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Bahlis, Nizar Jacques

0000-0001-7353-7034

A5065238694 | I168635309

Mayo Clinic

University of Calgary

Citations 86

Ikaros-Dependent Downregulation of MYC with IMiDs in Myeloma (MM) Cells Is Mediated through the Depletion of the Acetylated Chromatin Reader BRD4 at Super-Enhancer Loci

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 4175-4175

10.1182/blood.v126.23.4175.4175

Abstract Background: IMiDs are now recognized to promote the proteasomal degradation of IKZF1/3 and the transcriptional repression of MYC and IRF4. MYC locus rearrangement is a recurrent somatic event in MM and results in MYC repositioning near superenhancers (such as IGH@, IGL@ and others). The mechanisms of IMiDs-mediated downregulation of MYC in MM cells is not well understood, in particular it is unclear how IMiDs alter the activity of the super-enhancers driving MYC transcription. Methods and results: Transcriptome analysis (RNAseq) of MM cells (OPM2 and MM1S) treated with lenalidomide or upon the silencing of IKZF3 (lentiviral delivery of dox-inducible IKZF3 shRNA) confirmed the downregulation of MYC, IRF4 and among others the upregulation of other genes of interest such as CD38, DKK1, PDL1, FOXO3 and a host of genes involved in interferon response. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) confirmed the enrichment of genes signatures associated with MYC as well as the interferon response. Notably, in t(4;14) MM cell lines we observed a significant downregulation of FGFR3 while the expression of WHSC1 was not affected. This finding was confirmed in a library of t(4;14) MM cell lines by qRT-PCR analysis. As FGFR3 is driven by the 3' IGH enhancer while WHSC1 is under the control of the intronic Em enhancer in t(4;14) MM cells, and in view of the known role of IKZF1/3 in class switch recombination, we postulated that IKZF1/3 regulate the 3' IGH enhancer activity and MYC expression in cells harbouring a MYC-IGH rearrangement. To validate this hypothesis we established the genome-wide distribution of IKZF1 in OPM2 and MM1S cells (both cell lines harbour an IGH-MYC rearrangement) by ChIP-Seq. Ikaros bound to 17660 loci of which 43% were associated with gene targets. Ikaros-binding motifs and other motifs such as STAT1, E2A, RUNX1 were also identified (MEME Tomtom and Jasper motif analysis) in the vicinity of Ikaros enrichment peaks. Importantly IKZF1 peaks also mapped to the IGH 3' enhancer loci and these results were confirmed by ChIP-PCR analysis. Of interest while no Ikaros peaks mapped to MYC (within 5 kb of TSS) by ChIP-seq, modest enrichment of Ikaros at MYC promoter was identified by ChIP-PCR in MM1S and KMS11 cells, and this enrichment was significantly attenuated by lenalidomide treatment. Since inhibition of MYC occurs as a consequence of depletion of the acetylated chromatin reader BRD4 at enhancers that drive MYC expression (Delmore et al., 2011), we examined the interaction between BRD4, IKZF1 and IMiDs treatment. Chip-Seq analysis revealed that BRD4 and IKZF1 are associated with most active enhancers and promoters in MM1S tumor cells. In particular, BRD4 and IKZF1 were enriched at the IGH 3'α2 enhancer locus. Importantly, treatment with lenalidomide (10μM, 4 hours), dramatically depleted IKZF1 and BRD4 enrichment at the 3' IGH enhancers (ChIP-PCR analysis). In contrast, treatment with the bromodomain inhibitor JQ1 depleted BRD4, but not IKZF1 from the IGH 3' enhancer locus. These findings suggest that IKZF1 regulates BRD4 binding to the 3' IGH enhancers and explain the selective effect of IMiDs on MYC transcription in transformed cells harboring a MYC rearrangement. In addition, these results suggest that IMiDs will affect MYC expression only in cells were MYC is driven by an IKZF1/IKZF3 responsive enhancer. Lastly we sought to explain how IKZF1 may regulate BRD4 enrichment at H3K27Ac marks in super-enhancer loci. Since Ikaros is a known integral component of the NuRD (nucleosome remodelling and histone deacetylase) complex, we examined whether lenalidomide treatment and the ensuing Ikaros depletion lead to local gain of NuRD at MYC TSS and depletion of H3K27 acetylation. CHD4 (helicase subunit of the NURD complex) and H3K27Ac ChIP-PCR analysis revealed significant accumulation of the NuRD complex at MYC TSS as well as reduced H3K27Ac at 3'IGH enhancers after IMiDs exposure in MM1S and OPM2 cells. Importantly, CHD4 silencing abrogated lenalidomide induced MYC transcriptional repression and cell death. Conclusion: In summary, our studies suggest that Ikaros drives MYC expression in MM cells harbouring an IGH-MYC rearrangement by regulating the accumulation of the acetylated chromatin reader BRD4 at the IGH 3' enhancer and preventing the NURD complex mediated depletion of H3K27Ac marks at these enhancers. Our findings also explain the IKZF1/3 dependent mechanism of IMiDs-mediated MYC transcriptional repression. Disclosures Neri: Celgene: Research Funding. Duggan:Jansen: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria. Keats:Translational Genomic Research Institute: Employment. Bahlis:Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Johnson & Johnson: Consultancy; Johnson & Johnson: Speakers Bureau; Johnson & Johnson: Research Funding; Amgen: Consultancy.
Baseline Peripheral Neuropathy Does Not Impact the Efficacy and Tolerability of the Novel Proteasome Inhibitor Carfilzomib (CFZ): Results of a Subset Analysis of a Phase 2 Trial In Patients with Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma (R/R MM)

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 3031-3031

10.1182/blood.v116.21.3031.3031

Abstract Abstract 3031 Background: Treatment-induced peripheral neuropathy (TIPN) can be a debilitating side-effect as well as a therapy-limiting complication in multiple myeloma (MM). Thalidomide (THAL) and bortezomib (BTZ) are two therapies frequently associated with TIPN in MM. Carfilzomib (CFZ) is a novel and highly selective epoxyketone proteasome inhibitor that differs from BTZ both structurally and mechanistically. CFZ overcomes BTZ-resistance in vitro, lacks the off-target activities of BTZ in preclinical studies, and does not cause neurotoxicity in long-term (6–9 month) chronic animal toxicology studies (Kirk et al. Blood, 2008). Single-agent CFZ produces durable responses in relapsed or refractory (R/R) MM without dose-limiting PN. Here we report on the clinical experience with single-agent CFZ in the Ph 2b PX-171-003-A1 trial in patients (pts) with R/R MM and Grade (G) 1/2 PN at study entry. Methods: Pts received CFZ at 20 mg/m2 IV, on Days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16 in a 28-day cycle (C) for the first C followed by 27 mg/m2 thereafter for up to 12 C. Pts completing 12 C were eligible to enter an extension study. Responses and progression were determined according to the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG) criteria and were assessed by an Independent Review Committee (IRC). PN data were collected for all pts on study and included neuropathy history, neurological physical exam and PN-related quality of life data (FACT-GOG/NTx v 4.0 scores) collected at screening. Prospective neurological exams and subjective reporting of PN occurred every 2 cycles until study discontinuation to proactively assess for PN. Adverse event (AE) data were also collected, with AEs reported as ‘neuropathy peripheral', ‘neuropathic pain', ‘neuropathy', and ‘peripheral sensory neuropathy' included as PN. AE reports of ‘paraesthesias' and ‘dysesthesias' were counted separately. Results: Of the 266 pts with R/R MM in PX-171-003-A1, 237 (89%) had a history of PN which was attributable to prior anti-myeloma therapy, including THAL (108 pts/41%), BTZ (134 pts/50%), or both BTZ and THAL (17 pts/6.4%). 206 of the 266 (77%) had G1/2 PN at baseline and a median disease duration of 5.9 years. This subset with active PN at baseline had received a median of 5 prior lines of therapy (range 1–20), with a median 13 anti-myeloma agents, and a median of 2 prior BTZ- and 1 prior THAL- containing regimens. Prior therapies included 100% BTZ, and 100% either THAL (77%) or prior lenalidomide (95%). Responses in the subset of pts with baseline PN were nearly identical to those seen in the full study population with an overall response rate (ORR; ≥ partial response [PR]) of 24% and a clinical benefit response rate (CBR; ≥ minimal response [MR]) of 36%. The median duration of response (≥PR) was 7.4 mo (95% CI 5.6–not reached) and median duration of MR was 6.3 months in both the overall and PN-baseline cohorts. OS and TTP data will also be reported. The most common treatment-emergent ≥G3 adverse events regardless of relationship to study drug were primarily hematologic and were as follows: thrombocytopenia (24%), anemia (21%), lymphopenia (11%), pneumonia (9%), neutropenia (9%), fatigue (7%), hypercalcemia (7%), and hyponatremia (6%). Although 77% of pts had G1/2 PN at baseline, new onset PN was infrequent with PN AEs of any grade reported in 31 (15%) pts and G3 PN reported in only 1 (0.4%) pt. New onset or worsening of paraesthesias (6.8%) and dysesthesias (0%) was also infrequent. Conclusions: Analysis of the subset of pts (77%) with active PN (G1/2) in this single-agent Ph 2 trial of CFZ in pts with R/R MM demonstrated that PN has no impact on depth or durability of responses, or on the tolerability of CFZ, in heavily pretreated pts with multiply relapsed and refractory MM. Reports of new or worsening PN were very uncommon, and paraesthesias and dysesthesia were generally infrequent and mild. CFZ can be given to pts with baseline PN with little risk of exacerbation; prolonged therapy is possible in this population. Disclosures: Martin: Celgene: Honoraria; Onyx: Consultancy. Singhal:Celgene: Speakers Bureau; Takeda/Millenium: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Onyx: Research Funding. Vij:Onyx: Honoraria. Wang:Celgene: Research Funding; Onyx: Research Funding; Millenium: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding. Stewart:Millennium: Consultancy; Celgene: Honoraria. Jagannath:Millenium, OrthoBiotec, Celgene, Merck, Onyx: Honoraria; Imedex, Medicom World Wide, Optum Health Education, PER Group: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Lonial:Millennium: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Research Funding; Onyx: Consultancy, Research Funding. Jakubowiak:Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria; Centocor Ortho Biotech: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Exelixis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Kukreti:Celgene: Honoraria; Roche: Honoraria; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria. Alsina:Millenium: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy. Zonder:Millenium: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Cephalon: Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria. Wong:Onyx Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Vallone:Onyx Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Chang:Onyx Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Kauffman:Onyx Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Siegel:Millenium: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria.
A Randomized Phase III Trial of Thalidomide and Prednisone as Maintenance Therapy Following Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation (ASCT) In Patients with Multiple Myeloma (MM): The NCIC CTG MY.10 Trial

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 39-39

10.1182/blood.v116.21.39.39

Abstract Abstract 39 Three randomized trials have previously reported a progression-free survival (PFS) advantage for patients receiving thalidomide (T) maintenance post ASCT in MM. Two trials reported an overall survival (OS) advantage but the largest trial reported shows no OS advantage and in very high risk MM the use of T was deleterious. Recent trial reports demonstrate a PFS but not yet an OS advantage for patients receiving maintenance lenalidomide. We report results of NCIC CTG MY.10 which compared treatment with T (200 mg daily) and prednisone (50 mg alternate days) (T/P) until progression versus observation alone when used as maintenance therapy following ASCT. Importantly, OS was the 1ry endpoint of this study, 2ry endpoints were PFS, quality of life (QoL), toxicity, and the incidence of venous thromboembolism events (VTE). Eligibility: Patients with MM who had ASCT within 1 year of beginning initial treatment for their disease. Patients were randomized 60–100 days post ASCT and had no other medical condition precluding long term use of T/P. Results: 332 patients were enrolled. Median age was 58 years and the arms were balanced. Patients were stratified by age (<60 or >60), and CR status post transplant. Median follow up is 4 years. Only 14% of patients were in CR post transplant. 111 patients died (50 versus 61 in T/P vs. observation). The median OS was 5 years for observation, and has not yet been reached for T/P, however T/P maintenance therapy did not significantly prolong OS: p = 0.18, HR of maintenance vs. observation 0.77 (95% CI 0.53–1.13). The 4 year survival rate was 68% for T/P and 60% for observation. Age and response to transplant had no significant association with OS (p=0.21), while higher disease stage was associated with shorter OS (p=0.03). The median PFS was 28 months for T/P versus 17 months for observation: p<0.0001, HR of T/P vs. observation 0.56 (95% CI 0.43 – 0.73). The 4 year PFS rate was 32% for T/P treated patients versus 14% for patients on observation. At relapse, treatment by arm (T/P vs observation) included lenalidomide (39 vs 34%), T (13 vs 22%) or bortezomib (50 versus 46%). Non hematologic toxicities were seen in more patients with treatment (Grade 3: 92% T/P vs 49% observation, grade 4: 16% vs 7%). Common toxicities of all grades that were significantly higher in T/P treated patients included hyperglycemia, edema, hypertension, fatigue, Cushingoid appearance, constipation, mouth dryness, dyspepsia, anxiety, memory loss, sensory neuropathy, tremor, blurred vision, depressed consciousness, cataracts, dyspnea and bruising. 7% of patients on maintenance T/P developed a VTE in the absence of prophylaxis versus 0% on observation. NCIC CTG standardized response analysis was use to compare QoL data between the 2 treatment arms. Overall, patients on T/P had worse QoL specifically in physical (p=0.07), role (p=0.08), cognitive (p = 0.01) and global (p=0.06) domains, and worse symptoms with dyspnea (p = 0.0007), constipation (p<0.0001), thirst (p=0.003), swelling in leg (p=0.03), numbness (p=0.02), dry mouth (p<0.0001), and balance problems (p<0.0001). However, patients on T/P reported improvement in appetite (p 0.02), and sleep (p=0.04). Conclusions: T/P maintenance did not improve overall survival, the primary objective of this trial, although a trend in favor of T/P was seen. In contrast, PFS was significantly improved in the T/P arm while toxicity was demonstrably increased and quality of life diminished. Disclosures: Stewart: Millennium: Consultancy; Celgene: Honoraria. Trudel:Celgene: Honoraria. Bahlis:Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. White:Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding. Meyer:Celgene: Honoraria.
Carfilzomib: High Single Agent Response Rate with Minimal Neuropathy Even In High-Risk Patients

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 116 | Issue: 21 | Pages: 1938-1938

10.1182/blood.v116.21.1938.1938

Abstract Abstract 1938 Background: Carfilzomib (CFZ), a selective, epoxyketone proteasome inhibitor, produces potent, sustained proteasome inhibition and lacks many of the off-target activities associated with bortezomib (BTZ). Durable single-agent activity with CFZ has been observed in patients (pts) with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (R/R MM) who have received multiple prior therapies as well as in pts with advanced stage disease or significant comorbidities (Jagannath et al. ASCO 2009 Meeting. Abstract 8504). PX-171-004, is an ongoing Phase 2 study of single-agent CFZ in pts with relapsed or refractory MM following 1–3 prior therapies. Here we present updated data on the BTZ-naïve pts and report on activity observed in pts with significant comorbidities or poor-risk cytogenetic or FISH markers for myeloma. Methods: Enrolled pts received either 20 mg/m2 for all treatment cycles, or a stepped-up, dose-escalating regimen of 20 mg/m2 for Cycle 1 and 27 mg/m2 for all treatment cycles thereafter. CFZ was administered on Days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 every 28 days (one cycle), for a maximum of 12 cycles. Dexamethasone, 4mg, was administered prior to CFZ in Cycle 1 only. For the present analyses, pts were stratified according to several baseline criteria including ECOG performance score, cytogenetic or FISH markers of high-risk disease per mSMART criteria [del17p, t(4;14), t(14;16), del13 by karyotype and hypodiploidy] and serum ß2-microglobulin. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR) per International Uniform Response Criteria for Multiple Myeloma. Results: Data are available for 110 BTZ-naïve pts. Baseline pt characteristics included: 60% of ECOG PS ≥1; 53% baseline neuropathy Grade 1/2; 30% moderately impaired renal function (CrCl <60 mL/min), and 17% diabetes. Approximately 13% of pts had cytogenetic or FISH markers of poor prognosis. The ORR for the entire BTZ-naïve population was 48%; the ORR for BTZ-naïve pts receiving 20–27 mg/m2 was 54%. The ORRs stratified according to dose and baseline measurements are detailed in the following table. The most common treatment-emergent AEs, regardless of relationship to study drug, were fatigue (61%), nausea (43%), anemia (39%), dyspnea (36%), cough (34%), headache (31%), thrombocytopenia and upper respiratory infections (30% each) and were primarily ≤ Grade 2 in severity. Grade 3/4 AEs occurring in >5% of pts included lymphopenia, neutropenia, pneumonia, thrombocytopenia, anemia and fatigue. Of note, there were no discontinuations for peripheral neuropathy and only 1 pt with impaired renal function at baseline was discontinued for creatinine increases. Twenty-four pts remain on study and 23% have completed the protocol-specified 12 cycles of therapy. Seventeen pts (20%) elected to continue CFZ on an extended treatment protocol (PX-171-010); no cumulative toxicities have been noted. Conclusions: Single-agent CFZ achieves high response rates in BTZ-naïve pts with relapsed myeloma, with minimal neuropathy, even in the setting of high-risk disease. In addition, single-agent CFZ continues to demonstrate long-term tolerability even in pts with comorbid conditions, including renal insufficiency and diabetes, who may benefit from a steroid-sparing treatment regimen. The data from this ongoing trial show that CFZ is a promising new treatment for multiple myeloma in the relapsed or refractory setting. Disclosures: Vij: Onyx: Honoraria. Kaufman:Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Millenium: Consultancy; Merck: Research Funding. Jakubowiak:Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria; Centocor Ortho Biotec: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Exelixis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Jagannath:Millenium, OrthoBiotec, Celgene, Merck, Onyx: Honoraria; Imedex, Medicom World Wide, Optum Health Education, PER Group: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Kukreti:Celgene: Honoraria; Roche: Honoraria; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria. Alsina:Millenium: Consultancy, Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy. Gabrail:Millenium: Research Funding. Vesole:Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Millenium: Speakers Bureau. Le:Onyx Pharmaceuticals: Employment. Wang:Celgene: Research Funding; Onyx: Research Funding; Millenium: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding.
A Pharmacogenetic Study of the NCIC CTG Clinical Trial My.10: Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms, Prognosis, and Predicting Benefit from IMiD® Compound Maintenance Therapy Following Autologous Stem Cell Transplant for Multiple Myeloma

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 126 | Issue: 23 | Pages: 2960-2960

10.1182/blood.v126.23.2960.2960

Abstract Introduction: In multiple myeloma, randomized trials of maintenance therapy using thalidomide or lenalidomide following autologous transplant (ASCT) demonstrated prolonged progression-free survival (PFS), but overall survival benefit was inconsistent. The MY.10 trial (n=332) demonstrated improved PFS with thalidomide-prednisone maintenance therapy, but quality of life was inferior and overall survival was not improved. As a randomized trial with a no-treatment control arm and biospecimen collection, MY.10 provides a unique opportunity to identify predictors of benefit from therapy that could be used to personalize treatment. Immunomodulatory drug action is mediated in part through binding to cereblon (CRBN) and downregulation of IRF4. Candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected from the CRBN/IRF4 pathway and other genes previously associated with myeloma prognosis, drug response and toxicity from literature review. The aim of this study was to investigate associations between candidate SNPs and benefit from immunomodulatory compound-based maintenance therapy, as well as prognostic impact. Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from samples preserved in Trizol¨. SNPs were genotyped using TaqMan¨ genotyping assays on the ViiA7 qPCR platform. Analysis was performed on 187 patients with available samples and clinical data (86 in treatment arm; 101 in observation arm). Cox regression models were performed using SAS clinical 2.0 for prognostic impact of a single SNP on PFS, assessed with and without adjusted covariates (age, stage, performance status and response to ASCT). In treatment benefit analysis, PFS was modeled with genotype, treatment assignment and their interaction term. Results: SNPs with significant prognostic impact for PFS in all 187 patients were found in CRBN (rs1672753) (HR 0.59, 95%CI 0.4-0.86; p=0.006) and the following SNPs which had been found to be prognostic in prior studies were validated: CYP1A1 (rs1048943) (HR 1.98, 95%CI 1.19-3.27; p=0.008), CYP1B1 (rs1056836) (HR 0.72, 95%CI 0.52-0.99; p=0.043), and trend toward significance for SNP in CYP1A2 (rs2069514) (HR 2.02, 95%CI 0.98-4.15; p=0.057). Of these, only the CYP1A1 SNP was found to be possibly predictive of greater benefit from maintenance therapy. A SNP in ABCA1 (rs363717), previously associated with thalidomide-induced neuropathy,‎ was prognostic in this study (HR 1.44, 95%CI 1.03-2.02; p=0.033) but not predictive of treatment benefit. Table 1 lists SNPs associated with a differential level of benefit from maintenance therapy, including SNPs in FAM179a and ICAM1 that were possibly associated with harm from maintenance therapy. Table 1. SNPs and treatment interaction with significant impact on PFS. HR represent hazard ratio of treatment versus observation for a given genotype group. Asterisk Indicates trend toward significance. Wildtype Heterozygote & mutant p-value interaction Gene dbSNP ID SNP HR 95% CI HR 95% CI FAM179A rs1053667 T>C 0.46 0.33, 0.66 2.28 0.78, 6.65 0.003 ICAM1 rs1799969 G>A 0.51 0.36, 0.73 1.75 0.83, 3.70 0.007 CASP3 rs1049216 A>G 0.82 0.54, 1.25 0.41 0.25, 0.69 0.029 IRF4 rs12203592 C>T 0.69 0.47, 1.02 0.38 0.21, 0.69 0.062* CYP1A1 rs1048943 A>G 0.62 0.44, 0.87 0.11 0.02, 0.52 0.079* Conclusion: Previously identified SNPs in drug metabolism and drug efflux genes were validated to be prognostic in this cohort. The prognostic but not predictive significance of a SNP in CRBN suggests a possible role for CRBN in multiple myeloma disease biology independent of immunomodulatory therapy. SNPs predictive of differing degrees of benefit from immunomodulatory maintenance were found in genes involved in immunomodulatory activation, drug action and cell adhesion mediated drug resistance; SNPs in FAM179A and ICAM1 were possibly associated with harm from thalidomide maintenance and could potentially be used to identify patients unsuitable for immunomodulatory maintenance therapy. These results may be applicable to lenalidomide and pomalidomide, since immunomodulatory compounds exhibit similar chemical structures and mechanisms of action. Validation of these SNPs in prospective clinical trials involving other immunomodulatory can test this hypothesis. Further studies are needed to confirm our findings. Disclosures Off Label Use: thalidomide and prednisone maintenance for multiple myeloma. Bahlis:Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Consultancy; Johnson & Johnson: Speakers Bureau; Johnson & Johnson: Consultancy; Johnson & Johnson: Research Funding. Song:Celgene Canada: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. White:Celgene Canada: Honoraria, Research Funding. Chen:Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Seftel:Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding. Howsen-Jan:Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding. Reece:Amgen: Honoraria; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; Novartis: Honoraria, Research Funding; Onyx: Consultancy; Millennium Takeda: Research Funding; Lundbeck: Honoraria; Otsuka: Research Funding; Janssen-Cilag: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Shepherd:Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding. Chen:Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding. Djurfeldt:Celgene: Research Funding. Reiman:Soricimed Biopharma Inc: Consultancy, Other: Scientific Advisory Board for Soricimed.
PX-171-004, An Ongoing Open-Label, Phase II Study of Single-Agent Carfilzomib (CFZ) in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Myeloma (MM); Updated Results From the Bortezomib-Treated Cohort.

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 303-303

10.1182/blood.v114.22.303.303

Abstract Abstract 303 Background: Carfilzomib (CFZ) is a novel proteasome inhibitor that binds its target selectively and irreversibly, resulting in greater and more sustained proteasomal inhibition compared to BTZ (Demo et al, Cancer Res 2007). CFZ overcomes BTZ-resistance in vitro (Kuhn et al, Blood 2007) and in a previous Phase 2 study (PX-171-003), single-agent CFZ achieved durable responses and maintained disease control [e.g. ≥ Stable Disease (SD)] in patients with progressive multiple myeloma (MM) despite treatment with essentially all available agents. PX-171-004 is an ongoing Phase 2 study of CFZ monotherapy in MM patients with relapsed or refractory disease following 1–3 prior therapies. Here we report updated data for the BTZ-treated cohort. Methods: Patients with relapsed or refractory (defined as < 25% response or disease progression during therapy) MM were enrolled and stratified based on prior BTZ exposure (e.g. BTZ-naïve and BTZ-treated). For the BTZ-treated cohort, tolerability and response to prior BTZ [≥ Minor Response (MR)] was not required. CFZ 20 mg/m2 IV was administered on Days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 every 28 days, for up to 12 cycles. The primary endpoint was Overall Response Rate (ORR) [≥ Partial Response (PR)] by IMWG criteria. Secondary endpoints included Clinical Benefit Response (CBR = ORR + MR) and safety. Results: Thirty-five BTZ-treated patients were enrolled. Six (17%) patients had previously received BTZ exclusively as a single agent, 15 (43%) received BTZ as part of a chemotherapy combination and 10 (29%) received BTZ as part of a stem cell transplant (SCT) regimen. An additional 4 (11%) received BTZ in a chemotherapy combination as well as part of a separate transplant regimen. Other prior therapies included alkylators (89%), SCT (81%), thalidomide (69%), lenalidomide (37%), and anthracyclines (31%). Six (17%) patients had disease refractory to BTZ and 9 (26%) additional patients had discontinued BTZ due to toxicities. At baseline, 19 (54 %) patients had an ECOG score ≥ 1, 17 (49%) patients had neuropathy of Grade ≥ 1, 9 (26%) patients had impaired renal function (CrCl <60 mL/min) and 9 (26%) had diabetes. The median time since diagnosis was 3.6 years (range 1.2–13.2). To date, the mean number of CFZ doses administered was 29.3 (∼5 four-week cycles; range 4–72 doses, 0.7–12 cycles). Thirty-three patients who initiated therapy were evaluable for response per protocol. The ORR was 18% (6/33), including 1 CR and 5 PRs. An additional 4 (12%) patients had MR (CBR= 30%) and 13 (39%) had SD for ≥ 6 weeks. For evaluable patients who were either refractory or intolerant to their prior BTZ therapy, responses to CFZ included 1 PR and 1 MR and 8 SDs. The most common adverse events (AEs) (≥ 30% patients) were primarily Grades 1/2 and included fatigue (57%), nausea (54%), vomiting (37%), dyspnea (34%), diarrhea (34%), anemia (31%), increased creatinine (31%) and upper respiratory tract infection (31%). Grade 3/4 AEs occurring in ≥ 10% of patients were anemia (14.3%) and neutropenia (11.4%). There were no reports of febrile neutropenia. Dose modifications were rarely required. Peripheral neuropathy (PN) was uncommon (4 patients, 11%); only 1 patient had a Grade 3 event that lasted < 36 hours and did not result in missed doses or dose modification. None of the 9 patients with baseline renal impairment were discontinued for renal AEs. To date, 6 (17%) patients have completed the full 12-cycle protocol at the initial dose and schedule, 6 (17%) remain on study and 1 patient has received > 19 cycles on a recently initiated extended treatment protocol. Conclusions: In a BTZ-exposed population that includes BTZ treatment failures and significant comorbidities (e.g. diabetes, renal insufficiency, etc), the 18% ORR (CBR 30%) is notable for this steroid- and anthracycline-sparing regimen. Single-agent CFZ is well tolerated, even in patients with renal insufficiency, and both myelosuppression and PN are uncommon. These data support the continuing evaluation of CFZ as a safe and effective treatment option in MM. Disclosures: Siegel: Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Millennium: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Wang:Proteolix, Inc.: Research Funding. Stewart:Genzyme, Celgene, Millenium, Proteolix: Honoraria; Takeda, Millenium: Research Funding; Takeda-Millenium, Celgene, Novartis, Amgen: Consultancy. Kukreti:Celgene: Honoraria. Jakubowiak:Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Centocor Ortho Biotech: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Exelixis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Bristol-Myers-Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Jagannath:Millennium: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Merck: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. McDonagh:Proteolix: Research Funding. Belch:Ortho Biotech: Honoraria, Research Funding. Bahlis:Celgene: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Le:Proteolix, Inc.: Employment. Kunkel:Proteolix: Consultancy, Employment. Bennett:Proteolix: Employment. Kauffman:Proteolix, Inc.: Employment. Vij:Proteolix, Inc.: Consultancy, Research Funding.
Updated Results of Bortezomib-Naïve Patients in PX-171-004, An Ongoing Open-Label, Phase II Study of Single-Agent Carfilzomib (CFZ) in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Myeloma (MM).

Blood | October 12, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 302-302

10.1182/blood.v114.22.302.302

Abstract Abstract 302 Background: Carfilzomib (CFZ) is a proteasome inhibitor with unique target selectivity and an irreversible binding mechanism that results in sustained proteasome inhibition. In preclinical studies, CFZ lacks non-proteasome off-target activities associated with bortezomib (BTZ) (Kapur et al, Blood 2008). This may account for observed differences in tolerability with CFZ (e.g. minimal neuropathy and myelosuppression), permitting consecutive day dosing and treatment over an extended period of time. We previously observed higher response rates in multiple myeloma (MM) patients without prior BTZ exposure (BTZ-naïve) compared to those with relapsed disease following BTZ therapy (BTZ-treated). Here we present updated data on the BTZ-naïve cohort from PX-171-004, an ongoing Phase 2 study of single-agent CFZ in MM patients with relapsed or refractory disease following 1–3 prior therapies. Methods: Patients with relapsed or refractory (e.g, < 25% response or disease progression during last treatment) MM were enrolled and stratified into two cohorts: BTZ-naïve and BTZ-treated. CFZ 20 mg/m2 IV was administered on Days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 every 28 days, for up to 12 cycles. The primary endpoint was Overall Response Rate [≥ Partial Response (PR)] per International Uniform Response Criteria for Multiple Myeloma. Secondary endpoints included Clinical Benefit Response [CBR = ORR + Minor Reponse (MR)] and safety. Results: Fifty-seven BTZ-naive patients have been enrolled and 56 subjects have received at least one dose of CFZ. Prior therapies included alkylators (81%), stem cell transplant (SCT) (77%), thalidomide (THAL) (67%), lenalidomide (LEN) (42%), and anthracyclines (23%). Ten (18%) patients had received both LEN and THAL and 18 (32%) patients were refractory to their most recent regimen prior to study entry. At baseline, 30 (53%) patients had an ECOG score ≥ 1, 21 (37%) had neuropathy Grade ≥ 1, 12 (21%) had impaired renal function (CrCl < 60 mL/min) and 10 (18%) had diabetes. The mean time from diagnosis was 4 years (range 0.7–24). To date, the mean number of CFZ doses administered was 29.2 (∼5 four-week cycles; range 2–72 doses, 1–12 cycles). Fifty-one patients initiated therapy and were evaluable for response per protocol. The ORR was 45% (23/51 patients) and included 1 CR, 4 VGPR and 18 PR. An additional 9 (18%) patients had MR and 10 (20%) had stable disease (SD) for ≥ 6 weeks. The most common (>25%) adverse events (AEs) were fatigue (59%), nausea (41%), dyspnea (36%), and anemia (29%), and were primarily ≤ Grade 2. Grade 3/4 AEs occurring in ≥ 5% of patients were thrombocytopenia (9%), fatigue (9%), neutropenia (7%), lymphopenia (7%), anemia (5%), pneumonia (5%) and hyperglycemia (5%). One (1.7%) patient had febrile neutropenia. Dose modifications were rarely required. Peripheral neuropathy (PN) of any grade was infrequent (7 patients, 12%) with a single case of Grade 3 PN (2%) in a pt with a history of THAL-induced PN that lasted 41 days. The CFZ dose was reduced and the event resolved to Grade 1 while on CFZ and prior to study discontinuation. Of the12 patients with impaired renal function at baseline, none required dose modifications due to renal AE. Overall, 5 patients have completed the full 12-cycle protocol and another 5 (9%) have completed ≥ 9 cycles; 17 patients (30%) are continuing on study. Conclusions: The 45% ORR (CBR 63%) is noteworthy for a single-agent regimen in patients with tumor progression despite therapy with novel combinations. CFZ can be safely administered to patients with significant comorbidities (e.g. peripheral neuropathy, leukopenia, renal dysfunction, diabetes) when other anti-myeloma agents may not be well tolerated. Enrollment to PX-171-004 is continuing and, based on the safety profile, subjects are now permitted to dose escalate to 27 mg/m2. Disclosures: Wang: Proteolix: Honoraria, Research Funding. Off Label Use: testing testing. Siegel:Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Millennium: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Jakubowiak:Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Centocor Ortho Biotech: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Exelixis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Bristol-Myers-Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Kukreti:Celgene: Honoraria. Bahlis:Celgene: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. McDonagh:Proteolix: Research Funding. Belch:Ortho Biotech: Honoraria, Research Funding. Le:Proteolix, Inc.: Employment. Bennett:Proteolix: Employment. Kunkel:Proteolix: Consultancy, Employment. Kauffman:Proteolix, Inc.: Employment. Vij:Proteolix, Inc.: Consultancy, Research Funding.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Variation During Carfilzomib Treatment Is Associated to Best Response in Multiple Myeloma.

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 114 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 2865-2865

10.1182/blood.v114.22.2865.2865

Abstract Abstract 2865 Poster Board II-841 BACKGROUND: The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, which has been shown to be an essential cellular degradative system in myeloma cells, can also regulate bone formation through its effects on osteoblast differentiation. Retrospective analysis of variation of ALP during treatment with bortezomib indicates a close correlation between myeloma response and serum ALP levels which multiple studies have shown to be of bone origin. To determine if this effect is a class effect of proteasome inhibitors (PIs), this retrospective study analyzed variation of ALP in relationship to myeloma response during treatment with carfilzomib, the first in a new class of selective epoxyketone PIs that has demonstrated encouraging safety and efficacy in two phase 2 studies of relapsed or refractory myeloma patients. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of serum ALP was performed on relapsed or refractory myeloma patients enrolled on two phase 2 studies (PX-171-003 and PX- 171-004) evaluating the safety and efficacy of single agent carfilzomib. We analyzed data from 38 patients in the first cohort of the PX-171-003 study, a relapsed and refractory myeloma trial for patients who have received ≥ 3 prior therapies including bortezomib and an IMiD and 29 patients in PX-171-004, a relapsed or refractory myeloma trial that included bortezomib naïve patients. All patients received 20 mg/m2 of carfilzomib on Days 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, and 16 of a 28-day cycle. RESULTS: Seventy-seven patients were enrolled. The median age was 63 years with a median time since diagnosis of 4.6 years, 52% were male, 84.% had relapsed after autologous transplants, 82.% were previously exposed to bortezomib, and 92% were previously exposed to an IMiD. Sixty seven patients with ALP data were evaluable for response. In PX-171-003 the ORR (≥PR) was 18% and the clinical benefit response (CBR; ≥MR) was 26%, while in PX-171-004 the ORR was 35.5% overall and 57% in bortezomib naive patients. ALP increment from baseline, which was most evident during the second cycle of treatment, was statistically different in patients who achieved ≥VGPR compared to all others on Days 1 (P=0.0049) and 8 (P=0.006) of Cycle 2. In all patients achieving a VGPR or better, ALP increased more than 15 units per liter at Cycle 2 Day 1 over baseline An ALP increase over the same period of time was seen in 26 %, 13%, and 11% of patients achieving PR, MR, and SD, respectively. None of the patients with progressive disease exhibited a similar increase. Our study indicates that response first assessed on Day 15 of Cycle 1 parallels the ALP elevation which returned to baseline levels at the end of Cycle 3. CONCLUSIONS: This retrospective analysis on a subset of patients in these ongoing phase 2 studies of single agent carfilzomib in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma suggests that elevation in ALP may be associated with best response. Taken with previous publications describing bortezomib treatment, these results suggest that this specific anabolic bone phenomenon could be a class effect of proteasome inhibitors. These phase 2 studies are ongoing with a higher dose of carfilzomib (27 mg/m2) being evaluated. The data from this small subset analysis suggests that further exploration of this relationship is warranted. Disclosures: Zangari: Milllennium: Honoraria, Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria; OrthoBiotech: Honoraria; Optum Health: Honoraria; Educational Concepts Group, LLC: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Vij:Proteolix: Consultancy, Research Funding. Jagannath:Millennium: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Honoraria; Merck: Honoraria. Siegel:Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Millennium: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Stewart:Millennium: Consultancy, Research Funding; Proteolix: Consultancy, Honoraria; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria. Wang:Proteolix: Honoraria, Research Funding. Belch:Ortho Biotech: Honoraria, Research Funding. Jakubowiak:Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Centocor Ortho Biotech: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Exelixis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Bristol-Myers-Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Trudel:Celgene: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria. Bahlis:Celgene: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Ortho Biotech: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Lonial:Celgene: Consultancy; Millennium: Consultancy, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy; Gloucester: Research Funding. Singhal:Celgene: Speakers Bureau; Millennium: Speakers Bureau.
Higher c-MYC Expression Is Associated with Ixazomib-Lenalidomide-Dexamethasone (IRd) Progression-Free Survival (PFS) Benefit Versus Placebo-Rd: Biomarker Analysis of the Phase 3 Tourmaline-MM1 Study in Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RRMM)

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 243-243

10.1182/blood.v128.22.243.243

Abstract Background Ixazomib, the first oral proteasome inhibitor, is approved by the US FDA, in combination with Rd, for the treatment of MM patients (pts) who have received at least 1 prior therapy. Approval was based on the double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 TOURMALINE-MM1 study (NCT01564537) in 722 pts with RRMM (Moreau et al, N Engl J Med 2016), in which IRd showed superior PFS versus placebo-Rd (HR 0.74) at the final prespecified analysis, with limited additional toxicity. Prespecified subgroup analyses showed a consistent PFS benefit with IRd, but with a differential treatment effect according to prior therapy exposure. An exploratory study objective was to evaluate potential relationships between treatment outcomes and tumor gene expression patterns. c-MYC is a proto-oncogene that encodes a transcription factor regulating cell proliferation, growth, protein translation, metabolism, and apoptosis, and increased c-MYC expression is involved in MM pathogenesis/progression. We analyzed the impact of c-MYC expression on PFS in RRMM pts treated with IRd or placebo-Rd. Methods Pts with RRMM after 1-3 prior lines of therapy were randomized 1:1 to receive oral ixazomib or placebo, plus lenalidomide and dexamethasone, until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Randomization was stratified by number of prior therapies (1 vs 2-3), proteasome inhibitor exposure, and ISS disease stage. The primary endpoint was PFS by independent review committee assessment. Data reported here are from the final prespecified statistical analysis of PFS (median follow-up ~15 months). Bone marrow aspirate samples were collected at screening for tumor gene expression analysis. Whole transcriptome sequencing (RNAseq) of bone marrow-sorted CD138+ cells was performed using the Illumina Truseq protocol on the Illumina HiSeq platform; this generated a median of 50 million paired-end reads (100 bp length) per sample. c-MYC expression was evaluated by treatment arm and according to number of prior therapies (1 vs 2-3). PFS was analyzed in subgroups dichotomized according to median c-MYC expression (c-MYC-high/c-MYC-low). Results RNAseq data were available for 59% (427/722) of enrolled pts; 213 (50%) had high and 219 (50%) had low c-MYC expression (dichotomized according to the median). Impact of c-MYC expression (high vs low) on PFS, irrespective of treatment arm, was not significant (p=0.98). However, a significant treatment effect of IRd vs placebo-Rd was only seen in pts with high c-MYC expression (interaction p=0.024); in these pts (IRd: n=109; placebo-Rd: n=104) a significant PFS benefit was seen with IRd (HR 0.41; 95% CI: 0.26-0.65, p=0.00011). Impact of c-MYC expression was then analyzed by number of prior therapies. In the overall TOURMALINE-MM1 population, per stratification, 212/213 pts in the IRd/placebo-Rd arms had 1 prior therapy, and 148/149 had 2-3 prior therapies. After median follow-up of ~15 months, median PFS in pts with 1 prior therapy was 20.6 vs 16.6 months with IRd vs placebo-Rd (HR 0.88; 95% CI: 0.65-1.20), and in pts with 2-3 prior therapies was not reached vs 12.9 months (HR 0.58; 95% CI: 0.40-0.84, p=0.0033). The level of c-MYC expression was shown to be significantly higher in pts with 2-3 prior therapies vs 1 prior therapy, with median expression of 6.94 (SD=1.71, n=177) vs 6.52 (SD=1.74, n=250) (log2 scale), t-test p-value 0.0153. In pts with 1 prior therapy, no differences in PFS were observed between pts with low c-MYC expression (HR 1; 95% CI: 0.59-1.8, p=0.934), while a prolonged PFS benefit was observed in pts with high c-MYC expression (HR 0.48; 95% CI: 0.26-0.88, p=0.0146) (Figure, A and B). In pts with 2-3 prior therapies, both the c-MYC-high and c-MYC-low pts showed improved PFS with IRd vs placebo-Rd; the difference in PFS was statistically significant only in c-MYC-high pts (HR 0.36; 95% CI: 0.18-0.72, p=0.00269) (Figure, C and D). Conclusions In TOURMALINE-MM1, c-MYC expression was higher in MM tumor samples from pts with 2-3 vs 1 prior therapies. The IRd regimen was active in c-MYC-high and c-MYC-low pts, but its impact on PFS vs placebo-Rd was greater in c-MYC-high pts, thus providing a potential explanation for the enhanced PFS benefit with IRd vs placebo-Rd in pts with 2-3 prior therapies. The PFS benefit with IRd in c-MYC-low pts with 2-3 prior lines suggests that, in advanced MM, further genomic alterations may also be contributing to ixazomib sensitivity. Disclosures Di Bacco: Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Bahlis:BMS: Honoraria; Onyx: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Travel Expenses, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Travel Expenses, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Avet-Loiseau:Takeda: Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Speakers Bureau; Sanofi: Speakers Bureau. Masszi:Janssen-Cilag: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Takeda: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; BMS: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Ganly:Medipics: Equity Ownership; Novartis: Honoraria; Roche: Honoraria. Cavo:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria; Millennium: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria; Janssen-Cilag: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria. Langer:Celgene: Consultancy; Takeda: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy; Amgen: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy. Kumar:Array BioPharma: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Sanofi: Consultancy, Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding; Onyx: Consultancy, Research Funding; Noxxon Pharma: Consultancy, Research Funding; Glycomimetics: Consultancy; Kesios: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy; Millennium: Consultancy, Research Funding; Skyline: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding. Berg:Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Lin:Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Li:Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Badola:Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Shen:Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Zhang:Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Wang:Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Esseltine:Takeda: Equity Ownership; Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment; Johnson and Johnson: Equity Ownership. Luptakova:Takeda Oncology: Employment. van de Velde:Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Cambridge, MA, USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited: Employment. Richardson:Jazz Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Moreau:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Honoraria; Amgen: Honoraria.
Final Analysis of Overall Survival from the First Trial

Blood | October 11, 2019 | Volume: 128 | Issue: 22 | Pages: 241-241

10.1182/blood.v128.22.241.241

Abstract Background: In the pivotal FIRST trial, at the pre-specified planned analysis for progression-free survival (PFS), treatment (Tx) with lenalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone until disease progression (Rd continuous) improved outcomes for transplant-ineligible patients (pts) with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) compared with melphalan, prednisone, and thalidomide (MPT), as well as Rd for 18 cycles (Rd18; Benboubker, NEJM 2014). Rd18 was added as a third arm to investigate whether Rd continuous Tx would control progression of NDMM longer than Rd18. Here, we present the final analysis of the overall survival (OS) data from the trial. Methods: Transplant-ineligible pts with NDMM were randomized 1:1:1 to Rd continuous (with lenalidomide given on days 1-21 of 28-day cycles until disease progression), Rd18 (with lenalidomide given on days 1-21 of eighteen 28-day cycles), or MPT (twelve 42-day cycles); both Rd18 and MPT were 72 weeks in duration. The primary endpoint was PFS and the key secondary endpoint was OS; the primary comparison was Rd continuous vs MPT. Other secondary endpoints included time to second therapy (TTST) and safety. Time from randomization to second progression or death (PFS2) was an exploratory analysis. Response assessment used for PFS and PFS2 analysis was determined by investigators based on International Myeloma Working Group criteria. Results: At the time of cutoff for the final OS analysis (January 21, 2016), 52 of the 535 pts in the Rd continuous arm and none of the pts in the Rd18 (n = 541) and MPT (n = 547) arms continued to receive Tx. The median follow-up for surviving pts was 67.0 months (range, 0-86.8 months). In the pre-specified final OS analysis for the primary comparison, a statistically significant advantage in OS was shown with Rd continuous over MPT (hazard ratio [HR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.67-0.92; P = .00234; Table). OS for Rd continuous vs Rd18 was evaluated (HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.86-1.20). In this updated analysis, a PFS advantage continued to be seen for Rd continuous vs MPT (HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.59-0.79; P < .00001) and vs Rd18 (HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.60-0.81). Median TTST was longer for Rd continuous vs MPT (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.54-0.73; Table). More pts in the Rd18 and MPT arms started second-line therapy (n = 377 and 381, respectively) compared with the Rd continuous arm (n = 299). Pts received a variety of Tx at progression, with bortezomib-based regimens the most common in the Rd continuous (n = 179; 59.9%), Rd18 (n = 208; 55.2%), and MPT (n = 170; 44.6%) arms. Pts who received bortezomib after Rd continuous or Rd18 had better outcomes than those who received it after MPT. PFS2 for Rd continuous was improved vs MPT (HR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.64-0.85). Grade 3/4 adverse events (AEs) occurred in 86.3%, 80.2%, and 88.7% of the 532, 540, and 541 pts in the safety populations of the Rd continuous, Rd18, and MPT arms, respectively; the most common grade 3/4 AEs were neutropenia (29.5%, 26.5%, and 44.9%) and infections (31.6%, 21.9%, and 17.2%), and no new safety signals were seen compared with earlier analyses. Study discontinuation was most commonly due to disease progression and was less common in the Rd continuous vs Rd18 and MPT arms (50.7% vs 66.9% and 61.6%, respectively). Discontinuation due to AEs was similar across the Rd continuous, Rd18, and MPT arms (12.0%, 13.1%, and 13.9%). Solid tumor second primary malignancies (SPMs) occurred in 6.0, 6.9%, and 5.9% of pts, and hematologic malignancies occurred in 0.8%, 0.4%, and 2.6% of pts in the Rd continuous, Rd18, and MPT arms, respectively. Conclusions: Rd continuous significantly prolonged PFS and OS, and improved other secondary endpoints compared with MPT in transplant-ineligible pts with NDMM. Rd continuous also showed a PFS benefit compared with Rd18, delaying the time to next Tx. PFS2 outcomes suggest that Rd does not induce resistant relapses. Few hematologic malignancies occurred in the Rd arms, and the incidence of SPMs was similar between Rd continuous and Rd18. Rd continuous remains a standard of care for transplant-ineligible pts with NDMM. Disclosures Facon: Celgene: Consultancy, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Other: travel and expense, Speakers Bureau. Dimopoulos:Genesis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Dispenzieri:Celgene: Research Funding. Belch:Takeda: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; Amgen: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria. Cavo:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria; Janssen-Cilag: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria; Millennium: Consultancy, Honoraria. Weisel:BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Onyx: Consultancy, Research Funding; Takeda: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding. Ludwig:Janssen: Speakers Bureau; BMS: Speakers Bureau; Takeda: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Bahlis:BMS: Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Travel Expenses, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Travel Expenses, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Onyx: Consultancy, Honoraria. Delforge:Janssen: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Amgen: Honoraria. Cavenagh:Amgen: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. Geraldes:Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria; Amgen: Consultancy, Honoraria; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria. Oriol:Janssen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. De La Rubia:Amgen, Bristol, Celgene, Janssen: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. White:Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Moreau:Celgene: Honoraria; Amgen: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; Novartis: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria. Attal:janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; amgen: Consultancy, Research Funding; celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; sanofi: Consultancy. Ervin-Haynes:Celgene: Employment, Equity Ownership. Chen:Celgene: Employment, Equity Ownership. Houck:Celgene: Employment. Hulin:celgene: Honoraria; Bristol: Honoraria; Janssen: Honoraria; Amgen: Honoraria; takeda: Honoraria. Benboubker:Amgen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Takeda: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Janssen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.