Mesa, Ruben A.

Abstract Background SGI-110 is a second generation HMA formulated as a dinucleotide of decitabine (DAC) and deoxyguanosine. The compound is delivered as a small volume, pharmaceutically stable subcutaneous (SQ) injection which allows longer half-life and more extended DAC exposure than DAC intravenous infusion. This pharmacokinetic profile offers the potential for improved biological and clinical activity and safety over currently available HMAs (Kantarjian et al. ASH, 2012). Methods A randomized Phase 1-2 first-in-human PK/PD-guided, dose-escalation study was conducted in patients with relapsed or refractory intermediate or high-risk MDS or AML. Patients were initially randomized to one of two SQ regimens - Dailyx5 or Weeklyx3, for 28-day courses. Subsequently, a Twice Weeklyx3 regimen (Monday, Thursday) was added for evaluation based on emerging LINE-1 demethylation data from the Weeklyx3 regimen. Results 93 patients (74 AML, 19 MDS) were treated in the dose escalation phase: 44, 34, and 15 patients were treated in the Dailyx5, Weeklyx3, and the Twice Weeklyx3 regimens, respectively. Across the three regimens, median age was 70 years (range, 29–86), 68% male, and 87% had ECOG PS of 0-1. The median number of prior regimens was 3 (range, 1–9) and 68% of patients had prior HMA treatment (59% AML, and 100% MDS). Of the 74 AML patients treated, 31 (42%) had secondary AML including antecedent MDS. Patients received a median of 2 courses of SGI-110 (range, 1-20). LINE-1 demethylation data at the 2 highest dose levels which were well tolerated and evaluated for all 3 regimens (60 and 90 mg/m2) are shown in the figure below. The Dailyx5 regimen demonstrated the most potent average LINE-1 demethylation, while the Twice Weeklyx3 achieved the most prolonged LINE-1 demethylation. The least potent demethylation was seen with the Weeklyx3 regimen. There was no additional demethylation at the 90 mg/m2 dose compared to 60 mg/m2in all 3 regimens. Responses were reported according to the IWG Criteria 2006 (MDS)/2003 (AML). Complete remissions were observed in 5 AML patients (2CRs, 1CRp, and 2CRi). Clinical responses (2 mCR and 3 HI-E, 1 HI-N, 1 HI-P) were observed in 6 MDS patients, all of whom had been previously treated with HMA. All AML responses and both mCR in MDS patients achieved ≥10% LINE-1 demethylation. Safety is reported based on Adverse Events (AEs) as graded by the CTCAE v4 criteria. Across regimens, the Twice Weeklyx3 demonstrated an increased number of related AEs compared to the other regimens. The most commonly reported related AEs ≥ 10% in the Dailyx5 regimen (injection site pain, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, anemia, fatigue), Weeklyx3 regimen (injection site pain and diarrhea), and Twice Weeklyx3 regimen (injection site pain, injection site reaction, fatigue, dizziness, febrile neutropenia, neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia). Conclusions SQ SGI-110 is a potent HMA using all 3 regimens evaluated. The most potent hypomethylation was achieved with Dailyx5 dosing and the most prolonged hypomethylation was achieved using the Twice Weeklyx3 regimen. All 3 regimens were well tolerated. Clinical responses were observed in heavily pretreated patients, including those with prior HMA exposure. These results support the ongoing Phase 2 expansion study investigating the Dailyx5 dosing schedule in patients with MDS and AML who are either HMA treatment naïve or previously treated with HMAs. Disclosures: Roboz: Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Honoraria, Research Funding. Issa:Astex Pharmaceuticals Inc.: Honoraria, Research Funding. Rizzieri:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Stock:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. O'Connell:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Yee:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Tibes:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Griffiths:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Walsh:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Feldman:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Ritchie:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Rao:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Larson:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Garcia-Manero:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Ravandi:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Jabbour:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Cortes:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Schimmer:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Mesa:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Blum:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Chung:Astex Pharmaceuticals Inc.: Research Funding. Naim:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Taverna:Astex Pharmaceuticals Inc.: Employment. Hao:Astex Pharmaceuticals Inc.: Employment. Choy:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Azab:Astex Pharmaceuticals Inc.: Employment. Kantarjian:Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding.

Abstract Background Symptom burden among MPN patients is severe compared to age-matched controlled and other individuals with cancer. MPN-Related Fatigue (MRF) is among one of the most frequent and debilitating of symptoms among MPN patients and contributes greatly to the loss of quality of life. To date, little is known regarding the breadth and efficacy of strategies to reduce or palliate MRF. Methods A 17-item internet-based survey was hosted on the MPN Forum website during February of 2013. The survey included data on demographics, type of fatigue (chronic, sporadic, or both), strategies to reduce fatigue, and symptom burden using the MPN-SAF TSS. The MPN-SAF TSS also included a validated 1-item measure to assess worst fatigue in the last 24 hours (scored on a 0 (absent/as good as it can be) to 10 (worst-imaginable/as bad as it can be) scale). Results 879 MPN patients responded to the online survey. The majority of patients had been diagnosed with their MPN for more than one year (5.8% less than one year, 34.4% one to five years, 30.3% five to ten years, and 27.6% more than 10 years). Mean age of MPN diagnosis was 49.3 (range 12-84). A near equal mix was seen of chronic (35.3%), sporadic (29.9%) and both chronic and sporadic fatigue (28.8%). Average symptom burden was very severe (mean MPN-SAF TSS =31.9), with an average worst 24-hr fatigue rated as 5.9/10. Many strategies to reduce MPN-related fatigue were mentioned via open and categorical responses (Table 1). Exercise was the most commonly mentioned fatigue reduction strategy, followed by diet and social interaction. Diet strategies included the consumption of fruits and vegetables and using foods to combat specific nutrient deficiencies (e.g., iron). Interventions to increase rest included obtaining >8 hours of sleep at night, taking frequent naps if needed, and strategically timing naps (e.g., sleeping prior to activity). Timing strategies were implemented to maximize energy levels, including scheduling activities at time periods during the day when patients felt most awake. Stress-reduction strategies included massages, meditation and yoga. Some respondents felt work was both source of energy and motivation, although others mentioned cutting back work hours or obligations in order to reduce fatigue. New activities such as gardening and enjoying the outdoors were also mentioned. Use of non-prescription supplementation, including caffeine and over-the counter energy supplementation, was common. Prescription energy stimulants included MPN-specific treatments (e.g., ruxolitinib, hydroxurea, ASA, interferon), steroids, noradrenergic stimulants (e.g., methyphenidate, modafinil), prescription vitamin supplements (e.g., vitamin B12 injections), erythropoietin analogues, and blood thinners. Conclusions Overall patients were very symptomatic of disease (previously reported MPN-SAF TSS scores 18.7 ET, 21.8 PV, and 25.3 MF) and worst 24-hr fatigue (previously reported as 4.0 ET, 4.4 PV, and 5.0 MF) than previously published MPN cohorts (JCO 2012 20;30(36):4590). Many intervention strategies are utilized to reduce MRF. Future trials investigating pharmacologic, psychosocial, and activity-related interventions to reduce MRF are needed. Disclosures: Harrison: NOVARTIS: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Sanofi: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; YM Bioscience: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Honoraria; Shire: Speakers Bureau; Sbio: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Gilead: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees.

Abstract Abstract 2911 Poster Board II-887 BACKGROUND: Pomalidomide (POM) is an immune modulatory drug (IMiD® Immunomodulatory compound) recently shown to improve anemia in subjects with myelofibrosis (MF) in an adaptive phase-2 trial (0.5 mg or 2.0 mg/d with or without prednisone; Tefferi et. al. JCO 2009)). There were no dose limiting toxicities (DLT) observed. No other MF-features (splenomegaly, fibrosis) were identified/improved even at the highest dose. We performed a subsequent dose-escalation trial to determine whether higher doses of POM are effective and well tolerated. METHODS: The trial was classic 3 × 3 design on pts with symptomatic MF (anemia and/or symptomatic splenomegaly). POM was started at dose of 2.5 mg/days (d) for 21 d every 28 d. Dose increased in cohorts by 0.5 mg/d were done if no subject had a DLT (≥grade-4 hematologic toxicity, ≥grade-3 febrile neutropenia or ≥grade-3 non-hematologic toxicity) in cycle-1. Subsequent cohorts were enrolled until the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was reached (dose level before that resulting in DLT in >1 of 6 subjects). In the phase 2 portion, subjects were treated at the MTD, those without response at the MTD after 3 cycles were lowered to the minimal effective dose (MED) of 0.5mg/d. RESULTS: Subjects: 19 subjects with MF were enrolled 06/2008-03/2009. 14 had primary MF, 3 post-polycythemia vera MF, and 2 post-essential thrombocythemia MF. Median age was 67 y (range, 43-83 y), 11 were female (58%). 16 had a JAK2-V617F mutation. 11 were RBC-transfusion–dependent (58%). 16 subjects had palpable splenomegaly, median 12.5 cm below the LCM (range, 1-26 cm). Median time since diagnosis was 24 mo (range, 1-173 mo). 15 were considered intermediate-high risk by IWG-MRT IPSS (Cervantes et al, Blood, 2009). Phase-1: 3 subjects each were enrolled at the 2.5 mg/d, 3.0 g/d, and 3.5 g/d mg dose cohorts. A DLT (bone marrow suppression) was seen at the 3.5 mg/d level. 3 additional subjects received 3.0 mg/d level cohort confirming this dose as the MTD. Phase-2: 10 additional subjects were enrolled at the MTD of 3.0mg/d. No improvement in anemia was seen, possibly because of bone marrow suppression. Consequently, the dose was decreased to 0.5mg/d in 7 subjects (2 remain on 3.0mg). 9 subjects remain on POM (all but 2 at 0.5mg/d. 104 cycles have been given (median, 4/ subject; range, 2-11). 10 subjects, all at ≥2.5mg/d discontinued because of lack of response/ withdrawal of consent (N=5), progression (N=4) or unrelated worsening co-morbidities (N=1). Toxicity: Dose-related bone marrow suppression was the main toxicity. 10/19 subjects had grade-3/-4 neutropenia (N=8) and/or thrombocytopenia (=3) and was only observed at doses ≥2.5mg/d. No substantial bone marrow suppression at 0.5m/d. Non-hematologic toxicity was uncommon at any dose level with grade-3 fatigue at 3.0mg/d in 1 subject. Efficacy: There was clinical benefit in 9 subjects. 7 subjects achieved an IWG-MRT response (Tefferi et al, Blood, 2006) including clinical improvement (CI) in anemia (N=6; rbc-transfusion-independence or hemoglobin increase >2g/dL for ≥2 mo) and/or splenomegaly (N=2; ≥50% reduction of palpable component for ≥2 months). 2 subjects had improved anemia below the IWG-MRT CI-threshold. Clinical benefit occurred after a median of 3.8 mo (range, 2.1-9.2 mo), and only after reduction to 0.5mg/d in 7 responders including both with spleen responses. There were 2 responses amongst 11 subjects receiving ≥2.5 mg/d compared to 7 of 8 subjects receiving '1.0mg/d. These responses occurred a median of 1 cycle after dose reduction (1-3 months). Responses were durable: 8 of 9 responders continue on-study. CONCLUSIONS: In subjects with myelofibrosis, POM doses ≥2 mg/d are associated with moderate to severe bone marrow suppression. Response occurred at doses ≥2 mg/d primarily after dose reduction to 0.5 mg/d where bone marrow suppression was infrequent. The authors suggest 0.5 mg/d as the preferred doses for a phase-3 trial. Disclosures: Litzow: Enzon: Honoraria, Research Funding.

Abstract Abstract 4527 Introduction: The prognosis for pts with intermediate or high risk AML remains dismal, with relapse rates typically in the 60–80% range after treatment with chemotherapy alone. While allo-SCT can decrease the risk of relapse to 10–20%, widespread use of this modality is limited by relatively high rates of non-relapse mortality (NRM), often due to severe acute and/or chronic GVHD. Attenuation of severe GVHD, without a concomitant increase in relapse or NRM, should improve outcomes and result in cure of a larger fraction of AML pts. We therefore investigated the use of in-vivo T-cell depletion with r-ATG in pts with intermediate- or high-risk AML but without active leukemia at the time of allo-SCT. Patients and Methods: Pts (n = 43) were included in this retrospective analysis if they were between 18 and 65 years of age and had no evidence of active AML at the time of allo-SCT (see Table). All pts had 1 or more high-risk features: 1) adverse or intermediate risk cytogenetics (without NPM1 mutation if cytogenetically normal); 2) therapy-related or secondary AML; 3) high WBC count at diagnosis; 4) failure to achieve CR after 1 cycle of induction; or 5) not in CR1 at allo-SCT. Among the 43 pts, 10 received grafts from related donors, 14 from 10/10 matched unrelated donors (URDs), and 19 from mismatched URDs (9/10, n = 11; 8/10, n = 8). All pts received r-ATG according to institutional standard operating policy, with doses ranging from 2.5 – 10 mg/kg depending on donor type and degree of mismatch. All transplants were performed using PBSC. Additional GVHD prophylaxis included tacrolimus plus either methotrexate or mycophenolate mofetil. Results: The median age was 47 (range 20 – 65), and median follow-up for surviving pts is 12 (range 1 – 66) months. As of 8/5/11, 39 pts were alive, and 4 had died from multiorgan failure (n = 1), relapse (n = 1), GVHD (n = 1), and veno-occlusive disease (n = 1). The 2-year estimate of PFS is 84.7% (Fig. 1). The 2-year cumulative incidence of relapse is 6.8% (2 pts, days 97 and 147), and of non-relapse mortality 9.4%. Three pts developed severe (grades III-IV) acute GVHD by day 100 (cumulative incidence 4.6% at day 100) with no additional cases of severe acute GVHD beyond day 100. To date, 4 pts have developed moderate/severe chronic GVHD (cumulative incidence 16.8% at 2 yrs), with one death at day 344 related to complications of acute and chronic GVHD. CMV reactivation occurred in 29 pts (56%), with no deaths related to CMV. Three pts have reactivated EBV, with one case of PTLD (all treated with Rituximab). Conclusions: In this retrospective analysis of single center data, the inclusion of r-ATG in the GVHD prophylactic strategy appeared to significantly attenuate the incidence and severity of both acute and chronic GVHD. Although follow-up is relatively early, the incidence of relapse and NRM does not appear to be increased compared to contemporaneous pts treated without ATG. Given that almost half of the pts received grafts from mismatched URDs, this abrogation in risk of GVHD is significant and clinically relevant. While randomized studies are needed, these data suggest that in-vivo T-cell depletion with r-ATG ameliorates severe GVHD, without increasing relapse or non-relapse mortality, in AML pts without overt leukemia at the time of allo-SCT. Using this strategy, cure rates of 70 – 80% may be realistic and attainable for younger (</= age 65) AML patients who achieve a leukemia-free state and who have a reasonably matched related or unrelated donor. Disclosures: Reeder: Celgene: Research Funding; Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc.: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding.

Abstract Abstract 2904 Poster Board II-880 Background: The myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) of essential thrombocythemia (ET) can cause a constellation of symptoms in afflicted patients either from direct consequence of vascular and circulatory events (i.e. thrombosis, hemorrhage, erythromelalgia), or more indirectly as a consequence of the myeloproliferation itself (fatigue, pruritus, constitutional symptoms). These latter symptoms, of significant importance to patients, are more challenging for physicians to interpret given they are self reported by patients and influenced by many factors including culture. We sought to identify the concordance of self reported fatigue, and impact on daily life in patients with ET between 2 large and independently administered studies performed in the USA and France, respectively. Methods: Two large, separate, trials of symptomatic burden were used for the analysis. The first an internet based trial originating from the USA of self reported symptoms across the spectrum of patients with MPNs (Mesa et. al. Cancer 2007), the data included in this analysis a previously unreported subset analysis on patients from the USA with ET. The second trial a multi-centre, prospective questionnaire based analysis including many aspects of the impact of ET upon patients in France including fatigue and daily life. Key areas of overlap between these 2 trials were analyzed to assess whether any substantive differences in the impact of ET on daily life or fatigue between these 2 patient groups. Results: PATIENTS: A total of 447 patients with ET were included in the analysis (222 from the French Series (median age 57.8 years (range 19-90), 225 from the USA Series (median age 53 years (range 16-82)). In the 2 series, respectively, 78%, and 77% received cytoreductive therapy, and 16%, and 22% had a history of a vascular event. FATIGUE AND IMPACT ON DAILY LIFE: Fatigue was a self reported problem across the majority respondents in this analysis 287/447 (64%) self reporting fatigue as a problem. The prevalence of fatigue did not vary significantly between the 2 countries (158/225 (70.2%) - USA, - 129/222 (58%) – France). In contrast, in the French study where parallel questionnaires were completed by the patients and their hematologists, the doctor considered fatigue as a significant symptom in only 17% of patients. Additionally the majority of respondents felt the ET was the reason, at least partially, for their fatigue (316/447; 71%) again with no significant difference amongst the regions (69% USA, 73% France). Self reported metrics such as decreased libido (25% USA, 24% France) demonstrated remarkable similarity across cultural and geographic differences. Finally when asked directly whether ET negatively impacted their daily life, 46% of US patients responded in the affirmative (ranging from modest to severe impact). In France), the patients reported impact of ET on their: professional life (37%), hobbies (24%) and mood (74%). Conclusions: The symptomatic impact of a diagnosis of ET upon afflicted patients is significant, present in a majority of patients, and surprisingly consistent across 2 different cultural and geographic regions. The deep difference between patient's and doctors' consideration of fatigue as a meaningful symptom underlines the need for objective symptom assessment tools in MPN. (The French portion of this study was sponsored by Shire, Inc.) Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.

Abstract BACKGROUND: Bone marrow fibrosis might represent either a primary myeloid malignancy such as myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia (MMM) or a reactive phenomenon associated with other malignancies or inflammatory/infectious processes. The development of myelofibrosis in the context of a plasma cell dyscrasia is uncommon and incompletely understood from the standpoint of both pathogenesis and clinical implications. We sought to determine the origin and clinical ramifications of this phenomenon based on a consecutive series of patients with plasma cell disorders (PCD). METHODS: A retrospective search of institutional databases was performed for clinical cases of PCD with the concomitant observation of myelofibrosis. Bone marrow aspirates and trephines from the time of diagnosis of both PCD and myelofibrosis were reviewed. Clinical history was abstracted for clinical manifestations as well as disease course. DNA from archived cytogenetic pellets, when available, from the time of diagnosis, was screened for the presence of JAK2V617F. RESULTS: Among 7587 patients with a PCD seen over the last 30 years at our institution, 29 (0.3%) displayed concomitant myelofibrosis (median age 59 years, range 27–77; 52% males). The specific PCD was multiple myeloma in 25 patients, smoldering myeloma in 2, plasmacytoma in 1, and heavy chain disease in 1. Four patients (14%) had organomegaly and bone marrow histological features most consistent with MMM. Otherwise, myeloproliferative disorder (MPD)-characteristic features were infrequent and included leukocytosis and/or thrombocytosis in only 2 patients. None of the patients displayed thrombohemorrhagic complications. Archived DNA was available in 7 cases without either clinical or bone marrow histological evidence of a MPD and yet revealed the presence of JAK2V617F in 6 of the 7 cases (86%). In addition, one other patient without MPD phenotype displayed a monosomy 5 abnormality. To date, 2 patients, one with and one without a MPD phenotype underwent leukemic transformation. All other causes of death were related to PCD-associated complications. Median survival (Kaplan-Meier) for the patients with multiple myeloma was 50 months. Survival stratified by the myeloma international staging system (ISS) was similar or better than expected (published controls of 62, 44, and 29 months): median survivals for this series of 73, 51 and 37 months for stage I, II, and III disease, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Myelofibrosis that accompanies a PCD often represents an underlying MPD and does not negatively impact the natural history of the associated PCD.

Recent observations have underscored the biologic relevance of intratumoral angiogenesis and its potential impact on prognosis. Increased bone marrow angiogenesis has been demonstrated in a variety of hematologic disorders, including multiple myeloma. The extent and prognostic significance of bone marrow angiogenesis in 114 patients with myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia (MMM) was investigated. A control group of 44 patients without bone marrow disease, 15 patients with polycythemia vera, and 17 patients with essential thrombocythemia was also studied. Bone marrow microvessel density was assessed by a semiquantitative method, visual microvessel grading, and 2 separate quantitative methods, visual count and computerized image analysis. Angiogenesis estimation by all 3 methods was highly comparable. On visual microvessel grading, a grade 3 or 4 increase in bone marrow angiogenesis was demonstrated in 70% of patients with MMM, 33% of patients with polycythemia vera, 12% of patients with essential thrombocythemia, and 0% of normal controls. In a multivariate analysis, increased angiogenesis in MMM correlated significantly with increased spleen size and was found to be a significant and independent risk factor for overall survival. Increases in marrow angiogenesis correlated with hypercellularity and megakaryocyte clumping. In contrast, these 2 features were inversely proportional to reticulin fibrosis, whereas increases in marrow angiogenesis were independent of reticulin fibrosis. These preliminary findings suggest that neo-angiogenesis is an integral component of the bone marrow stromal reaction in MMM and may provide useful prognostic information and a rationale for the therapeutic investigation of anti-angiogenic agents.

Abstract BACKGROUND: We have previously reported on the therapeutic value of low-dose thalidomide in combination with prednisone (THAL-PRED) for the treatment of both anemia and thrombocytopenia in MMM (Blood2003;101:2534), with response rates of 62% and 75% for each cytopenia respectively. Alkylators have long been shown to have palliative benefit in MMM, however are used judiciously as long-term use could increase likelihood of leukemic transformation. Additionally, oral cyclophosphamide has been shown to synergize with thalidomide and steroids in the treatment of myeloma (Garcia-Sanz et. al. Leukemia2004;18:856–863). In the current study, we investigated the value of adding oral cyclophosphamide to THAL-PRED for MMM (TPC). METHODS: Study eligibility criteria included a histologically confirmed diagnosis of MMM and either severe anemia (hemoglobin < 10 g/dL) or symptomatic splenomegaly. Protocol treatment was initiated with 50 mg of oral thalidomide (THAL) daily, oral cyclophosphamide (CTX) 25 mg daily for three months, and a three month prednisone taper starting at 0.5 mg/kg/day for the first month followed by a 50% reduction for the second months and a further 50% reduction for the third and final month of treatment with prednisone. Patients with a demonstrable clinical response after three months were able to remain on thalidomide alone as maintenance. Responses were assessed by the International Working Group for Myelofibrosis Research and Treatment (IWG-MRT) criteria for MMM clinical responses (Tefferi et. al. Blood 2006; epub May 2006). RESULTS: 13 patients were enrolled to the trial (median age 73 years, range, 46–80; 7 males). Six patients (46%) completed the planned three cycles (i.e. 12 weeks) of treatment, the remaining seven patients discontinued treatment early for the following reasons: progression (n=3), patient choice (n=2), other medical problem (n=1) and died on study (n=1). After the initial 3 months of treatment, 3/13 (23%) patients evidenced a response (n = 1) or stable disease (n = 2) and continued on an additional three months of THAL alone. At enrollment, nine patients (69%) were anemic (8 of whom (62%) were red cell transfusion dependent). Ten patients (77%) were at least moderately thrombocytopenic (platelet count < 100 x 109//L). Eight patients (62%) had palpable hepatomegaly/splenomegaly, and five patients (38%) had severe constitutional symptoms (night sweats). According to IWG-MRT criteria for MMM the best responses observed from therapy was a CI (clinical improvement) in 2 individuals (one each for anemia (1/9 patients (11%); and thrombocytopenia (1/10 patients (10%)). No clear responses in organomegaly or constitutional symptoms were observed. The regimen overall was well tolerated with toxicities in excess of grade 2 all being related to myelosuppression (anemia (n=2), neutropenia (n=2), and thrombocytopenia (n=3)). CONCLUSIONS: This phase II study of combination therapy with thalidomide-prednisone-cyclophosphamide in patients with MMM strongly suggests that the addition of the alkylator cyclophosphamide largely negates the clinical benefits of THAL-PRED. This observation supports the potential immunologic mechanism of THAL-PRED benefit in MMM, and cautions against potential combinations of immunological and cytotoxic therapy in this disorder.

Abstract Background: acquisition of somatic mutations including JAK2V617F or MPLW515L/K results in constitutive activation of JAK-STAT signaling that commonly characterizes myeloproliferative disorders (MPD). JAK2 is the central signaling mediator for most hematopoietic cytokines in this signaling pathway. Hypothesis: small molecule JAK2 inhibitors may have a therapeutic role in MPD regardless of JAK2 mutation status. Methods: We studied effects of the JAK2 inhibitor, TG101209, in a cell-free kinase assay, relevant cell lines, an in vivo phosphorylation assay, and primary cells from MPD patients carrying JAK2V617F or MPLW515L/K mutations. Results: in a cell-free kinase assay, TG101209 inhibited JAK2 potently (IC50=6nM) and displayed selectivity relative to JAK3, ABL, and VEGFR2 kinases (IC50=170nM, 820nM, and 150nM, respectively). In cell proliferation assays, TG101209 inhibited JAK2-expressing Ba/F3 cells (IC50=280nM) and JAK2V617F-homozygous human erythroleukemia (HEL) cells (IC50=300nM), but not BCR-ABL-carrying K562 cells (IC50>2μM). At 24 hours, TG101209 (600nM) induced apoptosis of HEL cells but not K562 cells (40% and 5%, respectively). SCID mice injected intravenously with Ba/F3-JAK2V617F cells developed significant disease burden including massive splenomegaly due to tumor infiltration (day 12). We observed marked decrease in STAT5 phosphorylation in splenic tumors 5 hours after administration of 2 oral doses of TG101209 (50 mg/kg) in this in vivo model. Based on the above data, we plated patient-derived CD34+ cells in methylcellulose (0nM, 300nM, and 600nM TG101209) with and without cytokines. We studied 2 controls and 9 MPD patients: PV=5 (all JAK2V617F+) and AMM=4 (3 were MPLW515L/K+) for colony number, colony size, and colony mutation burden, under each assay condition. TG101209 inhibited overall colony growth from MPD patients (IC50=300–600nM), and it preferentially suppressed growth of mutant colonies relative to wild type in both of 2 MPLW515K+ patients (AMM1 and AMM2) and in 3 of 5 JAK2V617+ patients (PV1-PV3) (Table). Conclusions: TG101209 potently inhibits cell growth that is dependent on constitutive JAK-STAT signaling. Furthermore, for MPD patient-derived cells, TG101209 preferentially suppresses growth of progenitors carrying JAK-activating mutations (MPLW515K>JAK2V617F>MPLW515L). Hence, our data supports the strategy of targeting aberrant JAK-pathway signaling in MPD as a viable therapeutic approach. Patient Mutation IC50 (nM) No Drug (% colonies mutation-positive) TG101209 (% colonies mutation-positive) Erythroid Myeloid Erythroid Myeloid Erythroid Myeloid Normal WT 1000 600 n/a PV1 JAK2V617F ~600 300–600 82 90 36 70 PV2 JAK2V617F ~300 70 55 60 20 PV3 JAK2V617F NA 20 30 30 0 PV4 JAK2V617F >600 ~600 7 10 17 10 PV5 JAK2V617F ~300 300–600 64 92 82 100 AMM1 MPLW515K <300 ~300 100 90 0 20 AMM2 MPLW515K 300–600 ~300 100 90 25 36 AMM3 MPLW515L 300–600 300–600 100 100 92 90 AMM4 WT >600 300–600 n/a

Abstract Background: Hypomethylating agents (HMA) such as 5-Azacitidine (Aza) have overall responses rate of ~35-50% in acute myeloid Leukemia (AML) and higher risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients (pts). However, eventually all pts develop resistance on therapy. To improve upfront response rates and to address HMA failure, we performed genome-scale RNAi screens targeting genes on chromosomes 5 and 7, recurrent cytogenetic abnormalities in AML/MDS. These screens identified Hedgehog pathway (Hh) genes as potentially targetable vulnerabilities with Aza. Combination experiments with smoothened (SMO) inhibitors (SMO is a central activating gene within the Hh pathway) showed pre-clinical synergy. These and additional published data support the Hh pathway as a targetable vulnerability in AML, and provide a rational for a trial. Methods: A phase I/Ib protocol of the oral SMO inhibitor LDE225 (Sonidegib) in combination with Aza in untreated and relapsed/refractory (rel/ref) AML, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), MDS, or MDS/myeloproliferative neoplasm overlap pts. Objectives of the phase I part are to determine safety, toxicity and MTD and for the phase Ib part to assess the preliminary overall efficacy. Sonidegib was started at dose level (DL) 0 at 400mg oral daily continuously and Aza at the approved doses (75mg/m2 x 7 days or days 5-2-2) with dose adjustment per label. A classical 3+3 design was used and DLT (CTCAE v4.0) defined as > grade 3 CPK elevation or hepatic or non-hematologic adverse events (AEs) lasting > 7 days or any grade 4 event, except for hematologic toxicities. DLT was assessed after 42 days when steady-state concentrations of Sonidegib were reached. Pharmacokinetic assessments were not performed for this study. Results: Patients and Dose Levels : Between 5/22/2014 and the data cut-off date (7/20/2015), 36 pts were enrolled. Median age was 72 y (range 52-85 y) and 64% were male. Most AML pts (23 of 24) had intermediate or unfavorable cytogenetics and most MDS/CMML pts were in the int.- to high-/very high-risk group (IPSS-R). Six pts were treated at DL-0 of Sonidegib 400mg/day and one DLT of CPK elevation was observed. Another patient had grade 4 neutropenia (which at the time was included in the DLT definition, later removed). Due to overall tolerance of the combination at DL 0 and investigator assessment, despite only 1/6 pts having a formal DLT, DL -1 at Sonidegib 200mg was explored at which 0/3 pts (1 pt non-evaluable) had DLT and the phase Ib portion was opened at DL -1. To date a total of 24 AML (13 newly dx, 11 rel/ref), 11 MDS/CMML (5 newly dx, 6 rel/ref ) and 1 myelofibrosis pt have been enrolled. Safety and Tolerability: An initial safety and efficacy assessment for 25 of the 29 pts treated on the phase Ib (n=26) + the MTD cohort of 200 mg (n=3) and for who at least 2 cycles of treatment follow up was available, showed that all pts experienced at least one grade-3 or 4 hematologic AE with a lower rate in the untreated vs. treated cohort. Other, non-hematologic grade-3 and 4 AEs respectively were seen in 24 and 28% of patients-most commonly hyponatremia and fatigue, known AEs for this drug class. Treatment delays occurred in 28% of pts and Aza or Sonidegib dose reductions in 16%. 23 (79%) pts are alive and 6 have died (21%), with one death while pt was actively treated but was deemed unrelated; 11 pts remain on study, with the remainder showing disease progression (n=3) or taken-off study for other reasons (n=3 each for AEs and did not want further treatment; n=4 other). Efficacy : As of 7/20/15 with a median treatment duration of 2 cycles, 2/5 untreated MDS/CMML pts achieved CR/CRi; 1 HMA rel/ref AML had CR; 1 untreated AML pt each had PR and MLFS. 90% of pts have not progressed. Updated results will be presented at the ASH 2015 meeting; by then all 29 pts will have completed a minimum of 4-6 cycles on study and full efficacy and AE result on all pts will be reported. To date the OS at 6 mo is 77% (95% CI: 44-97%) with a median PFS of 4 mo (range: 2-NR). Many pts in the untreated cohorts have just enrolled. Conclusion: Hh pathway inhibition with the clinically well tolerated SMO inhibitor Sonidegib in combination with Aza in MDS and AML pts is well tolerated with mostly hematologic AEs as expected with early signs of clinical activity in untreated and HMA-failure pts. Full efficacy results of 29 pts and updated safety data will be reported for this first combination trial of a SMO inhibitor in combination with a HMA in MDS and AML pts. Disclosures Mesa: Gilead: Research Funding; Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation: Consultancy; Incyte Corporation: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding; Promedior: Research Funding; NS Pharma: Research Funding; CTI Biopharma: Research Funding. Al-Kali:Novartis: Research Funding.