Preliminary Safety Results from the Phase IIIb GREEN Study of Obinutuzumab (GA101) Alone or in Combination with Chemotherapy for Previously Untreated or Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)

Abstract Background: The novel, glycoengineered type II anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, obinutuzumab (GA101) has demonstrated superior efficacy to chlorambucil (Clb) monotherapy and to Clb in combination with rituximab (R-Clb) with an acceptable safety profile in CLL. However, an increased rate of infusion-related reactions (IRRs) has been observed with the obinutuzumab(G)-Clb combination compared with R-Clb during the first cycle of treatment. The GREEN study (NCT01905943) is an ongoing phase IIIb, multicenter, open-label trial investigating the safety and efficacy of obinutuzumab alone or in combination with chemotherapy in patients with previously untreated or relapsed/refractory CLL. We report safety data from cohort 1, which aimed to reduce IRRs on the first day of obinutuzumab administration in previously untreated patients using a lower dose and slower infusion rate than in previous studies. Methods: Subjects aged ≥18 years withdocumented CLL, an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0–2 and adequate hematologic function are enrolled. Treatment includes obinutuzumab (1000mg) administered intravenously on days (D) 1 (25mg) and 2 (975mg), D8, and D15 of cycle (C) 1, and on D1 of C2–6, alone (any patient: n=18) or in combination with 28-day cycles of chemotherapy: fludarabine plus cyclophosphamide (FC; n=46) for fit patients (cumulative illness rating scale [CIRS] ≤6 and creatinine clearance [CrCl] ≥70mL/min), Clb (n=8) for unfit patients (CIRS >6 and/or CrCl <70mL/min) or bendamustine (B; n=86) for fit/unfit patients. The primary outcome is safety, including the frequency, type and severity of adverse events (AEs). The present analysis focuses on IRRs, defined as treatment-related AEs occurring during or within 24 hours of infusion. Results were assessed to determine if a low obinutuzumab dose (25mg) and slow infusion rate (12.5mg/hour) on D1 (the current recommended C1D1 regimen is 100mg at 25mg/hour) could reduce IRRs. Analysis was based on a data cut-off of 28 April 2014, planned for when the first 150 previously untreated patients had completed cohort 1. Results: Of 158 subjects eligible for the IRR analysis (Table), median age was 65.0 (34.0–83.0) years and the majority were males (65.2%) with Binet stage B (52.5%) or C (31.0%) CLL. Median observation time was 2.09 (0.2–6.0) months and median exposure time was 1.0 (0.0–4.8) month. IRRs occurring in ≥10% of patients were chills (14.6%) and pyrexia (15.2%). Serious IRRs in ≥1% of patients were tumor lysis syndrome (TLS; 3.8%) and pyrexia (1.3%). Grade ≥3 IRRs experienced by ≥1% of patients were TLS (5.7%), hypertension (1.3%) and hypotension (1.3%). IRRs were most frequent in C1D1 (Fig). In the overall safety population (n=172; previously untreated patients) the most frequently reported serious AEs of special interest included IRR (8.1%) and neutropenia (11.0%). AEs of particular interest, thrombocytopenia, cardiac, and hemorrhagic events, were experienced by 16.3%, 3.5% and 3.5% of patients, respectively. Table. Table. Conclusions: Preliminary safety data from the GREEN study, assessing the use of obinutuzumab alone or in combination with chemotherapy (B, FC or Clb) in subjects with untreated CLL, are in line with the known safety profile of obinutuzumab in similar populations. Although there is limited exposure time available for subjects in GREEN, IRRs seemed to be more manageable and a lower proportion of subjects with IRRs grade ≥3 was observed compared with previous studies. No new safety signals were reported. However, since the number of discontinuations during C1 was comparable with previous obinutuzumab studies, the decision was taken to further improve IRR rates by assessing additional dexamethasone premedication in cohort 2. Final safety data from the study will be presented at a later timepoint. Figure 1 Figure 1. Disclosures Bosch: Roche: Consultancy, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Off Label Use: GAZYVA (obinutuzumab) is a CD20-directed cytolytic antibody and is indicated, in combination with chlorambucil, for the treatment of patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). This abstract reports on obinutuzumab alone or in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated or relapsed/refractory CLL.. Lasserre:F. Hoffmann–La Roche: Employment. Truppel-Hartmann:F. Hoffmann–La Roche: Employment. Leblond:Roche: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Foà:Roche-Genentech: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Stilgenbauer:Roche: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding.

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Safety and Efficacy of Obinutuzumab Plus Bendamustine in Previously Untreated Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Subgroup Analysis of the Green Study

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v126.23.493.493 ◽

2015 ◽

Vol 126 (23) ◽

pp. 493-493 ◽

Cited By ~ 9

Author(s):

Stephan Stilgenbauer ◽

Osman Ilhan ◽

Darius Woszczyk ◽

Christoph Renner ◽

Eva Mikuskova ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Bone Marrow ◽

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Febrile Neutropenia ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Safety Profile ◽

Research Funding ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Safety And Efficacy ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Background The glycoengineered type II anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody obinutuzumab (GA101; GAZYVA/GAZYVARO; G) combined with chlorambucil (Clb) has superior efficacy to Clb monotherapy and to rituximab plus Clb with an acceptable safety profile in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), as shown in the CLL11 study (Goede V, et al. NEJM 2014). GREEN is an ongoing, non-randomized, multi-cohort phase IIIb study (NCT01905943) investigating the safety (primary objective) and efficacy of G alone or in combination with chemotherapy in patients with previously untreated or relapsed/refractory CLL and assessing various strategies (cohorts 1-3) for reducing the rate of infusion-related reactions (IRRs) during the first infusion of G (Bosch F, et al. Blood 2014). We report safety and efficacy data from a subgroup of previously untreated patients in cohort 1 who received G-bendamustine (G-B). Methods Subjects were aged ≥18 years withdocumented CLL (except one case of SLL), an ECOG performance status of 0-2, and adequate hematologic function. Non-fit patients were those with a CrCl of <70 mL/min, and/or a CIRS score of >6. Fit patients comprised all others. Treatment was six 28-day cycles of G-B, where G was administered IV on D1/D2 of C1 (split dose: 25mg D1/975mg D2), and 1000mg on D8 and D15 of C1 and D1 C2-6. B was administered ≥30 minutes after G on D1 and D2 of each cycle at 90mg/m2 IV, or at 70mg/m2 in non-fit patients at the investigator's discretion. Safety endpoints included incidence, type and severity of AEs. Efficacy endpoints included ORR (investigator-assessed) and minimal residual disease (MRD) measured 3 months post-treatment. ORR was strictly assessed per International Workshop Group criteria (iwCLL 2008). Patients with missing response assessment components had their responses downgraded mandatorily. MRD negativity was defined as <1x10-4 malignant B cells in peripheral blood or bone marrow aspirate, measured in a central laboratory by 4-color flow cytometry. The population comprised all patients from cohort 1 of GREEN who received at least a partial dose of both G and B, and was based on a data cut-off of 26 March 2015. Results With a planned overall sample size of 950 patients in GREEN, the G-B subgroup in cohort 1 comprised 158 patients (157 CLL, 1 SLL; 74 fit, 84 non-fit). Median age was 67.6 years, 15.8% of patients had a CIRS score of >6, and 44.9% had a CrCl of <70 mL/min; 31.6% of patients had Binet stage A disease, 38% Binet B, and 30.4% Binet C. 7.0% of patients' disease displayed 17p deletion, 16.5% 11q deletion, and 58.2% unmutated IGHV. 91.1% of patients receiving B and 93.0% of those receiving G took ≥90% of the recommended total dose. The safety profile of G-B was as expected. 50% of patients developed grade 3-5 neutropenia and 12.7% developed a grade 3-5 infection. Other common grade 3-5 AEs included thrombocytopenia (12.7%) and tumor lysis syndrome (TLS; 10.1%). The most common serious AEs were neutropenia (10.8%), pyrexia (7.6%), febrile neutropenia (7.0%), and TLS (5.1%). There were nine deaths - one due to progression, and eight due to AEs (considered related to study drug by the investigator: 1 infection, 1 sudden death, 1 acute hepatic failure, and 1 febrile neutropenia combined with TLS; considered unrelated: 2 infections and 2 secondary neoplasms). IRRs occurred in 55.7% of patients (15.2% grade 3-5, none fatal). Overall, 26 patients (16.5%) prematurely discontinued treatment due to ≥1 adverse event. The ORR was 78.5% (124/158). The rate of CR (including incomplete CR [CRi]) was 32.3% (51/158), PR 46.2% (73/158), SD 10.8% (17/158), and PD 0.6% (1/158); 10.1% (16/158) of patients had missing data. Response rates were similar in non-fit (34.5% CR/CRi, 41.7% PR, 10.7% SD, and 1.2% PD) and fit (29.7% CR/CRi, 51.4% PR, 10.8% SD, and 0% PD) patients. In an intent-to-treat analysis including all missing (not taken or evaluable) MRD results, MRD negativity was 58.9% (93/158, including 56 missing) in blood and 27.8% (44/158, including 95 missing) in bone marrow. With a median observation time of 11.2 months, PFS data were immature and the median was not reached. Conclusions Treatment with G-B in previously-untreated CLL patients is generally well tolerated and the observed toxicities are manageable and not unexpected. G-B achieves a promising rate of CRs and a high rate of MRD-negative remissions, and may offer a new treatment option for fit and non-fit patients with CLL. Disclosures Stilgenbauer: Gilead: Honoraria, Research Funding. Off Label Use: GAZYVA (obinutuzumab) is a CD20-directed cytolytic antibody and is indicated, in combination with chlorambucil, for the treatment of patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). This abstract reports on obinutuzumab alone or in combination with chemotherapy for previously untreated or relapsed/refractory CLL. Renner:Roche: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Böttcher:Roche: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; AbbVie: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Travel, accommodation, expenses, Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Beckton Dickinson: Honoraria. Tausch:Gilead: Other: Travel support. Moore:Roche: Employment. Tyson:Roche: Employment, Equity Ownership. Adamis:Roche: Employment. Leblonde:Roche: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Gilead: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; GSK: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Mundipharma: Speakers Bureau. Bosch:Roche: Consultancy, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Foà:Roche: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau.

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Five-Year Experience with Single-Agent Ibrutinib in Patients with Previously Untreated and Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Leukemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v128.22.233.233 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 128 (22) ◽

pp. 233-233 ◽

Cited By ~ 53

Author(s):

Susan M. O'Brien ◽

Richard R. Furman ◽

Steven E. Coutre ◽

Ian W. Flinn ◽

Jan Burger ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Single Agent ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Equity Ownership ◽

Grade 3 ◽

Over Time

Abstract Background: Ibrutinib (ibr), a first-in-class, once-daily Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is approved by the US FDA for treatment of patients (pts) with chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) including pts with del17p. The phase 1b/2 PCYC-1102 trial showed single-agent efficacy and tolerability in treatment-naïve (TN; O'Brien, Lancet Oncol 2014) and relapsed/refractory (R/R) CLL/SLL (Byrd, N Engl J Med 2013). We report efficacy and safety results of the longest follow-up to date for ibr-treated pts. Methods: Pts received 420 or 840 mg ibr QD until disease progression (PD) or unacceptable toxicity. Overall response rate (ORR) including partial response (PR) with lymphocytosis (PR-L) was assessed using updated iwCLL criteria. Responses were assessed by risk groups: unmutated IGVH, complex karyotype (CK; ≥3 unrelated chromosomal abnormalities by stimulated cytogenetics assessed by a reference lab), and in hierarchical order for del17p, then del11q. In the long-term extension study PCYC-1103, grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs), serious AEs, and AEs requiring dose reduction or discontinuation were collected. Results: Median age of the 132 pts with CLL/SLL (31 TN, 101 R/R) was 68 y (range, 37-84) with 43% ≥70 y. Baseline CK was observed in 41/112 (37%) of pts. Among R/R pts, 34 (34%) had del17p, 35 (35%) del11q, and 79 (78%) unmutated IGVH. R/R pts had a median of 4 prior therapies (range, 1-12). Median time on study was 46 m (range, 0-67) for all-treated pts, 60 m (range, 0-67.4) for TN pts, and 39 m (range, 0-67) for R/R pts. The ORR (per investigator) was 86% (complete response [CR], 14%) for all-treated pts (TN: 84% [CR, 29%], R/R: 86% [CR, 10%]). Median progression-free survival (PFS) was not reached (NR) for TN and 52 m for R/R pts with 60 m estimated PFS rates of 92% and 43%, respectively (Figure 1). In R/R pts, median PFS was 55 m (95% confidence intervals [CI], 31-not estimable [NE]) for pts with del11q, 26 m (95% CI,18-37) for pts with del17p, and NR (95% CI, 40-NE) for pts without del17p, del11q, trisomy 12, or del13q. Median PFS was 33 m (95% CI, 22-NE) and NR for pts with and without CK, and 43 m (95% CI, 32-NE) and 63 m (95% CI, 7-NE) for pts with unmutated and mutated IGVH, respectively(Figure 2). Among R/R pts, median PFS was 63 m (95% CI, 37-NE) for pts with 1-2 prior regimens (n=27, 3 pts with 1 prior therapy) and 59 m (95% CI, 22-NE) and 39 m (95% CI, 26-NE) for pts with 3 and ≥4 prior regimens, respectively. Median duration of response was NR for TN pts and 45 m for R/R pts. Pts estimated to be alive at 60 m were: TN, 92%; all R/R, 57%; R/R del17p, 32%; R/R del 11q, 61%; R/R unmutated IGVH, 55%. Among all treated pts, onset of grade ≥3 treatment-emergent AEs was highest in the first year and decreased during subsequent years. With about 5 years of follow-up, the most frequent grade ≥3 AEs were hypertension (26%), pneumonia (22%), neutropenia (17%), and atrial fibrillation (9%). Study treatment was discontinued due to AEs in 27 pts (20%) and disease progression in 34 pts (26%). Of all treated pts, 38% remain on ibr treatment on study including 65% of TN pts and 30% of R/R pts. Conclusions: Single-agent ibrutinib continues to show durable responses in pts with TN or R/R CLL/SLL including those with del17p, del11q, or unmutated IGVH. With extended treatment, CRs were observed in 29% of TN and 10% of R/R pts, having evolved over time. Ibrutinib provided better PFS outcomes if administered earlier in therapy than in the third-line or beyond. Those without CK experienced more favorable PFS and OS than those with CK. Ibrutinib was well tolerated with the onset of AEs decreasing over time, allowing for extended dosing for 65% of TN and 30% of R/R pts who continue treatment. Disclosures O'Brien: Janssen: Consultancy, Honoraria; Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Furman:Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Coutre:Janssen: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Consultancy, Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding. Flinn:Janssen: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics LLC, an AbbVie Company: Research Funding; Gilead Sciences: Research Funding; ARIAD: Research Funding; RainTree Oncology Services: Equity Ownership. Burger:Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Research Funding; Gilead: Research Funding; Portola: Consultancy; Janssen: Consultancy, Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses; Roche: Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses. Sharman:Gilead: Research Funding; TG Therapeutics: Research Funding; Acerta: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding. Wierda:Abbvie: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Acerta: Research Funding; Gilead: Research Funding. Jones:Janssen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; AbbVie: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Luan:AbbVie: Equity Ownership; Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Employment, Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses. James:AbbVie: Equity Ownership; Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Employment. Chu:Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company: Employment; AbbVie: Equity Ownership.

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Efficacy and Safety of Ibrutinib in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia or Small Lymphocytic Leukemia with 17p Deletion: Results from the Phase II RESONATE™-17 Trial

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v124.21.327.327 ◽

2014 ◽

Vol 124 (21) ◽

pp. 327-327 ◽

Cited By ~ 27

Author(s):

Susan O'Brien ◽

Jeffrey A. Jones ◽

Steven Coutre ◽

Anthony R. Mato ◽

Peter Hillmen ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Complete Response ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Efficacy And Safety ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Previously Treated ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Background: Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) with deletion of the short arm of chromosome 17 (del 17p) follow an aggressive clinical course and demonstrate a median survival of less than 2 years in the relapsed/refractory (R/R) setting. Ibrutinib (ImbruvicaTM), a first-in-class Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, has been approved for previously treated patients with CLL and for patients with del 17p CLL. We report results from the primary analysis of the Phase II RESONATETM-17 (PCYC-1117-CA) study, designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of single-agent ibrutinib for treatment of patients with R/R del 17p CLL or small lymphocytic leukemia (SLL). Methods: Patients with del 17p CLL or SLL who failed at least one therapy were enrolled to receive 420 mg oral ibrutinib once daily until progression. All patients receiving at least one dose of ibrutinib were included in the analysis. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR) per an independent review committee (IRC). Other endpoints included duration of response (DOR), progression-free survival (PFS), and safety of ibrutinib. Results: Among 144 treated patients (137 with CLL, 7 with SLL), the median age was 64 (48% 65 years or older) and all had del 17p. Baseline characteristics included 63% of patients with Rai Stage III or IV disease, 49% with bulky lymphadenopathy of at least 5 cm, and 10% with lymphadenopathy of least 10 cm. The median baseline absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) was 32.9 x 109/L with 57% of patients with a baseline ALC at least 25.0 x 109/L. Baseline beta-2 microglobulin levels were at least 3.5 mg/L in 78% of patients (range 1.8-19.8 mg/L), and lactate dehydrogenase levels were at least 350 U/L in 24% of patients (range 127-1979 U/L). A median of 2 prior therapies (range 1-7) was reported. Investigator-assessed ORR was 82.6% including 17.4% partial response with lymphocytosis (PR-L). Complete response (CR)/complete response with incomplete bone marrow recovery (CRi) were reported in 3 patients. IRC-assessed ORR is pending. At a median follow up of 13.0 months (range 0.5-16.7 months), the median PFS (Figure 1) and DOR by investigator determination had not been reached. At 12 months, 79.3% were alive and progression-free, and 88.3% of responders were progression-free. Progressive disease was reported in 20 patients (13.9%). Richter transformation was reported in 11 of these patients (7.6%), 7 of the cases occurring within the first 24 weeks of treatment. Prolymphocytic leukemia was reported in 1 patient. The most frequently reported adverse events (AE) of any grade were diarrhea (36%; 2% Grade 3-4), fatigue (30%; 1% Grade 3-4), cough (24%; 1% Grade 3-4), and arthralgia (22%; 1% Grade 3-4). Atrial fibrillation of any grade was reported in 11 patients (7.6%; 3.5% Grade 3-4). Seven patients reported basal or squamous cell skin cancer and 1 patient had plasma cell myeloma. Most frequently reported Grade 3-4 AEs were neutropenia (14%), anemia (8%), pneumonia (8%), and hypertension (8%). Major hemorrhage was reported in 7 patients (4.9%, all Grade 2 or 3). Study treatment was discontinued in 16 patients (11.1%) due to AEs with 8 eventually having fatal events (pneumonia, sepsis, myocardial or renal infarction, health deterioration). At the time of data cut, the median treatment duration was 11.1 months, and 101 of 144 patients (70%) continued treatment with ibrutinib. Conclusions: In the largest prospective trial dedicated to the study of del 17p CLL/SLL, ibrutinib demonstrated marked efficacy in terms of ORR, DOR, and PFS, with a favorable risk-benefit profile. At a median follow up of 13 months, the median DOR had not yet been reached; 79.3% of patients remained progression-free at 12 months, consistent with efficacy observed in earlier studies (Byrd, NEJM 2013;369:32-42). The PFS in this previously treated population compares favorably to that of treatment-naïve del 17p CLL patients receiving fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab (FCR) (Hallek, Lancet 2010;376:1164-74) or alemtuzumab (Hillmen, J Clin Oncol 2007;10:5616-23) with median PFS of 11 months. The AEs are consistent with those previously reported for ibrutinib (Byrd, NEJM 2014;371:213-23). These results support ibrutinib as an effective therapy for patients with del 17p CLL/SLL. Figure 1 Figure 1. Disclosures O'Brien: Amgen, Celgene, GSK: Consultancy; CLL Global Research Foundation: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Emergent, Genentech, Gilead, Infinity, Pharmacyclics, Spectrum: Consultancy, Research Funding; MorphoSys, Acerta, TG Therapeutics: Research Funding. Jones:Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Research Funding. Coutre:Janssen, Pharmacyclics: Honoraria, Research Funding. Mato:Pharamcyclics, Genentech, Celegene, Millennium : Speakers Bureau. Hillmen:Pharmacyclics, Janssen, Gilead, Roche: Honoraria, Research Funding. Tam:Pharmacyclics and Janssen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Siddiqi:Janssen: Speakers Bureau. Furman:Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. Brown:Sanofi, Onyx, Vertex, Novartis, Boehringer, GSK, Roche/Genentech, Emergent, Morphosys, Celgene, Janssen, Pharmacyclics, Gilead: Consultancy. Stevens-Brogan:Pharmacyclics: Employment. Li:Pharmacyclics: Employment. Fardis:Pharmacyclics: Employment. Clow:Pharmacyclics: Employment. James:Pharmacyclics: Employment. Chu:Pharmacyclics: Employment, Equity Ownership. Hallek:Janssen, Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Research Funding. Stilgenbauer:Pharmacyclics, Janssen Cilag: Consultancy, Honoraria, 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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Ofatumumab + Chlorambucil Versus Chlorambucil Alone In Patients With Untreated Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL): Results Of The Phase III Study Complement 1 (OMB110911)

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v122.21.528.528 ◽

2013 ◽

Vol 122 (21) ◽

pp. 528-528 ◽

Cited By ~ 34

Author(s):

Peter Hillmen ◽

Tadeusz Robak ◽

Ann Janssens ◽

K Govindbabu ◽

Sebastian Grosicki ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Standard Of Care ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Phase Iii ◽

Clinical Activity ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Overall Response ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Introduction Chemoimmunotherapy with purine analogues and the anti-CD20 antibody rituximab is the standard of care as initial therapy in younger and physically fit patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). However, most CLL patients are elderly and/or have comorbidities, meaning that fludarabine-containing regimens are often inappropriate, carry greater toxicity, and treatment of these patients remains challenging. Most randomized studies in previously untreated CLL have been conducted in younger or fit patients and results cannot necessarily be extrapolated to older, less fit patients. While chlorambucil (CHL) remains a standard of care for this patient population, more effective but tolerable treatment choices are still needed. Ofatumumab (O) demonstrated superior preclinical activity, compared to rituximab, against cells with low CD20 density like CLL and showed clinical activity as monotherapy, with high overall response rates (ORR) in patients with refractory CLL. Therefore, the addition of O to CHL could provide superior clinical outcomes than CHL alone, while being tolerable, for patients who are elderly and/or have comorbidities and currently have limited treatment options. Methods Patients with CLL who required therapy (2008 NCI-WG guidelines) and were considered inappropriate for fludarabine-based therapy due to advanced age and/or co-morbidities were randomized (1:1) to receive either O+CHL or CHL. CHL was given orally (10mg/m2 at days 1-7 of each 28 day cycle) and O was administered as intravenous infusions (Cycle 1: 300mg day 1 and 1000mg day 8, subsequent cycles: 1000mg at day 1). O premedication included acetaminophen, antihistamine and glucocorticoid. Treatment duration was a minimum of 3 cycles, until best response up to a maximum of 12 cycles. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) assessed by an Independent Review Committee (IRC) and secondary endpoints included overall response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS) and safety. Patients 447 patients from 16 countries were randomized. Baseline demographics and disease characteristics were well balanced between the 2 arms. Median age was 69 years with 82% ≥65 years and/or having ≥2 comorbidities. All modified Rai stages were represented (Low 8%, intermediate 51%, high 40%). 56% of patients had unmutated IgVH, 6% showed 17p deletions and 75% had β-2-microglobulin levels ≥3500μg/L. Results PFS as assessed by an IRC was significantly prolonged in the O+CHL arm (22.4 months) compared to CHL alone (13.1 months, p<0.001). ORR was higher for O+CHL vs CHL (82% vs 69%, p=0.001), with a superior CR rate (12% vs 1%). 37% of O+CHL subjects with an IRC-assessed CR were MRD negative. With a median follow-up of 29 months, median OS was not reached for O+CHL or CHL. Median duration of treatment for both arms was 6 cycles and 82% of patients received 6 or more cycles of O+CHL. Grade ≥3 AEs that occurred from start of treatment until 60 days after the last dose were experienced by 50% of patients receiving O-CHL and 43% of patients on CHL with the most common being neutropenia (O+CHL: 26%, CHL: 14%). Grade ≥3 infusion-related AEs were reported in 10% of patients. No fatal infusion reactions were reported. Grade ≥3 infections were reported in 15% (O+CHL) and 14% (CHL) of patients, with the most common infection being pneumonia (O+CHL: 4%, CHL: 3%). Deaths during treatment occurred in 2% of subjects in both arms. Conclusion Ofatumumab added to chlorambucil (O+CHL) demonstrated clinically important improvements with a manageable side effect profile in patients with CLL who have not received prior therapy and who are considered inappropriate for fludarabine based therapy. Disclosures: Hillmen: Roche Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Research Funding; Janssen: Honoraria, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria; GlaxoSmithKline: Honoraria, Research Funding. Off Label Use: The use of ofatumumab in combination with chlorambucil in previously untreated CLL. The reported trial will support the extension of the ofatumumab licence. Robak:GlaxoSmithKline: Honoraria, Research Funding. Janssens:GlaxoSmithKline: Speakers Bureau; Roche: Speakers Bureau; Mundipharma: Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Speakers Bureau. Mayer:Glaxo: Consultancy, Research Funding; Roche: Consultancy, Research Funding. Panagiotidis:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Roche: Consultancy, Honoraria; GSK: Consultancy, Honoraria. Kimby:Pharmacyclics: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Teva: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Mundipharma: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Roche: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Emergent: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Schuh:GSK: Honoraria, Research Funding. Montillo:Janssen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Mundipharma: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; GSK: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Roche: Honoraria, Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. McKeown:GSK: Employment. Carey:GlaxoSmithKline: Employment. Gupta:GSK: Employment. Chang:GSK: Employment. Lisby:Genmab: Employment, hold stock options Other. Offner:Lilly: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees.

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Ibrutinib Reduces Obinutuzumab-Gazyva Infusion Related Reactions (IRR) in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and It Is Associated with Changes on Plasma Cytokine Levels

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood-2018-99-119523 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 132 (Supplement 1) ◽

pp. 1864-1864

Author(s):

Juliana Velez Lujan ◽

Chaja Jacobs ◽

Paula A Lengerke Diaz ◽

Eider F Moreno-Cortes ◽

Cesar A Ramirez-Segura ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Monoclonal Antibody ◽

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Beneficial Effect ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Low Grade ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Cytokine Levels ◽

Grade 3

Abstract Obinutuzumab-Gazyva (G) is an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that has shown better outcomes in patients (pts) with chronic lymphocytic leukemia and low-grade lymphoma (Goede 2014, Marcus 2017). However, one limitation for its use when compared to Rituximab is the presence of significantly more frequent and more severe infusion related reactions (IRR). Strategies to mitigate this significant adverse event are needed particularly to allow a safer administration of this antibody to elderly pts or those with existing comorbidities. We have observed a reduction of G-induced IRR in previously untreated CLL pts that are enrolled on a phase Ib/II clinical trial (NCT02315768) that combines G with the Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor, ibrutinib (Ibr). Only 5 out of 23 pts treated have developed IRR (Grade 1-2, 17% and Grade 3, 4%). This rate of IRR is much lower as compared with rates previously reported (all grades: 65%, grade 3-4: 20% - Goede 2014), (all grades: 92%, grade 3-4: 26.3% - Freeman,2015). Moreover, there were no pts that require permanent discontinuation of G due to IRR. To understand the biology of this beneficial effect of Ibr, we performed serial cytokine measurements on plasma samples from 23 pts enrolled in this study at different time points during the first week of combined treatment (Cycle 1 prior to the first infusion of G and post G infusion on Day 1, Day 2 and Day 8) - Figure 1. We developed a multiplex assay (Luminex) to measure 7 different cytokines previously reported to be involved in IRR (IFN-g, IL-10, IL6, IL8, CCL3/MIP1-a, CCL4/MIP1-band TNF-a). Standards were set up in duplicate yielding curves from 3.2 pg/ml to 10.000 pg/ml. Assays were performed according to manufacturer's instructions, with undiluted samples and overnight agitated incubation at 4 °C. We identified the maximum peak of cytokine levels post G infusion and compared those values with the baseline cytokine profile obtained prior to the first G infusion on Cycle 1 Day 1. The majority of pts (22 out of 23) showed cytokines maximum peaks in the middle of G-infusion during Cycle 1 Day 1 and this correlated with the onset of IRR associated symptoms in those pts that reacted to G. With the exception of IL-6, we observed statistically higher post vs. pre G infusion levels of TNF-a(p=0.0012), IFN-g(p=<0.0001), CCL3 (p=0.0458), CCL4 (p=<0.0001), IL-8 (p=<0.0001), and IL-10 (p=<0.0001) even in pts that did not develop IRR. However, the post infusion peak levels of TNF-a(p=0.0043), IFN-g(p=0.0457) and CCL3 (p=0.0460) were significantly higher in pts with IRR compared to those that had no IRR. Baseline levels prior to G infusion of TNF-a(p=0.0495) and IFN-g(p=0.0301) were higher in IRR pts, suggesting a possible predictive role in the development of IRR. Figure 1. Our study shows that concurrent administration of Ibr (Initiated on Cycle 1 Day 1 with pre-medications) and G shows a beneficial effect decreasing the rates of IRR (Amaya-Chanaga, 2016). All pts showed a significant increase of cytokine levels post G infusion with IL-6 levels being the exception. When we compared post G infusion cytokine levels, we observed that IRR-pts had a significant increase in TNF-a, IFN-g, and CCL3 suggesting a role of these cytokines in the clinical manifestations associated with IRR. In addition, higher levels of TNF-a and IFN-g, at baseline prior to G infusion appear to be predictive of the development of IRR. Even though our sample size is small, our observations provide additional insights into the biology of G associated IRR and how to decrease effectively those adverse events using Ibr while preserving the immune function needed for the activity of this monoclonal antibody. In addition, Ibr induced modulation of signaling through the B cell receptor and patterns of cytokine release might be efficacious in preventing other monoclonal antibody IRR as well as those reactions observed in pts that receive adoptive cellular therapy (i.e. CART cell treatment). Disclosures Choi: AbbVie, Inc: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Gilead: Speakers Bureau; Genentech: Speakers Bureau; Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Rigel: Consultancy. Amaya-Chanaga:AbbVie: Equity Ownership, Other: Research performed while employed as an investigator of this study at UCSD. Review and approval of abstract performed while employed at Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company.; Pharmacyclics, an AbbVie Company: Employment, Other: Research performed while employed as an investigator of this study at UCSD. Review and approval of abstract performed while employed at Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company.. Kipps:Celgene: Consultancy; F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Verastem: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Janssen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Gilead: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; AbbVie: Consultancy, Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; Genentech Inc: Consultancy, Research Funding; Janssen: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Verastem: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Castro:F. Hoffmann-La Roche: Consultancy; Genentech, Inc: Consultancy; Pharmacyclics, LLC, an AbbVie Company:: Consultancy.

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Impact of Idelalisib Treatment Interruption with or without Dose Reduction on Outcomes in Relapsed / Refractory Indolent Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood-2019-124541 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 134 (Supplement_1) ◽

pp. 5468-5468

Author(s):

Shuo Ma ◽

Rebecca J Chan ◽

Lin Gu ◽

Guan Xing ◽

Nishan Rajakumaraswamy ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Overall Survival ◽

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Dose Reduction ◽

Clinical Outcomes ◽

Research Funding ◽

Treatment Interruption ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Hodgkin's Lymphoma ◽

Advisory Committees

Introduction: Idelalisib (IDELA) is the first-in-class PI3Kδ inhibitor and is approved as a monotherapy for relapsed or refractory (R/R) follicular lymphoma and in combination with rituximab for R/R chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). We previously evaluated IDELA treatment interruption as a mechanism to mitigate treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and found that limited interruption with clinically appropriate re-challenging resulted in superior clinical outcomes. These findings did not comprehensively address the potential confound of interruptions inherently being associated with longer duration of therapy (DoT). Furthermore, the compound effect of IDELA dose reduction together with treatment interruption on IDELA efficacy was not assessed. Objectives: 1) To evaluate whether the benefit of IDELA interruption is retained in patients on therapy >180 days, a duration previously found to be associated with longer overall survival among patients who discontinued IDELA due to an AE; and 2) To compare clinical outcomes of patients who reduced IDELA dosing in addition to interrupting IDELA with those of patients who interrupted IDELA without additional dose reduction. Methods: Using data from Gilead-sponsored trials of patients with R/R indolent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (iNHL) treated with IDELA monotherapy (N=125, Gopal et al., N. Engl. J. Med., 2014) or with R/R CLL treated with IDELA + anti-CD20 (N=110, Furman et al., N. Engl. J. Med., 2014; and N=173, Jones et al., Lancet Haematol., 2017), DoT, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were compared between patients on IDELA therapy >180 days with vs. without interruption and between patients who experienced Interruption and Dose Reduction (IDR) vs. patients who experienced Interruption but NoDose Reduction (INoDR) at any point during IDELA treatment. Interruption was defined as missing at least one IDELA treatment day due to an AE and dose reduction could have occurred before or after the first interruption. PFS and OS were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and were compared using a log-rank test. Results: Sixty-nine of 125 patients with R/R iNHL (55.2%) and 222 of 283 patients with R/R CLL (78.4%) remained on IDELA therapy >180 days with 29 (42.0%) and 103 (46.4%) of them, respectively, experiencing interruption on or after day 180 (Table 1). The proportions of patients with interruption before day 180 were similar within each of these populations. Among patients on therapy >180 days, those with treatment interruption on or after 180 days had a longer median (m) DOT than patients without interruption (Table 1). Both PFS and OS were longer in CLL patients who interrupted compared to those who did not interrupt (mPFS=28.9 mos. vs. 17.3 mos. and mOS=not reached [NR] vs. 40.4 mos. for with interruption vs. without interruption, respectively, Table 1 and Figure 1). In patients with iNHL, no difference was observed in PFS or OS between patients who interrupted vs. those who did not (Table 1). Of patients who experienced at least one AE-induced interruption at any point during IDELA therapy (n=63 iNHL and n=157 CLL), 47 iNHL patients (74.6%) and 84 CLL patients (53.5%) also had dose reduction. Two iNHL patients (1.6%) and 5 CLL patients (1.8%) had IDELA dose reduction but no interruption. Both iNHL and CLL patients with IDR experienced a similar PFS compared to patients with INoDR (mPFS=16.5 mos. vs. 14.2 mos. for iNHL and 21.8 mos. vs. 22.1 mos. for CLL with IDR vs. INoDR, respectively, Table 2). However, OS was longer in both iNHL and CLL patients with IDR compared to INoDR (mOS=61.2 mos. vs. 35.3 mos. for iNHL and NR vs. 42.4 mos. for CLL, respectively, Table 2; CLL patients shown in Figure 2). Discussion: IDELA treatment interruption is not associated with rapid clinical deterioration, as observed with some B-cell receptor signaling pathway inhibitors. No clear relationship between IDELA DoT and frequency of interruption was observed. When normalized for DoT >180 days, IDELA treatment interruption retained its clinical benefit in the CLL population. When utilized together with IDELA interruption, dose reduction did not lead to inferior clinical outcomes but instead extended OS in both iNHL and CLL populations. Adherence to treatment interruption and dose reduction guidance as outlined in the IDELA USPI may optimize IDELA tolerability and efficacy for patients with iNHL and CLL. Disclosures Ma: Janssen: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Gilead: Research Funding; Abbvie: Research Funding; Juno: Research Funding; Incyte: Research Funding; Xeme: Research Funding; Beigene: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Astra Zeneca: Consultancy, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Kite: Consultancy; Acerta: Research Funding; Bioverativ: Consultancy; Genentech: Consultancy. Chan:Gilead Sciences, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Gu:Gilead Sciences, Inc.: Employment. Xing:Gilead Sciences, Inc.: Employment. Rajakumaraswamy:Gilead Sciences, Inc.: Employment. Ruzicka:Gilead Sciences, Inc.: Employment. Wagner-Johnston:Gilead: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; ADC Therapeutics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Jannsen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bayer: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

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IKZF3 Overexpression Phenocopies Gain-of-Function Mutation in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood-2020-137085 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 136 (Supplement 1) ◽

pp. 9-9

Author(s):

Shanye Yin ◽

Gregory Lazarian ◽

Elisa Ten Hacken ◽

Tomasz Sewastianik ◽

Satyen Gohil ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Gene Expression ◽

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Dna Binding ◽

B Cell ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Bcr Signaling ◽

Experimental Group

A hotspot mutation within the DNA-binding domain of IKZF3 (IKZF3-L162R) has been identified as a putative driver in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL); however, its functional effects are unknown. We recently confirmed its role as a CLL driver in a B cell-restricted conditional knock-in model. IKZF3 mutation altered mature B cell development and signaling capacity, and induced CLL-like disease in elderly mice (~40% penetrance). Moreover, we found IKZF3-L162R acts as a gain-of-function mutation, altering DNA binding specificity and target selection of IKZF3, and resulting in overexpression of multiple B-cell receptor (BCR) genes. Consistent with the murine data, RNA-sequencing analysis showed that human CLL cells with mut-IKZF3 [n=4] have an enhanced signature of BCR-signaling gene expression compared to WT-IKZF3 [n=6, all IGHV unmutated] (p<0.001), and also exhibited general upregulation of key BCR-signaling regulators. These results confirm the role of IKZF3 as a master regulator of BCR-signaling gene expression, with the mutation contributing to overexpression of these genes. While mutation in IKZF3 has a clear functional impact on a cardinal CLL-associated pathway, such as BCR signaling, we note that this driver occurs only at low frequency in patients (~3%). Because somatic mutation represents but one mechanism by which a driver can alter a cellular pathway, we examined whether aberrant expression of IKZF3 could also yield differences in BCR-signaling gene expression. We have observed expression of the IKZF3 gene to be variably dysregulated amongst CLL patients through re-analysis of transcriptomic data from two independent cohorts of human CLL (DFCI, Landau et al., 2014; ICGC, Ferreira et al., 2014). We thus examined IKZF3 expression and BCR-signaling gene expression, or the 'BCR score' (calculated as the mean expression of 75 BCR signaling-associate genes) in those cohorts (DFCI cohort, n=107; ICGC cohort, n=274). Strikingly, CLL cells with higher IKZF3 expression (defined as greater than median expression) had higher BCR scores than those with lower IKZF3 expression (<median) (p=0.0015 and p<0.0001, respectively). These findings were consistent with the notion that IKZF3 may act as a broad regulator of BCR signaling genes, and that IKZF3 overexpression, like IKZF3 mutation, may provide fitness advantage. In support of this notion, our re-analysis of a gene expression dataset of 107 CLL samples (Herold Leukemia 2011) revealed that higher IKZF3 expression associated with poorer prognosis and worse overall survival (P=0.035). We previously reported that CLL cells with IKZF3 mutation appeared to increase in cancer cell fraction (CCF) with resistance to fludarabine-based chemotherapy (Landau Nature 2015). Instances of increase in mut-IKZF3 CCF upon treatment with the BCR-signaling inhibitor ibrutinib have been reported (Ahn ASH 2019). These studies together suggest an association of IKZF3 mutation with increased cellular survival following either chemotherapy or targeted treatment. To examine whether higher expression of IKZF3 was associated with altered sensitivity to ibrutinib, we performed scRNA-seq analysis (10x Genomics) of two previously treatment-naïve patients undergoing ibrutinib therapy (paired samples, baseline vs. Day 220). We analyzed an average of 11,080 cells per patient (2000 genes/cell). Of note, following ibrutinib treatment, remaining CLL cells expressed higher levels of IKZF3 transcript compared to pretreatment baseline (both p<0.0001), whereas no such change was observed in matched T cells (n ranging between 62 to 652 per experimental group, p>0.05), suggesting that cells with high expression of IKZF3 were selected by ibrutinib treatment. Moreover, we showed that ibrutinib treatment resulted in consistent upregulation of BCR-signaling genes (e.g., CD79B, LYN, GRB2, FOS, RAC1, PRKCB and NFKBIA) (n ranging between 362 to 1374 per experimental group, all p<0.0001), which were likewise activated by mutant IKZF3. Altogether, these data imply that IKZF3 mutation or overexpression may influence upregulation of BCR-signaling genes and enhance cellular fitness even during treatment with BCR-signaling inhibitors. We highlight our observation that IKZF3 mutation appears to be phenocopied by elevated IKZF3 expression, and suggest that alterations in mRNA or protein level that mimic genetic mutations could be widespread in human cancers. Disclosures Kipps: Pharmacyclics/ AbbVie, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Oncternal Therapeutics, Inc., Specialized Center of Research (SCOR) - The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM): Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding; Gilead: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Genentech/Roche: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; VelosBio: Research Funding; Oncternal Therapeutics, Inc.: Other: Cirmtuzumab was developed by Thomas J. Kipps in the Thomas J. Kipps laboratory and licensed by the University of California to Oncternal Therapeutics, Inc., which provided stock options and research funding to the Thomas J. Kipps laboratory, Research Funding; Ascerta/AstraZeneca, Celgene, Genentech/F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Gilead, Janssen, Loxo Oncology, Octernal Therapeutics, Pharmacyclics/AbbVie, TG Therapeutics, VelosBio, and Verastem: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Wu:BionTech: Current equity holder in publicly-traded company; Pharmacyclics: Research Funding.

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A Randomized Phase 2 Trial of Bortezomib–Dexamethasone Versus Bortezomib–Dexamethasone with Added Cyclophosphamide or Lenalidomide in Multiple Myeloma Patients Achieving Stable Disease After Four Cycles of Bortezomib–Dexamethasone Administered as Second-Line Treatment.

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v114.22.4937.4937 ◽

2009 ◽

Vol 114 (22) ◽

pp. 4937-4937

Author(s):

Meletios A. Dimopoulos ◽

Huw Roddie ◽

Meral Beksac ◽

Lotfi Benboubker ◽

Romualdas Jurgutis ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Renal Function ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Safety Data ◽

Phase 2 ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Ortho Biotech ◽

Function Group ◽

Grade 3 ◽

Renal Function Group

Abstract Abstract 4937 Bortezomib (Velcade®) plus dexamethasone (Vel/Dex) is known to be effective and well tolerated in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). As demonstrated in the frontline setting, the addition to Vel/Dex of cyclophosphamide (VCD) or lenalidomide (Revlimid®; VRD) may lead to improved efficacy, but may be associated with increased toxicities; however, few studies have prospectively assessed Vel/Dex as second-line therapy. This randomized, open-label, parallel-group, phase 2 study in patients who have relapsed after or are refractory to primary MM therapy is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an additional 4 cycles of Vel/Dex, VCD, or VDR in patients achieving stable disease (SD) after 4 cycles of Vel/Dex. Bortezomib-naïve patients aged ≥18 years, with measurable MM, KPS ≥60, life expectancy ≥6 months, adequate hematologic and hepatic function, and without grade ≥2 peripheral neuropathy (PN) received 4 3-week cycles of Vel/Dex (Vel 1.3 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 4, 8, and 11, and Dex 20 mg PO on days 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, and 12). Patients then received a further 4 cycles of therapy as follows: patients achieving at least a partial response (PR) received Vel/Dex; patients with SD underwent central randomization to receive Vel/Dex, VCD, or VRD; patients with progressive disease (PD) discontinued treatment. Here we report efficacy and renal function improvement in patients who had the opportunity to complete the initial 4 cycles of Vel/Dex as of April 2009, and safety data for patients who received at least 1 dose of study drug. Response was assessed by IMWG uniform response criteria based on measurement of serum and urine M-protein prior to treatment on day 1 of each cycle, at end of treatment, and monthly thereafter. Renal function as defined by calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR; Cockcroft–Gault formula) was assessed prior to treatment on day 1 of cycles 1–5. Adverse events (AEs) were graded using NCI CTCAE v3.0. A total of 122 patients have been enrolled; by data cut-off (July 21 2009), 24 (20%) had not completed a single treatment cycle and are excluded from the safety population (N=98). Eighteen had received <4 cycles at data cut-off. Of the remaining 80 who were eligible for response, 63 had completed 4 cycles, 6 discontinued prior to completing 4 cycles (due to PD in 3 patients, death in 1, drug-related AEs in 2), 9 were not under treatment at data cut-off, and 2 had died. Their median age was 62 years (range 34–86), 55% were male, 21.3% had KPS ≤70; median time from prior therapy was 18.6 months. Response rate in the efficacy population was 41/80 (51%) after 4 cycles, including 8% CR. Median times to first and best response were 37 and 57 days, respectively. Patient renal function (by GFR) at baseline, median improvement in GFR, and responses achieved by the 10 patients in whom GFR improved by at least one renal function group are shown in the Table. Among the 98 patients who received at least one treatment dose, mean cumulative doses of bortezomib and dexamethasone were 14.6 mg/m2 (4.9, 4.5, 4.4, and 4.3 mg/m2 in cycles 1–4) and 478 mg (151.8, 145.6, 145.4, and 144.0 mg for cycles 1–4), respectively. Most patients (90%) reported AEs, including 39% with grade 3/4 AEs and 23% with serious AEs, within the first 4 cycles. The most common grade 3/4 AEs included thrombocytopenia (13%), anemia (7%), and pneumonia (6%). AEs resulting in dose reductions/treatment stop were seen in 21%/10% of patients. Incidence of sensory PN and PN was 29% (3% grade 3/4); most PN events were reversible, with 68% resolving within a median 53 days. Updated efficacy and safety data for the first 4 cycles of Vel/Dex for all patients enrolled by July 31 will be presented. Table: Improvement in renal function (as measured by GFR)* Renal function group at baseline, n† <15 mL/min 3 15–<30 mL/min 6 30–<60 mL/min 33 ≥60 mL/min 36 Median GFR (median improvement from previous cycle), mL/min At baseline 58.3 After cycle 1 64.4 (4.8) After cycle 2 68.9 (2.9) After cycle 3 68.6 (9.9) After cycle 4 73.5 (9.4) Renal improvement by at least 1 grade, n (response achieved) 10 <15 to 15–<30 mL/min 1 (1 CR) 15–<30 to 30–<60 mL/min 1 (1 PR) 30–<60 to ≥60 mL/min 8 (2 CR, 1 VGPR, 3 PR, 2 SD) * 1 patient only had a baseline GFR measurement and was not included in the renal analysis † 1 patient had no baseline GFR measurement Disclosures Dimopoulos: Ortho Biotech: Consultancy, Honoraria; Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Honoraria. Beksac:Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Janssen-Cilag: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Langer:Celgene: Consultancy; Ortho Biotech: Consultancy. Facon:Janssen-Cilag: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Johnson and Johnson: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

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Increased Activity of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase, a Stem/Progenitor Cell Marker, in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia,

Blood ◽

10.1182/blood.v118.21.3867.3867 ◽

2011 ◽

Vol 118 (21) ◽

pp. 3867-3867

Author(s):

Raymond P. Wu ◽

Christina C.N. Wu ◽

Tomoko Hayashi ◽

Laura Z. Rassenti ◽

Thomas J. Kipps ◽

...

Keyword(s):

B Cells ◽

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Board Of Directors ◽

Research Funding ◽

Progenitor Cell ◽

Lymphocytic Leukemia ◽

Cell Marker ◽

Aldh Activity ◽

Advisory Committees ◽

Aldefluor Assay

Abstract Abstract 3867 Introduction: Despite their mature appearance, the B cells from chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) possess immature characteristics both functionally and biochemically. CLL B cells display known biochemical markers characteristic of cells early in the blood lineage, including ROR1, Wnt16, and LEF1. In addition, CLL B cells have higher levels of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and of the oxidant-induced transcription factor Nrf2 [NFE2L2], compared to normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Intracellular ROS status has been suggested to be a marker of cancer stem/progenitor cells possibly due to their high expression of oncogenes. Downstream targets of Nrf2 include the Aldehyde dehydrogenase [ALDH] enzymes, which are believed to play a crucial role in stem cell biology because they protect the cells against oxidative stress caused by accumulation of aldehydes. Here, we use ALDH activity to visualize populations of CLL B cells that may have stem/progenitor properties. Materials and Methods: Isolated PBMC from normal donors and CLL patients with aggressive and indolent disease were stained for ALDH activity with an Aldefluor assay kit (StemCell Technologies). The ALDH inhibitor, diethylaminobenzaldehyde (DEAB), was used to confirm that the fluorescent activity was due to ALDH activity. At the end of the Aldefluor assay, the cells were stained for cell surface markers, CD19, CD5, CD38 and CD34. 50,000 total events were collected for FACS analysis. Normalized Mean Fluorescence Intensity (MFI) values were calculated by dividing each MFI value to average MFI value of normal CD19+ cells for each experiment. Data analyses were performed by FlowJo software and Prizm. P-values were calculated by One-Way ANOVA analysis with Post-Bonferroni's multiple comparison test. Results: We examine the level of ALDH expression and activity in CD19+ cells of healthy donors (n = 9), CLL samples that expressed unmutated IgVH and that were ZAP-70 positive (defined as “aggressive”, n = 14) or samples that expressed mutated IgVH and were ZAP-70 negative (defined as “indolent”, n=12). CLL B cells from patients with aggressive disease had significantly higher ALDH activities compared to normal B cells (p < 0.001) and indolent CLL B cells (p < 0.05) (Figure1). Indolent CLL B cells also have higher level of ALDH activities compared to normal B cells (p < 0.01) (Figure1). Treatment with the ALDH inhibitor, DEAB, suppressed the increased fluorescence observed in CLL B cells. In addition, ALDH high CLL B cells are CD34 negative. These data show that CLL B cells express a marker known to be associated with stem/progenitor cells, but these populations are different from CD34 positive hematopoietic stem cells. In addition, our data show that a stem/progenitor cell marker is associated with the pathogenesis of CLL. Disclosures: Kipps: Igenica: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene: Consultancy, Research Funding; Abbot Industries: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Genentech: Research Funding; GSK: Research Funding; Gilead Sciences: Consultancy, Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding.

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