Citations

Mayo Clinic

Clear

1681 citation(s) found for "Xu, Katherine".

Alvocidib Potentiates the Activity of Azacytidine in an MCL-1-Dependent Fashion
Kim, Wontak , Soh, Katherine K. , Bearss, Jeremiah J., Lee, Ye Sol, Peterson, Peter, Whatcott, Clifford J., Siddiqui-Jain, Adam, Weitman, Steven, Warner, Steven L. , Bogenberger, James M. , Tibes, Raoul , Bearss, David J.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 1343-1343

10.1182/blood.v126.23.1343.1343 Get It

Abstract Despite significant efforts, the clinical mechanism of action of hypomethylating agents such as 5-azacytidine (5-aza) is still poorly understood. 5-aza is currently indicated for the treatment of patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). While 5-aza has achieved good single-agent activity in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), complete response rates remain low when used as a single agent. In a recent report aimed at identifying rational therapeutic combinations with 5-aza, Bogenberger and colleagues identified multiple BCL-2 family member/BH3-containing therapeutic targets, which synergize with 5-aza when inhibited genetically or pharmacologically. The CDK9 inhibitor, alvocidib, has achieved significant improvement in complete response rates of newly diagnosed AML patients when administered before cytarabine and mitoxantrone (FLAM regimen) in a randomized multi-center Phase 2 trial when compared to 7+3 standard of care treatment. Recent reports suggest that the transcriptional repression of key anti-apoptotic proteins (eg., MCL-1) mediated by alvocidib's CDK9 inhibition, drive the pro-apoptotic activity of alvocidib in the FLAM regimen. We, therefore, hypothesized that alvocidib and 5-aza would synergize therapeutically in the treatment of AML by means of transcriptional repression of MCL-1 and sensitization to 5-aza. In this report, we demonstrate that treatment of AML cell lines with alvocidib inhibits both mRNA and protein expression of MCL-1 in a time and concentration-dependent fashion. Pre-treatment of cells with alvocidib, to repress MCL-1 expression prior to 5-aza treatment, reduced the 5-aza cell viability EC50 more than 2.5-fold, from 1.8 µM to 0.6 µM in MV4-11 cells. The alvocidib/5-aza combination also resulted in synergistic increases in caspase activity relative to either single agent within the combination, at multiple dose levels. Therefore, following reports suggesting inhibition of BCL-2 family members including MCL-1, sensitizes cells to 5-aza, our data suggest that the alvocidib/5-aza combination may constitute a viable therapeutic regimen. We also conclude that a CDK9 inhibitor/5-aza combination may be an effective clinical approach for the treatment of AML. Disclosures Kim: Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Soh:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Bearss:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Lee:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Peterson:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Whatcott:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Siddiqui-Jain:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Weitman:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Bearss:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Warner:Tolero Pharmaceuticals: Employment.
Phase 1, Open-Label, Dose Escalation Study of I-131-CLR1404 in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RRMM)
Stiff, Patrick J. , Maharaj, Michele, Oliver, Katherine, Ailawadhi, Sikander , Callander, Natalie S.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 4485-4485

10.1182/blood.v128.22.4485.4485 Get It

Abstract Background: I-131-CLR1404 is a novel radioiodinated therapeutic that exploits the selective uptake and retention of phospholipid ethers (PLEs) by malignant cells. Based on initial preclinical and clinical experience and the exquisite radiosensitivity of MM, I-131-CLR1404 is being examined in RRMM in an open-label, dose escalation Phase 1 trial (NCT02278315) evaluating up to 5 cohorts and a maximum of 37.5 mCi/m2. Methods: The primary objective is to determine safety and tolerability of I-131-CLR1404 with and without dexamethasone (dex) in RRMM. Secondary objectives are to determine the recommended Phase 2 dose (RP2D) and therapeutic activity in RRMM. Eligibility criteria include progressive, relapsed/refractory MM, and at least one previous exposure to proteasome inhibitor (PI) and immunomodulatory (IMiD) drugs. Prior autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) and external beam radiation therapy are allowed (≤ 20% of total marrow irradiated). There is no limit to the number of prior therapies. I-131-CLR1404 is administered intravenously as a single 30 minute infusion on day 1 with 40 mg dex orally weekly for 12 weeks. Dose-escalation uses a minimally modified, standard 3+3 schema with dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) assessed through day 85 post-infusion. Adverse events (AEs) are graded by NCI-CTCAE v4.03; responses are assessed by the International Myeloma Working Group Uniform Response Criteria. Results: Ten patients have been enrolled in the study with data presented as of 30 Jun 2016 for 8 patients. Accrual is ongoing in the additional cohorts. Five patients were enrolled to cohort 1 (12.5 mCi/m2 + dex); 4 were evaluable and 1 patient was taken off study for rapid disease progression. Five patients have been enrolled to cohort 2 (18.75 mCi/m2 + dex), with data presented on 3 enrolled prior to data cutoff. The median age was 68.5 (range 55-85) and included 5 males and 3 females. All patients were standard risk (karyotyping) and median bone marrow plasma cell involvement was 25% (range 4-50%). Median number of prior therapies was 4 (range 2-12) (Table 1). Four of 8 patients previously underwent ASCT and 25% were previously treated with radiation therapy. Hematologic AEs (grade 3+) and non-hematologic AEs (grade 2+) potentially related to study drug are shown in Table 1. No difference in the toxicity profile was noted for patients with previous radiation therapy. Two serious adverse events (SAEs) have been reported, both in patients treated with 18.75 mCi/m2 I-131-CLR1404. One patient was hospitalized for a seizure (Day 62), assessed as unrelated to study drug and another patient was hospitalized for a grade 1 upper GI bleed in the setting of grade 4 thrombocytopenia (Day 23). This is believed to be the result of rapidly progressive disease, however relationship to I-131-CLR1404 could not be ruled out. Stable disease was achieved in 100% of evaluable patients (n=7). One subject in cohort 1 demonstrated a > 30% reduction in serum m-protein. Figure 1 provides a summary of percent change in serum free light chain assay (FLC) from baseline. Three patients had a reduction in FLC > 50%, 2 in cohort 1 and 1, to date, in cohort 2. Three patients had a stable FLC response through at least 22 days following treatment and 1 subject was unresponsive with regard to FLC. Median follow-up is 6.8 months (range 1.2-14.2). Patients did not receive subsequent systemic therapy for a median of 3.5 months (range 0.6-4.7). Furthermore, 1 subject in cohort 2 maintains stable disease and has not initiated subsequent treatment. Median progression free survival (PFS) is 3 months and included 4 patients with stable disease at the end of the 85 day study follow-up. In patients with progression after I-131-CLR1404, treatment included daratumumab (n=4), ASCT (n=1), and bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dex (VRD) (n=1). Conclusions: I-131-CLR1404 represents a unique, first in class targeted radiotherapeutic for MM. Preliminary data from this trial show an acceptable and expected safety profile with an efficacy signal in the initial 2 of a potential 5 cohorts. All evaluable patients, despite extensive previous therapy and refractoriness to new therapies, achieved disease stabilization. The study is ongoing to determine the RP2D and long term efficacy. Disclosures Ailawadhi: Pharmacyclics: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; Amgen Inc: Consultancy; Takeda Oncology: Consultancy. Oliver:Cellectar Biosciences: Employment.
LR-CD: Efficacy of Combination Therapy with Lenalidomide for Untreated Indolent B-Cell NHL.
Reeder, Craig B. , Ansell, Stephen M. , Gano, Katherine, Conley, Christopher J. , Nowakowski, Grzegorz S. , Curtis, Kelly K., Camoriano, John , Leis, José F., Slack, James L., Valdez, Riccardo, Tiedemann, Rodger E. , Stewart, Keith, Dueck, Amylou C. , Conley, Christopher, Witzig, Thomas E.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 120 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 2741-2741

10.1182/blood.v120.21.2741.2741 Get It

Abstract Abstract 2741 Background: The novel agent lenalidomide (LEN) has shown significant single-agent activity in patients with relapsed lymphoma through anti-proliferative and immunomodulatory mechanisms. In combination LEN may synergistically improve the efficacy of rituximab. However, there is limited data on the efficacy and safety of LEN in multi-drug combination regimens for treatment-naïve patients. We designed a phase II single arm trial to evaluate tumor response, toxicity (AE) and survival with a combination of LEN, rituximab, cyclophosphamide (CTX) and dexamethasone (DEX) (LR-CD) in symptomatic untreated patients with indolent B-cell lymphoma. (NCT00784927). Methods: Eligibility required age ≥18, ECOG PS ≤2, confirmed diagnosis of indolent B-cell lymphoma (FL1–2, SLL, MZL or LPL/WM), measurable nodes ≥2cm or IgM ≥400mg/dL (LPL/WM), ANC ≥1400/mm3, platelets ≥100,000/mm3, creatinine ≤2mg/dL, and signed informed consent. Only patients needing therapy were considered eligible. Treatment consisted of IV rituximab 375mg/m2 D1, oral LEN 20mg D1–21, CTX 250mg/m2 D1, 8, 15, DEX 40mg D1, 8, 15, 22 and ASA 325 mg daily in a 28 day cycle. Treatment continued 2 cycles beyond best response up to a maximum of 12 cycles. Toxicity was assessed by NCI CTCAE v3.0. Results: Thirty-one patients have enrolled at Mayo Clinic with 28 evaluable for toxicity and response (1 deemed ineligible, 1 withdrew before treatment, 1 treatment violation). Four patients continue on study at this time. Patient characteristics: median age 68.5(43–83), 71% male, stage IV 86%, FL 28%, MZL 25%, LPL/WM 39%, and SLL 4%. Median number of cycles given was 6 and 71% completed the study per protocol. The best overall response is 89% with 32% CR and 57% PR. In subgroup analysis, the response rates for LPL/WM was 91% (all PR) and for FL 88% (CR 63%, PR 25%). The most common grade ≥3 AEs were neutropenia (35.7%), leukopenia (17.8%), anemia (14.3%) and thrombosis (14.3%). The LPL/WM subgroup experienced more grade ≥3 anemia (36%) compared to the group as a whole. Patients (57%) required at least one dose reduction of LEN (n =10), CTX (n = 9) or DEX (n = 7). At a median f/u of 14.5 (1.8–36.5) months 86% are progression free (fig. 1) and the OS is 96% (fig. 2). One death unrelated to treatment occurred 7.7 months after completing 12 cycles of treatment. Conclusion: Lenalidomide can be safely combined with other active agents and in the combination LR-CD produces high response rates in symptomatic patients with indolent B-cell lymphoma. The regimen is well tolerated with manageable toxicities which are similar to that seen with single agent LEN. The encouraging results seen in patients with LPL/WM have led to expansion of this cohort for additional study. Disclosures: Reeder: Celgene: Research Funding. Off Label Use: lenalidomide use in non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Stewart:Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria.
mTOR Dual Inhibitor Induced Cytotoxicity Depends on 4EBP1/c-Myc/Puma and NFkB/Egr-1/Bim Pathways in Human Lymphoid Malignancies
Knorr, Katherine , Almada, Luciana L. , Schneider, Paula A., Peterson, Kevin L. , Flatten, Karen S., Hess, Allan D., Karp, Judith E. , Fernández-Zapico, Martín E. , Yun, Seongseok , Vincelette, Nicole D. , Smith, B. Douglas , Kaufmann, Scott H.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 3705-3705

10.1182/blood.v126.23.3705.3705 Get It

Abstract The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a kinase that regulates proliferation and apoptosis, has been extensively evaluated as a therapeutic target in hematologic malignancies. Rapamycin analogues, which partially inhibit mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1), showed limited anti-tumor activity due to feedback mechanisms involving mTORC2 and incomplete inhibition of mTORC1. Thus, attention has turned to agents targeting both mTOR complexes by binding the mTOR kinase domain. The purpose of this study was to delineate the mechanisms of mTOR dual inhibitor induced apoptosis in human neoplastic lymphoid cells in vitro. MTS assays and propidium iodide staining followed by flow cytometry for subdiploid populations demonstrated that OSI-027 and MLN0128 inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in a wide range of lymphoid cell lines including Jurkat, Nalm-6, Molt-4, and SeAX. Raptor and Rictor knockdown in Jurkat and Nalm-6 increased cell death, suggesting both mTOR complexes play a role in apoptosis. 4EBP1 phosphorylation was inhibited by mTOR dual inhibitors, but not by rapamycin. Expression of 4EBP1 T37A/T46A and 4EBP1 T37A/T46A/S65A/T70A, which mimic dephosphorylated 4EBP1, increased Puma mRNA and protein levels as well as apoptosis. Moreover, 4EBP1 knockdown abrogated mTOR dual inhibitor induced Puma upregulation and cell death, further supporting the role of 4EBP1 dephosphorylation in mTORC1 dependent apoptosis. In accord with the known dependence of c-Myc translation on the eIF4E/eIF4G complex, we also observed c-Myc downregulation after treatment with OSI-027, MLN0128 and 4EGI-1, but not rapamycin. Puma induction mirrored c-Myc downregulation under a variety of conditions, including expression of nonphosphorylatable 4EBP1 in parental Jurkat cells or wt 4EBP1 in 4EBP1 deficient cells. Furthermore, c-Myc knockdown induced Puma mRNA and protein as well as increased apoptosis. Collectively, these results support a model in which mTORC1 inhibition, acting through 4EBP1, induces Puma upregulation and apoptosis through c-Myc downregulation. In order to assess the parallel mTORC2-dependent Bim-mediated apoptotic mechanism, we utilized reporter assays and RNAseq experiments. OSI-027-induced Bim promoter activity decreased markedly when the nucleotides -29 to -18 were removed, suggesting that this response element is critical for OSI-027-induced promoter activation. In silico analysis identified eight transcription factors, including SP1, Egr-1, and Myb, that potentially bind this 12-bp region. In RNAseq experiments, we detected a 9-fold increase in Egr-1. Egr-1 upregulation was confirmed by qRT-PCR and immunoblotting after dual inhibitors treatment or Rictor knockdown. Moreover, dominant negative Egr-1 or Egr-1 knockdown diminished dual inhibitor-induced Bim promoter activation and Bim upregulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated that OSI-027 enhances binding of Egr-1 to a region of the Bim promoter including bp -29 to -18, further confirming that Egr-1 functions as a direct transcriptional activator for Bim upon mTOR dual inhibitor treatment. NFκB is a known transcription factor for Egr-1 and we observed increased p65 in the nucleus and increased NFκB transcriptional activity after dual inhibitor treatment. Overexpression of S32A/S36A IκB impaired the ability of dual inhibitors to induce NFκB transcriptional activation, Egr-1 mRNA and protein, Bim promoter activation and Bim mRNA and protein upregulation. Collectively, these results suggest that mTORC2 inhibition induces Bim upregulation and apoptosis through NFκB and Egr-1 transactivation. When fresh clinical ALL isolates were exposed to OSI-027 or MLN0128 ex vivo, inhibition of 4EBP1 phosphorylation along with upregulation of Egr-1 and Bim and/or c-Myc downregulation accompanied by Puma induction occurred, indicating that the pathways identified in ALL cell lines can also potentially be engaged in clinical ALLs. These observations not only provide new insight into the survival roles of mTOR in lymphoid malignancies, but also identify alterations that potentially modulate the action of mTOR dual inhibitors. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Comparison of Efficacy and Safety Results in 103 Treatment-Naïve Acute Myeloid Leukemia (TN-AML) Patients Not Candidates for Intensive Chemotherapy Using 5-Day and 10-Day Regimens of Guadecitabine (SGI-110), a Novel Hypomethylating Agent (HMA)
Kropf, Patricia , Yee, Karen , Walsh, Katherine, Podeltsev, Nikolai A., Garcia‐Manero, Guillermo , Rizzieri, David A. , Rosenblat, Todd , Wilson, Laksmi, Lowder, James N. , Taverna, Pietro, Azab, Mohammad , Rambaldi, Alessandro , Ribera, Josep‐María , Rambaldi, Alessandro , Kantarjian, Hagop M. , Roboz, Gail J. , O'Connell, Casey Lee , Tibes, Raoul , Griffiths, Elizabeth A. , Jabbour, Elias , Stock, Wendy , Savona, Michael R. , Berdeja, Jesús G. , Hao, Yong , Azab, Mohammad , Issa, Jean‐Pierre J. , Ribera, Josep-Maria

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 458-458

10.1182/blood.v126.23.458.458 Get It

Abstract Introduction: Guadecitabine (SGI-110) is a novel next-generation HMA administered as a small volume subcutaneous (SC) injection which results in extended decitabine exposure. Phase 2 studies have been conducted in TN-AML patients who were not candidates for intensive chemotherapy using two different doses and schedules of guadecitabine. We report here a comparative efficacy and safety analysis of the 5-day and 10-day regimens. Methods: TN-AML patients who were not candidates for intensive chemotherapy based on age (≥ 65 y), poor performance status (PS 2), comorbidities, or poor risk cytogenetics were enrolled in 2 separate treatment cohorts in the Phase 2 study. In the first cohort, patients were randomized (1:1) to either 60 mg/m2/d or 90 mg/m2/d on Days 1-5 (5-day regimen). In the second cohort, patients were treated with 60 mg/m2/d on Days 1-5 and Days 8-12 (10-day regimen) for up to 4 cycles, followed by 60 mg/m2/d Days 1-5 in subsequent cycles. Cycles were scheduled every 28 days for both regimes with dose reductions/delays allowed based on response and tolerability. Patients remained on treatment as long as they continued to benefit with no unacceptable toxicity. The primary endpoint was the composite Complete Response (CRc): Complete Response (CR) + CR with incomplete platelet recovery (CRp) + CR with incomplete neutrophil recovery (CRi) using modified International Working Group (IWG) criteria (Cheson et al, 2003). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), and safety. Results: There was no difference in efficacy or safety between 60 and 90 mg/m2/d on the 5-day regimen (Yee et al, European Hematology Association meeting 2014, S647), so data are reported here for the two doses combined on the 5-day cohort. There were 51 patients treated in the 5-day regimen cohort and 52 treated with the 10-day regimen. There was no statistically significant difference in patient characteristics between the 2 regimens; median age 77.9 vs. 77.3 years ; male 59% vs. 65%; PS 2 or higher 35% vs. 40%; median BM blasts 40.0% vs. 49.5%; poor risk cytogenetics 46% vs. 43% for the 5-day and 10-day cohorts, respectively. Follow up of the 10-day cohort patients was shorter as it started after completion of enrolment of the 5-day cohort. The median follow up was 25.7 and 12.4 months and median number of cycles was 5 (range 1-26) and 3 (range 1-13) for the 5-day and 10-day cohorts, respectively. There was no significant difference in the primary efficacy endpoint, CRc, between the 2 regimens (p=0.43). CRc was achieved in 29/51 patients (57%) on the 5-day regimen (19 CR, 3 CRp, and 7 CRi) and in 25/52 patients (48%) on the 10-day regimen (16 CR, 5 CRp, and 4 CRi). Median OS was 10.5 and 8.7 months for the 5-day and 10-day cohorts, respectively (p=0.89). The 30, 60, and 90-day all-cause mortality rates were not statistically significant between the two cohorts: 5.9%, 15.7%, and 21.6% on the 5-day regimen and 1.9%, 17.3%, and 28.8% on the 10-day regimen. The most common Grade ≥3 AEs regardless of relationship to guadecitabine were: febrile neutropenia 59% vs. 60%, thrombocytopenia 47% vs. 38%, neutropenia 39% vs. 33%, anemia 27% vs. 19%, pneumonia 24% vs. 27%; and sepsis 12% vs. 19%, for the 5-day and 10-day cohorts respectively, none of which was statistically significant. Fifteen patients remain on treatment (5 from the 5-day cohort and 10 from the 10-day cohort). Conclusions: Guadecitabine is clinically active with a good safety profile in TN-AML patients not candidates for intensive chemotherapy. Unlike in relapsed/refractory AML, where the 10-day regimen of guadecitabine showed a trend toward improved efficacy (Roboz et al, Annals of Oncology 25 Supplement 4, 2014), there was no significant difference in either efficacy or safety between the 5-day and 10-day regimens in newly diagnosed AML patients. Guadecitabine 60 mg/m2/d SC Days 1-5 is currently being investigated in an 800-patient multicenter randomized phase 3 study in TN-AML patients unfit to receive intensive chemotherapy (ASTRAL-1 Phase 3 clinical trial: ClinicalTrials.gov reference NCT02348489). Disclosures Kropf: Teva Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy. O'Connell:Celgene: Speakers Bureau; Incyte: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Griffiths:Astex: Research Funding; Alexion Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria. Rizzieri:Teva: Other: ad board, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Other: ad board, Speakers Bureau. Stock:Gilead: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Savona:Karyopharm: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Incyte: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Gilead: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Rosenblat:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Berdeja:Celgene: Research Funding; Onyx: Research Funding; BMS: Research Funding; Abbvie: Research Funding; Array: Research Funding; Curis: Research Funding; Acetylon: Research Funding; MEI: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Takeda: Research Funding. Wilson:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Lowder:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Taverna:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Hao:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Azab:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Issa:Janssen: Consultancy; Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy.
First Clinical Results of a Randomized Phase 2 Dose-Response Study of SGI-110, a Novel Subcutaneous (SC) Hypomethylating Agent (HMA), in 102 Patients with Intermediate (Int) or High Risk (HR) Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) or Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukem
Garcia‐Manero, Guillermo , Ritchie, Ellen K. , Walsh, Katherine, Kropf, Patricia , Lunin, Scott D., Rosenblat, Todd , Yee, Karen , Mace, Joseph R., Naim, Sue, Taverna, Pietro, Azab, Mohammad , Savona, Michael R. , O'Connell, Casey Lee , Tibes, Raoul , Daver, Naval , Jabbour, Elias, Stock, Wendy , Griffiths, Elizabeth A. , Podoltsev, Nikolai , Berdeja, Jesús G. , Issa, Jean‐Pierre J. , Chung, Woonbok , Hao, Yong , Azab, Mohammad , Kantarjian, Hagop M. , Roboz, Gail J.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 529-529

10.1182/blood.v124.21.529.529 Get It

Abstract Background: SGI-110 is a second generation HMA formulated as a dinucleotide of decitabine (DAC) and deoxyguanosine delivered as a small volume SC injection that yields longer half-life and more extended DAC exposure than DAC IV infusion. A phase 1 clinical trial of SGI-110 demonstrated a differentiated pharmacokinetic profile from DAC IV, potent hypomethylation, and clinical responses in previously treated patients with MDS and AML (Kantarjian et al. 2012). Phase 1 established 60 mg/m2 QDx5 as the biologically effective dose (BED), and 90 mg/m2QDx5 as the Maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in MDS patients given in 28-day cycles. Phase 2 is conducted to evaluate dose response between the BED and MTD in MDS patients. Methods: Int, or HR MDS, and CMML patients who were either treatment-naïve or previously treated were randomized to either 60 mg/m2 or 90 mg/m2QDx5 every 28 days. Efficacy was evaluated by the clinical responses of CR, PR, marrow CR (mCR), and Hematological Improvement (HI) based on the International Working Group Criteria 2006 as well as transfusion-independence. Adverse events (AEs) as graded by the CTCAE v4 criteria and pharmacodynamic biological activity as measured by Long Interspersed Nucleotide Element LINE-1 (an index of global DNA methylation) were also assessed. Patients are being followed for overall survival. Results: The study completed target enrolment with 102 patients: 53 who were refractory or have relapsed on prior treatment, and 49 previously untreated. Fifty three patients were randomized to 60 mg/m2 and 49 patients to 90 mg/m2 QDx5 with a median follow up of 8.2 months (range 1-21). Most baseline patient characteristics were well balanced between the 2 treatment arms with no significant differences in median age (71.7 vs. 72.5 y); male gender (70 vs. 61%); ECOG PS 2 (15 vs. 12%); HR MDS (28 vs. 37%); transfusion-dependence (57 vs. 55%), median baseline Hb (9.25 vs. 9.3 g/dL); platelets count (42.5 vs. 45 x109/L), and neutrophils count (1.19 vs. 1.16 x109/L) for the 60 and 90 mg/m2 QDx5 respectively. However, there were 15 CMML patients (28%) randomized to 60 mg/m2 vs. only 7 CMML patients (14%) randomized to 90 mg/m2(p=0.097). All but 2 patients in the previously treated group received one or more HMA. At the time of the data cutoff, 38 of 102 patients (37%) were still on treatment. Median number of treatment cycles was 4 for previously treated patients, and 5 for the treatment naïve group (range 1-22 cycles). CR+mCR were observed in 10/53 (19%), and 11/49 (22%) in the 60 and 90 mg/m2 arms respectively (p=0.8). CR was observed in 7/49 treatment naïve patients (14%) while CR+mCR were observed in 11/53 previously treated patients (21%) with no significant differences between 60 and 90 mg/m2 arms. Transfusion independence for at least 8 weeks was reported in 32% and 24% for platelets and RBCs respectively with no difference between the 2 treatment arms. Treatment naïve patients benefited from higher rate of transfusion-independence (58% and 46% for platelets and RBCs respectively). Potent demethylation was achieved in both treatment arms with a mean LINE-1 DNA demethylation of 27.3 and 30.5% for 60 and 90 mg/m2 respectively (p=0.12). Overall incidence of Grade ≥3 AEs regardless of relationship to treatment was reported in 81 vs. 88% for 60 and 90 mg/m2 treatment arms respectively (p=0.42).There was a slightly higher but non-significant difference in Grade ≥3 thrombocytopenia (51 vs 38%) and pneumonia (20 vs. 13%) for the 90 mg/m2 arm compared to 60 mg/m2. Early 8-week any-cause mortality occurred in 3/102 patients treated (3%), 2 at 60 and 1 at 90 mg/m2. Follow up for survival is still ongoing. Conclusions: SC SGI-110 is a well-tolerated novel HMA with biological and clinical activity in the treatment of Int and HR MDS, and CMML patients with particularly promising activity in patients previously treated with azacitidine or decitabine. Clinical responses, transfusion independence, DNA demethylation as assessed by LINE-1, and Safety did not significantly differ between the 2 treatment doses. Disclosures Tibes: Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Rosenblat:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Yee:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Griffiths:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Issa:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy, Research Funding. Naim:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Taverna:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Hao:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Azab:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Roboz:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy.
A Phase I/II Combination Of RAD001 (Everolimus) and Lenalidomide For Relapsed Lymphoid Malignancy: Phase I Results
Reeder, Craig B. , Gano, Katherine, Nichols, Craig, Toro, Angela, Johnson, Daniel E. , Johnston, Patrick B. , Leis, José F., Nowakowski, Grzegorz S. , Porrata, Luis F. , Slack, James L., Ansell, Stephen M. , Dueck, Amylou C. , Johnson, Daniel, Habermann, Thomas M. , Mıkhael, Joseph , Colgan, Joseph P. , Witzig, Thomas E.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 122 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 4350-4350

10.1182/blood.v122.21.4350.4350 Get It

Abstract Introduction Outcomes have improved in treating lymphoid malignancies but relapse remains an ongoing issue. The mTOR inhibitor, everolimus (RAD) and lenalidomide (LEN) have both shown clinically significant activity as single agents in patients with relapsed and refractory (R/R) Hodgkin (HL) and non-Hodgkin (NHL) lymphomas. The low toxicity and differing mechanisms of action were explored further by combining these active agents. A phase I/II clinical trial of the mTOR inhibitor everolimus (RAD) and lenalidomide (LEN) was designed to explore the tolerability, toxicity and to determine the MTD of this combination for Phase II study. The phase I data is reported here. Methods This Phase I/II trial for patients with R/R lymphoid malignancy opened at Mayo Clinic between January 2011 and May 2013 and utilized a standard cohort of 3+3 design to determine the MTD of the combination. Eligibility required age≥18, biopsy proven relapsed or refractory NHL or HL, ECOG PS 0, 1 or 2, measurable disease, Hb >9g/dl, ANC ≥1200/uL, platelet ≥ 50,000/uL, creatinine ≤1.5xULN and willingness to sign informed consent. Women of child bearing potential had pregnancy testing and all patients followed recommendations for contraception. Dose limiting toxicity was defined in cycle 1 as Gr 4 neutropenia ≥7days or platelets ≤ 25,000 ≥7days, grade 4 infection or grade ≥3 non-Heme toxicity at least possibly related to treatment per CTCAE v4.0. The starting dose (level 0) was RAD 5mg daily + LEN 10 mg/d X 21d in a 28-day cycle. Results Twenty-five patients were enrolled on the phase I portion and 23 are evaluable for analysis. The median age was 63 years (23-82) and 18 (78%) were male. Sixty-five percent had stage IV disease and 43% had 4 or more prior treatments (1- ≥5) including stem cell transplantation in 39%. Histologies included HL (n=3) and NHL (n=20)(DLBCL = 11, FL-III = 2, LPL = 3, MCL = 1, MF = 1, and other = 2). Two DLTs (rash, Gr4 neutropenia) were reported at the starting dose (level 0) and the protocol was amended for DLT definition change. At dose level -1 (RAD 5mg daily + LEN 5mg/d X 21d) a DLT (Gr4 neutropenia) was seen in only 1 of 6 patients so the study was re-opened to dose level 0 and 3 additional patients were treated without developing a DLT. At dose level +1 (RAD 5 mg daily + LEN 15mg/d X 21d) 1 Gr3 rash occurred and 2 patients experienced Gr4 neutropenia. Therefore the MTD was determined to be RAD 5mgdaily + LEN 10 mg/d X 21d. At least 1 Gr≥3 adverse event was seen in 91% of patients. The most common Gr≥3 toxicities were neutropenia (57%), leucopenia (52%), thrombocytopenia (39%), fatigue (22%), and anemia (13%). Eight of 23 patients (35%) had Gr≥3 infection. Five patients discontinued study due to adverse events. One death on study occurred due to disease progression. Three patients continue on therapy. Responses have been seen in 4 patients and 10 patients have stable disease, encouraging signs in this heavily pretreated population. Conclusions This phase I/II trial of everolimus and lenalidomide in malignant lymphoma shows the combination to be tolerable with neutropenia as the main dose limiting toxicity. The MTD of this combination is RAD 5mg daily and LEN 10 mg/d X 21 d. Encouraging responses were seen. The phase II study has opened with 2 patients accrued to date. Updated results will be presented. This trial is sponsored by Novartis and Celgene Disclosures: Reeder: Celgene: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Millenium: Research Funding. Off Label Use: lenalidomide and everolimus are not approved for treatment of lymphoma. Nowakowski:Celgene: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Witzig:Celgene: Research Funding.
Investigation of MLN4924 Alone and in Combination with Bcl-2 Inhibitors in Hematopoietic Stem Cells and Progenitors in Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Knorr, Katherine , Hess, Allan D., Karp, Judith E. , Smith, B. Douglas , Kaufmann, Scott H.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3603-3603

10.1182/blood.v124.21.3603.3603 Get It

MLN4924, a novel chemotherapeutic agent designed to inhibit the Nedd8 Activating Enzyme (NAE), has shown promise in early clinical testing in relapsed and refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). NAE inhibition prevents transfer of the Nedd8 protein to Cullin Ring Ligases (CRLs), leading to their inactivation and subsequent accumulation of the protein substrates they normally ubiquitinate and target for degradation by the proteasome. In malignant cells treated with MLN4924, various CRL substrates accumulate and induce a cytotoxic effect. Importantly, the substrates responsible for these effects vary among different malignancies depending on basal gene expression patterns. In order to shed light on the mechanism of MLN4924 anti-leukemic effects and identify potential mechanisms of resistance, the effects of MLN4924 on AML cell lines and primary AML samples were examined in vitro and in vivo. These studies identified c-Myc as the critical substrate governing the cytotoxic effect. In particular, we observed c-Myc transactivation of the PMAIP1 gene, leading to expression of pro-apoptotic protein Noxa, which functions to neutralize Mcl-1, activate Bak and Bax to allow release of cytochrome c from the outer mitochondrial membrane, and induce apoptosis. Importantly, MLN4924-induced Noxa upregulation was prevented by c-Myc shRNA; and MLN4924-induced killing was markedly diminished by Noxa siRNA. In further experiments, a synergistic cytotoxic effect was seen when MLN4924 was applied to AML cell lines in combination with agents that inhibit anti-apoptotic proteins other than Mcl-1, such as BH3 mimetics ABT-263 (inhibits Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and Bcl-2) and ABT-199 (inhibits Bcl-2). Because expression of anti-apoptotic proteins within leukemia samples and between different AMLs is variable, and Mcl-1 upregulation often contributes to drug resistance and relapse in AML, this combination may be advantageous in several clinical settings. To follow up on the effects we observed with MLN4924 alone and in combination with BH3 mimetics, we have designed a multi-parameter flow cytometry based assay to assess response to these agents among hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and progenitor populations in primary leukemia bone marrow isolates treated ex vivo. Pilot studies conducted in mononuclear cell fractions containing normal HSCs and hematopoietic progenitors isolated from umbilical cord blood did not undergo apoptosis in response to MLN4924. Ongoing studies aim to specifically assess whether MLN4924 alone or in combination with other anti-leukemic agents induce apoptosis or alter expression of CD47 (an anti-phagocytic protein frequently upregulated in AML) in HSCs and hematopoietic progenitor cell populations within primary AML bone marrow isolates. As our understanding of how HSCs and hematopoietic progenitors contribute to AML initiation and progression advances, the need to target various populations will emerge and may vary depending on disease stage. It will be critical to ascertain whether HSCs and other populations are sensitive or resistant to agents such as MLN4924 and others in order to formulate and apply efficient targeted therapies. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Inherited Loss of Samsn1 Contributes to Increased Risk of MGUS and MM through Effects on Multiple Cell Types, Including B-Cells, Transformed Myeloma Cells, and Macrophages
Chu, Liang , Serie, Daniel, Vachon, Celine M. , Lu, Lan, Hurchla, Michelle A., Wang, Dingyan , Liu, Pengyuan , Vij, Ravi , Colditz, Graham A. , Weilbaecher, Katherine N. , Colditz, Graham A , Amend, Sarah R. , Wilson, William Cody , Chu, Liang, Vachon, Celine M. , Su, Xinming , Tomasson, Michael H.

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 124 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 2075-2075

10.1182/blood.v124.21.2075.2075 Get It

Abstract Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignancy of plasma B-cells that is invariably preceded by monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), a pre-neoplastic plasma cell proliferative disorder. C57Bl/KaLwRij (KaLwRij) is a spontaneous inbred mouse strain predisposed to benign idiopathic paraproteinemia (BIP), a plasma cell dyscrasia that parallels many features of human pathology including progression to myeloma. In both humans and mice, the genetic basis for MGUS/MM risk is unknown. We sought to identify the genetic basis for MGUS/MM risk in KaLwRij mice to shed light on genes or pathways that mediate disease risk in humans. Using an integrative approach, we combined KaLwRij x B6 haplotype analysis (418 genes) and a MM patient association study (180 genes) to identify five candidate genes likely to contribute to both murine BIP-susceptibility and human MM risk. Surprisingly, we found KaLwRij mice had homozygous germline deletion of one of the five candidate genes, Samsn1, a putative negative regulator of B-cell activation. Consistent with the reported inhibitory function of SAMSN1 in B-cells, KaLwRij mice had enhanced naïve B-cell response in vitro following stimulation with IL4 and LPS and in vivo following immunization. We found that re-expression of Samsn1 in KaLwRij-derived myeloma cell line 5TGM1 decreased MM tumor growth in vitro, suggesting that loss of Samsn1 contributes to tumor growth in part through a cell intrinsic mechanism. Importantly, germline risk alleles may also influence cell types beyond the pre-malignant B-cells. It is established that the host environment also plays a critical role in supporting myeloma growth in KaLwRij mice. We found that Samsn1 is highly expressed in macrophages, but not in other MM-supportive cell types including osteoclasts and bone marrow stromal cells. Myeloma-associated macrophages play critical roles in supporting tumor growth and are broadly classified as anti-tumor M1 macrophages and tumor-promoting M2 macrophages. Microarray analysis of macrophages from B6 and KaLwRij mice prior to onset of BIP revealed three differentially expressed genes, but only one, Samsn1, is conserved in the human genome. We found that both unpolararized primary peritoneal and MCSF cultured bone marrow macrophages from healthy KaLwRij mice had markedly elevated expression of pro-tumorigenic M2 macrophage markers FIZZ1 and YM1 compared to B6 controls, despite the absence of activating cytokines. To confirm that loss of Samsn1 influenced macrophage activation and M2 polarization, we obtained bone marrow macrophages from mice with a targeted deletion of Samsn1 and found that unpolarized Samsn1-/- cells had similarly increased pro-tumor M2 macrophage marker expression. To evaluate the biologic significance of Samsn1 loss in macrophages on MM tumor growth, we established 5TGM1 MM tumors and injected M2 polarized macrophages from B6, KaLwRij, or Samsn1-/- mice. We found that MM tumor burden was markedly enhanced by the addition of a Samsn1-/- or KaLwRij macrophages compared to wild type macrophages. Thus, we found that loss of Samsn1 in macrophages enhances M2 polarization, prior to MGUS/MM development and can promote established myeloma tumor growth. Together, this data suggests that Samsn1 is a gene contributing to BIP-susceptibility in KaLwRij mice through mutually exclusive functions in multiple cell types including B-cells and macrophages. It is likely that SAMSN1 and its pathway members contribute to human MM progression, and may represent a point for preventative therapeutic intervention. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Evaluation of Prosthetic Valve Function by Platelet Function Analysis and Von Willebrand Factor Indices
Wysokinska, Ewa , Duello, Katherine, Blackshear, Joseph L., Chen, Dong

Blood | October 10, 2019 | Volume: 120 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1128-1128

10.1182/blood.v120.21.1128.1128 Get It

Abstract Abstract 1128 Background Dysfunctional or mismatched prosthetic heart valves can results in high shear stress related von Willebrand factor (VWF) impairment, and clinical bleeding. This mechanism is similar to that seen in aortic stenosis patients, where gastrointestinal bleeding related to VWF multimer loss is well described (Heyde syndrome). In this study, we compared the results of VWF testing of patients with normally functioning cardiac valve prostheses, dysfunctional prosthetic valves, severe native aortic stenosis, and normal controls. Methods A total of 75 patients, 31 female and 44 male with a median age of 79.5 years were recruited to this study. Thirty patients had severe aortic stenosis (mean gradient > 40 mm Hg); 39 patients had normally functioning prosthetic valves, 21 aortic (AVR) and 18 mitral valves (MVR); and 6 patients had with dysfunctional valves (4 aortic and 2 mitral). Whole blood and plasma samples were drawn from patients and tested for platelet function analyzer-100 collagen ADP closure time (PFA-CADP), VWF antigen (VWF:Ag), VWF activity by latex immunoassay (VWF:Ltx), VWF multimer analysis and VWF multimer densitometry ratio of large vs medium to low molecular weight multimers (>15 mers/2–15 mers). Results The 6 dysfunctional prosthetic valve patients included patient-prosthesis mismatch (2) and (one each), thrombosed mechanical aortic prosthesis, torn biological aortic prosthesis, severe tissue mitral prosthetic regurgitation, and post-mitral valve repair severe mitral regurgitation. Four of six patients had clinically significant bleeding. Most aortic stenosis and all 6 prosthetic dysfunction patients had abnormal VWF multimers which is rare in normally functioning prostheses and completely absent in normal donors. VWF:Ltx/Ag was lower in AS and MVR than normal. VWF:Ltx/Ag ratio, VWF:multimer ratio and PFA-CADP were all significantly abnormal in patients with dysfunctional prosthetic valve. VWF:multimer ratios in normally functioning prostheses tended to be intermediate between normals and than those of patients with severe AS or prosthetic valve dysfunction (Table). Conclusions VWF testing including quantitative von Willebrand multimer analysis and PFA-CADP reliably separate dysfunctional from normally functioning cardiac prostheses, and should be considered in the evaluation of patients with cardiac prostheses, especially those who have clinically significant bleeding. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.