Antecedent Hematologic Disorder Research Articles

Characteristics and outcomes of older patients with secondary acute myeloid leukemia according to treatment approach.

The development of newer strategies to improve outcomes for older patients with secondary acute myeloid leukemia (s-AML) is a critical unmet need. Establishing baseline metrics for evaluating newer approaches is important. s-AML was defined as 1 or more of the following: a history of an antecedent hematologic disorder (AHD), a diagnosis of therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and AML with karyotype abnormalities characteristic of myelodysplastic syndrome. Newly diagnosed s-AML patients aged 60 to 75 years were grouped into 5 treatment cohorts: 1) patients receiving high- or intermediate-dose cytarabine-based intensive chemotherapy (IC), 2) patients receiving a hypomethylating agent (HMA) or HMA combinations, 3) patients receiving low-dose cytarabine (LDAC) combinations, 4) patients receiving CPX-351, and 5) patients receiving investigational (INV) agents. Nine hundred thirty-one patients met the age and s-AML criteria. Complete remission rates were statistically lower in the HMA group (36%) versus the IC (46%), CPX-351 (45%), and LDAC groups (43%). Patients receiving less intensive regimens (the HMA and LDAC groups combined) had superior overall survival (OS) in comparison with patients receiving IC-based regimens (median 6.9 vs 5.4 months; P = .048). Only 4.3% of the IC patients proceeded to transplantation, whereas 10.3% of the patients on lower intensity regimens did (P = .001). There was no difference in median survival between patients treated with CPX-351 and patients treated with conventional lower intensity approaches (P = .75). Age > 70 years, an adverse karyotype, and a prior AHD were associated with decreased OS in a multivariate analysis. Lower intensity approaches are associated with lower early mortality rates and improved OS in comparison with intensive regimens. OS is poor with currently available therapies with a median OS of 6 months (5.4-7.6 months across regimens). Unsatisfactory outcomes with other INV agents underscore the need for more effective therapies. Cancer 2017;123:3050-60. © 2017 American Cancer Society.

Phase I/II Study of Ruxolitinib (RUX) with Decitabine (DAC) in Patients with Post-Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Acute Myeloid Leukemia (post-MPN AML): Phase I Results

Phase I/II Study of Ruxolitinib (RUX) with Decitabine (DAC) in Patients with Post-Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Acute Myeloid Leukemia (post-MPN AML): Phase I Results

Results of the Randomized Phase II Study Decider (AMLSG 14-09) Comparing Decitabine (DAC) with or without Valproic Acid (VPA) and with or without All-Trans Retinoic Acid (ATRA) Add-on in Newly Diagnosed Elderly Non-Fit AML Patients

Background: Despite the recent approval of DNA-hypomethylating agents (HMAs) for treatment of elderly AML patients (pts) ineligible for induction, their prognosis is still poor, and rational, effective HMA-based combination treatments are under study. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) show synergism with HMAs in vitro. ATRA - as single agent clinically ineffective in non-M3 AML - in combination with HMAs also shows in vitro synergistic antileukemic activity in non-M3 AML cells. We previously conducted a non-randomized phase II trial in elderly non-fit AML pts with DAC (3-dy schedule), given alone or combined with ATRA (45 mg/m2 dy 4-28, only during course 2), with encouraging results (Lübbert et al., Haematologica 2012). We now expanded this approach to a 4-arm randomized phase II study (2x2 factorial design) asking whether the addition of either VPA (HDACi activity) or ATRA or both to DAC as first-line treatment of elderly AML pts might improve the effect of DAC monotherapy (NCT00867672).Patients and Methods: Inclusion criteria: newly diagnosed pts >60 yr unfit for induction (reasons for treatment decision prospectively captured) with non-M3 AML (WHO, de novo or after antecedent hematologic disorder [AHD], therapy-associated [t]AML), ECOG performance status (PS) 0-2. Pts with >30,000 WBC/µl were to receive a short course of hydroxyurea. Treatment: DAC 20 mg/m2 dy 1-5 (treatment arms A/B/C/D), VPA p.o. continuously (target serum levels: 50-110 mg/l) from dy 6 (arms B/D), ATRA p.o. dy 6-28 (arms C/D) of each 28-dy course (repeated until relapse/progression, prohibitive toxicity, withdrawal or death). Key endpoints: objective response rate (ORR): CR/CRi/PR (ELN criteria), overall survival (OS). Sample size calculation was based on the primary endpoint ORR, assuming an ORR of 25% in arm A (Lübbert et al., Haematologica 2012). For a power of 80% (test in this phase II study at 1-sided alpha=0.1) for an increase of ORR to 40% with VPA or ATRA, 176 pts were necessary, planned sample size 200. Efficacy analyses were performed in the intention-to-treat (ITT) population including all randomized pts for whom treatment was started. VPA was investigated by comparing arms B+D vs arms A+C, ATRA by comparing arms C+D vs arms A+B. ORR was analyzed with logistic regression, OS with Cox regression, without adjustment for prognostic factors. Odds ratios (OR) for the effect on ORR and hazard ratios (HR) for the effect on death with 95% confidence intervals (CI), and two-sided p values of the tests of no treatment effect are presented. Central hematopathological review by an independent morphologist was conducted in a blinded fashion as to treatment arms.Results: Between 12/2011 and 2/2015, 204 pts were randomized (4 were excluded from the analysis because no treatment was administered). Median age: 76 yrs (interquartile range 72-79, range 61-92), ECOG PS 0/1/2-3: 19/61/20%: 52% had an HCT-CI >3, 16.5% WBC >30.000/µl, 31.5% poor cytogenetics (ELN), 51% had an AHD, 13.5% tAML (characteristics overall balanced across all 4 treatment arms). A median of 3 DAC courses were administered (per arm: 2/3/5.5/4), however 53 pts (26.5%), who were older, with reduced PS and a higher HCT-CI compared to the other 147 pts, received only a single course. The ORR (usually achieved only after >3 courses) was 17.5%, median OS 6.2 mths (arm A: 8.5% and 4.8 CI [2.8,7.6] mths, arm B: 17.5% and 6.1 CI [3.7,7.2] mths, arm C: 26.1% and 8.4 CI [4.0,14.0] mths, arm D: 18% and 7.7 CI [4.6,11.2] mths, respectively). Effect on ORR of VPA vs no VPA (17.8 vs 17.2%): OR 1.06, CI [0.51,2.21], p=0.88; of ATRA vs no ATRA (21.9 vs 13.5%): OR 1.80, CI [0.86,3.79], p=0.12. Effect on OS of VPA vs no VPA (6.2 vs 6.4 mths median OS): HR 0.94, CI [0.70,1.28], p=0.70; of ATRA vs no ATRA (8.2 vs 5.1 months median OS): HR 0.65, CI [0.48,0.88], p=0.006 (after adjustment for PS, HCT-CI, WBC, LDH: HR 0.59, CI [0.43,0.82], p=0.002). Improved survival with ATRA was also seen in pts with poor cytogenetics. Toxicities (predominantly hematologic) did not show relevant differences between the 4 treatment arms.Conclusions: Based on this ITT analysis of a randomized trial, the addition of ATRA to standard-dose DAC resulted in a higher ORR and in a clinically relevant extension of OS, without additional (hematologic and non-hematologic) toxicity. In contrast, the addition of VPA did not affect ORR or OS. DisclosuresLübbert:Celgene: Other: Travel Funding; Janssen-Cilag: Other: Travel Funding, Research Funding; Ratiopharm: Other: Study drug valproic acid. Schlenk:Pfizer: Honoraria, Research Funding; Amgen: Research Funding. Heuser:Pfizer: Research Funding; Tetralogic: Research Funding; BerGenBio: Research Funding; Karyopharm Therapeutics Inc: Research Funding; Bayer Pharma AG: Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding. Bug:Janssen: Other: Travel Grant; Astellas: Other: Travel Grant; Teva Oncology: Other: Travel Grant; Novartis: Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria, Other: Travel Grant; Nord Medica: Consultancy. Giagounidis:Celgene Corporation: Consultancy. Brugger:Astrazeneca: Employment. Niederwieser:Amgen: Speakers Bureau; Novartis Oncology Europe: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau.

Decitabine Plus Cytarabine for Induction of Remission in Newly Diagnosed Elderly AML or High Risk MDS Patients

Introduction:Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) primarily affects older adults. Treating these patients requires balancing risk of toxicity with risk of ineffective therapy. Here we examine the ability of decitabine combined with cytarabine (DecitAC) to strike such a balance. Our objectives were to 1) examine the likelihood DecitAC would improve 6-month survival probability from historical 60% (poor risk)-65% (good risk) in older patients treated with azacitidine + gemtuzumab on SWOG study - S0703 (Nand S et al Blood. 2013;122(20);3432-3439) to 80% in patients age ≥60 with newly diagnosed AML or high risk MDS (10-19% blasts); 2) determine response rate in this population; and 3) evaluate the effect of cytarabine dose escalation in patients who had a response short of CR after the first 2 cycles of the combination.Patients and Methods:In addition to age ≥ 60, patients needed a treatment related mortality (TRM) score <22.9 corresponding to <25% chance of death within 28 days of beginning 7+3 or high dose cytarabine-containing induction (Walter et al. JCO 2011). Prior use of azacitidine, lenalidomide, or decitabine, but not more intense therapy, was permitted. Doses were: decitabine 20mg/m2 once daily days 1 through 10, and cytarabine 100mg/m2once daily days 1 through 7. Two courses were planned to be given 28-35 days apart, regardless of blood counts. Bone marrow evaluation was planned after DecitAC course 2. The protocol allowed for cytarabine dose escalation after course to 1gm/m2 daily x 5 days for patients with ≥ 20% blasts by flow cytometry and if non-hematologic toxicities were < grade 3. If blasts were 5-19% by flow after two cycles, the doctor would choose between the original dose of cytarabine or the dose escalated dose. For patients that had ≥ grade 3 non-hematologic toxicities, the number of DecitAC dosed days were shortened if <5% blasts by flow after 2 cycles, or the patient was taken off study if marrow had ≥5% blasts by flow. Treatment was given outpatient or inpatient and patients were often managed by their referring physicians.Results:12 newly diagnosed patients (10 AML, 2 MDS) were treated on protocol at our academic center. 18 others (16 AML, 2 MDS) were treated off study because of higher TRM scores or by community oncologists, with chart review on an IRB approved protocol. TRM scores ranged from 0.5 - 61 with a median of 10. Ages ranged from 46-92 with a median of 73. Fourteen of the 26 AML patients had an antecedent hematological disorder. Two AML patients had ELN favorable risk disease, 12 had intermediate, and 12 adverse.DecitAC produced CR in 14/30 patients (47%; 95% CI 28-65%), CRi was seen in 7 other patients. No patients died within the first 28 days (95% CI 0-11%, i.e. up to 3 patients) contrasted with 5 expected deaths based on TRM score. Dose escalation of cytarabine to 1 gm/m2 on course 3 was conducted in 2 patients (TRM scores 14.2 and 9.8), each of whom died on this couse.Median survival in the 30 patients was 8 months and is 19 months in the 9 patients still alive as of August 2016. At 6 months survival probability was 57% in this group considered poor risk by definition in the comparison group vs. 60% in the controls. Results were not affected by whether patients were managed here or by their local physicians. Grade 3 adverse events included infections, diarrhea, hepatic dysfunction, and others, as expected with other regimens treating newly diagnosed AML and MDS patients.Conclusion:DecitAC resulted in a CR+Cri rate of 21/30 (70%) caused less TRM than expected. Whether this reflects the general decline in TRM or a specific effect of DecitAC is unknown. DecitAC can be given equally well in the community as at an academic center. However pending multivariate analysis it does not appear to improve survival relative to that seen previously. DisclosuresBecker:GlycoMimetics: Research Funding.

A Phase I Study of Selinexor in Combination with Daunorubicin and Cytarabine in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Poor-Risk Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Background: Induction chemotherapy for older adults with poor-risk AML has remained largely unchanged over the past 40 years, with complete remission (CR) rates ranging from 20-50%. Five-year overall survival (OS) ranges from 2-15%, illustrating the need for novel treatment strategies. Selinexor is an oral selective inhibitor of nuclear export (SINE) that has shown promising single agent activity in AML (NCT01607892). By inhibiting the primary export protein, XPO1, selinexor localizes tumor suppressor proteins to the nucleus leading to their activation. Furthermore, selinexor inhibits DNA damage repair, rationalizing its use in combination with DNA damaging agents. Preclinical data from our institution suggest Selinexor synergizes with daunorubicin when used in CD34+ AML cells. Here we report early results from a phase I clinical trial with selinexor plus cytarabine and daunorubicin in patients (pts) with newly diagnosed, poor-risk AML.Methods: This is a single institution phase I clinical trial with a 3+3 design and an expansion phase at the maximum tolerated dose (MTD)/recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). The primary endpoint was to determine the MTD/RP2D of selinexor. Secondary endpoints included rate of CR/CRi, overall survival (OS), relapse free survival (RFS) and toxicity assessment. Eligible pts had a diagnosis of previously untreated AML (non-M3), with poor-risk features based on karyotype, mutational profile, secondary AML (sAML) arising from an antecedent hematologic disorder (AHD) or prior chemotherapy, or age ≥60 years. Prior treatment for an AHD was allowed. Induction included daunorubicin 60 mg/m2/day on days 1-3 and cytarabine 100 mg/m2/day CIVI days 1-7 (7+3) with two dose cohorts of selinexor: 60 mg and 80 mg PO. Selinexor was given on days 1, 3, 8, 10, 15 and 17. Re-induction with 5+2 plus selinexor was allowed if indicated. Once in CR, pts received 1-2 cycles of consolidation with 5+2 plus selinexor followed by maintenance selinexor on days 1 and 8 of a 21 day cycle for up 12 months. Selinexor was given at the same dose for all phases of the study. Pts could proceed to hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT) at any time after achieving CR.Results: 21 pts (14 (67%) M / 7 (33%) F) were enrolled from June 2015 to June 2016. Median age was 68 years (range 37-77); 18 (86%) were age ≥60 and 9 (43%) were age ≥70. Nineteen (90%) pts were considered poor-risk (unrelated to age), and two (10%) were eligible due to age ≥60 only. Each cohort enrolled 4 pts, and 13 pts were enrolled in the expansion. One pt in each cohort was replaced before completing the 28-day DLT period; one withdrew consent and the second died on day 23 from acute renal failure related to antibiotics.At data cutoff, 18 pts were included in the safety and efficacy assessment. Three additional patients have not completed induction. The early death rate (≤60 days) was 4.8%. No DLTs occurred in the dose-escalation cohorts. The MTD of selinexor was not reached and the RP2D was 80 mg twice weekly. The most common grade 3/4 non-hematologic, treatment emergent AEs in all pts were febrile neutropenia (56%), diarrhea (22%), hyponatremia (22%) and sepsis (17%).Nine patients (50%) achieved CR/CRi. Of the 14 pts treated at the RP2D (selinexor 80 mg), 6 (43%) achieved CR/CRi. In the entire cohort, the median age of the responders was 69 (61-77) and 4 (44%) were age ≥70. Seven (78%) were considered high-risk. Four (44%) had sAML. Two (22%) required a second induction. The median time to response was 47 days (range 28-77) At a median follow up of 8.7 months in the 9 responding pts, 7 (78%) remain in remission. Overall, 4 pts (44%) underwent HCT, and 1 (11%) relapsed just prior to HCT.Conclusion: Results from this phase I trial suggest that selinexor 80mg PO twice weekly can be safely administered in combination with induction chemotherapy using cytarabine and daunorubicin to pts with poor-risk AML, including older pts. The most prominent AEs were febrile neutropenia, diarrhea and hyponatremia. Response rates are encouraging and many elderly pts proceeded to transplant, suggesting this regimen warrants further investigation in this challenging population. DisclosuresSweet:Karyopharm: Honoraria, Research Funding; Incyte Corporation: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Ariad: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Speakers Bureau. Komrokji:Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Sullivan:Karyopharm: Research Funding. Shah:Incyte: Research Funding; Rosetta Genomics: Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Baxalta: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bayer: Honoraria; Pfizer: Honoraria.

Outcome of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) Induction Therapy Based on D14 Marrow Biopsy According to European Leukemia Net (ELN) Risk Classification

OBJECTIVEAccording to standard protocol, the earliest post treatment marker of response following intensive induction therapy in patients with AML is a D14 marrow biopsy. Some controversy has surrounded this practice. This study aims to evaluate response to induction therapy based on D14 marrow assessment meeting genetic risk classifications as defined by the ELN. METHODSIn a single center, retrospective chart analysis subjects diagnosed with AML treated with 7+3 therapy were included if they had molecular and cytogenetic testing performed at baseline, day 14, and day 28. Baseline characteristics and treatment results at these time points were extracted. Sample demographics and treatment were described descriptively. Risk ratios were calculated to investigate the likelihood of achieving a chemo-ablated[1] bone marrow biopsy at Day 14 across the ELN risk classifications. All analyses were performed using SAS 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC). RESULTSOne hundred thirty eight pts were included. The median age at diagnosis was 57 years (range 26 to 69). The median white blood cell count at diagnosis was 12,800 (range 0.1 to 122,000 per microliter). 6.5% of the pts had secondary AML and 8.7% had AML arising from an antecedent hematologic disorder. ELN risk classifications at diagnosis were 47.1%, 8.7%, 20.3% and 23.9% for favorable, intermediate-I, intermediate-II and adverse, respectively. Demographic variables and baseline characteristics did not differ across risk groups. The percentage of pts achieving a chemo-ablated marrow biopsy at Day 14 was 88%, 83%, 68% and 67% for the Favorable, Intermediate-I, Intermediate-II and Adverse group, respectively (Table 1, p=0.0385). Similarly, the percentage of patients achieving CR at Day 28 was highest for patients with a favorable ELN risk classification (92%) compared to intermediate-I (83%), intermediate-II (71%) and adverse (79%) (Table 2, p=0.0440). Re-induction rate was significantly different when stratified across ELN risk groups (p=0.0487). Risk ratio analysis showed a 26% increased likelihood of achieving a chemo-ablated marrow biopsy when comparing Favorable ELN risk pts to those to those in the non-favorable ELN risk group (RR:1.2552; 95% CI: 1.0526-1.468). A test of discordance comparing hypocellular/hypercellular results based on the Day 14 marrow biopsy with having CR/non CR at end of cycle 1 were not significant across the ELN risk classifications. CONCLUSIONWith the advent of personalized therapy comes the potential to customize treatment and hope to optimize pt outcomes. Our results indicate that karyotype and a range of genetic mutations predict marrow morphology at Day 14. How these results predict long-term outcome needs to be further explored.[1] (defined as cellularity <10% and residual blasts <5%) DisclosuresRay:Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals: Employment. Koprivnikar:Alexion: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. McCloskey:Amgen: Speakers Bureau; Ariad: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Speakers Bureau; Incyte: Consultancy. Stanislaus:Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. Howlett:Pfizer: Honoraria; Sandoz: Honoraria; Teva: Speakers Bureau; Amgen: Honoraria; Eisai: Honoraria. Depadova:Amgen: Speakers Bureau. Goldberg:Novartis: Consultancy; Pfizer: Honoraria; Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis: Speakers Bureau; Neostem: Equity Ownership; COTA Inc: Employment.

A Precision Medicine Approach Incorporating Both Molecular and In Vitro Functional Data to Treat Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Introduction: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous disorder such that each patient exhibits a unique pattern of mutations. Nevertheless, standard treatment approaches are largely used for all patients with the exception of those with the PML-RARA translocation or FLT3 mutations. We are conducting a feasibility study, "Individualized Treatment for Relapsed/Refractory Acute Leukemia Based on Chemosensitivity and Genomics/Gene Expression Data" (NCT02551718). This abstract summarizes the results in the AML patients..Methods: The primary objective of this trial is to test the feasibility of rapidly assessing patient cells using a high throughput assay for in vitro drug sensitivity with individual drugs and drug combinations and mutation profiling by next generation sequencing (NGS) of 194 genes (MyAML) to enable prompt initiation of optimal therapy. The secondary objective is to evaluate the response to the chosen therapy. The eligibility criteria include diagnosis of acute leukemia, age ≥ 3, relapsed after or refractory to 2 prior lines of therapy, ECOG ≤ 3, and adequate organ function. The high throughput screen (HTS) is performed at a core facility under CLIA. The custom Oncopanel1 contains 160 drugs and drug combinations, including FDA approved and investigational agents, targeted agents including kinase, mTOR, proteasome, HDAC and other inhibitors, and chemotherapy drugs including alkylators, purine analogs, topoisomerase inhibitors and others. Patient blood or marrow samples enriched for leukemia cells are analyzed for survival after a 72-hour exposure to 8 customized drug concentrations spanning 4 logs in duplicate in 384 well plates adherent to matrix protein. DNA and RNA are isolated from the same enriched cell fractions for NGS (MyAML) and RNAseq. MyAML analyzes genes at high depth, including breakpoint hotspot loci with optimized detection of large insertion and deletions and other structural variants found in AML.Results: Fourteen patients signed consent, and 11 AML patients were enrolled in the study to date. Seven patients had unfavorable and 4 intermediate cytogenetic risk. Four were primary refractory, 5 had antecedent hematologic disorder. The average number of prior regimens was 4 (range 2 to 6). Six patients had relapsed within ≤3 months after allogeneic transplant, prior to enrollment on this study. HTS results were obtained within an average of 5.5 days; mutation testing was obtained within an average of 13 days (range 9-17), return time after receipt at MyAML was on average 8 (range 7-12) days. Drug regimens were chosen within 1-2 weeks from testing. For 2 patients, treatment start was delayed by about one month to allow recovery from toxicity from prior therapy. For the other patients, treatment was initiated on average 7.8, median 8 (range 4-11) days from start of testing. Of 7 patients treated so far, the median overall survival was 171 days, range 70 to >289 days.Regimens chosen based on HTS results, mutation analysis, and ability to obtain FDA approved drugs off label included: bortezomib (B)/daunorubicin/cytarabine, romidepsin, B/azacitidine (Aza), B/idarubicin (2 patients),cladribine, omacetaxine (HHT) then HHT/cytarabine, B/Aza/sorafenib, gemcitabine, bortezomib, sorafenib. Mutation analysis revealed previously unknown potential targets in those patients, including ABL kinase, FLT3 ITD in 2 patients, and FLT3 TKD mutations that led to choice of treatment with imatinib, sorafenib, and investigational Flt3 inhibitor for 4 patients, respectively. Other potentially targetable mutations identified included IDH1/2, NRAS, KRAS, KIT, TP53, WT1, and others (Table).None of these very heavily pre-treated patients obtained a complete remission, but 3 remain alive > 1 yr post early relapse after allogeneic transplant. One patient’s marrow exhibited decline in blasts from 82% to 24%, and all patients exhibited a decline in circulating blasts with the chosen treatments.Conclusion: This trial has proven that application of rapid molecular and functional screening to choice of treatment for patients with advanced acute myeloid leukemia is feasible. Direct comparison of this precision medicine approach to results obtained with standard trials is planned. These data and the responses and correlation with gene expression data will contribute to a future algorithm to optimize precision medicine approaches to leukemia therapy. [Display omitted] DisclosuresBecker:JW Pharmaceutical: Research Funding; Millennium: Research Funding; Glycomimetics: Research Funding; Pfizer: Other: Scientific Steering Committee for a post marketing study; Amgen: Research Funding; CVS Caremark: Other: Accordant Health Services Medical Advisory Board; Abbvie: Research Funding; Invivoscribe: Honoraria. Patay:Invivoscribe, Inc: Consultancy. Carson:Invivoscribe, Inc: Employment. Radich:Novartis: Consultancy, Other: laboratory contract; Bristol-MyersSquibb: Consultancy; TwinStrand: Consultancy; ARIAD: Consultancy; Pfizer: Consultancy.

Phase I Trial of Targeted Alpha-Particle Therapy with Actinium-225 (225Ac)-Lintuzumab and Low-Dose Cytarabine (LDAC) in Patients Age 60 or Older with Untreated Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Background:225Ac-lintuzumab is a radioimmunoconjugate composed of 225Ac (t½=10 days), which emits 4 α-particles, linked to a humanized anti-CD33 monoclonal antibody. Short-ranged (50-80 µm), high-energy (~100 keV/µm) α particle-emitting isotopes such as 225Ac may result in more specific tumor cell kill and less damage to normal tissues than β-emitters. An initial phase I trial in 20 patients with relapsed/refractory AML showed that a single infusion of 225Ac-lintuzumab is safe at doses ≤ 3 µCi/kg and has anti-leukemic activity (Jurcic et al. ASH, 2011). We conducted a multicenter, phase I dose-escalation trial to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), toxicity, and biological activity of fractionated-dose 225Ac-lintuzumab in combination with LDAC.Patients and Methods: Patients ≥ 60 years with untreated AML not candidates for standard induction therapy (e.g., antecedent hematologic disorder, poor-risk cytogenetic or molecular features, and significant comorbidities) were eligible. Patients received LDAC 20 mg twice a day for 10 days every 4-6 weeks for up to 12 cycles. During Cycle 1, 2 fractions of 225Ac-lintuzumab were given 1 week apart, beginning 4-7 days following completion of LDAC. To prevent radiation-induced nephrotoxicity, patients were given furosemide while receiving 225Ac-lintuzumab then spironolactone for 1 year afterward. Four dose levels of 225Ac-lintuzumab were studied using a 3+3 design. Dose escalation proceeded if < 33% of patients in a cohort experienced dose-limiting toxicity (DLT).Results: Eighteen patients (median age, 77 years; range, 68-87 years) completed therapy. Twelve (67%) had prior myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), for which 10 (83%) received therapy with hypomethylating agents (n=9) or allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (n=1). One patient (6%) had chronic myeloid leukemia in molecular remission prior to developing AML. Eleven patients (61%) had intermediate-risk and 7 (39%) had poor-risk disease by NCCN criteria. Median CD33 expression was 81% (range, 30-100%). 225Ac-lintuzumab was given at 0.5 (n=3), 1 (n=6), 1.5 (n=3), or 2 (n=6) μCi/kg/fraction. Up to 4 cycles of LDAC were administered. Two patients experienced DLT (grade 4 thrombocytopenia with marrow aplasia for > 6 weeks following therapy), one each in the 1 and 2 µCi/kg/fraction cohorts. Although the MTD was not reached, 2 µCi/kg/fraction was chosen as the phase II dose to limit prolonged myelosuppression. Hematologic toxicities included grade 4 neutropenia (n=5) and thrombocytopenia (n=9). Grade 3/4 non-hematologic toxicities included febrile neutropenia (n=6), pneumonia (n=5), other infections (n=3), atrial fibrillation/syncope (n=1), transient creatinine increase (n=1), generalized fatigue (n=1), hypokalemia (n=1), mucositis (n=1), and rectal hemorrhage (n=1). Thirty- and 60-day mortality rates were 0% and 17%, respectively. Eleven of 14 patients (79%) evaluated after Cycle 1 had bone marrow blast reductions (mean reduction, 66%; range, 19-100%). Objective responses (2 CR, 1 CRp, 2 CRi) were seen in 5 of the 18 patients (28%), but only at doses ≥ 1 µCi/kg/fraction (Table 1). One of the responders received 15 cycles of azacitidine for prior MDS. All responses occurred after 1 cycle of therapy, in contrast to historical data with LDAC alone, where the median time to response was 3 cycles. Median progression-free survival (PFS) for all patients was 2.7 months (range, 1.0-31.8+ months). Median overall survival (OS) was 5.6 months (range, 1.6-32+ months). Median response duration was 5.6 months (range, 4.9-32+ months). Peripheral blood blast counts were a strong predictor of response. Among 38 patients treated in the current and initial phase I trials, responses were seen in 8 of 19 patients (42%) with blast counts < 200/µL, compared with 0 of 17 patients with blast counts ≥ 200/µL (P=0.002). This difference is likely due to decreased marrow targeting in patients with higher circulating blast counts when the subsaturating antibody doses used in this trial are given.Conclusions: Fractionated-dose 225Ac-linutuzmab can be safely combined with LDAC and induce remission in older patients with untreated AML. A phase II trial of 225Ac-lintuzumab monotherapy at 2 µCi/kg/fraction using hydroxyurea, if needed, to lower peripheral blast counts prior toadministration will be undertaken to determine response rate, PFS, and OS in this patient population. [Display omitted] DisclosuresJurcic:Forma Therapeutics: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Kura Oncology: Research Funding; Celgene: Research Funding; Novartis: Membership on an entity’s Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bayer: Consultancy; Alexion Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Merck & Co.: Consultancy; Astellas: Research Funding; Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding; Daiichi-Sankyo: Research Funding. Levy:Janssen: Speakers Bureau; Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding; Amgen: Speakers Bureau; Takeda Pharmaceuticals International Co.: Speakers Bureau. Park:Amgen: Consultancy; Genentech/Roche: Research Funding; Juno Therapeutics: Consultancy, Research Funding. Ravandi:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Perl:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Consultancy. Smith:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Cicic:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Scheinberg:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Equity Ownership, Patents & Royalties: Ac-225-Lintuzumab.

Safety and Efficacy of Venetoclax Plus Low-Dose Cytarabine in Treatment-Naive Patients Aged ≥65 Years with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Safety and Efficacy of Venetoclax Plus Low-Dose Cytarabine in Treatment-Naive Patients Aged ≥65 Years with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Characteristics and Outcomes of Older Patients with Secondary AML According to Treatment Approach

BACKGROUND: Advanced age, AML arising from an antecedent hematologic disorder (AHD), and therapy-related AML (t-AML) are well established risk factors associated with poor outcome in AML. This subgroup of AML has been associated with lower rates of complete remission (CR) and shorter disease-free survival compared with de novo AML in younger patients (pts), when using standard therapy. Developing newer strategies to improve outcomes in this subgroup of pts is therefore a critical unmet need. Establishing baseline metrics from which to evaluate newer approaches is important. We sought to review our own experience with pts treated with different therapies at our institution to establish this baseline.METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed pts aged 60-75 years with newly diagnosed AML treated at our institution from 1990-2015 with one or more of the following characteristics: history of prior MDS, CMML, MPN, or aplastic anemia, the diagnosis of t-AML, or AML with karyotypic abnormalities characteristic of MDS as defined by the WHO. The pts were grouped into 5 study cohorts based on their treatment regimen: 1) High-dose Ara-C based intensive chemotherapy (HiDAC), 2) Hypomethylating agents (HMA)/HMA combinations, 3) Low-dose Ara-C combinations (LDAC), 4) Liposomal Ara-C:Daunorubicin (CPX-351), and 5) Other investigational agents (INV). Pts’ karyotypes were divided into 4 categories: adverse karyotype (complex: defined by >2 chromosomal abnormalities, Del 5/5q, Del 7/7q, 11q, 3q abnormality); diploid karyotype, intermediate karyotype (karyotype other than adverse or diploid); and unknown/not available. Endpoints included complete response (CR) rate/CR with low platelets (CRp) and 8-week mortality rates. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to examine the relationships between disease characteristics and outcomes (CR, Overall survival).RESULTS: We evaluated a total of 931 pts with newly diagnosed AML meeting these criteria of age and secondary AML (s-AML). The baseline characteristics of pts in each group are summarized in table 1. The median age was 68 (60-75) years. Most pt characteristics were well balanced across the 5 treatment groups. Karyotyping was performed in 89% of the pts: 57.5% belonged to adverse risk profile and 31% belonged to intermediate risk profile (excluding diploid). The overall CR/CRp rates for the entire group was 39.5%. CR/CRp rates were lower in the HMA (36%) and INV (16%) groups compared to HiDAC (46%), CPX (45%) and LDAC (43%). Eight week mortality rate for the entire group was 20%: HiDAC (23%), HMA (12%), CPX (10%), LDAC (19%), and INV (27%). The median OS for the entire group was 6 months and by each treatment regimen is shown in Figure 1. There was a significant difference in OS between the 5 treatment groups. Pts receiving less intensive regimens [HMA + LDAC] had a superior median OS compared to those receiving HiDAC-based regimens (6.9 vs. 5.4; P=0.002, Figure 2). There was no difference in median survival in pts treated with CPX compared with conventional lower-intensity approaches (HMA + LDAC) (p=0.75). In the multivariate analysis, age >70yrs, adverse karyotype, and prior treatment for AHD were associated with a decreased OS. Similarly, use of HMA/INV treatment, adverse/intermediate risk karyotype, history of prior treatment for AHD were associated with lower CR rates.CONCLUSIONS: The outcomes of older pts with newly diagnosed s-AML are poor and reflective of their advanced age and poor-risk karyotype. Various treatment approaches have been attempted to improve outcomes. Lower-intensity approaches such as HMA and LDAC-based regimens have response rates similar to HiDAC regimens, but are associated with lower early mortality and improved overall survival. While the investigational liposomal formulation CPX-351was associated with favorable CR rates and low early mortality, the median OS was similar to pts treated with low intensity therapy. The unsatisfactory outcomes using other investigational agents in the INV group underscores the need for more effective therapies for these patients. [Display omitted] [Display omitted] [Display omitted] DisclosuresKantarjian:BMS, Pfizer, Amgen, Novartis: Research Funding. Konopleva:Reata Pharmaceuticals: Equity Ownership; Abbvie: Consultancy, Research Funding; Genentech: Consultancy, Research Funding; Stemline: Consultancy, Research Funding; Eli Lilly: Research Funding; Cellectis: Research Funding; Calithera: Research Funding. DiNardo:Celgene: Research Funding; Abbvie: Research Funding; Novartis: Other: advisory board, Research Funding; Daiichi Sankyo: Other: advisory board, Research Funding; Agios: Other: advisory board, Research Funding. Jain:Celgene: Research Funding; Infinity: Research Funding; ADC Therapeutics: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Novimmune: Consultancy, Honoraria; Incyte: Research Funding; Abbvie: Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Servier: Consultancy, Honoraria; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding; Pharmacyclics: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; BMS: Research Funding; Seattle Genetics: Research Funding. Wierda:Acerta: Research Funding; Novartis: Research Funding; Gilead: Research Funding; Abbvie: Research Funding; Genentech: Research Funding. Cortes:ARIAD: Consultancy, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Research Funding; Teva: Research Funding.

A Phase 1 Trial of MEC (Mitoxantrone, Etoposide, Cytarabine) in Combination with Ixazomib (MLN9708) for Relapsed/ Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

A Phase 1 Trial of MEC (Mitoxantrone, Etoposide, Cytarabine) in Combination with Ixazomib (MLN9708) for Relapsed/ Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Outcome of Patients With Therapy-Related Acute Myeloid Leukemia With or Without a History of Myelodysplasia.

To learn whether an antecedent hematologic disorder (AHD) is associated with additional risk in patients with therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia (t-AML). We reviewed data of 301 patients with newly diagnosed t-AML who sought care from January 2000 to January 2014 (183 t-AML without AHD, 118 t-AML with AHD). Overall, median follow-up was 44 months. The primary malignancy was non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 92 (31%), breast cancer in 80 (27%), and prostate cancer in 49 (16%). Median relapse-free survival (RFS) in t-AML without or with AHD was 10 months and 29 months, respectively (P= .032); median overall survival (OS) was 8 months and 8 months, respectively (P= .53). Multivariate analysis for OS identified older age, poor performance status, thrombocytopenia, nonfavorable cytogenetics, and lack of response as adverse factors. The favorable-risk cohort had better RFS and OS compared to the outcomes of patients in the intermediate- and adverse-risk cohorts; the RFS and OS did not differ between intermediate- and adverse-risk cohorts. The presence of AHD did not affect OS.

North American Leukemia, Intergroup Phase III Randomized Trial of Single Agent Clofarabine As Induction and Post-Remission Therapy, and Decitabine As Maintenance Therapy in Newly-Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia in Older Adults (Age ≥60 Years): A Trial of the ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group (E2906)

▪Background: Induction therapy with daunorubicin (Dauno) & cytarabine (Ara-C) [DA] has been the standard of care for eligible older adults (age ≥ 60 years) with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) for over 2 decades. Single agent Clofarabine (CLO) induction & consolidation (Consol.) therapy has demonstrated important clinical activity in this age group in large phase II studies. Lower induction mortality (IM) & similar reported complete remission rate (CR) & overall survival (OS), as well as notable activity in those with higher risk disease features [including unfavorable cytogenetics, therapy-related AML (t-AML) & prior antecedent hematologic disorder (AHD)] raises the possibility that a non-Ara-C-based regimen could achieve similar or superior OS with lower toxicity.Methods: We performed a randomized United States Intergroup Phase III trial of single agent CLO [30mg/m2 x 5 days induction; 20 mg/m2 re-induction (if indicated) & 2 cycles Consol.] vs. standard DA therapy [Dauno 60mg/m2 D1-3 & Ara-C 100mg/m2 D1-7 induction x 1-2 cycles; 2 cycles Consol. with Ara-C (1.5g/m2 Q12hrs D1-6 age 60-69; once daily if age 70+)] in patients (pts) age ≥ 60 yrs with newly diagnosed AML. Patients with serum creatinine >1.0 (or GFR <60 mL/min) and those with AML-M3 and ECOG performance status >3 (PS>2 if age 70+ yrs) were excluded. Randomization was stratified by age (60-69 vs. 70+), t-AML, & AHD. Pts with HLA-matched donor were eligible for allogeneic transplantation (AlloHCT) after induction, and those completing Consol. were eligible for randomization #2 (R#2) to maintenance decitabine [20mg/m2 x 3D, monthly x 1 year] versus observation. With a target accrual of 747, E2906 was powered to determine non-inferiority [and possible superiority] of CLO vs. standard DA, and primary endpoint was OS. A weighted statistical analysis was performed to account for confounding impact of R#2. AlloHCT patients were censored at transplant in this analysis. Responses & cytogenetics were confirmed centrally and OS & CR rates were monitored by an independent Data Safety Monitoring Committee (DSMC) at pre-specified time points.Results: As of Feb 23, 2015, 727 pts were randomized. Median age was 68 years (range 60-86); 57% were male, and 38% were age ≥70 yrs. Treatment arms are well balanced for all baselineclinical & AML characteristics, & 30% had unfavorable cytogenetics. Of 659 with complete treatment information reported, 30.4% on DA vs. 40.1% on CLO received 2 cycles of induction (p=0.006).Median follow-up of surviving patients is 7.6 months.Table 1shows early treatment results (CR, toxicity) for the 686 pts randomized as of Dec 23, 2014 (2 months prior to study end, & excluding 90 with ongoing response evaluation).DACLOp-valueCR/CRi43.8%42.8%p=0.8730-day mortality8.5%7.9%p=0.8960-day mortality14.9%13.1%p=0.58Gr 4-5 Non-Heme Tox.Induction27%19%p=0.02Gr 4-5 Non-Heme Tox.Consol.20%7%p=0.001374 pts have died (174, DA; 200, CLO) & significantly inferior OS was observed for CLO vs. DA [Hazard Ratio (HR) 1.41 (95% CI 1.12-1.78)] (Fig. 1). Planned subgroup analyses were performed (Table 2) demonstrating significant differences in OS after CLO for patients age 60-69 yrs, without AHD, & with intermediate risk cytogenetics; but not for those with Unfav. Cytogen. (Fig. 2) or t-AML. Based on the primary weighted analysis, DSMC recommended suspension of new accrual to E2906 on Feb 23, 2015 & all active patients on CLO were transitioned to DA Arm. Table 2NHR CLO/Standard (95% CI)*Weighted OS7271.41 (1.12-1.78)Unweighted OS7271.23 (1.00-1.50)Age 60-694491.48 (1.10-1.99)Age 70+2781.34 (0.93-1.93)Intermed. Risk Cytogen.3781.77 (1.27-2.47)Unfav. Risk Cytogen.2160.96 (0.65-1.43)No AHD6041.46 (1.13-1.89)AHD1231.22 (0.74-2.00)De novo AML6271.52 (1.18-1.96)Therapy-related AML1000.94 (0.54-1.61)Conclusions: Despite similar CR & IM, OS after single agent CLO is inferior to standard DA therapy for pts age ≥60 years with newly diagnosed AML who are fit for intensive therapy, and DA remains the standard of care. However no difference in OS was observed after CLO in some pre-specified high risk AML subgroups. R#2 & AlloHCT arms continue in E2906 for pts already enrolled. Embedded prospective minimal residual disease study at CR is being performed to identify pts at higher risk after CLO & DA. [Display omitted] [Display omitted] DisclosuresOff Label Use: Use of clofarabine in AML, and maintenance therapy with decitabine in AML. Claxton:Medimmune: Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy; Astellas: Research Funding; Cyclacel: Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; Ambit: Research Funding. Levine:Loxo Oncology: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; CTI BioPharma: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Foundation Medicine: Consultancy. Altman:Seattle Genetics: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy; Spectrum: Consultancy; Astellas: Consultancy; Ariad: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy. Al-Kali:Novartis: Research Funding.

Phase I/II Study of Vosaroxin and Decitabine in Newly Diagnosed Older Patients (pts) with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and High Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)

▪Background: Vosaroxin, is a first-in-class anti-cancer quinolone derived (AQD) DNA intercalator and topoisomerase II inhibitor, which is not a substrate for p53 or P-glycoprotein, and is currently under evaluation for the treatment of pts with AML and high-risk MDS.Methods: Pts are eligible if they have AML or high-risk MDS (defined as having >/= 10% blasts), are 60 years of age or older, and have adequate performance status (ECOG </= 2) and organ function. In the phase I part of the study the first six pts received vosaroxin 90 mg/m2 daily on days 1 and 4 with decitabine 20 mg/m2 daily for 5 days repeated in approximately 4 to 5 week intervals for up to 7 cycles. This dose was well tolerated in the 6 patients. However, due to occurrence of 8 episodes of grade 3/4 mucositis in 7 of the subsequent 16 patients the induction dose of vosaroxin was reduced to 70 mg/m2 with the vosaroxin dose maintained at 70 mg/m2 or reduced to 50 mg/m2 in consolidation cycles. 34 patients were treated at this modified dose regimen. The primary endpoint was to determine the overall response rate including complete response (CR) + CR without platelet recovery (CRp) + CR with insufficient hematological recovery (CRi). Secondary endpoints were: CR duration, disease-free survival, overall survival, safety, and early mortality.Results: To date, 56 pts (50 AML, 6 high-risk MDS) with a median age of 69 years (range, 60 - 78) have been enrolled. They included 19 (34%) pts with diploid cytogenetics, 21 (38%) with complex cytogenetic abnormalities including chromosome 5 and/or 7 abnormalities, and 16 (28%) with other miscellaneous abnormalities. Fourteen (25%) pts with AML had antecedent hematological disorders (AHD) including 7 with MDS, 4 with MPN, 2 with MDS/MPN, and 1 with CLL. Four pts with AHD had received prior therapy including 5-azacytidine (n=1), decitabine (n=1), ruxolitinib + 5-azacytidine (n=1), and lenalidomide (n=1). Additionally, 10 (18%) pts had therapy-related disease with prior exposure to chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Median bone marrow blast %, and median white blood cell, hemoglobin, & platelet counts were 40% (range, 11 - 97), 3.4 x 109/L (range, 0.4 - 57), 9.4 g/dL (range, 6.8 - 13.1), and 35 x 109/L (range, 7 - 333), respectively. All 56 pts have completed >/=2 cycles of therapy and were evaluable for response; 30 (54%) achieved CR, 8 (14%) CRp, and 5 (9%) CRi for an overall response rate of 77%. Minimal residual disease (MRD) by 19 color flow-cytometry was evaluable in 35 of the 43 responders. MRD was not detectable in 24 of 35 (66%) evaluable responders. All 56 patients had baseline cytogenetics and clinically validated next generation sequencing-based analysis for the detection of somatic mutations in the coding sequence of 28 genes commonly mutated in myeloid neoplasms. Response by baseline characteristics is shown in table 1. The median number of cycles to response was 1 (1 - 4); 13 pts have required >1 cycle to achieve response. Seven (13%) pts have proceeded to allogeneic stem cell transplant. The median follow-up is 4.7 months (1.3 - 20.8). The regimen was well tolerated with the main therapy related grade >/= 3 toxicities were mucositis in 10 (18%) pts and liver enzyme elevation in 8 (14%).The median overall survival (OS) for all pts is 8.3 months. Four-week and 8-week mortality for all pts were 0 and 14%, respectively. The induction dose of vosaroxin was 90 mg/m2 in 22 pts and 70 mg/m2 in 34 pts. The lower induction dose of vosaroxin was associated with a reduced early mortality and an improved overall response rate and OS (Table 2 and Figure 1).Conclusion: Combination of vosaroxin and decitabine is effective in older pts with AML and high-risk MDS. Reponses were encouraging in the pts with TP53 and complex cytogenetics. The lower dose of vosaroxin 70 mg/m2 on days 1 and 4 is better tolerated and is associated with significantly improved outcomes.Table 1Response by baseline characteristicsParameterCategoryNOverall response(CR, CRp, CRi)CRAge60-744480%57%>/=751267%42%CytogeneticsDiploid1986%57%-5/-7/other adverse2168%42%Miscellaneous1675%63%MutationStatusIDH21191%73%IDH11457%43%TP531173%55%RAS1164%28%Table 2Outcomes by induction dose of vosaroxinInduction dose(vosaroxin)NMed OS8-week mortalityOverall ResponseCRNeed >1 cycle to response90 mg/m2225.5 mos25%73%41%23%70 mg/m23411.5 mos6%79%62%23% [Display omitted] DisclosuresDaver:ImmunoGen: Other: clinical trial, Research Funding. Off Label Use: Vosaroxin in the management of AML. Pemmaraju:Stemline: Research Funding; Incyte: Consultancy, Honoraria; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; LFB: Consultancy, Honoraria. Konopleva:Novartis: Research Funding; AbbVie: Research Funding; Stemline: Research Funding; Calithera: Research Funding; Threshold: Research Funding. DiNardo:Novartis: Research Funding. Cortes:Pfizer: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; Teva: Research Funding; BerGenBio AS: Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Research Funding; Ariad: Consultancy, Research Funding; Astellas: Consultancy, Research Funding; Ambit: Consultancy, Research Funding; Arog: Research Funding; Celator: Research Funding; Jenssen: Consultancy. Craig:Sunesis: Employment, Equity Ownership.

Phase I Trial of Targeted Alpha-Particle Immunotherapy with Actinium-225 (225Ac)-Lintuzumab (Anti-CD33) and Low-Dose Cytarabine (LDAC) in Older Patients with Untreated Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Background: The use of short-ranged (50-80 µm), high-energy (~100 keV/µm) α particle-emitting isotopes for radioimmunotherapy may result in more specific tumor cell kill and less damage to normal tissues than β-emitters. 225Ac-lintuzumab consists of a radiometal that emits four α-particles linked to an anti-CD33 antibody. A phase I trial showed that 225Ac-lintuzumab is safe at doses ≤ 3 µCi/kg and has anti-tumor activity against relapsed/refractory AML across all dose levels studied (Jurcic et al. ASH, 2011). We are conducting a multicenter, phase I dose-escalation trial to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), toxicity, and biological activity of fractionated-dose 225Ac-lintuzumab in combination with LDAC.Patients and Methods: Patients ≥ 60 years with untreated AML not suitable for standard induction chemotherapy (e.g., antecedent hematologic disorder, unfavorable cytogenetic or molecular abnormalities, and significant comorbidities) were eligible. Patients received LDAC 20 mg twice daily for 10 days every 4-6 weeks for up to 12 cycles. During Cycle 1, two fractions of 225Ac-lintuzumab were given one week apart, beginning 4-7 days following completion of LDAC. To prevent radiation-induced nephrotoxicity, patients were given furosemide while receiving 225Ac-lintuzumab and spironolactone for one year afterward. 225Ac doses were escalated using a 3+3 design. Four dose levels were studied with a total accrual of up to 24 patients. In planned analyses, dose escalation proceeded if < 33% of patients in a cohort experienced dose-limiting toxicity (DLT).Results: Fourteen patients (median age, 77 years; range, 68-87 years) completed therapy. An additional patient received only one of two planned fractions of 225Ac-lintuzumab due to technical issues and is excluded from analysis. Nine (64%) had prior myelodysplastic syndrome, for which seven received prior therapy with hypomethylating agents (n=6) or allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (n=1). One patient (7%) had chronic myeloid leukemia in molecular remission prior to development of AML. Nine patients (64%) had intermediate-risk and five (36%) had unfavorable cytogenetics. Median CD33 expression was 81% (range, 45-100%). 225Ac-lintuzumab was given at 0.5 (n=3), 1 (n=6), 1.5 (n=3), or 2 (n=2) μCi/kg/fraction. Up to 4 cycles of LDAC were administered. DLT was seen in one patient at 1 µCi/kg/fraction who had grade 4 thrombocytopenia with marrow aplasia for more than 6 weeks following therapy. Hematologic toxicities included grade 4 neutropenia (n=4) and thrombocytopenia (n=6). Grade 3/4 non-hematologic toxicities included febrile neutropenia (n=7), pneumonia (n=4), bacteremia (n=1), cellulitis (n=1), transient creatinine increase (n=1), hypokalemia (n=1), rectal hemorrhage (n=1), and generalized weakness (n=2). Eight of 11 patients (73%) evaluated after Cycle 1 had bone marrow blast reductions (mean reduction, 72%; range, 34-100%). Seven (64%) had blast reductions of at least 50%. Objective responses (1 CR, 1 CRp, 2 CRi) were seen in four of the 14 patients (29%) after one cycle of therapy (Table 1). Responses were seen only at doses ≥ 1 µCi/kg/fraction (4 of 11 patients, 36%). Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 2.7 months (range, 1.7-16.9 months). Median overall survival (OS) was 5.5 months (range, 2.2-24 months).Conclusions: Fractionated-dose 225Ac-linutuzmab can be safely combined with LDAC and produce remission in older patients with untreated AML. Dose escalation continues to define the MTD. Additional patients will be treated at the MTD in the phase II portion of this trial to determine response rate, PFS, and OS.Table 1Objective ResponsesResponseDose Level (μCi/kg/fraction)Total (n=14)0.5 (n=3)1 (n=6)1.5 (n=3)2 (n=2)CR001 (33%)01 (7%)CRp0001 (50%)1 (7%)CRi01 (17%)1 (33%)02 (14%)Overall Response01 (17%)2 (67%)1 (50%)4 (29%)Abbreviations: CR, complete remission; CRp, CR with incomplete platelet recovery; CRi, CR with incomplete count recovery. DisclosuresJurcic:Ambit Biosciences: Research Funding; Astellas Pharma US, Invc.: Research Funding; Tetralogic Pharmaceuticals: Research Funding; Sunesis Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Novartis Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Consultancy; Bayer Pharmaceuticals: Consultancy; Merck and Co.: Consultancy; Celgene Corp.: Research Funding; Actrinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding. Off Label Use: Ac-225-lintuzumab is an investigational agent being developed for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia.. Pagel:Actinium Pharmacetuicals, Inc.: Equity Ownership. Park:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding; Juno Therapeutics: Consultancy. Levy:Takeda: Consultancy. Perl:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding. Earle:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment. Cicic:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Employment, Equity Ownership. Scheinberg:Actinium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Equity Ownership, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Patents & Royalties.

Response-Adapted Sequential Azacitidine and Induction Chemotherapy in Patients > 60 Years Old with Newly Diagnosed AML Eligible for Chemotherapy (RAS-AZIC): First Data of the Interim Analysis of the DRKS00004519 Study of the East German Study Group (OSHO)

The prognosis of AML in patients (pts) >60 years (y) is poor and there is no universally accepted standard approach. After induction chemotherapy (IC), a complete remission (CR+CRi) rate of 56.4% and a mortality of 21% at day (d) 90 are expected (Niederwieser et al, ASH 2012). Azacitidine (AZA) yields a one-year survival (OS) rate of 46.5% in pts >65 y and >30% marrow (BM) blasts (Dombret et al, Blood 2015). Yet, AZA and IC are not mutually exclusive. First results of the interim analysis of the DRKS00004519 (RAS-AZIC) study which evaluates priming with AZA followed by AZA or IC in pts >60 y with AML are presented.Patients and methods: Major inclusion criteria are newly diagnosed AML with marrow blasts >20% by aspiration or biopsy irrespective of WBC count, age >60 y, and eligibility for IC. Secondary AML from an antecedent hematologic disorder and therapy-related AML are not excluded.In the phase I part of the trial, safety of priming with AZA (75 mg/m2/day s.c) for 7 d followed by IC (Mitoxantrone 10 mg/ m2/day d 1-3 and cytarabine 1 g/m2/BID d 1, 3, 5, 7) on d 17 was established through a 3+3 design. In the multicenter phase II part (figure), priming was sequentially followed by AZA or IC based on d 15 BM blasts and d 56 response which were identified as early predictors for long-term response to AZA in AML (Al-Ali et al., Leuk Lymph 2012). The primary objective is overall response (OR) which includes CR, CRi, and PR at d 90 according to the International Working Group criteria (Cheson et al, J Clin Oncol 2003). Safety, OS, and mortality were secondary end points. According to the optimal two-stage design (Simon, Control Clin Trials 1989), an expected OR of 61% at the end of trial was estimated. Thus in a first stage analysis, < 19 of consecutive 40 (47.5%) pts not achieving the primary objective would be considered an indication for inferiority of the protocol treatment compared to standard IC. Hence, an interim analysis of the first stage was planned per protocol while accrual continues to include the first 40 pts who received the maximal tolerated priming dose of AZA. The trial is supervised by an independent Data Monitoring Committee. Adverse events (AEs) are reported according to the NCI CTCAE 4.03. All pts gave written informed consent.Results: Patient characteristics are shown in table 1. Median age is 69 y and median blast count 39%. All pts received priming with AZA. Median BM blasts at d 15 was 27% (range 2.4-88%). To date, data on subsequent therapies are captured in 33 (82.5%) pts. Except for one (withdrew consent on d 27), all pts received protocol assigned treatment based on BM blasts on d 15 [17/32 (53%) continued with AZA, 15/32 (47%) received IC]. Likewise, 26/32 (81%) pts ([2x data not yet available, 2x death (d 34; d 53), and 2x physician's choice] received response-adapted treatment on d 56 [12/26 (46%) started AZA maintenance and 14/26 (55%) received IC]. OR at d 90 for the 26 as yet evaluable pts is 80.7% [CR (61.5%, n=16); CRi (11.5%, n=3); PR (7.7%, n=2). No additional mortality till d 90 was reported. For the entire cohort, 85% of pts are alive after a median follow-up of 6 months. AEs were consistent with the known safety profile of AZA and IC. AEs > grade 3 were reported 83x in 20 (50%) pts being mainly infectious and respiratory complications (60%). As expected, the majority (57%) were reported under IC, followed by 19% and 17% under priming and the 2. AZA cycle respectively. AEs led to postponement of the planned therapy in 6 pts (3x IC on d 17, 2x 2. AZA, 1x IC on d 56). The final assessment of the interim analysis is set in the near future.Conclusions: These data imply that in a heterogeneous disease like AML, integrating epigenetic therapy with chemotherapy in elderly pts in an individualized response-based approach is feasible, induces responses at least comparable to those seen after IC, and is associated with a remarkable low mortality. The definitive response rate and the impact of such an approach on survival will be answered at the end of the trial.Table 1Patient characteristics (n=40)Median age, range (years)69 ( 61 - 82)Male/Female (%)55 / 45Baseline ECOG (%)0/1/221 / 63 / 16Type of AMLDo novo/secondary (%)61 /39Median WBC (range) x 109/L6.7 (0.7 - 81.8 )Median bone marrow blasts (aspiration) (range) (%)39 (13 - 90)Cytogenetics (n=35)Normal/intermediate/unfavourable (%)54 /23 / 23FLT3+ (n=34) (%)9NPM1 + (n=34) (%)9 [Display omitted] DisclosuresAl-Ali:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding. Off Label Use: Azacitidine is not approved for the use in patients with AML and blasts > 30% outside clinical trials.

The Complexity of Interpreting Genomic Data in Patients with Primary and Secondary Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

BackgroundAcute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a complex, heterogeneous neoplasm characterized by the accumulation of complex genetic alterations that are responsible for the initiation and progression of the disease. Secondary AML (sAML) represents a progression from antecedent hematologic disorders such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) or myeloprolifrative neoplasms (MPN). Certain acquired mutations have been reported to be specific for sAML when compared to primary AML (pAML), but many limitations exist when cytogenetic grouping or other parameters are taken into account. In addition, some mutations have been shown to impact survival in some studies, but not others.MethodsWe performed targeted deep sequencing on samples from bone marrow and peripheral blood of pts diagnosed with sAML and pAML and treated at our institution between 1/2003-1/2013. Additional data on pAML was added from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). A panel of 62 gene mutations described as frequently recurrent mutations in myeloid malignancies were assessed. Cytogenetic grouping was defined by CALGB/Alliance criteria. Differences were compared using Fisher's exact test and the Mann-Whitney U test for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Overall survival (OS) was calculated from the time of diagnosis to last follow up or death.Results:A total of 496 pts included: 273 with pAML and 223 with sAML. Comparing pAML to sAML, pts were younger (median age 59 vs. 68 years, p<.001) and had a higher WBC at diagnosis (13.5 vs. 3.9 X 109/L, p<.001), respectively. Cytogenetic analysis showed significant differences: 58% of pAML pts had normal karyotype (NK) compared to 37% of sAML (p=.002), whereas 24% and 26% of sAML had intermediate risk (other than NK) and complex karyotype (> 3 abnormalities) compared to 11% and 16% for pAML (p< .001, .009), respectively. Mutations in ASXL1 (p<.001), JAK2 (P =.014), CBL (P =.05), BCOR (P =.02), STAG2 (p =.003), SF3B1 (P =.04), SRSF2 (P =.001 ), and U2AF1 (P =.03) were highly specific for the sAML phenotype, whereas mutations in NPM1 (p<.001 ), FLT3 (p< .001), DNMT3A (p<.001), and IDH2 (P =.02) were more specific for pAML. When the analysis was restricted to pts with NK cytogenetics, only ASXL1 (p<.001) remained specific for sAML and DNMT3A (p<.001) for pAML.Further, when the analysis was restricted to pts with unfavorable risk cytogenetics, only ASXL1 (p=.01) remained specific for sAML. No other mutations were specific for pAML.We then evaluated whether the mutations that were specific to each AML phenotype had an impact on OS. We observed different mutations that impacted OS in each phenotype: DNMT3A (HR 1.81, 95% CI 1.28-2.57, p<.001), TP53 (HR 3.1, 95% 1.74-5.53, p< .001), and SUZ12 (HR 3.18, 95% CI 1.01-10, p=.05) led to worse OS in pAML, whereas mutations in EZH2 (HR 2.12, 95% CI 1.07-4.21, p =.03), PRPF8 (HR 2.32, 95% CI 1.20-4.46, p=.01), and TP53 ( HR 2.92, 95% CI 1.69-5.04, p<.001) lead to worse OS in sAML. Different mutations had a different impact on OS when cytogenetic analysis was taken into account. Mutations in FLT3 (HR 2.15, 95% CI 1.37- 3.35, p<.001) and DNMT3A (HR 2.41, 95% CI 1.57-3.70, p<.001) led to worse OS in NK pAML, whereas none of the mutations impacted OS in NK sAML. Further, in pAML with unfavorable cytogenetics, BCOR (HR 2.41, 95% CI 1.57-3.70, p<.001) and TP53 (HR 2.41, 95% CI 1.57-3.70, p<.001) had led to worse OS, whereas BOCR (HR 2.95, 95% CI 1.03-8.50, p<.001), SF3B1 (HR .19, 95% CI .05-.82, p<.001), SUZ12 (HR .12, 95% CI .01-.99, p<.001),and TP53 (HR 1.9, 95% CI 1.09-3.46, p<.001) only impacted OS in sAML.ConclusionClear genomic variations exist between sAML and pAML. Although some of these genomic changes are more specific to each phenotype in general, this specificity and the impact on OS differed for each cytogenetic subgroup, highlighting the complexity of interpreting genomic information in pts with AML and the need to incorporate both cytogenetic and molecular data in prognosis-driven treatment decisions. DisclosuresSekeres:TetraLogic: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Celgene Corporation: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Amgen: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

RNA Splicing Modulation Impairs Acute Myeloid Leukemia Stem Cell Maintenance

IntroductionDisease relapse is the leading cause of death in secondary AML (sAML), which evolves from antecedent hematologic disorders like myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) or following exposure to chemotherapy. Persistence of therapy-resistant leukemia stem cells (LSC) harboring enhanced survival and self-renewal capacity has been linked to high relapse rates in sAML. Previously, we showed that missplicing of a stem cell regulatory gene, GSK3 b, and splice isoform switching favoring pro-survival BCL2 family isoform expression promoted generation of therapy-resistant LSC (Abrahamsson et al PNAS 2009; Goff et al Cell Stem Cell 2013). However, whether aberrant pre-mRNA splicing promotes sAML LSC generation, in the absence of mutation, and if pharmacological splicing modulation impairs LSC maintenance, in a mutation-independent manner, has not been elucidated.Methods and ResultsComparative RNA-sequencing and gene set enrichment analyses revealed significant alterations in splicing factor gene expression in purified progenitors from untreated sAML compared with normal samples. In addition, using an isoform-specific alignment algorithm, we established a sAML LSC splice isoform expression signature that identified increased expression of select transcripts, e.g. CD82 and PTK2B. Thus, we investigated the LSC inhibitory efficacy of a stable, potent splicing modulatory agent, 17S -FD-895, in humanized AML LSC stromal co-culture and primagraft assays. Notably, there was a dose-dependent reduction in AML LSC (n=4) survival and self-renewal after in vitro 17S -FD-895 treatment, with a favorable therapeutic index compared to normal controls (n=3, p<0.01). Splicing reporter activity and PCR analyses revealed rapid and potent 17S -FD-895-induced alterations in splicing, promoting pro-apoptotic isoform expression and intron inclusion in the stem cell regulatory gene MCL1. Also, 17S -FD-895 restored normal expression patterns of PTK2B, and MCL1-L/S and BLC2-L/S expression ratios.Flow cytometric analyses in AML LSC primagraft models treated with 17S -FD-895 (5-10 mg/kg delivered intravenously in 3 doses over 2 weeks) revealed a decrease in human stem (CD45+ CD34+ CD38- Lin-, 68% reduction in the spleens of the 10 mg/kg group versus vehicle controls, n=5 mice per group, p<0.05) and progenitor (CD45+ CD34+ CD38+ Lin-, 80% reduction to nearly zero in the spleens of the 10 mg/kg group versus vehicle controls, p=0.08) cell frequencies. Furthermore, MCL1-L/S and BCL2-L/S expression ratios were significantly reduced in LSC-enriched fractions from 17S -FD-895-treated mice compared to vehicle controls. Consistent with a reduction in functional LSC burden after 17S -FD-895 treatment, subsequent serial transplantation studies showed a 47-65% reduction in leukemic burden in the hematopoietic tissues of recipients of CD34+ cells from mice in the 10 mg/kg treatment group versus vehicle controls (n=5 mice per group, p<0.05).ConclusionsHere we demonstrate that a potent and stable splicing modulatory agent, 17S -FD-895, normalized sAML-specific splice isoform expression patterns as well as MCL1-L/S and BLC2-L/S ratios. Moreover, pharmacologic splicing modulation reduced AML LSC survival and self-renewal in a dose-dependent manner in both in vitro and in vivo models with a favorable therapeutic index. Further evaluation of this compound as a splicing-targeted single agent or combined with standard of care therapy may reduce or eradicate LSC burden in therapy-resistant sAML. In addition, LSC-specific splice isoforms may represent important biomarkers that could be developed as companion diagnostics for splicing-targeted therapies in sAML and other recalcitrant malignancies. DisclosuresJamieson:Johnson & Johnson: Research Funding; GlaxoSmithKline: Research Funding.

Therapy of older persons with acute myeloid leukemia.

About one-half of persons with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are more than 65 years of age and many are more than 75 years. As such, they pose a difficult therapy challenge. First, many of these persons are excluded from trials of intensive antileukemia therapy because of age (which is often inappropriately treated as a binary variable) and are not being referred for therapy, because of co-morbidities, frailty and other reasons that are sometimes difficult to identify in population-based studies. Second, older persons are even more likely to be excluded from transplant studies. Consequently, most leukemia experts agree that there is no standard of care for persons with AML who are >65 years; we are uncertain how they are best treated. Third, despite many trials of investigational drugs, none has yet proved very active in this population. Fourth, older persons with AML seem to have a different disease biology from younger persons diagnosed with AML. For example, older persons more often have an antecedent hematological disorder, such as myelodysplastic syndrome, or are correctly or incorrectly thought to have therapy-related AML. They also have fewer residual normal hematopoietic stem cells than younger persons. In addition, there are other issues such as acquisition of mutations from aging and environmental exposures that increase genetic complexity of AML in older persons.

Successful management of acute myeloid leukemia transformed from chronic myelomonocytic leukemia in the elderly by a combination regimen of decitabine and cytarabine, aclarubicin and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor: A case report.

Despite advances in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in recent years, the outcome of elderly AML patients with antecedent hematological disorders remains unsatisfactory. The present study describes a case of complete remission in an elderly patient with AML transformed from chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) and the treatment of the case with decitabine in combination with cytarabine, aclarubicin and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CAG). A 70-year-old male was admitted with fever, pruritus and weakness that had been apparent for two weeks, and a two-year history of monocytosis (22.5–27.0%). Further examinations revealed a hemoglobin level of 106 g/l, a white blood cell count of 39.52×109/l, a platelet count of 81×109/l, Y chromosome loss and uniparental disomy on chromosomes 4q, 2q and 19p. The patient was diagnosed with AML transformed from CMML, with cytogenetic anomalies. A combination regimen of decitabine and CAG was administered. Subsequent to one cycle, the patient achieved complete remission. The patient was then followed up with three courses of the same regimen and achieved clinical remission, with no evidence of AML relapse. The present study suggests that a combination of low-dose decitabine and CAG may offer a novel and potentially effective treatment regimen for elderly AML patients.