oneome.com). Three groups of patients were recruited, those with i) TKI intolerance, ii) suboptimal responses by ELN criteria, iii) and newly diagnosed cases, to assess if PGX testing could explain TKI intolerance or resistance, or alter choice of therapy in newly diagnosed cases. A pharmacology review was obtained to interpret reports in all cases. Results: 29 patients with CML were prospectively enrolled, median age 64 years, 15 (52%) male. At last follow up (median 21 months), 3 (10%) deaths and no disease progressions were documented. 82% received first line IM, whereas 18% received first line DAS. Major metabolic pathways assessed for IM included, CYP3A4 and 5, while minor pathways included 2C19, 2C9 and 2D6. Majority (83%) of IM patients had normal major pathways with 17% being intermediate-normal. With regards to the minor pathways, 25% were rapid metabolizers for 2C19, whereas 29% were intermediate and 4% poor metabolizers for 2C9 and 50% and 16% were intermediate and poor metabolizers for 2D6. In all IM treated patients PGX testing did not completely explain intolerance or resistance and did not change clinical decision making. Front line DAS was used in 18% and the major pathway assessed was CYP 3A4, with 80% being normal and 20% being intermediate metabolizers. Once again PGX testing did not completely explain intolerance/resistance and no therapeutic changes were based on PGX analysis. Seventeen (59%) patients received second line TKI therapy (50% each for intolerance and resistance), with DAS (58%) and NIL (29%), being the two most common. Once again for DAS, 90% had normal 3A4 metabolism while 10% were intermediate and for NIL 80% were normal and 20% intermediate. Only one of 2 NIL treated patients with UGTA1A polymorphisms developed indirect hyperbilirubinemia (grade 1). In the second line setting, PGX testing did not completely explain or alter treatment decisions. BOS was used as a third line agent in 3 (>10%) patients, 2 who remained refractory and one with intolerance, and all three were normal CYP3A4 metabolizers. None of these patients developed diarrhea a common side effect of BOS. PON was used in one patient with intermediate CYP3A4 metabolism as a 5th line agent and the patient continues to have refractory disease with no thrombotic events. In all cases, no changes were made to concomitant medications based on PGX testing. Conclusion: In conclusion, while PGX testing has rapidly evolved and become commercially available, in the context of TKI therapy for CML, while it offers useful insights on minor metabolic derangements and side effects like NIL induced hyperbilirubinemia, in our study, currently limited by a small sample size, it did not completely explain TKI intolerance or resistance. Recruitment of additional patients (n=100) and correlations with plasma drug levels are currently ongoing. Table. Table. Disclosures Al-Kali: Novartis: Research Funding. Stewart:Amgen Inc., Celgene, Roche, Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Amgen Inc., BMS, Celgene, Takeda, Roche, Seattle Genetics, Janssen, Ono: Consultancy.
Midostaurin in Adults with Newly Diagnosed FLT3-Mutation-Positive Acute Myeloid Leukemia Eligible for Standard Chemotherapy: Update from the Radius-X Midostaurin Expanded Access Program
Perl, Alexander E. , Sweet, Kendra , Litzow, Mark R. , Bonifacio, Gaetano, Haines, Kelly, Barbera, Alysha, Purkayastha, Das, Dalovisio, Andrew, Roboz, Gail J. , Strickland, Stephen Anthony

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 4038-4038

10.1182/blood-2018-99-113608 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Midostaurin was the first multikinase inhibitor approved in combination with daunorubicin and cytarabine induction and high-dose cytarabine (HiDAC) consolidation chemotherapy for the treatment of adults with newly diagnosed FLT3-mutation-positive (mut+) acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Approval was largely based on the results from the phase 3 RATIFY trial; patients who received midostaurin had significantly improved overall and event-free survival than those who received placebo (Stone et al, N Engl J Med, 2017). RADIUS-X (NCT02624570) is an expanded treatment protocol (ETP) designed to provide access to midostaurin during the US Food and Drug Administration's review process and to extend the understanding of the safety and tolerability of midostaurin in patients with newly diagnosed FLT3-mut+ AML. The safety profile of midostaurin in preliminary data from RADIUS-X was consistent with that in the RATIFY study (Roboz et al, Blood, 2017 [abstract 1338]). Here we report updated safety data for midostaurin during induction and consolidation and safety data during the maintenance phase. Methods: In this open-label, single-arm ETP, patients (aged ≥18 years) received 1-2 cycles of induction therapy (cytarabine plus daunorubicin [60-90 mg/m2/day] or idarubicin [12 mg/m2/day]) and up to 4 cycles of HiDAC consolidation chemotherapy plus midostaurin (50 mg twice daily [bid] on days 8-21 of each 28-day cycle), followed by up to 12 months of single-agent midostaurin (50 mg bid on days 1-28). Patients could enroll at any point before completion of a second cycle of consolidation. Patients achieving complete remission (CR) or CR with incomplete hematologic recovery (CRi) after induction proceeded to consolidation; patients who maintained a response were eligible to proceed to maintenance. The primary endpoints were safety and tolerability of midostaurin. Results: Of 111 patients screened, 103 were enrolled in the study: 47 during induction (46%) and 56 during consolidation (54%) (Figure). The median age was 58 y (range, 19-79 y); all patients were FLT3-mut+ (Table). Of 47 patients enrolled during induction, 15 received daunorubicin and 32 received idarubicin as the anthracycline. Of 35 patients who completed consolidation and entered maintenance, 9 had completed the protocol treatment and 3 remained on therapy at the data cutoff date (March 30, 2018). The CR/CRi rate for the induction phase was 74% (57% CR, 17% CRi). The relapse rate was 14% overall. The most common reason for study discontinuation was proceeding to transplant (overall, 52%; induction, 11%; consolidation, 42%; maintenance, 34%). The median duration of midostaurin exposure was 35 days (range, 3-426 days). Dose adjustment or interruption due to adverse events (AEs) occurred in 26 patients, most commonly due to febrile neutropenia (n=9) and gastrointestinal disorders (n=6). No new safety events were observed with longer follow-up. Most patients (99%) experienced ≥1 any-grade AE, mostly during induction and/or consolidation. Due to the timing of patient enrollment (up to the second cycle of consolidation), hematologic AEs were lower than reported in comparable studies. The most common AEs occurring in ≥20% of patients were febrile neutropenia (53%), nausea (42%), diarrhea (37%), anemia (36%), platelet count decreased (31%), fatigue (23%), headache (22%), and vomiting (22%). Serious AEs occurred in 50% of patients overall, most commonly febrile neutropenia (37%). AEs during induction were generally similar, regardless of anthracycline received. Overall, 9 patients discontinued due to AEs: 5 during induction (febrile neutropenia, blood bilirubin increased, electrocardiogram QT prolonged, renal impairment, and respiratory distress), 1 during consolidation (sepsis), and 1 during maintenance (leukocytosis). During maintenance, 16 of 35 patients (46%) reported any-grade AEs with midostaurin monotherapy; the most common any-grade and grade 3/4 AEs occurring in >1 patient were platelet count decrease (11% and 3%), nausea (9% and 0%), and oropharyngeal pain (6% and 0%).The rate of death during the study was low, with 1 death reported (disease progression). Conclusions: Midostaurin continued to demonstrate a manageable safety profile with longer follow-up and was associated with high transplant and low relapse rates. Maintenance therapy with midostaurin was well tolerated; no new safety signals were observed. Disclosures Perl: Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy; Arog: Consultancy; AbbVie: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Pfizer: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Actinium Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Astellas: Consultancy; NewLink Genetics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Sweet:Agios: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria; Incyte: Research Funding; Bristol Myers Squibb: Honoraria; Jazz Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Speakers Bureau. Roboz:Novartis: Consultancy; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy; Pfizer: Consultancy; Eisai: Consultancy; Janssen Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Argenx: Consultancy; Orsenix: Consultancy; Aphivena Therapeutics: Consultancy; Daiichi Sankyo: Consultancy; Roche/Genentech: Consultancy; Orsenix: Consultancy; Celgene Corporation: Consultancy; Celltrion: Consultancy; Jazz Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Celltrion: Consultancy; Cellectis: Research Funding; Jazz Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Sandoz: Consultancy; Otsuka: Consultancy; Otsuka: Consultancy; Roche/Genentech: Consultancy; Pfizer: Consultancy; AbbVie: Consultancy; Janssen Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Bayer: Consultancy; Astex Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Eisai: Consultancy; Aphivena Therapeutics: Consultancy; Argenx: Consultancy; Celgene Corporation: Consultancy; AbbVie: Consultancy; Bayer: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; Astex Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Cellectis: Research Funding; Sandoz: Consultancy. Strickland:Astellas Pharma: Consultancy; Boehringer Ingelheim: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Pfizer: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Baxalta: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; CTI Biopharma: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Sunesis Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy, Research Funding; Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Bonifacio:Novartis: Employment. Haines:Novartis: Employment. Barbera:Novartis: Employment. Purkayastha:Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation: Employment.
Reduced Intensity Conditioning (RIC) Regimens Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (HCT) for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A Comparison of Fludarabine/Busulfan (FB) and Fludarabine/Melphalan (FM) Based Regimens from the CIBMTR
Nath, Rajneesh , Zhou, Zheng , Černý, Jan , Wang, Hailin , Bo-Subait, Khalid, Guth, Zartash, Khan, Muhammad Wagas, Hildebrandt, Gerhard , Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Litzow, Mark R. , Saber, Wael , Ahmed, Gulrayz , Alkhateeb, Hassan B. , Damlaj, Moussab , Sandmaier, Brenda M , Weisdorf, Daniel J. , Lima, Marcos de

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 3456-3456

10.1182/blood-2018-99-116795 Get It

Abstract Background: There is limited data comparing the outcomes of the two most common (FM or FB) RIC regimens in AML. Previous smaller retrospective studies suggest increased non-relapse mortality (NRM) but decreased relapse with FM based RIC with a variable effect on overall survival as compared to FB. Methods: AML patients aged ≥18 years who had their 1st allo HCT using FM or FB (iv Bu only) RIC between 2001-2015 who had data reported to CIBMTR were studied. Patients with cord blood or identical twin donors, TBI as a part of conditioning, GVHD prophylaxis with T cell depletion/CD34 selection or post HCT Cyclophosphamide were excluded. Primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and secondary endpoints included non-relapse mortality (NRM), relapse, leukemia free survival (LFS) and acute and chronic GVHD. Cox proportional hazards multivariable regression was used to compare the two RIC regimens while adjusting for significant patient, disease and transplant related factors. Major subgroup analysis included patients in CR pre-HCT. Results: 622 patients received FB and 791 had FM RIC. Median age of the FM group was 59 years, range (18 to 76) and median age of FB group was 61 years, range (18- 77). Compared to FB RIC regimen, FM group had more patients with active disease (36% vs 18%), with mismatched donors (24% vs 15%), with bone marrow grafts (19% vs 9%), HCT before 2005 (29% vs 12%) and without ATG/alemtuzumab (58 % vs 48%); but fewer patients in CR1 (46% vs 62%) and matched sibling donor grafts (21% vs 30%). There was significantly increased NRM in the FM vs FB within 3 mo post HCT (hazard ratio (HR)=3.85 (95% confidence intervals [CI] 2.46-6.03), but not beyond 3 mo FM vs FB , HR= 1.14 (95% CI 0.88-1.47). There was significantly decreased relapse for FM vs FB, (HR=0.65 (0.55-0.76), p<0.001) and a marginally superior LFS for FM vs FB, (HR=0.89 (95% CI 0.78-1.00), p=0.05). There was a lower OS FM vs FB within 3 mo post HCT (HR=1.82 (95% CI 1.36-2.45), p<0.001) but similar OS for FM vs FB beyond 3 mo post HCT (HR=0.87 (95% CI 0.76-1.00), p=0.05). Analysis restricted to only patients in CR pre-HCT showed similar results: equivalent survival, higher early NRM and lower relapse with FM. Conclusion: The current study of this large CIBMTR AML transplant cohort has showed that in these two most common RIC regimens for allogeneic HCT, long-term survival with FM was similar to FB. While the FM regimen showed higher early NRM, it was associated with lower risks of relapse. Further analysis to evaluate FB and FM regimens in relationship to comorbidities, comprehensive geriatric assessments, and presence of minimal residual disease is warranted to better define the relative efficacy of these two RIC regimens in AML. Disclosures Weisdorf: Pharmacyclics: Consultancy; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy; SL Behring: Consultancy; FATE: Consultancy; Equillium: Consultancy.
Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase-1 Expressing Dendritic Cell Populations Are Associated with Tumor-Induced Immune Tolerance & Aggressive Disease Biology in Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia
Mangaonkar, Abhishek A. , Reichard, Kaaren K. , Chiu, April , Howard, Matthew T., King, Rebecca L. , Alver, Bonnie, Cousin, Margot A. , Fernández-Zapico, Martín E. , Gangat, Naseema , Al‐Kali, Aref , Elliott, Michelle A. , Litzow, Mark R. , Pardanani, Animesh , Tefferi, Ayalew , Patnaik, Mrinal M. , Carr, Ryan M , Robertson, Keith D. , Villasboas, José C. , Lasho, Terra L. , Hogan, William J. , Solary, Éric

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 4344-4344

10.1182/blood-2018-99-113881 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) is a chronic myeloid malignancy associated with monocytosis, autoimmunity (~30%) & an inherent risk for leukemic transformation. Bone marrow (BM) dendritic cell (DC) populations occur in ~30% of patients, with a poorly defined biological & prognostic role. The malignant immune microenvironment is regulated by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO-1) expressing DCs, which modulate regulatory T (Treg) cells & block their conversion into proinflammatory T helper (Th17)-like cells. IDO-1 is a known immune checkpoint & functions by catabolizing tryptophan, an amino acid essential for T cell function. We hypothesized that distinct IDO-1 expressing DC populations in CMML modulate Tregs & contribute towards immune tolerance & aggressive disease biology. Methods: Primary diagnostic CMML peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) & BM biopsy specimens were obtained after Mayo Clinic IRB approval. A DC population was defined on H&E stained biopsy sections as focal collections (>10) of cells with characteristic elongated nuclei & cytoplasmic extensions. Transcriptomic & protein expression studies assessing IDO-1 expression were done by previously described methods. In addition, IHC expression of PD-1, PD-L1 & CTLA-4 was also done. IDO-1 promoter methylation studies with DIP-seq were performed. The impact on immune tolerance was assessed using mass cytometry (CyTOF). Results: Cohort: Twenty eight patients with CMML were included in the study, median age 70 (range: 51-80) years; 71% males. Eleven (39%) patients had coexisting autoimmune conditions. Of these, 8 (73%) had detectable DC populations either at diagnosis, or during the course of their disease. At a median follow-up of 46 (95% CI 27, 84) months, there were 14 (50%) deaths & 9 (32%) leukemic transformations.IHC results: Nine (32%) patients were identified to have a DC population at CMML diagnosis. CD123 & TCL1 staining was performed in 5 (56%) patients, with 3 being positive for both, & 2 positive for CD123 only (additional IHC studies ongoing). IDO1 expression by IHC was documented in all 9 (100%) cases (Fig 1A & 1B), while rare populations of PD-1, PD-L1 & CTLA-4 lymphocytes were also seen in all cases. Due to the low DC burdens (median cellularity ≤ 5%) & uniform staining intensity, IHC-based grading was not done. Samples at serial time-points, post-HMA therapy & at the time of blast transformation, were available in 5 & 3 patients respectively. Among the patients who did not have DC populations at diagnosis, 5 (42%) developed them post-HMA therapy, while 3 (50%) developed them at the time of LT. The development of DC populations was associated with loss of response to HMA (50%) & disease progression (50%).Transcriptomic analysis: RNA expression data was available on 7 (25%) patients, of whom only 1 (14%) had DC populations at diagnosis. The IDO-1 RPKM value in the former was higher than the mean pooled value in the latter group (330 versus 74, p=0.05).Methylation studies: DIP-seq was performed on 12 (43%) cases from the primary IHC cohort. Qualitative analysis of IDO-1 promoter hypomethylation was conducted & confirmed in all 9 (100%) cases with 5-mC & 5-hmC marks compared to input as displayed in figure 1C.Immune profiling: CyTOF was performed on 4 CMML samples (3 with IDO-1 expressing DC populations at diagnosis) from the primary IHC cohort & compared to a normal PBMC control. Results confirmed an increase in DC populations (fig 1D& 1E), & reduced % of Th17-like T cells in CMML samples compared to control (1.1 versus 5.07, p=0.05, fig 1F).Clinical correlates & survival analysis: With the exception that CMML patients with DC populations had a higher frequency of NRAS (P=0.007) mutations, the two groups were comparable for cytogenetic & molecular abnormalities. The median OS for the cohort was 45 (95% CI 29, 84) months. CMML patients with IDO-1 expressing DC populations at diagnosis had a shorter median OS, in comparison to those without (median OS 30 vs 45, p=0.03, Kaplan-Meier analysis in fig 1G). Conclusions: In conclusion, we demonstrate that DC populations are seen in ~30% of patients with CMML with a uniform expression of IDO-1 & limited expression of PD-1, PD-L1 & CTLA-4. CMML patients with BM DC populations have a higher frequency of NRAS mutations & DC IDO-1 expression is associated with tumor induced immune tolerance. Additional IHC, genomic & preclinical studies with IDO-1 inhibitors are ongoing. Figure 1. Figure 1. Disclosures Al-Kali: Novartis: Research Funding.
Functional and Genomic Characterization of the Interaction between Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Cells and the Microenvironment Identifies Pathways for Therapeutic Intervention
Peters, Jennifer L., Paietta, Elisabeth , Litzow, Mark R. , Yoshihara, Hiroki , Churchman, Michelle L. , FINKELSTEIN, DAVID B. , Mullighan, Charles G.

Blood | October 14, 2019 | Volume: 132 | Issue: Supplement 1 | Pages: 1550-1550

10.1182/blood-2018-99-117894 Get It

Abstract Introduction Residence and interaction with a specialized bone marrow microenvironment is important for normal hematopoietic stem cells and for initiation and progression of myeloid malignancies, but the role of the microenvironment in propagation and therapeutic response of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is not well known. Prior work has identified the efficacy of inhibiting FAK signaling, which is deregulated by IKZF1 alterations resulting in induction of THY1-Integrin alpha 5 adhesion in Ph-positive (Ph+) ALL. Here, we hypothesized that this mechanism may be more broadly important in ALL. We applied a systematic integrated genomic/imaging/functional approach to define the nature of interaction and identify changes in leukemic cells upon interaction that may be targetable. Materials and methods Time-lapse confocal imaging was performed to examine how leukemia cells migrate and adhere to mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). NALM6 (DUX4/ERG), MHH-CALL2 (hypodiploid), 697 (TCF3-PBX1), Reh (ETV6-RUNX1) and SUP-B15 (Ph+) cell lines were cultured with immortalized human bone marrow MSCs transduced with telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) (Mihara, Br J Haematol. 2003;120:846). For RNA-sequencing, non-adherent cell line cells were collected after two days of coculture with hTERT while adherent cells were trypsinized and collected. Both samples were sorted for CD19 positive population. Fresh primary ALL samples were cultured on bone marrow MSCs derived from patients with no hematological disease and collected with the same procedure for RT-PCR. Multicolor immunofluorescence imaging was utilized to observe expression of multiple molecules involved in adherence. Results Time-lapse imaging showed that leukemia cells have a dynamic interaction with MSC monolayers, with temporary adherence, accompanied by dynamic change in their shape. NALM6 cells adherent to MSCs reduced cell cycling, with an increase in the ratio of G0/G1 cells (26.7% to 48.0%) and decrease in S phase (60.7 to 41.8%). Analysis of gene expression showed 138 upregulated genes (log2FC >2 and FDR <0.05) in adherent cells which were common in all five cell lines, with striking upregulation leading to gene expression associated with gene ontology of extracellular matrix organization and collagen fibril organization. Representative genes were validated in adherent NALM6 cells by immunoblotting (FN1, TIMP1, and LGALS1). Pathway analysis showed that transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1) was the top ranked upstream regulator (p-value of overlap 5.26E-35) in that 44 of 65 genes had measurement direction consistent with activation of TGFB1 signaling. In addition, other upstream regulators that may be involved were beta-estradiol, fibroblast growth factor 2, and tumor necrosis factor. Adhesion of leukemia cells to stroma may induce integrin expression and downstream signaling. Our transcriptomic analysis showed that integrins (A5, B1, A3 and B5) and caveolin 1 (CAV1), a main component of the caveolae plasma membranes, are highly transcribed in adherent leukemia cells. As hTERT cells showed unexpectedly low expression of THY1, a common MSC marker, we utilized primary bone marrow MSC for subsequent analysis. Immunoblotting assay showed enhanced expression of CAV1 in all cell lines adhered to MSCs. Multicolor immunofluorescence imaging demonstrated CAV1 and ITGB1 expression on leukemia cells that localized adjacent to stromal cells, which confirms that these molecules were upregulated upon adhesion to MSCs. Moreover, primary ALL cells showed remarkable upregulation of CAV1, ITGB1, ITGA3, and ITGB5 when the cells were adherent to MSCs. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that ALL cells dynamically interact with microenvironment cells, inducing changes in cell morphology, cell cycling, and adhesion, which may facilitate altered responsiveness to therapy. Transcriptional results suggest that TGFβ signaling is an upstream regulator after cell adhesion to MSCs. While integrins and CAV1 mediate the signaling, these pathway and molecules will be candidates for exploring inhibitors of signaling, which may affect their interaction and make them novel therapeutic targets. Figure. Figure. Disclosures Mullighan: Loxo Oncology: Research Funding; Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas: Consultancy; Amgen: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Abbvie: Research Funding; Pfizer: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau.