Activity In Solid Tumor Models Research Articles

The DNA Methyltransferase Inhibitor 5-Aza-4'-thio-2'-Deoxycytidine Induces C>G Transversions and Acute Lymphoid Leukemia Development.

DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTi), most commonly cytidine analogs, are compounds that decrease 5'-cytosine methylation. DNMTi are used clinically based on the hypothesis that cytosine demethylation will lead to re-expression of tumor suppressor genes. 5-Aza-4'-thio-2'-deoxycytidine (Aza-TdCyd or ATC) is a recently described thiol-substituted DNMTi that has been shown to have anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of ATC in a murine transplantation model of myelodysplastic syndrome. ATC treatment led to the transformation of transplanted wild-type bone marrow nucleated cells into lymphoid leukemia, and healthy mice treated with ATC also developed lymphoid leukemia. Whole-exome sequencing revealed 1,000 acquired mutations, almost all of which were C>G transversions in a specific 5'-NCG-3' context. These mutations involved dozens of genes involved in human lymphoid leukemia, such as Notch1, Pten, Pax5, Trp53, and Nf1. Human cells treated in vitro with ATC showed 1,000 acquired C>G transversions in a similar context. Deletion of Dck, the rate-limiting enzyme for the cytidine salvage pathway, eliminated C>G transversions. Taken together, these findings demonstrate a highly penetrant mutagenic and leukemogenic phenotype associated with ATC. Significance: Treatment with a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor generates a distinct mutation signature and triggers leukemic transformation, which has important implications for the research and clinical applications of these inhibitors.

Abstract 3132: A novel dual drug antibody-drug conjugate targeting hTrop2 has synergetic anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models

Abstract Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are emerging therapeutic agents for targeted cancer treatment with remarkable clinical success. However, tumor heterogeneity and microenvironment complexity are still the major factors contributing to drug resistance, recurrence, and metastasis, which cannot be resolved with a mono therapy strategy. We’ve developed a novel dual drug ADC (BiADC), BR113, by conjugating an anti-hTrop2 antibody with a drug linker of a Topoisomerase I inhibitor payload, and another drug linker of an immune stimulator. Our studies show that the homogeneous ADC containing two distinct payloads is a new promising drug class, with two different anti-tumor MOAs, synergistic antigen-specific cell killing potency, desirable pharmacokinetic profiles, and minimal toxicity at therapeutic doses. In the cancer cells and human PBMC co-culture assay, BR113 exerts significantly more potent killing on cancer cells than two individual single-drug ADCs and the combination of two single-drug ADCs, which suggested a synergy on anti-tumor effects of this dual-drug ADC. In the xenograft mouse model studies, BR113 exhibits greater treatment effect and survival benefit than the combo of two single-drug ADCs at various doses. This robust superior anti-tumor activity is further confirmed in a hTrop2-MC38 syngeneic model with a prolonged anti-tumor protection against the tumor re-challenge. Finally, the novel BiADC, BR113, is well tolerated in hTop2 humanized mice after repeated administration. Our findings highlight the therapeutic potential of the BiADC format for treating refractory advanced solid tumors. The outstanding anti-tumor activity across various CDX tumor models and its favorable safety profile in mice support further evaluation of the innovative BiADC, BR113. Citation Format: Jie Zhu, Xiaobei Zhao, Eileen Li, Hong Xu, Lei Nie, Gang Chen, Haibing Wang. A novel dual drug antibody-drug conjugate targeting hTrop2 has synergetic anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 3132.

Abstract 4690: SC-2882, a novel QPCTL inhibitor, with anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models

Abstract Background: SC-2882 is an orally administered first-in-class small molecule inhibitor of glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase like (QPCTL). QPCTL is an intracellular enzyme that modifies several proteins containing an N-terminal glutamine or glutamate, resulting in pyroglutamylated amino acids. Pyroglutamylation can alter protein function in different ways and dependent on context. Key substrate proteins include the “don’t eat me” signal protein CD47 and several chemokines (CCL2 and CCL7) (Nat Med 2019, Nat Imm. 2022). Previously, we have shown activity of SC-2882 in a murine model of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (Di Siervi, 2023). Here we report for the first time, the evaluation of SC-2882 in several preclinical mouse models for solid tumors. Methods: Potency of SC-2882 was evaluated in a cell-based assay in several human and mouse tumor cell lines: SIRPα binding to CD47 in response to increasing concentrations of SC-2882 was measured in a flowcytometry-based assay. Several syngeneic mouse tumor models were evaluated for their response towards SC-2882 as a single agent and in combination with either a murine anti-PD-L1 antibody or cisplatin. Animals were dosed orally with SC-2882 once daily for the duration of the experiment. Results: In all human and mouse cancer cell lines tested, SC-2882 was able to reduce SIRPα binding to CD47 significantly. This reduction was equivalent to the reduction observed in QPCTL genetic knockouts created in the same cell line. In the same experiments, no differences in CD47 expression were observed. From anti-tumor efficacy studies, we learned that SC-2882 was well tolerated in mice as a single agent and in combination with anti-PD-L1 or cisplatin for at least 4 weeks (this was the maximum period tested). No clinical signs or changes in body weight were observed, even over prolonged periods of treatment. Tumor growth inhibition and tumor shrinkage by SC-2882 was observed in 5 different syngeneic mouse tumor models. In two out of these five models, SC-2882 was able to reduce tumor growth as a single agent. In the other three models, tumor growth inhibition was observed in combination with either anti-PD-L1 or cisplatin. Conclusions: SC-2882 is an orally administered small molecule inhibitor with a favorable PK profile. Preclinical studies show that SC-2882 was well tolerated in mice. In several mouse tumor models, SC-2882 reduced tumor growth in either single agent treated animals or in combination with anti-PD-L1 or cisplatin. SC-2882 is currently in IND enabling studies and scheduled to enter the clinic in 2024. Citation Format: Jasper Mullenders, Marcel Scheepstra, Michel R. Faas, Annette B. Galler, Bastiaan Evers, Jens U. Wuerthner. SC-2882, a novel QPCTL inhibitor, with anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4690.

Abstract 2360: ADV101, a first-in-class IL-1RAP ADC demonstrates significant anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models

Abstract Chronic inflammation is intricately linked to cancer development, and the IL-1 cytokine family stands out as pivotal regulators of inflammation. All the pro-inflammatory cytokines within the IL-1 family rely on a single co-receptor called IL-1RAP which therefore emerges as a crucial and central node for modulating these pathways. While healthy tissues, except for the placenta, showed minimal plasma membrane IL-1RAP expression, tumor tissues exhibited high IL-1RAP expression, particularly in Acute myeloid leukaemia, Ewing sarcoma, ovarian cancer, head and neck, and squamous gastric and oesophageal cancers. In addition, elevated IL-1RAP expression in haematological and solid malignancies has also been associated with poor overall survival, making it an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. In this study, we present the development and characterization of an antibody-drug-conjugate (ADC) targeting IL-1RAP for potential anti-tumor applications. Following on from this, an anti-IL-1RAP antibody, ADV58, was generated and confirmed to have the anticipated biophysical, specificity, and functional properties, including low nanomolar affinity (SPR and ELISA), selectivity/specificity to human IL-1RAP, and internalization potential into IL-1RAP-positive tumor cells. In addition, ADV58 bind similarly well to human, cynomolgus and rhesus monkey IL-1RAP antigens but not to rat and mouse. Altogether these properties made ADV58 an ideal candidate for an ADC program. Concurrently, solid tumor cell lines from indications of interest with elevated IL-1RAP expression were identified, laying the groundwork for disease relevant pre-clinical tumor models. Using these models, the anti-tumor potential of ADV101 (ADV58-derived ADC) was assessed in vitro and in vivo in successful proof-of-concept studies by conjugating ADV58 with monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE, DAR of 4) or Deruxtecan (DXd, DAR of 8). Humanisation and conjugation did not compromise binding of the naked antibody, the ADV58-MMAE or the ADV58-DXd ADCs to human and non-human primate IL-1RAP. In vitro, the ADCs selectively killed IL-1RAP-positive tumor cells. In vivo efficacy studies in IL-1RAP-positive subcutaneous xenograft tumor models also demonstrated a significant dose-dependent and IL-1RAP antigen-dependent anti-tumor response for both anti-IL-1RAP ADCs. Altogether the robust preclinical data package supports the continued development of ADV101 as a novel targeted ADC therapeutic strategy for a broad spectrum of cancers. Citation Format: Richard C. A. Sainson, Laura Demolis, Edouard De Dreuzy, Olivier Favre-Bulle, Alexis Collette, Lucas Bourhis, Soha Reda El Sayed, Delphine Genin, Clementine Primus, Lucie Bouquet, Ksenija Pavletic, Christophe Ferrand, Marina Deschamps, Stephane Lameynardie, Erik Rutjens, Jens Hasskarl. ADV101, a first-in-class IL-1RAP ADC demonstrates significant anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2360.

Abstract 4584: Novel YAP1/TAZ pathway inhibitors identified through phenotypic screening with potent anti-tumor activity via blockade of GGTase-I and Rho-GTPase signaling

Abstract YAP1/TAZ have been shown to be aberrantly activated oncogenes in several human solid tumors, resulting in enhanced cell proliferation, metastasis and provision of a pro-tumorigenic microenvironment, making YAP1/TAZ targets for novel cancer therapies. Yet, the development of effective inhibitors of these potent oncogenes has been challenging. In this work, we break new ground in this direction through the identification of novel inhibitors of YAP1/TAZ activity. This study describes the identification and target deconvolution of novel small molecule inhibitors of oncogenic YAP1/TAZ activity with potent anti-tumor activity in vivo. A high-throughput screen (HTS) of 3.8 million compounds was conducted using a cellular YAP1/TAZ reporter assay. HTS hits that selectively inhibited TEAD-luciferase, but not TK-Renilla-luciferase (n = 3.994) were subsequently assessed regarding their ability to induce translocation of YAP1 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm in MDA-MB-231 cells, which is the physiological mechanism of inactivation. Out of these, 392 hits showed activity to induce translocation of YAP1. Finally, selected hits active in both assays (n = 96) were assessed regarding their effect on endogenous YAP1/TAZ target genes. The small molecule BAY-856 demonstrated the most consistent YAP1/TAZ inhibitory activity of all selected hits, which warranted further exploration of the unknown direct drug target. Target deconvolution studies identified the geranylgeranyltransferase-I (GGTase-I) complex, as the direct target of YAP1/TAZ pathway inhibitor BAY-856. BAY-856 and close analogs with improved in vitro potency blocked the activation of Rho-GTPases, leading to subsequent inactivation of YAP1/TAZ and inhibition of cancer cell proliferation in several tumor types in vitro. Multi-parameter optimization resulted in BAY-593, an in vivo probe with favorable PK properties. BAY-593 demonstrated anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models and blockade of YAP1/TAZ signaling in vivo. BAY-593 is a novel tool compound to explore Rho-GTPase signaling and downstream YAP1/TAZ biology in vitro and in vivo. Citation Format: Keith Graham, Philip Lienau, Benjamin Bader, Stefan Prechtl, Jan Naujoks, Ralf Lesche, Barbara Nicke, Wilhelm Bone, Sven Golfier, Krzysztof Brzezinka, Stefan Kaulfuss, Charlotte Kopitz, Holger Steuber, Nico Braeuer, Katrin Nowak-Reppel, Carlo Stresemann, Patrick Steigemann, Julia Kuehnlenz, Lisette Potze, Francesca Zanconato, Anna Montebaur, Sabine Pilari, Sikander Hayat, Atanas Kamburov, Andreas Steffen, Andreas Schlicker, Philipp Buchgraber, Nuria Aiguabella Font, Tobias Heinrich, Lara Kuhnke, Annette O. Walter, Simona Blotta, Matthias Ocker, Ashley Lakner, Dominik Mumberg, Knut Eis, Stefano Piccolo, Martin Lange. Novel YAP1/TAZ pathway inhibitors identified through phenotypic screening with potent anti-tumor activity via blockade of GGTase-I and Rho-GTPase signaling [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4584.

HDAC specificity and kinase off-targeting by purine-benzohydroxamate anti-hematological tumor agents

A series of hybrid inhibitors, combining pharmacophores of known kinase inhibitors bearing anilino-purines (ruxolitinib, ibrutinib) and benzohydroxamate HDAC inhibitors (nexturastat A), were generated in the present study. The compounds have been synthesized and tested against solid and hematological tumor cell lines. Compounds 4d-f were the most promising in cytotoxicity assays (IC50 ≤ 50 nM) vs. hematological cells and displayed moderate activity in solid tumor models (EC50 = 9.3–21.7 μM). Compound 4d potently inhibited multiple kinase targets of interest for anticancer effects, including JAK2, JAK3, HDAC1, and HDAC6. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that 4d has stable interactions with HDAC and members of the JAK family, with differences in the hinge binding energy conferring selectivity for JAK3 and JAK2 over JAK1. The kinase inhibition profile of compounds 4d-f allows selective cytotoxicity, with minimal effects on non-tumorigenic cells. Moreover, these compounds have favorable pharmacokinetic profiles, with high stability in human liver microsomes (e.g., see t1/2: >120 min for 4f), low intrinsic clearance, and lack of significant inhibition of four major CYP450 isoforms.

Evaluation of In Vitro Cytotoxic Potential of Avarol towards Human Cancer Cell Lines and In Vivo Antitumor Activity in Solid Tumor Models.

The goal of this study was to determine the activity in vitro and in vivo of avarol, a sesquiterpene hydroquinone originating from the Dysidea avara sponge from the south Adriatic Sea, against different cancer cell lines and two types of mouse carcinoma. To investigate the in vitro cytotoxicity, a human cervix adenocarcinoma cell line (HeLa), human colon adenocarcinoma (LS174), human non-small-cell lung carcinoma (A549), and a normal human fetal lung fibroblast cell line (MRC-5) were used. The in vivo antitumor activity was investigated against two transplantable mouse tumors, the Ehrlich carcinoma (EC) and cervical cancer (CC-5). The effect of avarol on cancer cell survival, which was determined by the microculture tetrazolium test, confirmed a significant in vitro potency of avarol against the investigated cell lines, without selectivity towards MRC-5. The highest cytotoxicity was exhibited against HeLa cancer cells (10.22 ± 0.28 μg/mL). Moreover, potent antitumor activity against two tumor models was determined, as the intraperitoneal administration of avarol at a dose of 50 mg/kg resulted in a significant inhibition of tumor growth in mice. After three administrations of avarol, a 29% inhibition of the EC growth was achieved, while in the case of CC-5, a 36% inhibition of the tumor growth was achieved after the second administration of avarol. Therefore, the results indicate that this marine sesquiterpenoid hydroquinone could be a promising bioactive compound in the development of new anticancer medicine.

Abstract 1817: EG-011 is a first-in-class Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp) activator with anti-tumor activity

Abstract Background. Novel therapeutic targets are needed to improve the outcome of individuals with cancer. EG-011 is a small molecule with in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor activity in lymphoma and acute leukemias, but, at least so far, no activity in solid tumor models (Gaudio et al AACR 2019). Since no information was available on its target, we have now performed experiments showing that EG-011 targets WASp. Methods. Target identification: kinase screens with DiscoverX KINOMEscan, ProQinase Wildtype-Profiler; thermal proteomic profiling. Target validation: pyrene actin polymerization assay. In vitro drug treatment of cell lines followed for changes in actin filaments (F-actin) by confocal imaging with Alexa Fluor 488 Phalloidin. Results. Extensive kinome screens excluded kinases as targets of EG-011. We then applied thermal proteomic profiling to identify new protein targets interacting with EG-011. Over 3,300 proteins from the soluble proteome from the EG-011 sensitive mantle cell lymphoma cell line REC1 were analyzed and 48 possible protein targets were initially identified. Among the proteins undergoing a thermal shift, WASp was among the most highly destabilized by EG-011. Due to the pattern of expression of WASp, compatible with the anti-tumor activity observed only in hematological cancers (Gaudio et al AACR 2019), we performed further experiments to confirm the possibility that EG-011 targets WASp. One of the main functions of WASp is the regulation of actin filaments formation. Pyrene actin polymerization assays demonstrated that EG-011 activated the auto-inhibited form of WASP with strong actin polymerization. Further confirmation was obtained using confocal imaging of cell lines exposed to DMSO or EG-011 (500 nM, 5 μM) and stained for F-actin. An increase in actine polymerization was seen in EG-011 sensitive (VL51) and not in resistant (Z138) cell lines at 4, 8 and 24h with both concentrations. Conclusions. These data demonstrate that EG-011 is the “first-in-class” activator of the auto-inhibited form of WASp with selective anti-tumor activity in lymphomas. Citation Format: Filippo Spriano, Laura Barnabei, Ana Maria Carrasco Del Amor, Meagan R. Tomasso, Chiara Tarantelli, Eugenia Riveiro, Natalina Pazzi, Shae B. Padrick, Susana Cristobal, Franco Cavalli, Eugenio Gaudio, Francesco Bertoni. EG-011 is a first-in-class Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WASp) activator with anti-tumor activity [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 1817.

Antibodies Against Cleaved CDCP1 Show Activity in RAS-Mutant Tumors.

Targeting the proteolytically cleaved form of CDCP1 showed antitumor activity in solid tumor models.

A phase 1b, open-label, dose-escalation study to evaluate camidanlumab tesirine (Cami) as monotherapy in patients (pts) with advanced solid tumors.

2556 Background: Depletion of tumor-infiltrating CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs), which inhibit tumor-specific immune responses, could contribute to tumor eradication. Cami (ADCT-301), an anti-CD25, pyrrolobenzodiazepine-based antibody-drug conjugate, targets CD25+ Tregs. A mouse surrogate has shown potent antitumor activity in solid tumor models. Here we report preliminary data from the monotherapy arm of a phase 1b trial of Cami in pts with selected advanced solid tumors. Methods: The monotherapy dose-escalation part of this open-label study enrolled pts (aged ≥18 years) with selected advanced solid tumors and no suitable existing therapy. The primary objective was to characterize safety and tolerability, and to identify the recommended phase 2 dose of Cami monotherapy. Secondary and exploratory objectives included evaluation of preliminary antitumor activity, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and immunogenicity. Pts received Cami every 3 weeks (1 cycle) with dose escalation per a 3+3 design. Disease control rate (DCR) was assessed (complete and partial responses [CR, PR] and stable disease). Results: At data cut-off (Dec 17, 2020), 44 pts were enrolled, with primary tumor types (stage IVA/B: 27 pts; 61.4%) of colorectal (15 pts; 34.1%), pancreatic (14 pts; 31.8%), head and neck, ovarian/fallopian tube, and renal cell carcinoma (all 3 pts; 6.8%), non-small cell lung cancer (2 pts; 4.5%), gastric, esophageal/GEJ, melanoma, and triple-negative breast cancer (each 1 pt; 2.3%). Median (range) age was 60.5 (33–82) years; median (range) number of prior systemic therapies was 4 (1–9). Pts received a median (range) of 2 (1–6) Cami cycles at doses of 20–150 µg/kg. Median (range) treatment duration was 22 (1–178) days. No dose-limiting toxicities were reported. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was not reached. All-grade treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) in ≥20% pts were nausea (18 pts; 40.9%), decreased appetite and fatigue (each 16 pts; 36.4%), constipation (13 pts; 29.5%), abdominal pain (11 pts; 25%), and rash (10 pts; 22.7%). The only Grade ≥3 TEAE in ≥10% pts was anemia (5 pts; 11.4%). Grade 3 autoimmune AEs (colitis, immune-mediated AE, systemic inflammatory response syndrome) and neurologic AEs (dysphagia and asthenia, but not GBS) were reported in 3 (6.8%) and 2 (4.5%) pts, respectively. 1 (2.3%) Cami-related TEAE led to treatment withdrawal; no Cami-related TEAEs were fatal. DCR was 25% (95% CI: 11.1, 34.7); 11/44 pts attained stable disease. No pts had CR or PR. Conclusions: Dose escalation of Cami monotherapy is complete. The safety profile is encouraging and MTD was not reached. PK/PD data will be presented. 150 µg/kg is the highest dose investigated for single-agent Cami and the highest to be investigated combined with pembrolizumab in selected advanced solid tumors in the current protocol. Funding: ADC Therapeutics SA NCT03621982. Clinical trial information: NCT03621982.

Exploiting MCL1 Dependency with Combination MEK + MCL1 Inhibitors Leads to Induction of Apoptosis and Tumor Regression in KRAS-Mutant Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer

BH3 mimetic drugs, which inhibit prosurvival BCL2 family proteins, have limited single-agent activity in solid tumor models. The potential of BH3 mimetics for these cancers may depend on their ability to potentiate the apoptotic response to chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Using a novel class of potent and selective MCL1 inhibitors, we demonstrate that concurrent MEK + MCL1 inhibition induces apoptosis and tumor regression in KRAS-mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) models, which respond poorly to MEK inhibition alone. Susceptibility to BH3 mimetics that target either MCL1 or BCL-xL was determined by the differential binding of proapoptotic BCL2 proteins to MCL1 or BCL-xL, respectively. The efficacy of dual MEK + MCL1 blockade was augmented by prior transient exposure to BCL-xL inhibitors, which promotes the binding of proapoptotic BCL2 proteins to MCL1. This suggests a novel strategy for integrating BH3 mimetics that target different BCL2 family proteins for KRAS-mutant NSCLC. SIGNIFICANCE: Defining the molecular basis for MCL1 versus BCL-xL dependency will be essential for effective prioritization of BH3 mimetic combination therapies in the clinic. We discover a novel strategy for integrating BCL-xL and MCL1 inhibitors to drive and subsequently exploit apoptotic dependencies of KRAS-mutant NSCLCs treated with MEK inhibitors.See related commentary by Leber et al., p. 1511.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1494.

Abstract 3844: TAK-659, a SYK kinase inhibitor, demonstrates preclinical antitumor activity in solid tumor models

Abstract TAK-659 is a highly potent, reversible inhibitor of spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) and fms related tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) that is currently being investigated in Phase I and II clinical trials. SYK is expressed ubiquitously in hematopoietic cells, and abnormal function of SYK has been implicated in several types of hematopoietic malignancies, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL). Although there are considerable data supporting a role for SYK signaling in hematological cancers, data on the relevance of SYK in solid tumors are emerging. The literature suggests that SYK expression plays a role in the growth of breast and ovarian cancers, and the pancreatic adenocarcinoma microenvironment has been shown to be B-cell rich, giving us a basis to explore the activity of TAK-659 in these indications. Furthermore, ovarian cancer patients with recurrent disease have been shown to have an increase in pSYK at the time of relapse versus at diagnosis, suggesting a role for SYK in chemoresistance. The ability of TAK-659 to inhibit ex vivo colony formation of cells with the ability to grow anchorage independently in semi-solid medium was examined in 31 different human tumor xenografts. TAK-659 showed concentration-dependent inhibition of tumor colony growth in 5/31 tumor models tested, including gastric, breast, and ovarian cancers. Pre-clinically, TAK-659 has exhibited significant antitumor activity in a number of mouse xenograft models of solid tumors. We demonstrate here that daily oral administration of TAK-659 at 60mg/kg over 21 days leads to significant antitumor activity in primary human tumor models of gastric, pancreatic, triple negative breast (TNBC), and ovarian cancers, all of which express pSYK. Significant anti-tumor activity was also observed in the HCC70 TNBC xenograft model which does not express total SYK, demonstrating that TAK-659 may have anti-tumor effects beyond the inhibition of pSYK signaling. A decrease in myeloid derived suppressor cells was seen following TAK-659 treatment in this xenograft model, suggesting an immunomodulatory response may be driving the antitumor activity. Taken together, these data along with published information support the rationale for the investigation of TAK-659 in solid tumor cancer indications. Citation Format: Jessica J. Sappal, Matthew Theisen, Zhongmin Xiang, Stephen Tirrell, Rudy Christmas, Jie Yu, Mengkun Zhang, Karuppiah Kannan. TAK-659, a SYK kinase inhibitor, demonstrates preclinical antitumor activity in solid tumor models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3844.

Abstract 2010: BTK inhibitor BGB-3111 demonstrates anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models

Abstract Background BGB-3111 is a novel, irreversible, second generation BTK inhibitor with better selectivity profile and DMPK property compared to ibrutinib. It has demonstrated promising anti-tumor activities in patients with advanced B cell malignancies. Given BTK is expressed in all hematopoietic lineages except for T lymphocytes, it is reasonable to explore the immune modulatory effect of BGB-3111. In this study, we sought to investigate the anti-tumor activity of BGB-3111 in solid tumor models. Methods Cell viability was assessed with Cell Titer Glo® assay and half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) were estimated. In vivo activity was assessed in subcutaneous mouse xenograft models. Treatments were administered by oral gavage and individual body weight and tumor volume was recorded twice weekly. Results In vitro studies showed that MDA-MB-436 cells are insensitive to BGB-3111, which do not expresse BTK. In both human breast cancer MDA-MB-436 and human A431 epidermoid carcinoma subcutaneous xenograft models, the tumor cells were co-injected with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of healthy donors. In MDA-MB-436 model, BGB-3111 (15 mg/kg, BID) single agent significantly induced tumor growth inhibition (TGI) of 55%, whereas showed no anti-tumor effect if no PBMCs co-injected. Furthermore, co-treatment of BGB-3111 (15 mg/kg, BID) and anti-PD-1 antibody BGB-A317 (10 mg/kg, QW) demonstrated enhanced therapeutic effect in A431 allogeneic model. Interestingly, in BCLU200 and BCLU054 NSCLC primary tumor xenograft models (without PBMC co-injection), BGB-3111 (15 mg/kg, BID) also demonstrated significant anti-tumor activity. Conclusions In summary, BGB-3111 showed interesting activity in solid tumor models, suggesting BTK inhibitor might have potential to be used beyond hematology malignancies. . Citation Format: Nan Hu, Jiye Zhang, Min He, Shuo Zhang, Yong Liu, Lai Wang. BTK inhibitor BGB-3111 demonstrates anti-tumor activity in solid tumor models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2010. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-2010

Abstract 167: Ibrutinib regulates tumor microenvironment and enhances response to everolimus in renal cell carcinoma mouse models

Abstract Introduction: Ibrutinib (ibr), a first-in-class, once-daily, oral inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK), is indicated for the treatment of patients with CLL/SLL, MCL and WM. Ibr also inhibits EGFR/HER2 and has demonstrated efficacy against EGFR+ NSCLC and HER2+ breast cancer in vitro and in xenograft models (Gao 2014; Chen 2016). Further, ibr modulated host immunity and enhanced anti-PD-L1 activity in solid tumor models otherwise insensitive to BTK or HER kinase inhibition (Sagiv-Barfi 2015), suggesting that ibr may be active in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) via multiple mechanisms. Here we determined the impact of ibr alone and in combination with everolimus (eve) on tumor growth and the tumor microenvironment in syngeneic and xenograft RCC mouse models. Methods: Cell proliferation was determined with CellTiter-Glo using a 3-day treatment regimen. Subcutaneous implantation of 786-0 and Renca cells established xenograft and syngeneic models in nude and immune-competent mice. Treatment started when tumor volume reached 150 mm3 (786-0) or 55 mm3 (Renca) and was measured twice weekly. Immunophenotying of tumor infiltrates was determined by flow cytometry. For Treg differentiation, magnetically-sorted CD4+CD25- mouse splenic T cells were stimulated with anti-CD3/CD28 antibodies and TGF-β1 for 5 days. Results: Ibr significantly inhibited the growth of syngeneic Renca tumors (TGI%=32.4 at Day 19, p≤0.05) in Balb/c mice and enhanced the efficacy of eve, although Renca cells were not sensitive to ibr in vitro. The combination significantly reduced the numbers of splenic and tumor Tregs in addition to reducing PD-1 expression on tumor CD8+ T cells. Consistently, in vitro Treg differentiation assays revealed that, while the combination of ibr and eve significantly reduced Treg differentiation, either drug alone showed little effect. In 786-0 xenograft model, ibr alone slowed tumor growth in a subgroup of mice and significantly enhanced the effect of eve (p≤0.05 or 0.01). To identify whether BTK or EGFR/HER2 is the target, CGI-1746, a BTK inhibitor, and lapatinib, an EGFR/HER2 inhibitor, were tested. Surprisingly, both CGI-1746 and lapatinib were active in inhibiting tumor growth (TGI%=26.7 or 37.6 respectively, p≤0.05 or 0.01), and slightly potentiated the efficacy of eve. However, consistent with ibr results, neither CGI-1746 nor lapatinib showed any effect on the cell growth of 786-0 cells. Conclusion: This study suggests that ibr has antitumor activity against RCC alone and when combined with eve in animal models. This effect may be mediated by modulation of the tumor microenvironment, such as inhibiting Treg differentiation and suppressing PD-1 expression on CD8+ T cells, and both BTK and EGFR/HER2 are involved. Further investigation is needed to clarify the mechanism of action, but the results here provide a rationale for ibr as a novel agent for RCC in combination with mTOR inhibitors. Citation Format: Jun Chen, Chun-Te Chen, Jing Liu, Jeff Hsu, Taisei Kinoshita, Betty Y. Chang. Ibrutinib regulates tumor microenvironment and enhances response to everolimus in renal cell carcinoma mouse models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 167. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-167

Targeting the PI3K/mTOR Pathway in Lymphoma with PQR309 and PQR620: Single Agent Activity and Synergism with the BCL2 Inhibitor Venetoclax

Background. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is an important therapeutic target in lymphomas. PQR309 is a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor that has shown in vitroanti-lymphoma activity (Tarantelli et al, ASH2015) and is in phase 2 trial (NCT02249429, , NCT02723877, NCT02669511). PQR620 is a novel mTORC1/2 inhibitor that has shown preclinical activity in solid tumor models (Beaufils et al, AACR 2016).Here, we present the in vitro and in vivo anti-lymphoma activity of PQR620 as single agent and also the in vivo results of PQR620 or PQR309 containing combinations with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax.Materials and Methods. The drug concentration causing 50% inhibition of cell proliferation (IC50) was obtained in lymphoma cell lines [diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL), no.=26; mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), no.=8; anaplastic large T-cell lymphoma, no.=5; others, no=5] exposed to increasing doses of PQR620 for 72h using a Tecan D300e Digital Dispenser on 384well plates. For in vivo experiments, NOD-Scid (NOD.CB17-Prkdcscid/J) mice were subcutaneously inoculated with 10 x106 (RIVA) or with 5 x106(SU-DHL-6) cells.Results. PQR620 had a median IC50 of 250 nM (95%CI, 200-269 nM) when tested on 44 lymphoma cell lines. Activity was higher in B cell (no.=36) than in T cell tumors (no.=8) (median IC50s: 250 nM vs 450 nM; P=0.002). At 72h, anti-tumor activityof PQR620 was mostly cytostatic and apoptosis induction was seen only in 6/44 cell lines (13%), Sensitivity to PQR620 or apoptosis induction did not differ between DLBCL and MCL, and they were not affected by the DLBCL cell of origin, by TP53 status or by the presence of MYC or BCL2 translocations.The activity of PQR620 as single agent underwent in vivo evaluation in two DLBCL models, the germinal center B cell type DLBCL (GCB-DLBCL) SU-DHL-6 and the acivated B cell-like DLBCL (ABC-DLBCL) RIVA. Treatments with PQR620 (100mg/kg dose per day, Qdx7/w) started with 100-150 mm3 tumors and were carried for 14 (SU-DHL-6) or 21 days (RIVA). In both models, PQR620 determined a 2-fold decrease of the tumor volumes in comparison with control, with significant differences in both SU-DHL-6 (D7, D9, D11, D14; P < 0.005) and RIVA (D14, D16, D19, D21; P < 0.005).Based on the previously reported synergy between the dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor PQR309 and venetoclax (Tarantelli et al, ASH 2015), we evaluated the combination of the PQR620 or PQR309 with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax (100 mg/kg, Qdx7/w) in the SU-DHL-6 model. Both the venetoclax combination with the dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor and the venetoclax combination with mTORC1/2 inhibitor were superior to the compounds given as single agents, leading to the eradication of the xenografts. The combination of PQR620 with venetoclax showed highly significant differences either versus control or single agents during all days of the experiment (D4, D7, D9, D11, D14; P < 0.001). Similarly, the combination of PQR309 with venetoclax showed highly significant differences versus venetoclax (D7, D9, D11, D14; P < 0.001) and PQR309 (D7, D9, D11; P < 0.005) alone.Conclusions. The novel mTORC1/2 inhibitor PQR620 had in vitro and in vivo anti-lymphoma activity as single agent. In vivo experiments showed that both PQR620 and the dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor PQR309 can strongly benefit from the combination with the BCL2 inhibitor venetoclax. DisclosuresHillmann:PIQUR Therapeutics AG: Employment. Fabbro:PIQUR Therapeutics AG: Employment. Cmiljanovic:PIQUR Therapeutics AG: Employment, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

Abstract B193: Ibrutinib potentiates the effects of mTOR inhibitors and pazopanib in renal cell carcinoma in vitro and in vivo

Abstract Introduction: Ibrutinib is a first-in-class Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor approved for treatment of multiple B-cell malignancies that also inhibits EGFR and HER2 activity (Honigberg, 2010; Gao, 2014). Ibrutinib suppressed growth of EGFR-driven NSCLC or HER2-amplified breast cancer cell lines and reduced tumor growth in murine xenograft models demonstrating the potential of anti-tumor activity in solid tumors (Gao, 2014; Elias, 2013). Ibrutinib also modulated host tumor immunity and enhanced PD-L1 Mab activity in solid tumor models from tumor cells insensitive to BTK or HER kinase inhibition (Sagiv-Barfi, 2015). These results suggest the potential of ibrutinib to be clinically active across a variety of tumors via multiple mechanisms of action (MoA). Immunotherapeutic interventions have had varying success in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the most common type of kidney cancer. In this study, we determined the therapeutic impact of ibrutinib alone and in combination with approved therapies in RCC in vitro and in vivo and further investigated its MoA. Methods: The effect of drugs on cell proliferation was determined with CellTiter-Glo (Promega), and apoptosis assayed with annexin-V/PI staining. Signaling pathways were evaluated with Western blotting. Single agent and combinations were studied in vivo by subcutaneous implantation of syngeneic Renca or human 786-0 RCC cell lines into mice. Results: Treating RCC cells with everolimus alone potently inhibited p-S6, a downstream mTOR target, and significantly inhibited proliferation. Pazopanib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, similarly inhibited pAkt. As reported, these inhibitors up-regulated pAkt and/or pErk, two key pro-survival molecules, after 1h and/or 24h treatment. Such compensatory changes to signaling pathways have been suggested to attenuate the anti-tumor activity of these inhibitors (Wang, 2008; Breuleux, 2009; Grabinski, 2012; Soares, 2013). Interestingly, addition of ibrutinib antagonized up-regulation of pAkt and pErk by everolimus or pazopanib, and enhanced their anti-proliferative activities. In contrast, ibrutinib did not enhance everolimus activity in Caki-1 cells where pAkt and pErk were unaffected by the combination. Ibrutinib alone did not or only weakly inhibited RCC proliferation in cell culture despite inhibition of EGF-induced pEGFR. In contrast, pAkt and pErk, were much less affected, suggesting that EGFR is not a primary driver of proliferation in RCC cells. In vivo, ibrutinib alone showed marginal or no anti-tumor activity in Renca or 786-0 mice models. However, ibrutinib significantly reduced tumor burden in combination with sirolimus (p&amp;lt;0.001) or everolimus (p&amp;lt;0.05) in the Renca and 786-0 RCC models, compared to mTOR inhibitor treatments alone. Conclusion: These results suggest that ibrutinib, a kinase inhibitor with immune modulatory properties, has anti-tumor activity against RCC when combined with mTOR inhibitors or pazopanib with different target spectrums. Although EGFR is not critical for proliferation in these untreated RCC lines, ibrutinib may prevent ErbB kinases from contributing to feedback up-regulation of Akt/Erk pathways by established drugs. These results provide a preclinical rationale for investigation of ibrutinib as a novel agent for RCC through positive interaction with mTOR inhibitors and/or pazopanib. Citation Format: Jun Chen, Jeff Hsu, Yujun Huang, Danelle F. James, Taisei Kinoshita, Betty Y. Chang. Ibrutinib potentiates the effects of mTOR inhibitors and pazopanib in renal cell carcinoma in vitro and in vivo. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2015 Nov 5-9; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2015;14(12 Suppl 2):Abstract nr B193.

Abstract 1796: SAR302503: A Jak2 inhibitor with antitumor activity in solid tumor models

Abstract Numerous studies have recognized the critical role of STAT3 in malignant transformation and tumor progression. Constitutive STAT3 activation is frequently found in cancer cell lines and tumor samples and it is usually linked to the presence of IL-6. Autocrine or paracrine IL-6 loops have been described to provide tumor cells with the ability to proliferate, survive, migrate and metastasize. At the molecular level, IL-6 binding to its receptor results in activation of Jak/STAT3 signaling and other signaling cascades, namely PI3K/Akt, MEK/ERK1-2, with a well established role in cancer. We have evaluated the ability of SAR302503, a selective Jak2 inhibitor entering a PhIII clinical trial in myelofibrosis patients, to block these pathways in a panel of ∼20 tumor cell lines representing different cancer types (prostate, breast, lung, colorectal, pancreas, hepatocellular, etc). A 45 minutes treatment with different concentrations of SAR302503 (0.1-10 µM) was sufficient to block both basal or IL-6 induced STAT3 phosphorylation in a dose dependent manner. Compound concentrations equal or greater than 0.1 µM were able to reduce the phosphorylation levels of STAT3 by an extent greater than 50% in all the cell lines included in the study. The impact of SAR302503 in tumor cell proliferation and survival was evaluated using different assays including clonogenic assays. Complete inhibition of colony formation was achieved at concentrations of SAR302503 below 1 µM in most of the cell lines. The antitumor activity of SAR302503 was evaluated in mice xenotransplanted subcutaneously with DU145 human prostate cancer cells. Oral administration of SAR302503 for 10 days resulted in significant dose dependent tumor growth inhibition, near to stasis at the highest dose (T/C=19% at 100 mg/kg, bid). In summary, we demonstrate that SAR302503 negatively impacts the proliferation and survival of different solid tumor cells and our data supports a role for a selective Jak2 inhibition in treating solid tumors with activated Jak/STAT signaling. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1796. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1796

Abstract 3762: Second generation PIM inhibitors exhibit improved activity in solid tumor models

Abstract The proto-oncogene PIM kinase family (PIM-1, -2 and -3) includes constitutively active serine/threonine kinases upregulated in multiple cancer indications, including lymphomas, leukemias, multiple myeloma, prostate and bladder cancers. Overexpression of one or more PIM family members in patient tumors frequently correlates with poor prognosis. The PIM kinases function by inhibiting apoptosis in MYC-driven tumors, and promoting tumor cell survival and proliferation. In the HEK-293T cell line, enhanced PIM kinase substrate BAD phosphorylation (pBAD) was observed following PIM and BAD overexpression. Enhancement of pBAD was inhibited by SGI-1776, a well-described PIM inhibitor, and more effectively by second generation PIM inhibitors exhibiting 4-10 fold improved potency against the PIM kinase family. The current PIM inhibitors display sub-µM activity in pharmacodynamic marker, proliferation and 2D colony formation assays using the UM-UC-3 human bladder cancer cell line. PIM1 and PIM2 overexpression models were established in the human prostate cancer cell line 22RV-1 and the non-tumorigenic mouse NIH-3T3 cell background. Overexpression of PIM kinases led to enhanced cell growth and tumorigenicity in both NIH-3T3 and 22RV-1 cell lines. In vivo xenograft studies using both PIM overexpression models and a clinically relevant solid tumor model facilitated identification of a lead candidate with demonstrated efficacy and favorable toxicity. IND-enabling studies with a lead candidate are underway. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3762. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3762

Abstract C200: Second-generation PIM inhibitors exhibit improved activity in solid tumor models in vitro.

Abstract The proto-oncogene PIM kinase family (PIM-1, -2 and -3) comprises constitutively active serine/threonine kinases upregulated in multiple cancer indications, including lymphoma, leukemia, multiple myeloma, prostate, bladder, gastric and head &amp; neck cancers. Overexpression of one or more PIM family members in patient tumors frequently correlates with poor prognosis. The PIM kinases function by inhibiting apoptosis in MYC-driven tumors, promoting tumor cell survival and proliferation. PIM-1 and PIM-2 overexpression models were obtained in the human prostate cancer cell lines PC-3M and 22RV-1 and the non-tumorigenic mouse NIH-3T3 background. Overexpression of PIM kinases led to enhanced cell growth and tumorigenicity in both NIH-3T3 and 22RV-1 cell lines. In the PC-3M cell line, enhanced phosphorylation of the PIM kinase substrate BAD (pBAD) was observed following PIM overexpression. Enhancement of pBAD was inhibited by SGI-1776, a well-described PIM inhibitor, as well as next generation PIM inhibitors exhibiting 4–10 fold improved potency against the PIM kinase family. The current PIM inhibitors display sub-μM activity in pharmacodynamic marker, proliferation and 2D colony formation assays using the PC-3M prostate cancer cell line, the UM-UC-3 bladder cancer cell line, and the HSC3 head &amp; neck cancer cell line. The second generation PIM inhibitors possess favorable hERG and CYP inhibition profiles compared with SGI-1776, and demonstrate excellent oral bioavailability. In vivo xenograft studies using both PIM overexpression models and clinically relevant solid tumor models will facilitate identification of a clinical candidate. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2011 Nov 12-16; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2011;10(11 Suppl):Abstract nr C200.

The mTOR Inhibitor Rapamycin Demonstrates Activity Against AML in Combination with Imatinib Mesylate and with 5-Azacytidine.

The serine/threonine kinase mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) integrates pathways involved in cell cycle regulation and apoptosis and has been shown to be aberrantly activated in AML. mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) serine threonine kinase is involved in cell cycle regulation and apoptosis. mTOR inhibitors are a class of signal transduction inhibitors, originally developed as immunosuppressive agents, with antineoplastic activity in solid tumor models. Acute myelogenous leukemia blasts and stem cells have been reported previously to be inhibited by rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor. As a single agent, rapamycin has minimal activity, however, suggesting that for meaningful clinical efficacy, it would require combination with other agents. We have therefore begun to examine its effects in combination with other signal transduction inhibitors and demethylating agents. Rapamycin by itself had minimal inhibitory effect on AML cell lines or primary AML samples. However, in combination with the c-kit inhibitor, imatinib mesylate, 2.5–25 uM, rapamycin demonstrated synergistic inhibition of AML cell lines such as MV411 as measured in a standard MTT assay (combination index 0.32 to 0.576 as determined with the Calcusyn program), indicating strong synergism. In this cell line, rapamycin by itself demonstrated no significant inhibitory activity. Synergism with imatinib mesylate was also noted in the U937 and HL60 cell lines but not in the KG1a cell line. The combination of rapamycin and imatinib inhibited AKT phosphorylation to a greater extent than either agent alone in both the MV411 and U937 cell lines, but the combination did not effectively inhibit ERK phosphorylation. Inhibition of phosphorylation of p70S6 kinase by the combination of 20 uM imatinib mesylate and 80uM rapamycin did not occur to a greater extent than that seen with rapamycin alone, although phosphorylation of 4EBP1 was inhibited to a greater extent when both agents were added concurrently. When AML cell lines were exposed to 5-azacytidine alone, 1 to 16 uM, the IC50 was 4–8uM. 5-azacytidine increased apoptosis above control whereas rapamycin by itself had minimal effect on apoptosis as assessed in an Annexin V flow cytometric assay. In the U937 cell line, the combination index for the U937 cell line was 0.465 (10 uM 5-azacytidine and 100 nM rapamycin), indicating synergism. For MV411, the combination index was 0.736, for KG1a, 0.118, and for HL60, no synergism was noted. Exposure to the combination of 5-azacytidine and rapamycin resulted in greater suppression of AKT and 4EBP1 phosphorylation than did either agent singly. These data suggest that simultaneous targeting of more than one signaling pathway may improve inhibition of leukemic cell growth. Furthermore, combining signal transduction inhibitors with hypomethylating agents may also result in effective suppression of AML proliferation.