Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Antibody Research Articles

Enhancing neutrophil cytotoxicity of a panel of clinical EGFR antibodies by Fc engineering to IgA3.0.

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) plays an essential role in cellular signaling pathways that regulate cell growth, proliferation and survival, and is often found dysregulated in cancer. Several monoclonal IgG antibodies have been clinically tested over the years which exert their function via blocking the ligand binding domain (thereby inhibiting downstream signaling) and induction of Fc-related effector functions, such as antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis (ADCP). However, these IgG antibodies do not optimally recruit neutrophils, by far the most abundant white blood cell population in humans. Therefore, we reformatted six therapeutic EGFR antibodies (cetuximab, panitumumab, nimotuzumab, necitumumab, zalutumumab, and matuzumab) into the IgA3.0 format, which is an IgA2 isotype that has been adapted for clinical application. Reformatting these antibodies preserved Fab-mediated functions such as EGFR binding, growth inhibition and ligand blockade. Additionally, whole leukocyte ADCC was significantly increased when using this panel of IgA3.0 antibodies compared to their respective IgG counterparts, with no major differences between IgA3.0 antibodies. In vivo, IgA3.0 matuzumab outperformed the other antibodies, resulting in the strongest suppression of tumor outgrowth in a long intraperitoneal model. We show that neutrophils are important for the suppression of tumor outgrowth. IgA3.0 matuzumab exhibited reduced receptor internalization compared to the other antibodies, possibly accounting for its superior in vivo Fc-mediated tumor cell killing efficacy. In conclusion, reformatting EGFR antibodies into an IgA3.0 format increased Fc-mediated killing while retaining Fab-mediated functions and could therefore be a good alternative for the currently available antibody therapies.

Abstract 1882: DXC024, a novel anti-TROP2/EGFR bispecific antibody and tubulysin conjugate, for targeted treatment of highly TROP2- or EGFR-expressing tumors

Abstract Antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) which combine the precision of targeted therapy with the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy have become a promising drug class in cancer therapy. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is overexpressed in a wide diversity of epithelial tumors, promoting cell proliferation and survival pathways. Tumor-associated calcium signal transducer 2 (Trop2) is also expressed in a wide range of solid tumors and has been used as a transport gate for cytotoxic agents into cells in antibody-drug conjugate constructions for clinic applications. However, the approved Trop2 ADC, sacituzumab govitecan, only showed an objective response rate (ORR) of 17% and median OS of 9.5 months for lung cancers. In addition, both EGFR-ADC and Trop2-ADC had exhibited strong side effects in clinical trials due to their expression on some normal tissues, such as skin, mouth, eyes, etc. We generated bispecific Fab/scFv antibodies targeting both TROP2 and EGFR using the knob-into-hole technology, which presumably have wider efficacy, less on-target toxicity in comparison to the ADCs constructed based on the fully individual EGFR and Trop2 IgG antibodies having strong affinity to either EGFR or Trop2 antigens. Indeed, many of generated anti-TROP2/EGFR BsAbs showed strong binding activity in TROP2highEGFRhigh cells and demonstrated over 60% internalization rate within 60 min in vitro. The selected BsAbs were subsequently conjugated with tubulysin B analogs with varieties of peptidyl linkers to generate bispecific ADC (DXC024) candidates, two of which exhibited strong killing activity in A431, MDA-MB-468, Calu3, MCF-7 cells with IC50 of single to ten digital pM. In vivo, they showed very good durable antitumor response at dose as low as 4.6 mg/Kg for one injection in Calu3 (TROP2highEGFRmoderate) xenograft model, and demonstrated enhanced anti-tumor efficacy in comparison to those of the same payload conjugated to the monoclonal TROP2 or EGFR ADCs. These results indicated that DXC024 would be a promising ADC candidate for targeted treatment of highly either TROP2- or EGFR-expressing tumors. Citation Format: Jingjing Zhu, Junxiang Jia, Huihui Guo, Xiangfei Kong, Yong Du, Zhicang Ye, Lingli Zhang, Yongxiang Chen, Lu Bai, Yunxia Zheng, Wei Zheng, Jun Zheng, Juan Wang, Wenjun Li, Yuanyuan Huang, Zhongliang Fan, Mengmeng Liu, Binbin Chen, Meng Dai, Fang Du, Miaomiao Chen, Zhixiang Guo, Qingliang Yang, Robert Y. Zhao. DXC024, a novel anti-TROP2/EGFR bispecific antibody and tubulysin conjugate, for targeted treatment of highly TROP2- or EGFR-expressing tumors [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 1882.

Abstract 2724: BCG020, a novel bispecific antibody targeting EGFR and CD70, is effective against EGFR and CD70 high expressed tumors

Abstract The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is highly expressed across a wide range of different cancers, and is a known driver of cancer growth; EGFR upregulation is frequently associated with adverse prognosis. Many patients undergoing EGFR-TKI (tyrosine kinase inhibitors) treatment will acquire resistance, which can be accompanied by increased expression of CD70 in some cancers. Simultaneous engagement of both EGFR and CD70 with a bispecific antibody (bsAb) is a potential strategy to overcome such resistance and achieve greater efficacy. To explore this strategy, we developed a novel IgG1 bsAb, BCG020, targeting EGFR and CD70. The parental EGFR antibody and CD70 antibody were developed from fully human common light chain antibody mice (RenLite®). When compared to EGFR benchmarks, the parental EGFR antibody exhibits similar affinity to both human and cynomolgus monkey EGFR, similar internalization activity in EGFR+ tumor cell lines, and superior blocking activity of EGF to EGFR in vitro. Furthermore, the EGFR parental antibody demonstrates good stability. The parental CD70 antibody exhibits high affinity to both human and monkey CD70, with superior internalization activity to benchmark antibody in CD70+ tumor cell lines, as well as superior blockade of CD70-induced signaling of CD27-Luc when compared to benchmark antibodies. When assembled into a bsAb, BCG020 exhitibs the same high affinity as both parental antibodies, with higher internalization activity than parental antibodies and benchmark antibodies. To evaluate the efficacy of BCG020 in vivo, we established cell line-derived xenograft (CDX) models in immunodeficient (B-NDG) mice. We observed that BCG020 treatment (10 mg/kg) potently inhibited growth of EGFR+CD70+ tumors. Taken together, these data indicate that BCG020 is a first-in-class bispecific antibody with potential to treat solid tumors with high expression of EGFR and CD70. Citation Format: Yongfei Yang, Xiaoxia Sun, Ziyan Li, Yue Yan, Linpeng Xu, Xiaoxue Wu, Luheng Du, Ying Zhu, Chaoshe Guo, W. Frank An. BCG020, a novel bispecific antibody targeting EGFR and CD70, is effective against EGFR and CD70 high expressed tumors [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 2724.

Polyoxometalate-Nanozyme-Integrated Nanomotors (POMotors) for Self-Propulsion-Promoted Synergistic Photothermal-Catalytic Tumor Therapy.

Enzyme-powered nanomotors have demonstrated promising potential in biomedical applications, especially for catalytic tumor therapy, owing to their ability of self-propulsion and bio-catalysis. However, the fragility of natural enzymes limits their environmental adaptability and also therapeutic efficacy in catalysis-enabled tumor therapy. Herein, polyoxometalate-nanozyme-based light-driven nanomotors were designed and synthesized for targeted synergistic photothermal-catalytic tumor therapy. In this construct, the peroxidase-like activity of the P2 W18 Fe4 polyoxometalates-based nanomotors can provide self-propulsion and facilitate their production of reactive oxygen species thus killing tumor cells, even in the weakly acidic tumor microenvironment. Conjugated polydopamine endows the nanomotors with the capability of light-driven self-propulsion behavior. After 10 min of NIR (808 nm) irradiation, along with the help of epidermal growth factor receptor antibody, the targeted accumulation and penetration of nanomotors in the tumor enabled highly efficient synergistic photothermal-catalytic therapy. This approach overcomes the disadvantages of the intrinsically fragile nature of enzyme-powered nanomotors in physiological environments and, more importantly, provides a motility-behavior promoted synergistic anti-tumor strategy.

Polyoxometalate‐Nanozyme‐Integrated Nanomotors (POMotors) for Self‐Propulsion‐Promoted Synergistic Photothermal‐Catalytic Tumor Therapy

AbstractEnzyme‐powered nanomotors have demonstrated promising potential in biomedical applications, especially for catalytic tumor therapy, owing to their ability of self‐propulsion and bio‐catalysis. However, the fragility of natural enzymes limits their environmental adaptability and also therapeutic efficacy in catalysis‐enabled tumor therapy. Herein, polyoxometalate‐nanozyme‐based light‐driven nanomotors were designed and synthesized for targeted synergistic photothermal‐catalytic tumor therapy. In this construct, the peroxidase‐like activity of the P2W18Fe4 polyoxometalates‐based nanomotors can provide self‐propulsion and facilitate their production of reactive oxygen species thus killing tumor cells, even in the weakly acidic tumor microenvironment. Conjugated polydopamine endows the nanomotors with the capability of light‐driven self‐propulsion behavior. After 10 min of NIR (808 nm) irradiation, along with the help of epidermal growth factor receptor antibody, the targeted accumulation and penetration of nanomotors in the tumor enabled highly efficient synergistic photothermal‐catalytic therapy. This approach overcomes the disadvantages of the intrinsically fragile nature of enzyme‐powered nanomotors in physiological environments and, more importantly, provides a motility‐behavior promoted synergistic anti‐tumor strategy.

Engineering of cell-surface receptors for analysis of receptor internalization and detection of receptor-specific glycosylation.

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a cell-surface glycoprotein that is involved mainly in cell proliferation. Overexpression of this receptor is intimately related to the development of a broad spectrum of tumors. In addition, glycans linked to the EGFR are known to affect its EGF-induced activation. Because of the pathophysiological significance of the EGFR, we prepared a fluorescently labeled EGFR (EGFR128-AZDye 488) on the cell surface by employing the genetic code expansion technique and bioorthogonal chemistry. EGFR128-AZDye 488 was initially utilized to investigate time-dependent endocytosis of the EGFR in live cells. The results showed that an EGFR inhibitor and antibody suppress endocytosis of the EGFR promoted by the EGF, and that lectins recognizing glycans of the EGFR do not enhance EGFR internalization into cells. Observations made in studies of the effects of appended glycans on the entry of the EGFR into cells indicate that a de-sialylated or de-fucosylated EGFR is internalized into cells more efficiently than a wild-type EGFR. Furthermore, by using the FRET-based imaging method of cells which contain an EGFR linked to AZDye 488 (a FRET donor) and cellular glycans labeled with rhodamine (a FRET acceptor), sialic acid residues attached to the EGFR were specifically detected on the live cell surface. Taken together, the results suggest that a fluorescently labeled EGFR will be a valuable tool in studies aimed at gaining an understanding of cellular functions of the EGFR.

Lenvatinib-Loaded Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) Nanoparticles with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Antibody Conjugation as a Preclinical Approach to Therapeutically Improve Thyroid Cancer with Aggressive Behavior.

Lenvatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) approved for the treatment of progressive and radioactive iodine (RAI)-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), is associated with significant adverse effects that can be partially mitigated through the development of novel drug formulations. The utilization of nanoparticles presents a viable option, as it allows for targeted drug delivery, reducing certain side effects and enhancing the overall quality of life for patients. This study aimed to produce and assess, both in vitro and in vivo, the cytotoxicity, biodistribution, and therapeutic efficacy of lenvatinib-loaded PLGA nanoparticles (NPs), both with and without decoration using antibody conjugation (cetuximab), as a novel therapeutic approach for managing aggressive thyroid tumors. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (NPs), decorated with or without anti-EGFR, were employed as a lenvatinib delivery system. These NPs were characterized for size distribution, surface morphology, surface charge, and drug encapsulation efficiency. Cytotoxicity was evaluated through MTT assays using two cellular models, one representing normal thyroid cells (Nthy-ori 3-1) and the other representing anaplastic thyroid cells (CAL-62). Additionally, an in vivo xenograft mouse model was established to investigate biodistribution and therapeutic efficacy following intragastric administration. The NPs demonstrated success in terms of particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, morphology, encapsulation efficiency, and cetuximab distribution across the surface. In vitro analysis revealed cytotoxicity in both cellular models with both formulations, but only the decorated NPs achieved an ID50 value in CAL-62 cells. Biodistribution analysis following intragastric administration in xenografted thyroid mice demonstrated good stability in terms of intestinal barrier function and tumor accumulation. Both formulations were generally well tolerated without inducing pathological effects in the examined organs. Importantly, both formulations increased tumor necrosis; however, decorated NPs exhibited enhanced parameters related to apoptotic/karyolytic forms, mitotic index, and vascularization compared with NPs without decoration. These proof-of-concept findings suggest a promising strategy for administering TKIs in a more targeted and effective manner.

Intraocular cetuximab: Safety and effect on axial elongation in young Guinea pigs with lens-induced myopization

This study aimed to examine the intraocular tolerability of the epidermal growth factor receptor antibody cetuximab, when applied intravitreally, and its effect on axial elongation. Guinea pigs aged 2–3 weeks were subjected to bilateral plano glasses and bilateral lens-induced myopization (LIM) as a single procedure for group I (n = 8) and group II (n = 8), respectively. In the animals of group III (n = 8), group IV (n = 8), and group V (n = 8), the right eyes of the animals, in addition to LIM, received four weekly intravitreal injections of cetuximab (Erbitux®) in doses of 6.25 μg, 12.5 μg, and 25 μg, respectively. As controls, the left eyes, in addition to LIM, received corresponding intraocular injections of phosphate-buffered saline. The animals underwent regular ophthalmoscopic examinations and biometry for axial length measurements. With increasing doses of cetuximab, the inter-eye difference in axial elongation (at study end, left eyes minus right eyes) were significantly the smallest in group I (0.00 ± 0.02 mm) and group II (−0.01 ± 0.02 mm), they were larger in group III (0.04 ± 0.04 mm) and group IV (0.10 ± 0.03 mm), and they were the largest in group V (0.11 ± 0.01 mm). The inter-eye difference in axial elongation enlarged (P < 0.001) with the number of injections applied. Retinal thickness at the posterior pole (right eyes) was significantly thicker in group V than in group II (P < 0.01). The density of apoptotic cells (visualized by TUNEL-staining) did not vary significantly between any of the groups (all P > 0.05). The results suggest that intravitreal injections of cetuximab in young guinea pigs with LIM resulted in a reduction in axial elongation in a dose-dependent and number of treatment-dependent manner. Intraocular toxic effects, such as intraocular inflammation, retinal thinning, or an increased density of apoptotic cells in the retina, were not observed in association with the intravitreally applied cetuximab.

An Analysis of Risk Factors for the Development of Acneiform Eruptions in Patients on Monoclonal Antibody Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors

Acneiform eruptions occur frequently and early in patients on epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRi). Identification of baseline patient risk factors would prompt earlier referral to dermatology to optimize prevention and management. The primary objective of this retrospective study is to determine the association between clinical and demographic characteristics and the development of acneiform eruptions. A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients diagnosed with colon and head and neck cancers who started EGFRi between January 2017 and December 2021. Patients were followed until death or September 2022. Baseline demographic and clinical parameters were documented and patients were followed from the time of diagnosis to most recent visit for the development and management of an acneiform eruption. Regression analyses were performed to determine the association between baseline characteristics and the development of acneiform eruptions. A total of 66 patients were treated with cetuximab or panitumumab between 2017-2021 were included in the analysis. Forty-seven of the sixty-six patients developed an acneiform eruption while on EGFRi therapy (71.2%). Combination cancer therapy with another chemotherapeutic agent was associated with a lower risk of acneiform eruption (OR 0.03, P = .027). No other baseline features were statistically associated with a lower risk of acneiform eruption. Acneiform eruptions are a common cutaneous adverse event of EGFRi therapy. Ongoing research is required to elucidate risk factors for the development of acneiform eruptions, to improve the quality of life of oncology patients.

Nimotuzumab in combination with intensity modulated radiotherapy improve survival in locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA-HNSCC): A multicenter-based real-world study.

e18006 Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by the high expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Randomized study has demonstrated a survival advantage associated with the use of EGFR antibody (C225) in conjunction with radiation in locally advanced HNSCC (LA-HNSCC). However, the role of EGFR antibody plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), especially in the intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) era, is still controversial. Therefore, we conducted a multicenter, retrospective real-world study to investigate whether adding nimotuzumab, a humanized EGFR antibody, to IMRT-based treatment could improve survival in LA-HNSCC (NCT04949503). Methods: All HNSCC patients treated between January 2015 and December 2018 from 8 hospitals in China were screened. Eventually, patients who completed at least 5 course of nimotuzumab were identified as study group and those who did not receive nimotuzumab were considered controlled group. Propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized to balance known confounding factors, such as clinical stage (AJCC 7 ed.), primary location, and so on. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were compared between two groups. The Log-rank test was rendered to examine the overall difference of two survival curves and the Cloglog transformation test was performed to compare two survivals at a fixed timepoint. Results: A total of 25442 patients were screened, 1931 patients were eligible and 612 patients (306 patients in each group) were matched by PSM for final analysis. The percentage of stage IV disease was approximate 80% in both groups, and the use of CCRT was 62.4% in study group and 65.4% in controlled group. Totally 250 (81.7%) patients received IMRT in study group and 275 (89.8%) patients received IMRT in controlled group. The follow up was cut off on Jan 19, 2023 and the median follow up time was 54.2 (95%CI: 52.7-55.9) months. Among the entire cohort, the addition of nimotuzumab was associated with improved OS (HR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.57-0.99, Log rank p = 0.038; 3y-OS: 74.6% vs 63.3%, Cloglog p = 0.004) as well as significantly advantageous PFS (HR = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.58-0.96, Log rank p = 0.020; 3y-PFS: 57.7% vs 44.3%, Cloglog p = 0.009). Subgroup analysis revealed that stage IV, T1, N2, radiotherapy duration ≥ 6 weeks, without previous surgery and CCRT sub-cohort could gained more OS benefit from the addition of nimotuzumab. Beneficial subgroup for PFS included stage IV, T2, N2, radiotherapy duration ≥ 6 weeks, without previous surgery and CCRT sub-cohort. Conclusions: The addition of nimotuzumab to IMRT-incorporated treatment may provide both OS and PFS benefit for LA-HNSCC, in particular those with stage IV or N2 diseases, without previous surgery, receiving radiotherapy ≥ 6 weeks and CCRT. Clinical trial information: NCT04949503 .

The Effect of Induction Chemotherapy with VEGF Inhibition on Tumor Response in Synchronously Metastasized Potentially Resectable Colorectal Cancer.

(1) Background: The pathological tumor response of the primary tumor to induction chemotherapy in synchronously metastasized colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to compare patients treated with induction chemotherapy combined with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibodies. (2) Methods: We present a retrospective analysis, where we included 60 consecutive patients with potentially resectable synchronous mCRC who received induction chemotherapy combined with either VEGF or EGFR antibodies. The primary endpoint of this study was the regression of the primary tumor, which was assessed by the application of the histological regression score according to Rödel. The secondary endpoints were recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). (3) Results: A significantly better pathological response and a longer RFS for patients treated with the VEGF antibody therapy compared to those treated with the EGFR antibodies was demonstrated (p = 0.005 for the primary tumor and log-rank = 0.047 for RFS). The overall survival did not differ. The trial was registered with clinicaltrial.gov, number NCT05172635. (4) Conclusion: Induction chemotherapy combined with a VEGF antibody revealed a better pathological response of the primary tumor, leading to a better RFS compared to that with EGFR therapy; this has clinical relevance in patients with potentially resectable synchronously mCRC.

Abstract IA07: Molecular characterization of acquired resistance to KRASG12C-EGFR inhibition in colorectal cancer

Abstract Until recently, efforts to pharmacologically target KRAS have been unsuccessful due to its small binding pocket, high affinity for GTP, and redundant mechanisms of posttranslational processing. The development of allele specific KRAS G12C inhibitors that trap KRAS in the inactive, GDP-bound, state led to a paradigm change and clinical responses in 30% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients harboring KRAS G12C mutations. KRAS G12C inhibitors, such as sotorasib and adagrasib, have rapidly moved through clinical development and are poised to transform care of patients with KRAS G12C mutant cancers, in particular NSCLC. However, these agents are not as effective in colorectal cancers (CRC) with KRAS G12C mutation. We have previously shown that the activity of these drugs in KRAS G12C CRC is limited because activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) reactivates ERK signaling therefore combinatorial KRAS G12C and EGFR inhibition more effectively targets KRAS G12C CRC. Early trial data provide clinical support for this observation as anti EGFR monoclonal antibodies combined with sotorasib or adagrasib double the overall response to single agents in KRAS G12C mutant CRC patients. Based on these data, these KRAS G12C and EGFR antibody combination treatments are being evaluated in registrational, phase 3 trials. Nonetheless, patients treated with these agents, alone or in combination, eventually acquire secondary resistance. Several studies have characterized resistance to KRAS G12C monotherapy, in this work, we sought to determine the mechanisms of acquired resistance to concomitant KRAS and EGFR inhibition in CRC. In cell lines, patient-derived xenograft, and patient samples, a heterogeneous pattern of putative resistance alterations expected primarily to prevent inhibition of ERK signaling by drug can be detected at progression. Serial analysis of patient blood samples during treatment demonstrates that most of these alterations are detected at a low frequency that does not increase substantially and sometimes disappears over time, with the exception of KRAS G12C amplification which rises in step with tumor marker levels and clinical progression. Here we show that a CRC cell line that acquired resistance to sotorasib-cetuximab combination through KRAS G12C amplification undergoes oncogene-induced senescence upon drug withdrawal. Senescence markers were detected in a tissue biopsy from a patient at relapse after treatment stop, and amplified KRAS G12C signal in circulating DNA from relapsed patients rapidly recedes after treatment interruption. These data indicate that while most resistance-associated alterations to KRAS-EGFR coinhibition remain subclonal, affecting a small population of cells, KRAS G12C amplification is a recurrent resistance mechanism that drives a higher portion of resistance over time and provides a potential therapeutic vulnerability, whereby therapies that target the senescence response at drug withdrawal may overcome resistance to KRAS G12C-EGFR inhibition. Citation Format: Sandra Misale. Molecular characterization of acquired resistance to KRASG12C-EGFR inhibition in colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Targeting RAS; 2023 Mar 5-8; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2023;21(5_Suppl):Abstract nr IA07.

A three-site recognition cytosensor based on multi-active AuIrPt polyhedral nanozymes for detection of CTCs

We developed a novel electrochemical cytosensor based on AuIrPt nanozymes and three-site recognition strategy for the detection of specific CTCs. Using pluronic F127 as the organic framework, new trimetallic AuIrPt nanozymes with exceptional multiple enzyme-like activities were synthesized, which could mimic the activities of three enzymes, SOD, POD, and CAT. Nanozymes linked with EpCAM (Epithelial cell adhesion molecule) aptamers served as signal tags to enhance sensitivity of the cytosensor, and anti-MUC1 (Mucin 1) and anti-EGFR (Epidermal growth factor receptor) antibodies for isolation and capture of the target CTCs, respectively. The AuIrPt nanozymes could approach the sensing interface and generate obvious currents through their exceptional catalytic activity only when all three proteins (MUC1, EpCAM, and EGFR) were simultaneously expressed on the cell membrane. Benefiting from the aforementioned advantages, our cytosensor could accurately distinguish between target cells and other cancer cells with a wide concentration range from 5 to 1 × 106 cells mL−1 and a low detection limit of 2 cells mL−1. Notably, the biosensor could assay target CTCs in complex whole blood matrixes, validating its resistance to interference and utility. By combining catalytic nanomaterials and three-site recognition strategy, a sensitive, accurate, and stable novel sensing platform has been developed, promising to facilitate the application of CTCs in early cancer screening.

An Adjusted Treatment Comparison Comparing Amivantamab Versus Real-World Clinical Practice in Europe and the United States for Patients with Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with Activating Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Exon 20 Insertion Mutations.

Patients with advanced, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with Exon 20 insertion mutations (Exon20ins) have poor prognoses, exacerbated by a previous lack of specific treatment guidelines and unmet need for targeted therapies. Amivantamab, an EGFR and MET bispecific antibody, demonstrated efficacy and tolerability in patients with advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC with Exon20ins following platinum-based therapy in CHRYSALIS (NCT02609776; Cohort D+). Since CHRYSALIS was single-arm, individual patient data (IPD)-based adjusted analyses versus similar patients in real-world clinical practice (RWCP) were conducted to generate comparative evidence. RWCP cohorts were derived from seven European and US real-world sources, comprising patients fulfilling CHRYSALIS Cohort D+eligibility criteria. Amivantamab was compared with a basket of RWCP treatments. Differences in prognostic characteristics were adjusted for using inverse probability weighting (IPW; average treatment effect among the treated [ATT]). Balance between cohorts was assessed using standardized mean differences (SMDs). Overall response rate (ORR; investigator- [INV] and independent review committee-assessed [IRC]), overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS; INV and IRC) and time-to-next treatment (TTNT) were compared. Binary and time-to-event endpoints were analyzed using weighted logistic regression and proportional hazards regression, respectively. Pre-adjustment, baseline characteristics were comparable between cohorts. IPW ATT-adjustment improved comparability, giving closely matched characteristics. ORR (INV) was 36.8% for amivantamab versus 17.0% for the adjusted EU+US cohort (response rate ratio [RR]: 2.16). Median OS, PFS (INV) and TTNT were 22.77 versus 12.52months (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.47; p<0.0001), 6.93 versus 4.17months (HR: 0.55; p<0.0001) and 12.42 versus 5.36months (HR: 0.44; p<0.0001) for amivantamab versus the adjusted EU+US cohort, respectively. Results were consistent versus EU- and US-only cohorts, and when using IRC assessment. Adjusted comparisons demonstrated significantly improved outcomes for amivantamab versus RWCP, highlighting the value of amivantamab in addressing unmet need in patients with advanced EGFR Exon20ins NSCLC following platinum-based therapy. CHRYSALIS: NCT02609776.

HER2 positive breast cancer and its treatment with trastuzumab, where are we now?

HER2-positive breast cancer is one of the most common types of female breast cancer around the world. This review summarizes information and results of HER2 -positive breast cancer trials and compares their results with the standards in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is done based on a literature search on PubMed and Google Scholar. This review analyzed trastuzumab as a golden treatment standard for HER2 -positive cancer treatments. Trastuzumab is a monoclonal anti-human epidermal growth factor receptor antibody and besides its effect in the treatment of breast cancer, suggests the treatment with trastuzumab within 1 year. Bosnia and Herzegovina have also accepted standards and guidelines for the treatment of HER2 -positive breast cancer and they are in step with the latest achievements worldwide.

Targeting EGFR and Monitoring Tumorigenesis of Human Lung Cancer Cells In Vitro and In Vivo Using Nanodiamond-Conjugated Specific EGFR Antibody.

Nanoprobes provide advantages for real-time monitoring of tumor markers and tumorigenesis during cancer progression and development. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a key protein that plays crucial roles for tumorigenesis and cancer therapy of lung cancers. Here, we show a carbon-based nanoprobe, nanodiamond (ND), which can be applied for targeting EGFR and monitoring tumorigenesis of human lung cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. The optimal fluorescent intensities of ND particles were observed in the human lung cancer cells and nude mice under in vivo imaging system. The fluorescence signal of ND particles can be real-time detected in the xenografted human lung tumor formation of nude mice. Moreover, the ND-conjugated specific EGFR antibody cetuximab (Cet) can track the location and distribution of EGFR proteins of lung cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. ND-Cet treatment increased cellular uptake ability of nanocomposites in the EGFR-expressed cells but not in the EGFR-negative lung cancer cells. Interestingly, single ND-Cet complex can be directly observed on the protein G bead by immunoprecipitation and confocal microscopy. Besides, the EGFR proteins were transported to lysosomes for degradation. Together, this study demonstrates that ND-conjugated Cet can apply for targeting EGFR and monitoring tumorigenesis during lung cancer progression and therapy.

Adagrasib with or without Cetuximab in Colorectal Cancer with Mutated KRAS G12C

BackgroundAdagrasib, an oral small-molecule inhibitor of mutant KRAS G12C protein, has shown clinical activity in pretreated patients with several tumor types, including colorectal cancer. Preclinical studies suggest that combining a KRAS G12C inhibitor with an epidermal growth factor receptor antibody could be an effective clinical strategy.MethodsIn this phase 1–2, open-label, nonrandomized clinical trial, we assigned heavily pretreated patients with metastatic colorectal cancer with mutant KRAS G12C to receive adagrasib monotherapy (600 mg orally twice daily) or adagrasib (at the same dose) in combination with intravenous cetuximab once a week (with an initial loading dose of 400 mg per square meter of body-surface area, followed by a dose of 250 mg per square meter) or every 2 weeks (with a dose of 500 mg per square meter). The primary end points were objective response (complete or partial response) and safety.ResultsAs of June 16, 2022, a total of 44 patients had received adagrasib, and 32 had received combination therapy with adagrasib and cetuximab, with a median follow-up of 20.1 months and 17.5 months, respectively. In the monotherapy group (43 evaluable patients), a response was reported in 19% of the patients (95% confidence interval [CI], 8 to 33). The median response duration was 4.3 months (95% CI, 2.3 to 8.3), and the median progression-free survival was 5.6 months (95% CI, 4.1 to 8.3). In the combination-therapy group (28 evaluable patients), the response was 46% (95% CI, 28 to 66). The median response duration was 7.6 months (95% CI, 5.7 to not estimable), and the median progression-free survival was 6.9 months (95% CI, 5.4 to 8.1). The percentage of grade 3 or 4 treatment-related adverse events was 34% in the monotherapy group and 16% in the combination-therapy group. No grade 5 adverse events were observed.ConclusionsAdagrasib had antitumor activity in heavily pretreated patients with metastatic colorectal cancer with mutant KRAS G12C, both as oral monotherapy and in combination with cetuximab. The median response duration was more than 6 months in the combination-therapy group. Reversible adverse events were common in the two groups. (Funded by Mirati Therapeutics; KRYSTAL-1 ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03785249.)

89Zr-panitumumab PET imaging for preoperative assessment of ameloblastoma in a PDX model

Accurate assessment of tumor margins with specific, non-invasive imaging would result in the preservation of healthy tissue and improve long-term local tumor control, thereby reducing the risk of recurrence. Overexpression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been used in other cancers as an imaging biomarker to identify cancerous tissue. We hypothesize that expression of EGFR in ameloblastomas may be used to specifically visualize tumors. The aims of this study are to measure the specificity of radiolabeled 89Zr-panitumumab (an EGFR antibody) in vivo using patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of ameloblastoma and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scans. In PDX of ameloblastomas from four patients (AB-36, AB-37, AB-39 AB-53), the biodistribution of 89Zr-panitumumab was measured 120 h post-injection and was reported as the injected dose per gram of tissue (%ID/g; AB-36, 40%; AB-37, 62%; AB-39 18%; AB-53, 65%). The radiolabeled %ID/g was significantly greater in tumors of 89Zr-panitumumab-treated mice that did not receive unlabeled panitumumab as a blocking control for AB-36, AB-37, and AB-53. Radiolabeled anti-EGFR demonstrates specificity for ameloblastoma PDX tumor xenografts, we believe 89Zr-panitumumab is an attractive target for pre-surgical imaging of ameloblastomas. With this technology, we could more accurately assess tumor margins for the surgical removal of ameloblastomas.

Specific targeting of glioblastoma with an oncolytic virus expressing a cetuximab-CCL5 fusion protein via innate and adaptive immunity.

Chemokines such as C-C motif ligand 5 (CCL5) regulate immune cell trafficking in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and govern tumor development, making them promising targets for cancer therapy. However, short half-lives and toxic off-target effects limit their application. Oncolytic viruses (OVs) have become attractive therapeutic agents. Here, we generate an oncolytic herpes simplex virus type 1 (oHSV) expressing a secretable single-chain variable fragment of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody cetuximab linked to CCL5 by an Fc knob-into-hole strategy that produces heterodimers (OV-Cmab-CCL5). OV-Cmab-CCL5 permits continuous production of CCL5 in the TME, as it is redirected to EGFR+ glioblastoma (GBM) tumor cells. OV-Cmab-CCL5 infection of GBM significantly enhances the migration and activation of natural killer cells, macrophages and T cells; inhibits tumor EGFR signaling; reduces tumor size; and prolongs survival of GBM-bearing mice. Collectively, our data demonstrate that OV-Cmab-CCL5 offers a promising approach to improve OV therapy for solid tumors.

Study protocol for HGCSG1801: A multicenter, prospective, phase II trial of second-line FOLFIRI plus aflibercept in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer refractory to anti-EGFR antibodies.

The first-line chemotherapy for patients with RAS and BRAF wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) commonly involves cytotoxic regimens, such as FOLFOX and FOLFIRI, combined with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibodies. When progression occurs following anti-EGFR antibody-combined chemotherapy, anti-angiogenic inhibitors can be used as second-line treatment. Although randomized controlled trials have shown that anti-angiogenic inhibitors [bevacizumab, ramucirumab, and aflibercept (AFL)] carry survival benefit when combined with FOLFIRI as second-line chemotherapy, such trials did not provide data on patients with mCRC refractory to anti-EGFR antibody-combined chemotherapy. Therefore, our group planned a multicenter, nonrandomized, single-arm, prospective, phase II study to investigate the safety and efficacy of FOLFIRI plus AFL as a second-line chemotherapy for patients with mCRC refractory to oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy combined with anti-EGFR antibodies. FOLFIRI (irinotecan 180 mg/m2, l-leucovorin 200 mg/m2, bolus 5-FU 400 mg/m2, and infusional 5-FU 2400 mg/m2/46h) and AFL (4 mg/kg) will be administered every 2 weeks until progression or unacceptable toxicities occur. The primary endpoint will be the 6-month progression-free survival (PFS) rate, whereas the secondary endpoints will include overall survival, PFS, response rate, disease control rate, adverse events, and relative dose intensity for each drug. A sample size of 41 participants will be required. This study will be sponsored by the Non-Profit Organization Hokkaido Gastrointestinal Cancer Study Group and will be supported by a grant from Sanofi. There is only an observational study reporting data on FOLFIRI plus AFL for patients with mCRC who previously received anti-EGFR antibodies; therefore, a prospective clinical trial is needed. This study will prospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of FOLFIRI plus AFL in patients with mCRC who are resistant to anti-EGFR antibodies and have limited data. Moreover, this study will reveal predictive biomarkers for AFL-based chemotherapy. Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, jRCTs011190006. Registered 19 November, 2019, https://jrct.niph.go.jp/latest-detail/jRCTs011190006.