Citations 336

Dynamics and survival associations of T cell receptor clusters in patients with pleural mesothelioma treated with immunotherapy

Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer | June 7, 2023 | Volume: 11 | Issue: 6 | Pages: e006035

10.1136/jitc-2022-006035 | PMID 37279993

Background Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are now a first-line treatment option for patients with pleural mesothelioma with the recent approval of ipilimumab and nivolumab. Mesothelioma has a low tumor mutation burden and no robust predictors of survival with ICI. Since ICIs enable adaptive antitumor immune responses, we investigated T-cell receptor (TCR) associations with survival in participants from two clinical trials treated with ICI. Methods We included patients with pleural mesothelioma who were treated with nivolumab (NivoMes, NCT02497508) or nivolumab and ipilimumab (INITIATE, NCT03048474) after first-line therapy. TCR sequencing was performed with the ImmunoSEQ assay in 49 and 39 pretreatment and post-treatment patient peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples. These data were integrated with TCR sequences found in bulk RNAseq data by TRUST4 program in 45 and 35 pretreatment and post-treatment tumor biopsy samples and TCR sequences from over 600 healthy controls. The TCR sequences were clustered into groups of shared antigen specificity using GIANA. Associations of TCR clusters with overall survival were determined by cox proportional hazard analysis. Results We identified 4.2 million and 12 thousand complementarity-determining region 3 (CDR3) sequences from PBMCs and tumors, respectively, in patients treated with ICI. These CDR3 sequences were integrated with 2.1 million publically available CDR3 sequences from healthy controls and clustered. ICI-enhanced T-cell infiltration and expanded T cell diversity in tumors. Cases with TCR clones in the top tertile in the pretreatment tissue or in circulation had significantly better survival than the bottom two tertiles (p<0.04). Furthermore, a high number of shared TCR clones between pretreatment tissue and in circulation was associated with improved survival (p=0.01). To potentially select antitumor clusters, we filtered for clusters that were (1) not found in healthy controls, (2) recurrent in multiple patients with mesothelioma, and (3) more prevalent in post-treatment than pretreatment samples. The detection of two-specific TCR clusters provided significant survival benefit compared with detection of 1 cluster (HR<0.001, p=0.026) or the detection of no TCR clusters (HR=0.10, p=0.002). These two clusters were not found in bulk tissue RNA-seq data and have not been reported in public CDR3 databases. Conclusions We identified two unique TCR clusters that were associated with survival on treatment with ICI in patients with pleural mesothelioma. These clusters may enable approaches for antigen discovery and inform future targets for design of adoptive T cell therapies.
A novel patient-centric longitudinal data registry platform to generate insights into real-world cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) clinical practice.

Journal of Clinical Oncology | June 4, 2023 | Volume: 41 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: 4084-4084

10.1200/jco.2023.41.16_suppl.4084

4084 Background: Treatment of advanced CCA has changed dramatically over the past five years with the advent of molecularly targeted therapy, now approved in the 2nd line and beyond. However, real world utilization of molecular profiling and targeted therapy is still unknown and these data are critical to empower treatment decision-making. Methods: In 2019, the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (CCF) and Ciitizen (a wholly owned subsidiary of Invitae Corporation) collaboratively launched a registry platform that directly consents patients and collects comprehensive medical records. De-identified data including clinical characteristics, molecular testing, interventions, and outcomes are extracted and standardized for research use. The data is longitudinal with regularly planned updates; registry participants can be re-engaged to obtain additional data and communicate tailored insights. Results: We quantified the rate of molecular testing, the presence of targetable biomarkers, and the utilization and outcomes on matched targeted therapies for 372 individuals with CCA. 328 (88.2%) individuals had molecular testing, with the identified targetable mutations and matched therapies reported. Of 328 individuals who had molecular testing, 111 (33.8%) individuals had one or more targetable mutations (116 mutations total). Only 46% (51) of individuals with targetable mutations received targeted therapy. Of the 54% (60) individuals with targetable mutations that did not receive any matched therapy, the majority (61.7%, 37) were in early disease or first line of treatment and therefore not yet eligible for targeted therapy. These individuals will be informed that based on their molecular profile, a targeted therapy may be an option, and suggest they discuss with their treating physician. Conclusions: A novel prospectively-maintained database registry for CCA has been formed in collaboration between a patient advocacy organization (CCF) and industry (Invitae). Prevalence of actionable biomarkers was higher than historically expected and may reflect patient utilization bias of the registry platform. Molecular profiling and access to targeted therapeutics remains suboptimal at this time in CCA. Future directions for the registry include identifying and targeting disparities in care and supporting biopharmaceutical development and regulatory decisions. [Table: see text]
Updated dose escalation results for ReFocus, a first-in-human study of highly selective FGFR2 inhibitor RLY-4008 in cholangiocarcinoma and other solid tumors.

Journal of Clinical Oncology | June 4, 2023 | Volume: 41 | Issue: 16_suppl | Pages: 4009-4009

10.1200/jco.2023.41.16_suppl.4009

4009 Background: Oncogenic FGFR2 alterations (fusions/rearrangements (f/r), amplifications, mutations) represent a broad therapeutic opportunity as they drive multiple solid tumors, particularly cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). However, off-isoform toxicity and on-target resistance limit the benefit of approved pan-FGFR inhibitors (FGFRi). RLY-4008 is the first potent, highly selective, oral FGFR2 inhibitor designed to overcome these limitations by targeting FGFR2 driver alterations and resistance mutations. Here, we present updated dose escalation results from ReFocus (NCT04526106), a seamless Phase I/II, open label study evaluating the safety and preliminary efficacy of RLY-4008 in patients (pts) with advanced, FGFR2-altered solid tumors. Methods: Adult pts received RLY-4008 BID, QD, QD discontinuous on a 4-week (wk) cycle following a Bayesian Optimal Interval design. Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), PK, ctDNA and anti-tumor activity (RECIST v1.1) were assessed. Results: As of 30 Jan 23, 116 pts (82 f/r, 27 mutation, 6 amplification) received RLY-4008 at doses of 20-200 mg/day, including 91 with CCA. 50% had prior FGFRi, and median lines of prior therapies was 3 (1-15). 28/46 ct-DNA-evaluable pts with CCA with prior FGFRi had ≥1 baseline resistance mutation, most commonly at FGFR2 N549X (23/46) or V564X (17/46). RLY-4008 had favorable PK with doses ≥40 mg QD providing FGFR2 occupancy ≥90%. 70 mg QD was the RP2D based on PK, safety, anti-tumor activity and exposure-dependent tumor regressions in FGFRi-naïve CCA f/r pts. Anti-tumor activity was observed in CCA and solid tumors across doses and FGFR2 alterations with radiographic tumor reductions in 74 (64%), SD/PR in 83 (72%), including 4/4 (100%) FGFRi-naïve CCA f/r pts at RP2D achieving confirmed PR. Clinically meaningful disease control and durable responses were observed in pts with FGFR2 f/r CCA. Overall, median treatment duration was 24 wks (range <1-108 wks). 105 pts discontinued (PD (81%), AE (3%), other (7%)). Across doses, most common TRAEs were low-grade PPE (57%), stomatitis (56%), dry mouth (38%), alopecia (28%), and dry eye (22%). No grade 4/5 TRAEs were observed. Conclusions: These encouraging dose escalation data confirm the broad therapeutic potential of highly selective FGFR2 targeting with RLY-4008 by demonstrating encouraging initial efficacy across FGFR2-altered solid tumors and genomic alterations, with a differentiated safety profile that avoids FGFR1- and FGFR4-related toxicity. Phase 2 of ReFocus continues across solid tumors and with registrational intent in FGFRi-naïve, FGFR2 f/r CCA. Clinical trial information: NCT04526106 . [Table: see text]
Futibatinib, an Irreversible FGFR1-4 Inhibitor for the Treatment of FGFR -Aberrant Tumors

The Oncologist | May 31, 2023 | Volume: 28 | Issue: 11 | Pages: 928-943

10.1093/oncolo/oyad149 | PMID 37390492

Abstract Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR) are emerging as an important therapeutic target for patients with advanced, refractory cancers. Most selective FGFR inhibitors under investigation show reversible binding, and their activity is limited by acquired drug resistance. This review summarizes the preclinical and clinical development of futibatinib, an irreversible FGFR1-4 inhibitor. Futibatinib stands out among FGFR inhibitors because of its covalent binding mechanism and low susceptibility to acquired resistance. Preclinical data indicated robust activity of futibatinib against acquired resistance mutations in the FGFR kinase domain. In early-phase studies, futibatinib showed activity in cholangiocarcinoma, and gastric, urothelial, breast, central nervous system, and head and neck cancers harboring various FGFR aberrations. Exploratory analyses indicated clinical benefit with futibatinib after prior FGFR inhibitor use. In a pivotal phase II trial, futibatinib demonstrated durable objective responses (42% objective response rate) and tolerability in previously treated patients with advanced intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma harboring FGFR2 fusions or rearrangements. A manageable safety profile was observed across studies, and patient quality of life was maintained with futibatinib treatment in patients with cholangiocarcinoma. Hyperphosphatemia, the most common adverse event with futibatinib, was well managed and did not lead to treatment discontinuation. These data show clinically meaningful benefit with futibatinib in FGFR2-rearrangement-positive cholangiocarcinoma and provide support for further investigation of futibatinib across other indications. Future directions for this agent include elucidating mechanisms of resistance and exploration of combination therapy approaches.
Epigenomics May Begin To Explain In Vitro Differential Response To Hypomethylating Agents In MMR-D Hypermethylated Endometrial Cancer

Epigenomics | May 22, 2023 | Volume: 15 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 283-292

10.2217/epi-2023-0026 | PMID 37212177

Targeting leukemia inhibitory factor in pancreatic adenocarcinoma

Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs | April 24, 2023 | Volume: 32 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 387-399

10.1080/13543784.2023.2206558 | PMID 37092893

Abstract CT098: A first-in-human phase 1 study of LY3410738, a covalent inhibitor of mutant IDH, in advanced IDH-mutant cholangiocarcinoma and other solid tumors

Cancer Research | April 14, 2023 | Volume: 83 | Issue: 8_Supplement | Pages: CT098-CT098

10.1158/1538-7445.am2023-ct098

Abstract Background: Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1/2 (IDH1/2) is mutated in a subset of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), gliomas, and other solid tumors. LY3410738 is a potent, selective, covalent, dual inhibitor of IDH1/2 mutations (IDH1/2m). LY3410738 binds covalently at a novel binding site, enabling continued potency in preclinical models in the setting of second site IDH resistance mutations. We present initial results from the first-in-human phase 1 study of oral LY3410738 in patients (pts) with IDH1/2m CCA, and IDH1m glioma or other solid tumors. Methods: Dose escalation (3+3 design) evaluated LY3410738 monotherapy in advanced IDHm CCA and other solid tumors (NCT04521686). Key objectives included determining the RP2D, safety, PK, PD (inhibition of plasma D-2-HG), and preliminary antitumor activity. Results: As of 28 July 2022, 80 pts including 42 with CCA (33 IDH1m, 9 IDH2m), 27 with glioma (IDH1m), and 11 other tumor types (IDH1m) received LY3410738 dosed at 25-600 mg QD or 300 mg BID. Pts were median 52 years of age (range, 23-80) with a median of 2 prior therapies (range, 1-7). 19% of CCA pts had received prior IDH1 inhibitor. Median time on treatment was 3.7 months (range, 0.1-19). No DLTs or treatment related deaths were observed; the MTD was not reached. Treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs) ≥15% included nausea (35%), vomiting (21%), and decreased appetite (19%) and were mostly grade 1-2. Most frequent grade ≥3 TEAEs &gt;2% were anemia (4%), cholangitis (3%), headache (3%), decreased lymphocyte count (3%), and hyponatremia (3%). LY3410738 exposure was dose proportional. In pts with IDH1m cancers, LY3410738 achieved sustained D-2-HG inhibition at all dose levels, including in pts who received prior IDH1 inhibitor. In pts with IDH2m cancers, a higher dose (≥150 mg daily dose) was required for D-2-HG inhibition. Among the 42 pts with R/R CCA, the best response included 1 PR and 22 SD. Of the 22 glioma pts with contrast enhancing tumors, best response included 3 PR and 9 SD. Conclusions: LY3410738 demonstrated a favorable safety profile with potent and sustained D-2-HG inhibition in pts with IDH1/2m advanced solid tumors. Consistent with the expectations for IDH inhibitor monotherapy in this setting, CCA and glioma pts exhibited prolonged stable disease. RP2D evaluation is ongoing. Updated data on LY3410738 monotherapy will be presented at the meeting. Citation Format: Jordi Rodon, Lipika Goyal, Teresa Macarulla Mercade, Masafumi Ikeda, Shunsuke Kondo, Do-Youn Oh, Li-Yuan Bai, Makoto Ueno, Antoine Italiano, Kyriakos Papadopoulos, David Spigel, Sani H. Kizilbash, Rasha Cosman, Joon Oh Park, Li-Tzong Chen, Tomoya Yokota, Anita A. Turk, Chih-Yi Liao, Rachna Shroff, Anthony El-Khoueiry, Taroh Satoh, Antoine Hollebecque, Mitesh J. Borad, Nilofer Azad, Kurt A. Jaeckle, Herbert H. Loong, Jorge Adeva, Wei Peng Yong, Junjie Zhao, Hui Liu, Anna M. Szpurka, Ivelina Gueorguieva, Kamnesh R. Pradhan, Xiaojian Xu, James J. Harding. A first-in-human phase 1 study of LY3410738, a covalent inhibitor of mutant IDH, in advanced IDH-mutant cholangiocarcinoma and other solid tumors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 2 (Clinical Trials and Late-Breaking Research); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(8_Suppl):Abstract nr CT098.
Molecular profiling and treatment pattern differences between intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma

JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute | April 11, 2023 | Volume: 115 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 870-880

10.1093/jnci/djad046 | PMID 37040087

Abstract Background Treatment patterns for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ECC) differ, but limited studies exist comparing them. This study examines differences in molecular profiling rates and treatment patterns in these populations, focusing on use of adjuvant, liver-directed, targeted, and investigational therapies. Methods This multicenter collaboration included patients with ICC or ECC treated at 1 of 8 participating institutions. Retrospective data were collected on risk factors, pathology, treatments, and survival. Comparative statistical tests were 2-sided. Results Among 1039 patients screened, 847 patients met eligibility (ICC = 611, ECC = 236). Patients with ECC were more likely than those with ICC to present with early stage disease (53.8% vs 28.0%), undergo surgical resection (55.1% vs 29.8%), and receive adjuvant chemoradiation (36.5% vs 4.2%) (all P &lt; .00001). However, they were less likely to undergo molecular profiling (50.3% vs 64.3%) or receive liver-directed therapy (17.9% vs 35.7%), targeted therapy (4.7% vs 18.9%), and clinical trial therapy (10.6% vs 24.8%) (all P &lt; .001). In patients with recurrent ECC after surgery, the molecular profiling rate was 64.5%. Patients with advanced ECC had a shorter median overall survival than those with advanced ICC (11.8 vs 15.1 months; P &lt; .001). Conclusions Patients with advanced ECC have low rates of molecular profiling, possibly in part because of insufficient tissue. They also have low rates of targeted therapy use and clinical trial enrollment. While these rates are higher in advanced ICC, the prognosis for both subtypes of cholangiocarcinoma remains poor, and a pressing need exists for new effective targeted therapies and broader access to clinical trials.
CLO23-030: MC200402-Single-Arm Phase 2 Study of the FGFR Inhibitor Futibatinib (Futi) in Combination With Pembrolizumab (Pem) in Patients With FGF19 Expressing Advanced or Metastatic Hepatocellular Carcinoma (aHCC)

Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network | March 31, 2023 | Volume: 21 | Issue: 3.5 | Pages: CLO23-030

10.6004/jnccn.2022.7121

Phase 2 trial of bintrafusp alfa as second-line therapy for patients with locally advanced/metastatic biliary tract cancers

Hepatology | March 31, 2023 | Volume: 78 | Issue: 3 | Pages: 758-770

10.1097/hep.0000000000000365 | PMID 36999533

Background and Aims: Biliary tract cancers are rare, heterogeneous cancers with poor prognoses. Bintrafusp alfa, a first-in-class bifunctional fusion protein composed of the extracellular domain of TGF-βRII (a TGF-β “trap”) fused to a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody blocking programmed death ligand 1, was evaluated in patients with locally advanced/metastatic chemorefractory biliary tract cancers. Approach and Results: This multicenter, single-arm, open-label, phase 2 study (NCT03833661) enrolled adults with locally advanced or metastatic biliary tract cancer that was intolerant to or had failed first-line systemic platinum-based chemotherapy. Patients received 1200 mg bintrafusp alfa intravenously Q2W. The primary endpoint was confirmed objective response according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1 assessed by IRC. Secondary endpoints included duration of response, durable response rate, safety, progression-free survival, and overall survival. Between March 2019 and January 2020, 159 patients were enrolled. Median follow-up was 16.1 (range, 0.0–19.3) months; 17 patients (10.7%; 95% CI: 6.4%–16.6%) achieved an objective response. Median duration of response was 10.0 (range, 1.9–15.7) months; 10 patients (6.3%; 95% CI: 3.1%–11.3%) had a durable response (≥6 mo). Median progression-free survival was 1.8 months (95% CI: 1.7–1.8 mo); median overall survival was 7.6 months (95% CI: 5.8–9.7 mo). Overall survival rates were 57.9% (6 mo) and 38.8% (12 mo). Grade ≥3 adverse events occurred in 26.4% of patients, including one treatment-related death (hepatic failure). Frequent grade ≥3 adverse events included anemia (3.8%), pruritus (1.9%), and increased alanine aminotransferase (1.9%). Conclusions: Although this study did not meet its prespecified primary endpoint, bintrafusp alfa demonstrated clinical activity as second-line treatment in this hard-to-treat cancer, with durable responses and a manageable safety profile.