Combined Autophagy and Proteasome Inhibition for Multiple Myeloma: Final Results of a Phase 1 Trial of Hydroxychloroquine and Standard Dose Bortezomib for Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Myeloma

Abstract Abstract 1869 BACKGROUND: The aggresome/autophagy pathway is the primary mechanism for disposal of ubiquitinated proteins for cells exposed to proteasome inhibition. Preclinical evidence shows that combining inhibition of the proteasome with bortezomib (Bz) and inhibition of autophagy with the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) leads to enhanced cytotoxicity in myeloma cells. METHODS: Patients with relapsed or refractory myeloma enrolled on a standard 3+3 dose escalation design. Patients received 2-weeks of single-agent oral HCQ, followed by the addition of Bz on days 1, 4, 8, and 11 of 21-day cycles. HCQ and Bz doses were determined by dose level: (1) 200 mg qod / 1.0 mg/m2, (2) 200 qod / 1.3, (3) 200 qd / 1.3, (4) 200 bid / 1.3, (5) 400 bid / 1.3, (6) 600 bid / 1.3. Dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) was defined as grade ≥3 toxicity probably related to study therapy and occurring during the first 5 weeks, with the exception of any anemia or lymphopenia, neutropenia responsive to growth factor, platelets >10,000/mm3 not associated with bleeding, or gastrointestinal complaints relieved by symptomatic therapy. We used electron microscopy to characterize changes in autophagic vesicles in serial samples of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and CD138-selected bone marrow plasma cells. RESULTS: We enrolled 25 patients between 1/2008 and 2/2011, of which 21 patients completed at least 1 cycle of combined therapy and were evaluable for toxicity. The median duration of study participation was 14 weeks (range 1–77). Reasons for study discontinuation were side effects of therapy (6), lack of response (7), disease progression (11), and non-compliance (1). No protocol-defined dose limiting toxicities occurred, and the maximum tolerated dose was determined to be the top dose level of Bz 1.3 mg/m2 and HCQ 600 mg twice daily. Hematologic abnormalities were generally more attributable to disease progression than to treatment toxicity, but at the top dose level one patient had grade 3 thrombocytopenia and neutropenia after starting with a normal platelet count and ANC, without evidence of progression through therapy. At the top dose level, gastrointestinal toxicities predominated, including 5 out of 6 evaluable patients with some form of grade 3 GI toxicity. Treatment emergent neuropathy occurred in 7 patients but was restricted to grade 1 or 2 and was easily managed with dose reduction of the Velcade. Three patients came off study before receiving the combined regimen and were not evaluable for response. The best responses for the remaining 22 patients included 3 near complete responses (nCR), 3 minor responses (MR), 9 stable disease (SD), and 7 progression (PD). The 3 nCRs occurred in Bz-naïve patients receiving HCQ at 400 mg/d (1 pt) and 1200 mg/d (2 pts). Two patients who had previously progressed while receiving weekly maintenance Bz had MRs on study, including one who maintained a MR for over 7 months. Three additional Bz-refractory patients initially achieved stable disease during study treatment, with on study TTP of 8 weeks (at HCQ 1200 mg/d), 15 weeks (100 mg/d), and 17 weeks (200 mg/d). Preliminary analyses of vesicle counts at HCQ doses up to 800 mg/d identify individual patients with increases in autophagic vesicles in either peripheral blood or bone marrow plasma cells, but these are not consistent, nor is there any evident correlation with response. CONCLUSION: Combined Bz and HCQ is tolerable, with a phase 2 dose of Bz 1.3 mg/m2 and HCQ 1200 mg/d and likely hematologic and gastrointestinal DLTs. There is a suggestion of improved efficacy over Bz alone, with minor responses and long periods of stable disease in Bz-refractory patients. Final analysis of autophagy inhibition in correlative specimens, including the top dose cohort, will be available for the meeting. Disclosures: Vogl: Millennium Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Research Funding. Off Label Use: Hydroxychloroquine is FDA approved for treatment of malaria and rheumatoid arthritis. This paper discusses its use in treatment of myeloma. Carroll:Agios Pharmaceuticals: Research Funding; TetraLogic Pharmaceuticals: Research Funding; Sanofi Aventis Corporation: Research Funding; Glaxo Smith Kline, Inc.: Research Funding. Amaravadi:Millennium Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Research Funding.

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A Phase I Study of Ibrutinib and Lenalidomide in Patients with Relapsed and Refractory B-Cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v124.21.4476.4476 ◽

2014 ◽

Vol 124 (21) ◽

pp. 4476-4476 ◽

Cited By ~ 3

Author(s):

Beth Christian ◽

John Kuruvilla ◽

Sonali Smith ◽

Pierluigi Porcu ◽

Amy S. Ruppert ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Phase I ◽

B Cell ◽

Disease Progression ◽

Dose Level ◽

Dose Escalation ◽

Stable Disease ◽

Research Funding ◽

Phase I Study ◽

Mantle Cell ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Introduction: Lenalidomide, an immunomodulatory agent, and ibrutinib, a selective and covalent inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, are orally bioavailable agents with promising single agent activity in relapsed/refractory B-cell NHL. We are conducting a phase I study of the combination of ibrutinib and lenalidomide to determine the maximum tolerated dose, dose limiting toxicities (DLT), and preliminary efficacy in patients with relapsed/refractory NHL. Methods: Patients with relapsed/refractory B-cell NHL including diffuse large B-cell (DLBCL), transformed, mantle cell, marginal zone, lymphoplasmacytic, and follicular lymphoma who have received at least one prior therapy were eligible. Prior autologous but not allogeneic stem cell transplant and prior lenalidomide were permitted. Prior ibrutinib, CNS involvement, and patients requiring anticoagulation were not permitted. ANC > 1000/mm3, platelets > 50,000/mm3, and creatinine < 2.0 mg/dL, ALT/AST ≤ 2.5 x ULN, bilirubin ≤ 1.5 x ULN, and ECOG PS 0-2 were required at study entry. Treatment consisted of escalating doses of lenalidomide days 1-21 and ibrutinib days 1-28 of a 28 day cycle. A standard 3+3 dose escalation schema was followed. DLTs were assessed during cycle 1 and included: treatment delays > 14 days for toxicity; grade 5 toxicity; tumor lysis syndrome requiring dialysis; tumor flare reaction nonresponsive to corticosteroids; ANC < 500 / mm3 or platelets <25, 000 / mm3 persisting > 7 days; grade 3 or 4 febrile neutropenia or infection; and any grade 3 or 4 non-hematologic toxicity with the exception of DVT, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting amenable to medical therapy, correctable electrolyte abnormalities; grade 3 fatigue, or grade 3 maculopapular rash that resolved within 7 days. Patients without significant toxicity could continue treatment until disease progression. Response was assessed every 3 months for 12 months and then every 6 months until disease progression. Results: From September 2013 until July 2014, 13 patients have been treated. Median age is 68 years (range 45-85) with 9 males. Histologies include DLBCL (4), transformed (4), follicular (2), mantle cell (2), and lymphoplasmacyctic (1) lymphoma. Median number of prior therapies is 3 (range 2-9) with 4 patients having undergone prior autologous transplant. Four patients were treated at dose level (DL) 1 (lenalidomide 15 mg and ibrutinib 420 mg). One patient was replaced for rapid disease progression and 1 patient experienced DLT consisting of a grade 2 ischemic stroke while on aspirin with no history of cardiovascular disease that resulted in discontinuation of study therapy. As a result of this DLT, dose level 1 was expanded to 6 patients. A second DLT was observed, a grade 3 rash that resolved within 7 days with interruption of therapy but recurred with diffuse erythroderma within 4 hours of ibrutinib resumption on day 22 at 280 mg. A total of 6 patients were then treated at DL -1 (lenalidomide 10 mg and ibrutinib 280 mg), and no DLTs were encountered. Related grade 3-4 toxicities occurred in 4/13 patients (31%), including one patient with hypokalemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and pneumonia, two others with neutropenia and one with maculapapular rash. Patients have received a median of 3 cycles of therapy to date (range 1-5) and 5 remain on therapy. At DL 1, a patient with DLBCL achieved a complete response (CR) and patient with transformed follicular achieved a partial response (PR). At DL -1, a patient with DLBCL achieved a CR and a patient with mantle cell lymphoma achieved a PR. Four patients achieved stable disease. Reasons for study discontinuation include two patients with DLTs who were not evaluated for response, one patient with stable disease who went off study for alternative treatment, and five patients who have progressed. Conclusions: Combined therapy with lenalidomide and ibrutinib in patients with relapsed NHL has been well tolerated at doses of 10 mg and 280 mg respectively, although DLTs of recurrent rash and stroke were encountered with 15 mg lenalidomide and 420 mg ibrutinib. Dose escalation to an intermediate dose level with lenalidomide 10 mg and ibrutinib 420 mg is planned. If this dose level is deemed safe, intra-patient dose escalation of the lenalidomide from 10 mg in cycle 1 to 15 mg in cycle 2 with ibrutinib 420 mg continuously will be tested. Preliminary efficacy has been observed in patients with relapsed/refractory DLCL, MCL, and transformed NHL. Disclosures Christian: Janssen Research & Development, LLC: Research Funding; Celgene: Consultancy. Off Label Use: Use of lenalidomide and ibrutinib in B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Smith:Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics/Janssen: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. Porcu:Celgene: Honoraria. Byrd:Phamacyclics: Research Funding. Blum:Janssen, Pharmacyclics: Research Funding.

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Multiple myeloma: circulating lymphocytes that express plasma cell antigens

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v64.2.352.bloodjournal642352 ◽

1984 ◽

Vol 64 (2) ◽

pp. 352-356

Author(s):

GJ Ruiz-Arguelles ◽

JA Katzmann ◽

PR Greipp ◽

NJ Gonchoroff ◽

JP Garton ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Multiple Myeloma ◽

Bone Marrow ◽

Plasma Cell ◽

Peripheral Blood ◽

Plasma Cells ◽

Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes ◽

Tumor Burden ◽

B Cell Differentiation ◽

Blood Lymphocytes ◽

Bone Marrow Plasma

The bone marrow and peripheral blood of 14 patients with multiple myeloma were studied with murine monoclonal antibodies that identify antigens on plasma cells (R1–3 and OKT10). Peripheral blood lymphocytes expressing plasma cell antigens were found in six cases. Five of these cases expressed the same antigens that were present on the plasma cells in the bone marrow. Patients that showed such peripheral blood involvement were found to have a larger tumor burden and higher bone marrow plasma cell proliferative activity. In some patients, antigens normally found at earlier stages of B cell differentiation (B1, B2, and J5) were expressed by peripheral blood lymphocytes and/or bone marrow plasma cells.

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Long-Term Sustained Responses Following Ibrutinib Discontinuation after Frontline Therapy with Obinutuzumab Plus Ibrutinib in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood-2020-143473 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 136 (Supplement 1) ◽

pp. 33-34

Author(s):

Paula A. Lengerke Diaz ◽

Michael Y. Choi ◽

Eider F. Moreno Cortes ◽

Jose V. Forero ◽

Juliana Velez-Lujan ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Bone Marrow ◽

Side Effects ◽

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Disease Progression ◽

Research Funding ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Combination Regimen ◽

Grade 3

Single oral targeted therapies have emerged as a standard of care in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, accessibility, side effects, and financial burden associated with long term administration limit their clinical use. Mainly, it is unclear in what clinical situation discontinuation of oral therapy can be recommended. The combination of type II anti-CD20 antibody obinutuzumab-Gazyva® with ibrutinib (GI) has shown a significant progression-free survival benefit in patients (pts) with CLL, including those with high-risk genomic aberrations. We conducted a phase 1b/2, single-arm, open-label trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of GI as first-line treatment in 32 CLL pts. We report the outcome in pts that discontinued ibrutinib (either after 3 years of sustained complete response (CR) as stipulated in the clinical protocol, or due to other reasons). CLL pts enrolled in this protocol were ≥65 years old, or unfit/unwilling to receive chemotherapy. Pts received GI for six cycles, followed by daily single-agent ibrutinib. The protocol was designed to ensure that pts with a sustained CR after 36 months were allowed to discontinue ibrutinib. The median age was 66 years (IQR 59-73), and 6% of the evaluated pts had 17p deletion. All pts were able to complete the six planned cycles of obinutuzumab. The combination regimen was well-tolerated, and the most common adverse events (>5% CTCAE grade 3-4) were neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and hyperglycemia. The rate and severity of infusion-related reactions (IRR) were much lower than expected (Grade≥ 3, 3%), and pts without IRR had lower serum levels of cytokines/chemokines CCL3 (P=0.0460), IFN-γ (P=0.0457), and TNF-α (P=0.0032) after infusion. The overall response rate was 100%, with nine pts (28%) achieving a CR, and four pts (12.5%) with undetectable minimal residual disease (uMRD) in the bone marrow, defined as <10-4 CLL cells on multicolor flow cytometry. At a median follow-up of 35.5 months (IQR 24.5-42.7) after starting treatment, 91% of the enrolled pts remain in remission with a 100% overall survival. Sixteen pts have completed a long-term follow-up of 36 months. Six pts showed CR, with three of them achieving uMRD in the bone marrow. Ten of these pts were in PR, and only one had disease progression and started treatment for symptomatic stage I disease with obinutuzumab plus venetoclax. In total, thirteen pts (41%) have stopped ibrutinib, with a median time on treatment prior to discontinuation of 35 months. Five (16%) of these pts had CRs and discontinued after 36 months. Eight additional pts (25%) had PRs and discontinued ibrutinib without being eligible: three pts discontinued prior to 36 months due to toxicities, and five pts discontinued after 36 months (3 due to side effects, and 2 due to financially driven decision). One patient eligible to discontinue ibrutinib, decided to remain on treatment despite sustained CR. After a median follow up time following ibrutinib discontinuation of 8 months (IQR 3.5-17), only two out of 13 pts have progressed (10 and 17 months after Ibrutinib discontinuation). None of the pts that stopped ibrutinib after achieving a CR have shown signs of disease progression. Of note, the pharmaceutical sponsor provided ibrutinib for the first 36 months, after which pts or their insurer became financially responsible. This particular scenario could bias the discontinuation pattern compared to a real world experience. It also provided us with a perspective about diverse factors affecting the treatment choices of pts. In summary, the obinutuzumab plus ibrutinib combination therapy was well-tolerated, with a much lower IRR rate. Efficacy compares favorably with historical controls with all pts responding to therapy, no deaths associated with treatment or disease progression, and a longer than expected time-to-progression after discontinuation of ibrutinib. The rate of ibrutinib discontinuation was higher than reported in the literature, most likely influenced by the protocol design and financial decisions driven by the switch from sponsor-provided ibrutinib to insurance or self-paid medication. Our observations regarding safety, efficacy and lack of disease progression after ibrutinib discontinuation are encouraging, and warrant confirmation in long-term prospective studies. Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT02315768. Funding: Pharmacyclics LLC. Disclosures Choi: AbbVie: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. Amaya-Chanaga:AbbVie: Ended employment in the past 24 months, Other: Research performed while employed as an investigator of this study at UCSD.. Kipps:Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Castro:Kite Pharma: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Fate Therapeutics: Research Funding.

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Targeting EZH2 in Multiple Myeloma Could be Promising for a Subgroup of MM Patients in Combination with IMiDs

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v128.22.311.311 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 128 (22) ◽

pp. 311-311 ◽

Cited By ~ 4

Author(s):

Laurie Herviou ◽

Alboukadel Kassambara ◽

Stephanie Boireau ◽

Nicolas Robert ◽

Guilhem Requirand ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Multiple Myeloma ◽

Bone Marrow ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Plasma Cells ◽

Newly Diagnosed ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Myeloma Cells ◽

Ezh2 Expression ◽

Bone Marrow Plasma

Abstract Multiple Myeloma is a B cell neoplasia characterized by the accumulation of clonal plasma cells within the bone marrow.Epigenetics is characterized by a wide range of changes that are reversible and orchestrate gene expression. Recent studies have shown that epigenetic modifications play a role in multiple myeloma (MM) by silencing various cancer-related genes. We investigated the epigenetic genes differentially expressed between normal bone marrow plasma cells (BMPC ; N=5) and MM plasma cells from patients (N=206). Using SAM (Significance Analysis of Microarrays) analysis, only 12 genes significantly differentially expressed between BMPC and MM cells (ratio > 2 and FDR (false discovery rate) < 5%) were identified, including the EZH2 histone methyltransferase. EZH2, the enzymatic subunit of Polycomb Repressive Complex 2, is a histone methyltransferases able to repress gene expression by catalyzing H3K27me3 histone mark. EZH2 overexpression has been associated with numerous hematological malignancies, including MM. We thus studied EZH2 role in MM physiopathology and drug resistance. EZH2 expression was analyzed in normal bone marrow plasma cells (BMPCs; N=5), primary myeloma cells from newly diagnosed patients (MMCs; N=206) and human myeloma cell lines (HMCLs; N=40) using Affymetrix microarrays. EZH2 gene is significantly overexpressed in MMCs of patients (median 574, range 105 - 4562) compared to normal BMPCs (median = 432; range: 314 - 563) (P < 0.01). The expression is even higher in HMCLs (median 4481, range 581 - 8455) compared to primary MMCs or BMPCs (P < 0.001). High EZH2 expression is associated with a poor prognosis in 3 independent cohorts of newly diagnosed patients (Heidelberg-Montpellier cohort - N=206, UAMS-TT2 cohort - N=345 and UAMS-TT3 cohort - N =158). Furthermore, GSEA analysis of patients with high EZH2 expression highlighted a significant enrichment of genes involved in cell cycle, downregulated in mature plasma cells vs plasmablasts, and EZH2 targets. Specific EZH2 inhibition by EPZ-6438 EZH2 inhibitor induced a significant decrease of global H3K27me3 in all the HMCLs tested (P < 0.01) and inhibited MM cell growth in 5 out of the 6 HMCLs tested. The inhibitory effect of EZH2 inhibitor on MM cell growth appeared at day 6 suggesting that it is mediated by epigenetic reprogramming. To confirm that EZH2 is also required for the survival of primary MMCs from patients, primary MM cells (n = 17 patients) co-cultured with their bone marrow microenvironment and recombinant IL-6 were treated with EPZ-6438. As identified in HMCLs, EZH2 inhibition significantly reduced the median number of viable myeloma cells by 35% (P = 0.004) from a subset of patients (n=9) while the other group (n=8) was resistant. Of interest, EPZ-6438 induced a significant global H3K27me3 decrease in both groups of patient. RNA sequencing of 6 HMCLs treated with EPZ-6438 combined with H3K27me3 ChIP analyses allowed us to create an EZ GEP-based score able to predict HMCLs and primary MM cells sensitivity to EZH2 inhibitors. We also observed a synergy between EPZ-6438 and Lenalidomide, a conventional drug used for MM treatment. More interestingly, pretreatment of myeloma cells with EPZ-6438 significantly re-sensitize drug-resistant MM cells to Lenalidomide. Investigating the effect of EPZ-6438/Lenalidomide combination in MMC, we identified that IKZF1, IRF4 and MYC protein levels were significantly more inhibited by the combination treatment (65.5%, 63.9% and 14.8% respectively) compared with Lenalidomide (51.5%, 43% and 2.2%) or EPZ-6438 (45.2%, 38.7% and 6.2%) alone. Clinical trials are ongoing with EZH2 inhibitors in lymphoma and could be promising for a subgroup of MM patients in combination with IMiDs. Furthermore, the EZ score enables identification of MM patients with an adverse prognosis and who could benefit from treatment with EZH2 inhibitors. Disclosures Goldschmidt: Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Onyx: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Millennium: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Chugai: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Takeda: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Hose:EngMab: Research Funding; Takeda: Other: Travel grant; Sanofi: Research Funding.

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Safety and Efficacy of Combined Ruxolitinib and Decitabine in Patients with Blast-Phase MPN and Post-MPN AML: Results of a Phase I Study (Myeloproliferative Disorders Research Consortium 109 trial)

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v128.22.1124.1124 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 128 (22) ◽

pp. 1124-1124 ◽

Cited By ~ 10

Author(s):

Raajit K. Rampal ◽

John O. Mascarenhas ◽

Heidi E. Kosiorek ◽

Dmitriy Berenzon ◽

Elizabeth Hexner ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Bone Marrow ◽

Adverse Events ◽

Phase I ◽

Peripheral Blood ◽

Research Funding ◽

Phase I Trial ◽

Fixed Dose ◽

Hematologic Toxicity ◽

Blast Phase ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Background: The Philadelphia chromosome negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) includePolycythemia Vera (PV), Essential Thrombocythemia (ET) and Primary Myelofibrosis (PMF). These stem cell disorders carry a propensity to evolve into acute myeloid leukemia (MPN-blast phase [BP] or post-MPN AML) with a dismal prognosis not meaningfully improved by conventional anti-leukemia therapy. Thus, MPN-BP is an urgent unmet clinical need. Responses in patients with MPN-BP to hypomethylating agents and single agent ruxolitinib have been reported. More recently, combination of ruxolitnib and decitabine has demonstrated synergistic activity in vitro in cells derived from patients with MPN-BP and from a murine model of MPN-BP (Rampal et al PNAS 2014). These observations led us to explore the safety of combined decitabine and dose escalation of ruxolitinib in MPN-BP. Objective: To establish the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of ruxolitinib in combination with a fixed dose of decitabine (DEC-RUX). Methods: We conducted an open label Phase I trial in patients with MPN acceleration phase (AP) as defined by 10%-19% blasts in the peripheral blood or bone marrow or a diagnosis of MPN-BP as defined by ≥ 20% blasts in the blood or bone marrow, following a previous diagnosis of ET, PV or PMF. Patients were enrolled in a standard 3+3 phase I design with an MTD defined as a dose <33% DLT. Ruxolitinib was administered at doses of 10mg, 15mg, 25mg, or 50mg every 12 hours in combination with concurrent decitabine at a dose of 20mg/m2 daily intravenously over 5 days and repeated every 28 days. Adverse events were assessed using the NCI CTCAE v. 4.0. DLTs were defined as Grade 3 or higher non-hematologic toxicity events not clearly related to disease and grade 4 hematologic events with a bone marrow cellularity of ≤5% and no evidence of leukemia. Response assessment was carried out every cycle using modified Cheson criteria: CR required 0% peripheral blood blasts, WBC ≥4x109/L, hemoglobin ≥10g/L, and platelets ≥100x109/L; CRi required 0% peripheral blood blasts with incomplete count recovery; and PR required ≥50% decrease in peripheral blood blasts regardless of blood counts. Results: A total of 21 patients were accrued to study (Table 1). The median age was 63 years (range 48-88). 52% carried a diagnosis of MPN-AP, and 48% carried a diagnosis of MPN-BP. 29% of patients and 24% of patients had prior exposure to ruxolitinb and decitabine, respectively. The median number of cycles received varied from 10.5 cycles in the 10mg BID cohort to 2 and 2.5 cycles in the 25mg BID and 50mg BID cohorts, respectively (Table 2). The most common Grade 3/4 non-hematologic AEs observed were due to infection in all dosing cohorts. In terms of hematologic toxicity, treatment emergent Grade 3/4 anemia was observed in 1 patient in each of the 10mg BID, 15mg BID, and 50mg BID cohorts. Grade 3/4 leukopenia was observed in only 1 patient at the 50mg BID cohort, and Grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia was observed in 2 patients in the 10mg BID cohort and 1 patient in the 15mg BID cohort. DLT rate was below 33% for all dose levels so the MTD was not reached. The most common reason for ending study treatment was toxicity/adverse events (33%) followed by disease progression (22%). 9 patients died during study or follow-up. Of those, 5 (56%, 2 in 10mg BID cohort, 1 in 15mg BID cohort, 2 in 50mg BID cohort) died of infection, 3 (33%, 1 in each of 10mg, 25mg, and 50mg BID cohorts) of progressive disease, and 1 (11%, 25mg BID cohort) of hemorrhage. The median overall survival for patients on study was 10.4 months (95% CI 3.3 mo - not reached). CR/CRi as best response was observed in 7/21 patients (33%, 95% CI 15-57%; 2 CR, 5 CRi; Table 2). Conclusions: DEC-RUX combination therapy was safely administered to patients with MPN-AP/BP and an MTD was not reached. Based on pre-clinical data, observed safety profile, duration of treatment, and clinical responses in this phase I trial, the Recommended Phase II Dose of RUX was selected as 25mg BID for an induction cycle followed by 10mg BID in all ensuing cycles. Molecular and bone marrow pathology responses will be presented at the meeting. Disclosures Mascarenhas: Promedior: Research Funding; CTI Biopharma: Research Funding; Novartis: Other: DSMB , Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Roche: Research Funding; Incyte: Other: Clinical Trial Steereing Committee, Research Funding. Hexner:Blueprint medicines: Consultancy; Novartis: Research Funding. Abboud:Alexion: Honoraria; Takeda: Honoraria; Novartis: Research Funding; Teva: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Honoraria; Baxalta: Honoraria; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Gerson and Lehman Group: Consultancy; Cardinal: Honoraria. Levine:Novartis: Consultancy; Qiagen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Mesa:Promedior: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy; Incyte: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Galena: Consultancy; Ariad: Consultancy; Gilead: Research Funding; CTI: Research Funding.

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Phase II Trial of Single Agent Panobinostat (LBH589) In Relapsed or Relapsed/Refractory Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v116.21.3952.3952 ◽

2010 ◽

Vol 116 (21) ◽

pp. 3952-3952 ◽

Cited By ~ 7

Author(s):

Irene Ghobrial ◽

Tiffany Poon ◽

Meghan Rourke ◽

Stacey Chuma ◽

Janet Kunsman ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Bone Marrow ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Stable Disease ◽

Research Funding ◽

Bone Marrow Involvement ◽

Ct Scans ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Bone Marrow Biopsies ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Abstract 3952 Introduction: This study aimed to determine the safety and activity of panobinostat (LBH589) in patients with relapsed or relapsed/refractory Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM). This was based on our preclinical studies showing that panobinostat induces significant activity in cell lines and patient samples. Methods: Eligibility criteria include: 1) patients with relapsed or relapsed/refractory WM with any prior lines of therapy, 2) measurable disease and symptomatic disease, 3) off prior chemotherapy> 3 weeks, or biological/novel therapy for WM > 2 weeks. Patients received panobinostat at 30 mg three times a week (Mondays, Wed and Fridays). Patients were assessed after every cycle for the first 6 cycles and then every 3 months thereafter. Subjects who had response or stable disease were allowed to continue on therapy until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. A planned restaging was performed at the end of cycle 6 including CT scans and bone marrow biopsies. Results: Twenty-seven patients have been enrolled to date. The median age is 62 years (47-80), the median lines of prior therapy is 3 (range, 1–7). All of the patients received prior rituximab. The median hemoglobin at screening is 10.3 g/dL (range 8.2–14.3), the median IgM M-spike by protein electropheresis at study entry is 1.9 g/dL (range, 0.63–5.1), and median serum IgM at baseline is 3610 mg/dL (range, 804- 10, 300). The median bone marrow involvement at enrollment was high for patients with WM, 50%, range (5-95%), with more than 10 patients having 70% or higher bone marrow involvement at baseline. The median number of cycles on therapy is 4 (range 1 – 12). 4 of the patients came off due to toxicity. Minimal response (MR) or better has been achieved in 15 (60%) of patients, with 6 (24%) PR, 9 (36%) MR. In addition, 9 (36%) patients achieved stable disease and 1 (4%) showed progression. The median decrease in IgM is 1020 mg/dL (0- 3970 decrease in IgM) with a median % decrease of 37.13%. Responses were prompt. The median time to first response was 2 cycles (range, 2–4). Bone marrow biopsies at the end of study (or at 6 months follow up) are available on 7 patients, of which 3 showed a significant decrease in bone marrow involvement and 4 showed stable involvement. The 4 patients who had stable bone marrow disease showed 1 PR and 3 MR responses by paraprotein level. Grade 3 and 4 toxicities include 4 (15%) cases of anemia including 1 case of hemolytic anemia, 1 (3%) case of grade 4 leucopenia (but the patient had grade 3 leucopenia at baseline), 7 (26%) of neutropenia, 14 (52%) of thrombocytopenia, 1 (4%) grade 3 GI bleed due to thrombocytopenia, 1 (3%) Grade 4 hyperglycemia and 1 (3%) grade 3 syncope and 3 (27%) grade 3 fatigue. The most common grade 2 toxicities were thrombocytopenia, anemia, and fatigue. There were 5 (20%) cases of asymptomatic pulmonary infiltrates of ground glass opacity observed on routine CT scans in follow up. Of these, 3 came off study for other reasons not related to the pulmonary infiltrates, 1 received a course of corticosteroids and had improvement of infiltrates, and 1 had dose reduction of therapy. All patients except for 2 have been dose reduced due to thrombocytopenia, fatigue, diarrhea, or anemia. Dose reductions include 25 mg three times a week, 20 mg three times a week and 20 mg three times every other week. The protocol was amended to allow a starting dose of 25 mg three times a week, which is better tolerated than 30 mg in this patient population. Conclusions: Panobinostat is an active therapeutic agent in patients with relapsed or refractory WM, with an overall response rate of 60% in patients with relapsed or refractory WM. The dose schedule of 25 mg three times a week is better tolerated in this patient population. Further studies to include this agent in combination with rituximab or bortezomib are being evaluated. Disclosures: Ghobrial: Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Millennium: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Anderson:Millennium Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Richardson:Keryx Biopharmaceuticals: Honoraria. Treon:Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Genentech BiOncology, Biogen IDEC, Celgene, Novartis, Cephalon: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene Corporation: Research Funding; Novartis Corporation: Research Funding; Genentech: Consultancy, Research Funding.

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Long Term Follow-up of IL-1 Receptor Antagonist and Dexamethasone Phase II Clinical Trial in Patients with Smoldering/Indolent Myeloma Shows Improved Survival in Responsive Patients: Implications for Targeting Interleukin-1 Induced IL-6 Production and the Myeloma Proliferative Component

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v118.21.2945.2945 ◽

2011 ◽

Vol 118 (21) ◽

pp. 2945-2945

Author(s):

John A Lust ◽

Martha Q Lacy ◽

Steven R Zeldenrust ◽

Angela Dispenzieri ◽

Morie A Gertz ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Bone Marrow ◽

Phase Ii ◽

Stable Disease ◽

Mayo Clinic ◽

Plasma Cells ◽

M Protein ◽

C Reactive Protein ◽

Minor Response ◽

Reactive Protein ◽

Bone Marrow Plasma

Abstract Abstract 2945 Background: We have previously reported on a Phase II trial using IL-1Ra and dexamethasone, in patients with SMM/IMM, showing that IL-1Ra targets the myeloma proliferative component which parallels a decrease in the C-reactive protein, a surrogate for IL-6 production. (Mayo Clinic Proceedings 84 :114 (Feb. 2009)). In early stage myeloma, IL-6 is a central myeloma growth factor and we have shown that abnormal production of IL-1 β in the myeloma microenvironment stimulates the generation of paracrine IL-6. These patients are the individuals most likely to benefit from anti-cytokine therapy in an attempt to delay/prevent the development of active myeloma. We now present updated results of this study including survival data. Methods: Patients that had ≥ 10% bone marrow plasma cells and/or an IgG or IgA M-spike ≥ 3 g/dL and did not require immediate chemotherapy were eligible. All patients received 100 mg of Anakinra (IL-1Ra) SQ qd for 6 months. Patients with evidence of reduction in M-protein levels continued receiving IL-1Ra alone. Patients with stable disease at 6 months or those with a rising M-protein before 6 months received low dose dexamethasone (20 mg qweek) in addition; the dose was adjusted based on response/toxicity. Results: Data were available on 47 patients based on intent to treat, and pts were classified as smoldering (72%) vs. indolent (28%). All SMM patients were in Group 1 or 2 and thirty-eight patients (81%) had greater than 20% bone marrow plasma cells. All 47 patients received IL-1Ra initially and 25/47 subsequently received IL-1Ra/Dex. Seven patients had a decrease in the plasma cell labeling index (PCLI) on IL-1Ra alone which paralleled a decrease in the high sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) in all cases. Three patients achieved a minor response to IL-1Ra alone and 9 patients achieved a PR/MR after addition of dexamethasone. For the group of 47 patients, the median progression-free survival was 45 months and the median overall survival has not been reached. When patients were grouped into whether they exhibited a reduction in the C-reactive protein from baseline after 6 months of therapy, the median PFS for patients without (21 patients) or with (26 patients) a greater than one-third reduction in baseline CRP was 1 year vs more than 8 years (p<.01). Similarly, the median OS for patients without or with a reduction in baseline CRP was 7.9 years vs. median not reached (p=.02; see Figure). Toxicity included injection site reactions during the first month of therapy in 86% of patients. Grade 3–4 adverse events consisted mainly of asymptomatic neutropenia (17% of patients) and infection (18% of patients). Patients that progressed to active MM have been treated with standard therapies including lenalidomide, bortezomib, transplant, and novel therapies. In contrast, seven of the 26 patients with a CRP decrease continue with stable disease and minimal toxicity on IL-1Ra alone or in combination with standard agents. Conclusion: The above results suggest that agents such as IL-1Ra that specifically inhibit paracrine IL-6 production are effective at targeting the proliferative myeloma component and warrant further investigation in combination with standard myeloma therapies. Combination therapy that effectively targets both the proliferative and the IL-1 producing myeloma components may be useful in patients with active myeloma that have an elevated growth rate at diagnosis. Disclosures: Lust: Mayo Clinic: Patents & Royalties. Off Label Use: IL-1Ra use in smoldering myeloma. Donovan:Mayo Clinic: Patents & Royalties.

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Evaluation of Rigosertib in Patients with a Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) or Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Relapsed or Refractory to Hypomethylating Agents: A Phase I/II Study

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v120.21.3794.3794 ◽

2012 ◽

Vol 120 (21) ◽

pp. 3794-3794 ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Shyamala C. Navada ◽

Rosalie Odchimar-Reissig ◽

E. Premkumar Reddy ◽

James F Holland ◽

Francois Wilhelm ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Bone Marrow ◽

Overall Survival ◽

Side Effects ◽

Phase I ◽

Stable Disease ◽

Peripheral Blood ◽

Research Funding ◽

Phase Iii ◽

Hypomethylating Agents ◽

Hypomethylating Agent

Abstract Abstract 3794 Background: Rigosertib is a small molecule anti-cancer agent with a multi-targeted mechanism of action. It is a multi-kinase/PI3 kinase inhibitor that promotes G2/M arrest and selectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells. Leukemic cells exhibit significantly higher levels of sensitivity to rigosertib compared to normal marrow progenitors and increasing cytotoxicity upon prolonged and repetitive exposure (Chen Proc AACR 2008). Azacitidine is first-line therapy for patients (pts) with higher-risk MDS and produces a response rate of 50%. Pts relapsed or refractory to hypomethylating agents have a short life expectancy of approximately 4 to 6 months (Jabbour 2010, Prebet 2011). There are no approved second line therapies for this patient population. Methods: A phase I/II study of Rigosertib is being conducted in pts with MDS and AML. Pts with higher-risk disease had to have failed a hypomethylating agent. In the phase I component, pts were entered in cohorts of escalating doses in a classic 3+3 design ranging from 650 up to 1700 mg/m2/d continuous IV infusion (CIV) for durations from 72 hours to 144 hours every 2 weeks (1 cycle) for 4 cycles of treatment during the induction phase. Subsequent treatments were administered every 3 to 4 weeks. A maximum tolerated dose of 1375 mg/m2 was identified for the phase II component, and subsequent pts were treated with this dose as a CIV for 72 hours. A CBC was performed weekly and a bone marrow (BM) was performed at baseline and week 4, 8, and then q3 months afterwards. Results: Twenty-one patients with MDS or AML refractory/relapsed to a hypomethylating agent have been treated with rigosertib. The study cohort comprised pts with a diagnosis of intermediate-2 MDS (2 pts), high risk MDS (5 pts), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (1 pt), and AML (13 pts) (all AML had an antecedent MDS). The median age was 79 years. 86% of pts were male. Patients received between 1–19 cycles of treatment. Their cytogenetic profiles were diverse with the most recurrent abnormalities including a complex karyotype (5 pts), normal (5 pts), monosomy 7 (4 pts), and trisomy 8 (2 pts). Responses according to IWG 2006 criteria were observed in the BM and peripheral blood: marrow CR (4), hematologic improvement (HI) (2); erythroid (1) platelet (1). Time to response was 2–4 cycles. An additional 2 pts had a >50% BM blast decrease from baseline but not to < 5%. Three pts had stable disease after treatment but their courses were complicated by infections requiring hospitalization and removal from the study. Three pts were deemed to be inevaluable because they received less than 2 cycles of treatment or did not have a follow-up bone marrow evaluation. Thus, 9/18 evaluable pts (50%) demonstrated either a bone marrow/peripheral blood response (6) or stable disease (3). The median overall survival of those with marrow CR+PR was 10.1 months versus 2 months for those without a bone marrow response (p=0.0011, log-rank test). Of those pts who did not respond or were inevaluable, the majority (83%) had AML, many with a proliferative course. The most frequent grade 1–2 side-effects included dysuria, hematuria, fatigue, anorexia, nausea, and diarrhea. Possibly related grade 3 side-effects included fatigue, hematuria, and dyspnea, each in one pt. Six of 21 pts developed cystitis manifested by dysuria and/or hematuria. Among responding or stable patients, 5 of 9 had cystitis compared with 1 of 12 non-responders. Patients who developed symptomatic cystitis were treated with sodium bicarbonate with improvement. The relationship between dysuria and/or cystitis and response is being investigated. Conclusions: Rigosertib appears to be safe and well tolerated in patients with refractory or relapsed MDS and AML. It has biologic activity with reduction in BM blasts and improvement in the peripheral blood counts in a subset of treated pts, and these effects are associated with increased survival. Dysuria/cystitis may be a response related biomarker and requires further analysis. Data regarding pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics will be presented and correlated to response. Given promising initial results, a phase III multicenter randomized trial is underway to compare rigosertib to best supportive care with a primary endpoint of overall survival in patients with higher risk MDS who have failed, progressed, or relapsed after treatment with hypomethylating agents. Disclosures: Reddy: Onconova: Research Funding. Holland:Onconova: Research Funding. Wilhelm:Onconova: Employment, Equity Ownership. Silverman:Onconova: Research Funding.

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Detailed Safety Analysis of Venetoclax Combined with Rituximab in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v128.22.2033.2033 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 128 (22) ◽

pp. 2033-2033 ◽

Cited By ~ 3

Author(s):

Danielle M. Brander ◽

Michael Y. Choi ◽

Andrew W. Roberts ◽

Shuo Ma ◽

L. Leanne Lash ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Bone Marrow ◽

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Peripheral Blood ◽

Research Funding ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Grade 3 ◽

Over Time

Abstract Background: Venetoclax (VEN) is a selective, potent, orally bioavailable BCL-2 inhibitor FDA-approved for patients with del(17p) chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and who have received ≥1 prior therapy. Based on preclinical evidence of synergy, VEN plus rituximab is being assessed in an ongoing Phase 1b study. Methods: Patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) CLL received daily VEN with stepwise ramp-up over 3-4 weeks to reach daily doses of 200-600mg. After 1 week at the target dose, monthly rituximab was added for 6 doses. Responses and progression were assessed by iwCLL criteria with CT scan and bone marrow biopsy. Bone marrow assessments were done at screening, completion of combination therapy (month 7), and 2 months after clinical/radiologic criteria of iwCLL response were met. Minimal residual disease (MRD) was assessed in peripheral blood and marrow aspirates using ≥4 color flow cytometry (min sensitivity: 0.01%). Data cutoff was 04March2016, with analysis focusing on updated safety of cytopenias experienced on the course of treatment. Results: Forty-ninepatients enrolled (48 CLL/1 SLL). Patients had received a median of 2 prior therapies (range: 1-5) and disease in 25 (51%) was considered refractory to the most recent therapy. Median time on study was 28 (<1-42) months, with 31 patients active on study. Eighteen patients discontinued: 11 due to disease progression, 3 due to toxicity (peripheral neuropathy [1], MDS [1], and death due to TLS [1]), 3 withdrew consent, and 1 was lost to follow up. Across all doses, the most common AEs of any grade were diarrhea (57%), neutropenia (55%), upper respiratory tract infection (55%), and nausea (51%). Peripheral blood cytopenias were the most common Grade 3/4 AEs (neutropenia [53%], thrombocytopenia [16%], anemia [14%], febrile neutropenia [12%], and leukopenia [12%]). Twenty-seven (55%) patients had a history of neutropenia, of whom 6 were receiving G-CSF support prior to starting VEN. Overall, in the first month of therapy, 15 (31%) experienced an AE of neutropenia (any grade). Thereafter, the rate of new AEs of neutropenia decreased over time. While there was individual patient variability, mean ANC was stable over time. Overall, 26 (53%) patients had Grade 3/4 neutropenia. Neutropenia was generally well tolerated and managed by G-CSF support in 24 patients, in addition to ≥1 dose modification in 11 of the 24 patients. Of 8 (16%) patients who experienced grade 3 infections, 2 were while neutropenic. There were no grade 4 infections. Among the 11 (22%) patients who developed any-grade thrombocytopenia, none occurred within 2 weeks of a reported bleeding-related AE. One patient had thrombocytopenia overlapping with disease progression on therapy. Objective response rate for all patients was 86% (n=42), with 51% (n=25) who had complete response (CR/CRi; 12 achieved CR/CRi by month 7). At the completion of combination therapy (month 7), 39 patients had evaluable bone marrow assessments. Thirty (77%) had no histologic evidence of CLL in the bone marrow and 22 patients (56%) had attained bone marrow MRD-negativity. In longer follow up at any point during treatment for all 49 patients, 37 (75%) patients achieved complete marrow clearance and 28 (57%) achieved marrow MRD-negativity. Conclusions: Transient manageable neutropenia was the most common AE, with first onset usually seen within the first month of treatment and the onset of new neutropenia AEs decreased over time. No patients discontinued the study due to cytopenias. Patients were able to continue on study and high rates of response to treatment were observed. VEN given with rituximab achieved rapid and profound reductions in disease burden in peripheral blood and bone marrow. 77% of evaluable patients achieved morphologic clearance by month 7, and 57% were MRD-negative at any point on study. Figure 1 Figure 1. Disclosures Brander: TG Therapeutics: Research Funding; Gilead: Honoraria. Roberts:AbbVie: Research Funding; Servier: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Genentech: Patents & Royalties: Employee of Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research which receives milestone payments related to venetoclax. Ma:Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Gilead: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Genentech: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Research Funding; Xeme: Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding. Lash:AbbVie: Employment. Verdugo:AbbVie: Employment, Other: may own stock. Zhu:AbbVie Inc.: Employment, Other: may own stock. Kim:AbbVie: Employment. Seymour:Roche: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Takeda: 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, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Gilead: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Genentech: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; AbbVie Inc.: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau.

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Multiple myeloma: circulating lymphocytes that express plasma cell antigens

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v64.2.352.352 ◽

1984 ◽

Vol 64 (2) ◽

pp. 352-356 ◽

Cited By ~ 54

Author(s):

GJ Ruiz-Arguelles ◽

JA Katzmann ◽

PR Greipp ◽

NJ Gonchoroff ◽

JP Garton ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Multiple Myeloma ◽

Bone Marrow ◽

Plasma Cell ◽

Peripheral Blood ◽

Plasma Cells ◽

Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes ◽

Tumor Burden ◽

B Cell Differentiation ◽

Blood Lymphocytes ◽

Bone Marrow Plasma

Abstract The bone marrow and peripheral blood of 14 patients with multiple myeloma were studied with murine monoclonal antibodies that identify antigens on plasma cells (R1–3 and OKT10). Peripheral blood lymphocytes expressing plasma cell antigens were found in six cases. Five of these cases expressed the same antigens that were present on the plasma cells in the bone marrow. Patients that showed such peripheral blood involvement were found to have a larger tumor burden and higher bone marrow plasma cell proliferative activity. In some patients, antigens normally found at earlier stages of B cell differentiation (B1, B2, and J5) were expressed by peripheral blood lymphocytes and/or bone marrow plasma cells.

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