Rates Of Deep Molecular Response Research Articles

Impact of age on efficacy and toxicity of nilotinib in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase: ENEST1st subanalysis

PurposeAchievement of deep molecular response with a tyrosine kinase inhibitor in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is required to attempt discontinuation of therapy in these patients. The current subanalysis from the Evaluating Nilotinib Efficacy and Safety in Clinical Trials as First-Line Treatment (ENEST1st) study evaluated whether age has an impact on the achievement of deeper molecular responses or safety with frontline nilotinib in patients with CML.MethodsENEST1st is an open-label, multicenter, single-arm, prospective study of nilotinib 300 mg twice daily in patients with newly diagnosed CML in chronic phase. The patients were stratified into the following 4 groups based on age: young (18–39 years), middle age (40–59 years), elderly (60–74 years), and old (≥75 years). The primary end point was the rate of molecular response 4 ([MR4] BCR–ABL1 ≤0.01% on the international scale) at 18 months from the initiation of nilotinib.ResultsOf the 1091 patients enrolled, 1089 were considered in the analysis, of whom, 23% (n = 243), 45% (n = 494), 27% (n = 300), and 5% (n = 52) were categorized as young, middle age, elderly, and old, respectively. At 18 months, the rates of MR4 were 33.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 27.8–40.0%) in the young, 39.6% (95% CI, 35.3–44.0%) in the middle-aged, 40.5% (95% CI, 34.8–46.1%) in the elderly, and 35.4% (95% CI, 21.9–48.9%) in the old patients. Although the incidence of adverse events was slightly different, no new specific safety signals were observed across the 4 age groups.ConclusionsThis subanalysis of the ENEST1st study showed that age did not have a relevant impact on the deep molecular response rates associated with nilotinib therapy in newly diagnosed patients with CML and eventually on the eligibility of the patients to attempt treatment discontinuation.

Optimal Treatment Strategy with Nilotinib for Patients with Newly Diagnosed Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia in the Chronic Phase Based on Early Achievement of Deep Molecular Response (MR4.5) : First Report from N-Road, a Phase II Study in Japan

Background: Nilotinib is a potent and selective inhibitor of BCR-ABL. In the Evaluating Nilotinib Efficacy and Safety in Clinical Trials-Newly Diagnosed Patients (ENESTnd) trial, frontline nilotinib therapy at 300 mg twice daily (BID) resulted in a higher rate of deep molecular response (DMR) compared to imatinib therapy in patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia in the chronic phase (CML-CP). Furthermore, in the ENESTxtend study, many patients with suboptimal response or treatment failure achieved a major molecular response (MMR) after the nilotinib dose was increased to 400 mg BID from 300 mg BID. The present study was aimed at investigating a strategy of intra-patient nilotinib dose escalation for patients with newly diagnosed CML-CP in order to achieve MR4.5early.Methods: N-Road is a multicenter phase II clinical study for patients with newly diagnosed CML-CP, in which nilotinib was administered at 300 mg BID for 24 months. In this study, increasing the nilotinib dose to 400 mg BID was allowed if patients satisfied the criteria for no optimal response at any time points. The criteria for no optimal response were defined as follows: BCR-ABL1 > 10% on the International Scale [IS] after 3 months, BCR-ABL1 > 1% on the IS after 6 months, BCR-ABL1 > 0.1% on the IS after 12 months, BCR-ABL1 > 0.0032% on the IS after 18 months, two consecutive losses of MMR, and two consecutive losses of MR4.5 (BCR-ABL1 ≤ 0.0032% on the IS). The primary endpoint was the cumulative MR4.5rate by 24 months after the initiation of nilotinib treatment.Results:Between August 2012 and July 2015, 53 Japanese patients were enrolled, of whom 51 were evaluated in the study. The median patient age was 50 years. The ratio of men to women was 33:18. The numbers of patients with low, intermediate, high Sokal risk scores was 21 (41.2%), 21 (41.2%), and 6 (11.8%), respectively, and 3 (5.9%) had an unknown risk. The median duration of nilotinib treatment was 23.8 months (range, 4.1-26.3 months). Of the patients, 33 (64.7%) completed 24 months of treatment, 7 (13.7%) had ongoing treatment, and 11 (21.6%) discontinued treatment because of adverse events (AEs; n=4), protocol deviation (n=1), loss to follow-up (n=3), death (n=1), insufficient effect (n=1), or consent withdrawal (n=1).The cumulative MR4.5 rate (95% confidence interval [CI]) in the 46 evaluable patients was 52.0% (36.9-69.0%) by 24 months (Figure). The cumulative MR4.0 and MMR rates were 60.9% (46.1-76.0%) and 83.5% (69.6-93.5%) by 24 months, respectively. Among the 46 evaluable patients, 26 satisfied the criteria for no optimal response. The dose was increased in 6 of the 26 patients but not in the remaining 20 patients for the following reasons,: hematological AEs (n=3), non-hematological AEs (n=9), achievement of MR4 at 18 months (n=2), patient refusal (n=4), and unknown (n=2). Although 4 patients with no optimal response achieved MR4.5, all of them did not receive an increased treatment dose. The actual mean dose intensities in the patients with or without optimal response were 570 and 560 mg/day, respectively.None of the patients had disease progression, and 1 patient died of an unknown cause during the study. The estimated rates (95% CI) of progression free survival and overall survival at 24 months were 98% (84-100%) and 98% (84-100%), respectively.The most common (≥20%) non-hematological AEs of any grade were rashes (47%), headache (34.2%), fatigue (21.6%) and nausea (23.5%). The most common (≥5%) grade 3/4 laboratory abnormalities were increased lipase (10.6%), decreased phosphate (12.2%) and increased alanine aminotransferase (7.8%). Cardiovascular events were observed to be ischemic heart disease in 2 patients (3.9%).Conclusion: In this study, it was difficult to evaluate the efficacy of nilotinib dose escalation to achieve MR4.5 early because the dose could not be increased to 400 mg BID in many patients who did not show optimal response. However, as we were unable to increase the dose to 400 mg BID in many patients because of AEs and as nilotinib therapy demonstrated superior MR4.5, these results might support continuous nilotinib therapy using a dosage of at least 300 mg BID for newly diagnosed CML. DisclosuresNishiwaki:Novartis PHARMA: Research Funding.

Association of Peripheral Regulatory T Cells with Achievement of Deep Molecular Response in Newly Diagnosed Chronic Phase Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treated with Dasatinib - the Final Results of D-First Study

IntroductionAchievement of deep molecular response (DMR) has become an important treatment goal for patients with chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CP-CML) since it is considered to be necessary for the challenge of stopping tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment. However, prognostic marker for prediction of DMR has not been established. We have previously reported the results of D-First study that shorter having time of BCR-ABL1 transcripts and early cytotoxic lymphocyte expansion were associated with achievement of DMR in newly diagnosed CP-CML patients treated with dasatinib. Here, the long-term follow-up results of the study were analyzed after a minimum 36 months follow-up. In this analysis, we mainly focus on dynamics of regulatory T cells (Treg) influencing patients' clinical course, as well as immunoprofiles during dasatinib treatment.Methods:A total of 52 patients with newly diagnosed CP-CML who were enrolled between June 2011 and June 2012 and treated with dasatinib 100 mg once daily on an open-label, multicenter, prospective phase II clinical trial (NCT01464411). All patients were followed-up for minimum of 36 months. Patients were assessed for molecular response before and 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 36 months after starting dasatinib by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of BCR-ABL1 transcripts standardized on an international scale (BCR-ABL1 IS). A DMR was defined as less than 0.01% BCR-ABL1IS (MR4). The analysis of immunophenotyping of lymphocyte fractions in the peripheral blood samples was performed by flow cytometry before and 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 24, and 36 months after starting dasatinib treatment at a centralized laboratory (BML).Results:Patients’ characteristic at diagnosis has been reported previously. Briefly, the median age was 52 years. High Sokal risk score was seen in 12% patients. With a minimum follow-up of 36 months, 12 (23%) patients have discontinued therapy. Reasons for treatment discontinuation includes: pleural effusion (N=3), pericardial effusion (1), proteinurea and systemic edema (1), pulmonary hypertension (1), malaise (1), elevation of intraocular pressure (1), interstitial pneumonia (1), and patient’s requests (3). A cumulative rate of MMR was 75% by 12 months, 80% by 18 months, 86% by 24 months and 88% by 36 months. A cumulative rate of DMR was 49% by 12 months, 59% by 18 months, 59% by 24 months, and 65% by 36 months. Two patients died because of reasons unrelated to CML. No patients progressed to accelerated or blastic phase. Three-year overall survival was 96%. Flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood revealed that average number of CD4+ T lymphocytes did not change over the course of 36 months. In contrast, ratio of CD4+CD25+CD127low Treg among CD4+ T cells decreased in a time-dependent manner during the follow-up. The ratio of Treg at 12 months of dasatinib treatment was associated with achievement of DMR, which was especially significant at 18 months (p<0.05). Differentiated NK cell represented a trend of increasing during the period of observation according to the analysis of CD3-57+/CD3-56+ ratio. In addition, differentiation degree in NK cells assessed by CD3-57+/CD3-56+ ratio was negatively associated with the probability of Treg through the treatment period, suggesting a critical role of Treg inhibition by dasatinib for the induction of NK cell differentiation.Conclusion:The long term results from this study of dasatinib as frontline treatment of newly diagnosed CP-CML showed the excellent results of achieving DMR. Inhibition of Treg in peripheral blood, possibly induced by dasatinib, was associated with the achievement of DMR, which could be one of the prognostic markers for predicting the important treatment goal. DisclosuresYoshida:Pfizer: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Otsuka Pharmaceutical: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Iriyama:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Okamoto:Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd.: Research Funding; Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.: Honoraria, Research Funding; Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.: Research Funding; Shionogi & Co., Ltd.: Research Funding; Teijin Pharma Limited: Research Funding; Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.: Research Funding; Eisai Co., Ltd.: Research Funding; Asahi Kasei Pharma Corp.: Research Funding; Bristol-Myers Squibb K.K.: Honoraria, Research Funding; Astellas Pharma Inc.: Research Funding; Toyama Chemical Co., Ltd.: Research Funding; Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd.: Research Funding; Nippon Shinyaku Co., Ltd.: Research Funding; Pfizer Inc.: Honoraria, Research Funding; JCR Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd.: Research Funding. Kumagai:Pfizer: Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Speakers Bureau; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Speakers Bureau. Ohyashiki:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Ariad: Consultancy. Morita:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Speakers Bureau. Sakamoto:Takeda Pharmaceutical: Consultancy; Yakult: Other: Remuneration. Inokuchi:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria, Research Funding; Novartis: Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria; Pfizer: Honoraria.

Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase (IDO1) Levels and Activity Are Increased in Early Chronic Phase Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML-CP) and Correlate with Molecular Response to Nilotinib Therapy

Introduction:Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO1) is the rate-limiting enzyme during metabolism of the essential amino acid tryptophan (TRP). IDO1 is up-regulated mainly by interferons during infection and inflammation and depletes tryptophan, which results in reduced T cell activation and proliferation as well as expansion of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells. Deregulation of IDO1 activity has been implicated in cancer immune evasion, but its role in chronic phase (CP) CML remains elusive so far.Methods:A large panel of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines and components of the IDO-pathway (soluble IDO1=sIDO1 and kynurenine/tryptophan ratio=KYN/TRP as a product of IDO1 activity) as well as plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) were analyzed alongside the prospective pan-european ENEST1st clinical study (NCT01061177). This substudy included 52 nilotinib-naïve chronic phase (CP)-CML patients that were subsequently treated with 300 mg BID nilotinib and analyzed at months 6 and 12. Molecular responses were quantified in central EUTOS reference laboratories.Results: Soluble IDO (sIDO1) levels and KYN/TRP ratio are significantly up-regulated in newly diagnosed CP-CML and significantly drop during nilotinib therapy. sIDO1 levels significantly correlate with increased KYN/TRP, suggesting increased IDO1 activity at diagnosis. Increased sIDO is linked to a pro-inflammatory status in CML patients, as it positively correlates to increased serum neopterin levels as well as to various other pro-inflammatory markers, such as IFN-g, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17A, sVEGF-A, sVCAM-1 and sTNFR-1. Interestingly, albeit being an IFN-regulated gene, IDO1 activity (KYN/TRP) negatively correlated with the proportion of pDC, the main producers of IFN-a. Interestingly, a higher KYN/TRP is linked to superior molecular response, as demonstrated by a significant correlation of the KYN/TRP ratio to BCR-ABL transcript levels. Patients having a high KYN/TRP ratio (> mean +2SD of post therapy levels) reach deep molecular response rates (i.e. MR4.5) significantly earlier and at higher rates.Conclusions: CML diagnosis in CP is linked to an inceased inflammatory status, as shown by increased levels of sIDO and its metabolites kynurenine leading to an increased KYN/TRP ratio. In solid cancer increased IDO expression/activity is linked to inferior outcome by favoring immune evasion. In contrast, in CML an increased KYN/TRP ratio is associated with improved molecular outcome during nilotinib 1st-line therapy. One reason could be that IDO activity may reflect endogenous IFN-α production, a known factor favoring immune-mediated CML-control. DisclosuresSopper:Novartis: Other: Travel costs reimbursement. Mustjoki:BMS, Novartis, Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Gastl:Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding. Giles:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Hochhaus:BMS: Honoraria, Research Funding; Novartis: Honoraria, Research Funding; Pfizer: Honoraria, Research Funding; ARIAD: Honoraria, Research Funding. Janssen:BMS: Honoraria; Pfizer: Honoraria; ARIAD: Consultancy; Novartis: Research Funding.

Association of pleural effusion with an early molecular response in patients with newly diagnosed chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia receiving dasatinib: Results of a D-First study

Despite the efficacy and safety of dasatinib treatment for chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML-CP), adverse effects such as pleural effusion (PE) are still a serious concern. We determined the clinical significance of PE incidence using patient data derived from the D-First clinical study. In the present study, chest radiography and quantification of specific lymphocyte subsets were performed routinely after initiation of dasatinib treatment. Among 52patients with newly diagnosed CML-CP, 17 (33%) developed PE within 18months after initial dasatinib administration, but all cases were moderate (Grade 1, 10 patients; Grade 2, 7 patients). CD56+ lymphocyte counts at 1month correlated significantly with the incidence of PE, whereas lymphocytosis did not. The major molecular response (MMR) rate at 3months (although not at later times) was significantly higher in PE-positive patients than PE-negative patients (59% versus 24%, respectively; P=0.013). Deep molecular response rates did not differ significantly between the PE groups at any time point during the observation period. Our results suggest that an immune-mediated mechanism involving natural killer cells underlies the development of PE in patients receiving dasatinib for 18months. This mechanism likely promotes transient tumor regression in patients newly diagnosed with CML-CP.

Combination of Dasatinib and Peg-Interferon Alpha 2b in Chronic Phase Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CP-CML) First Line: Preliminary Results of a Phase II Trial, from the French Intergroup of CML (Fi-LMC)

Background: Combination of Pegylated-Interferon alpha (Peg-IFNa) 2a and imatinib (IM) has been reported to significantly induce higher rates of molecular responses (including undetectable BCR-ABL transcript) over IM alone, as frontline therapy for CP-CML patients (pts) in a randomized phase 3 trial (SPIRIT, Preudhomme et al, NEJM 2010). Second generation TKIs such as dasatinib (DASISION, Kantarjian et al, NEJM 2010) enhance the speed and depth of molecular response (MR) in comparison to IM. Phase II trial using nilotinib and PegIFNa2a has recently reported high rates of deep molecular response (MR4.5) within 24 months (Nicolini FE et al, Lancet Haematology 2015). Aims: To determine the efficacy and safety of the combination of dasatinib and Peg-IFNa2b in CP-CML frontline. (EUDRACT Number: 2012-003389-42, Dasa-PegIFN trial). Methods: Newly diagnosed Ph+ CP-CML pts less than 65-year-old started dasatinib 100 mg/day. At 3 months, they were assigned to receive Peg-IFNa2b associated to dasatinib when platelets (plt) > 100 X 109/L, Neutrophils (ANC) > 1.5 X 109/L) and lymphocytes Results: 81 pts were enrolled between October 2013 and July 2014. All pts will have completed the 12 months follow-up time-point in August 2015. 79/81pts were included in the analysis (1 pt died of a CML-related haemorrhage before receiving dasatinib, 1 screening failure (masked Ph)). Median age was 48 (20-65) years. 54% of pts were male. Sokal scores were low, intermediate and high in 51%, 32% and 17% of pts respectively. After the first 3 months of therapy (M3), sixty-one patients (77%) started Peg-IFNa2b at the dose of 30 microg/week in association with dasatinib. For these pts after M3, reported hematologic adverse events (AE) were neutropenia (G3/4 n=11; G1/2 n=17), thrombocytopenia (G3/4 n=0; G1/2 n=7), anemia (G3/4 n=0; G1/2 n=7). Extra-hematologic AE were essentially of low grade (overall, G3/4 n=3; G1/2 n=113). According to NCI CTCAE V4.0, most frequent AE were infections (16%), general symptoms (15%), skin lesions (10%), hepato-biliary abnormalities (7.7%), nervous system/headache (7.7%) musculoskeletal pain (7%), psychiatric (7%), GI (6%) disorders. Eight serious AE (SAE) were reported after Peg-IFNa2b initiation: G4 neutropenia n=2, dysthyroitidis n=1, dyspnea n=1, pleural effusion n=1, lymphoid hyperplasia n=1, hemorrhoids n=1, rectal fistula (SUSAR) n=1. Efficacy was analysed according to the intention-to-treat principle (ITT), and considering missing data as no response to avoid inflated results. Overall at M3, 85% of pts had a BCR-ABL1/ABL1 ratio ≤10%. For eligible patients who received combined therapy (n=61), rates of MMR were 16%, 51%, 70%, and 70% (pending n=5) at M3, M6, M9 and M12, including MR4.5 rates 10%, 20%, 30% at M6, M9 and M12 respectively. Eighteen pts (22.7%) were not eligible to receive Peg-IFNa2b. Reasons, according to protocol criteria, were ANC 4.0 X 109/L (n=1), absence of complete hematologic response (n=1), non compliance (n=1). Rates of MMR for these pts were 27% at M6, 50 % at M9 (missing n=2), pending data for n=6 at M12. Conclusion: Peg-IFNa2b combined to dasatinib therapy in first line CP-CML induces a high rate of deep molecular response (ie MR4.5) during the first year of therapy. Despite few pending data, results at 12 months are already in line with previous data combining Peg-IFNa and TKI, expecting a potential for an increased rate in therapy cessation attempt. Preliminary data of this phase II trial indicate a manageable toxicity profile for this combination, despite an increased rate of neutropenia. Updated analyses (ITT and per protocol) will be presented for all the pts with at least 12 months follow-up. Disclosures ROY:BMS: Other: CongressTravels/Accomodations, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Other: Congress Travels/Accomodations, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Merck: Other: Peg-Interferon provided in the trial. Guerci-Bresler:Novartis: Speakers Bureau; BMS: Speakers Bureau; ARIAD: Speakers Bureau; PFIZER: Speakers Bureau. Giraudier:BMS: Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Other: Congress Travel/Accomodation, Speakers Bureau. Johnson-Ansah:Hybrigenics SA: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; BMS: Speakers Bureau. Ame:Novartis: Speakers Bureau; BMS: Speakers Bureau. Etienne:BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; ARIAD: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Other: Congress Travel/Accomodations, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Nicolini:BMS: Other: Travel/Accommodations/Expenses; Novartis: Other: Travel, Accommodations, Expenses; ARIAD: Honoraria, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; BMS: Honoraria, Membership on an entity9s Board of Directors or advisory committees, Other: Consulting or Advisory Role, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Honoraria, Other: Consulting & Advisory Role, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Rea:Novartis: Honoraria; BMS: Honoraria; Ariad: Honoraria; Pfizer: Honoraria. Cony-Makhoul:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Ianotto:Novartis: Other: Congress Travel/ Accomodations. Legros:ARIAD: Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; BMS: Speakers Bureau. Coiteux:BMS: Speakers Bureau. Hermet:BMS: Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Speakers Bureau. Mahon:BMS: Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Speakers Bureau. Rousselot:ARIAD: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; BMS: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Novartis: Speakers Bureau.

Additional Chromosomal Abnormalities in Philadelphia Chromosome-Negative Metaphases Appearing during Therapy with Imatinib, Dasatinib, Nilotinib and Ponatinib in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

▪BackgroundAdditional chromosomal abnormalities (ACAs) in the Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-negative metaphases that emerge as patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) are treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been reported during treatment with imatinib. It has been suggested that these might be associated with an inferior outcome and in rare instances lead to the emergence of a new malignant clone resulting in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (Jabbour et. al, Blood 2007). This phenomenon has not been well characterized when other TKIs are used. We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients treated on imatinib, dasatinib, nilotinib, and ponatinib frontline trials to assess the frequency and prognostic impact of ACAs appearing during the treatment after achieving cytogenetic response.Patients and MethodsA total of 524 patients with CML were evaluated with a median age at diagnosis of 48 years (range 15 to 86). These included 236 patients treated with imatinib, 125 with nilotinib, 118 with dasatinib and 45 with ponatinib. All the patients were treated in clinical trials approved by the institutional board review and signed an informed consent in accordance with institutional guidelines and in accordance with the declaration of Helsenki. Conventional cytogenetic analysis was done in bone marrow cells using standard G-banding technique at baseline, every 3 months during the first year, then every 6-12 months. Clonal ACAs were identified as abnormalities present in ≥2/20 metaphases or, if only one metaphase, present in ≥2 consecutive assessments.ResultsAfter a median follow-up of 83.8 months (range 0.3-176.6 months) 13% (72/524) patients had ACAs, of which 7% (41/524) were clonal. ACAs were seen in 11% (27/236) of patients on imatinib compared to 11% (13/118, p=0.9) on dasatinib, 19 % (24/125, p= 0.04) on nilotinib, and 17% (8/45, p=0.2) on ponatinib. Six patients had both clonal evolution (CE) and ACAs at different times. The median number of metaphases containing ACAs was 5/20 (range 1 to 20) with an average of 7/20. Most appeared within the first year of the start of the TKI (median 6 months, range 3-72 months); they first appeared after 12 months of therapy in 21 of the 72 (29%) patients. ACAs were transient and were detected in 2 or less time points in 52 of the 72 (72%) cases. The most common clonal ACAs were - Y (13/41) and +8 (4/41). The rates of cytogenetic and molecular responses were similar for patients with and without clonal ACAs (CCyR: 88% vs 91%; p=0.55) (MMR: 78% vs 86%, p=0.20). Having clonal ACAs did not affect the rate of deep molecular response either (MR4.5 71% vs 67%; p =0.65). There was no significant difference in EFS and OS (5y EFS 73% vs 86%; p=0.19) (5y OS 77% vs 93%; p=0.06) although there was a trend for lower rates for both. Responses and clinical outcomes were similar between different TKIs for patients with and without clonal ACAs. One patient with -7 treated with ponatinib developed MDS. Monosomy 7 appeared 9 months from the start of treatment in 9/20 metaphases and persisted. He was taken off ponatinib because of pancytopenia. He subsequently received bosutinib, achieved and maintained a CCyR. A high-risk MDS was documented approximately 1 year after appearance of the -7 clone. He was started on decitabine and achieved a partial cytogenetic response for MDS. Another patient in the imatinib cohort with -7 developed secondary AML (CCyR for CML) and died from a multiple organ failure after allogeneic stem cell transplant from a one antigen-mismatched unrelated donor. There was a third patient with -7 that later had CE and developed Ph+ CML blast phase.ConclusionACAs are rare and mostly transient events that appear during the treatment of CML with TKIs. These changes do not affect responses or clinical outcomes, independent of what TKI is used. A small subset of patients with -7 may develop AML or MDS warranting close monitoring of patients with changes that are reminiscent of those diseases. Molecular analysis after appearance of ACAs could help identify mutations driving the Ph-clone into AML or MDS. DisclosuresPemmaraju:Stemline: Research Funding; Incyte: Consultancy, Honoraria; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; LFB: Consultancy, Honoraria. Cortes:BerGenBio AS: Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding; Teva: 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.

Dose-Optimized Nilotinib (NIL) in Patients (Pts) with Newly Diagnosed Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in Chronic Phase (CML-CP): Final Results from ENESTxtnd Study

Dose-Optimized Nilotinib (NIL) in Patients (Pts) with Newly Diagnosed Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in Chronic Phase (CML-CP): Final Results from ENESTxtnd Study

Velocity of Early BCR-ABL Transcript Elimination As an Optimized Predictor of Deep Molecular Response in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Patients in Chronic Phase on Treatment with Dasatinib

▪Background: We conducted a phase II study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dasatinib in patients with newly diagnosed chronic-phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML-CP) in Japan (IMIDAS PART2 study; UMIN000006358). Several groups reported that some of CML patients who achieved stable deep molecular response (DMR) level or deeper could stop Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) and approximately 40% of these patients could keep therapy free survival by cessation of TKI. Discontinuation of TKI has emerged as a new goal of treatment in CML. Achievement of DMR is necessary for discontinuation of TKI. The aim of the present study was to analyze the prognostic significance of (i) BCR-ABL transcript International Scale (BCR-ABL IS) levels, (ii) the halving time and (iii) velocity of BCR-ABL transcript elimination using an optimized cutoff according to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.Methods: Eighty newly diagnosed CML-CP patients were included in this study. Patients received dasatinib 100mg once daily. Treatment has continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Clinical efficacy and safety was partially reported in 55th ASH Meeting. We sought to investigate the impacts of above 3 parameters within the initial 1 or 3 months of therapy. Halving time was calculated by the method, described by Branford et al. Velocity of BCR-ABL transcript elimination at 1 or 3 months (V-BCR-ABL1m or 3m respectively) was calculated as BCR-ABL IS at 1 or 3 months (BCR-ABL IS1m or 3m respectively) divided by that at diagnosis.Results: One patient was withdrawal before administration of dasatinib. Seventy-nine patients administered dasatinib 100 mg once daily. The estimated MMR and DMR rates were 92.1 % (95%CI, 76.8-97.3 %) and 60.9% (95%CI; 42.3-73.4 %) by 12 months respectively. The patients who had already achieved DMR at 3 months were excluded from landmark analysis. The cut off values for prediction of DMR at 12 months were obtained by ROC analysis. Those of BCR-ABL IS1m and BCR-ABL IS3m were 11.7% and 0.284% respectively. Those of halving times on 0-1 month and 0-3months (halving time1m and 3m) were 17.8 and 13.6 days respectively. Those of V-BCR-ABL1m and V-BCR-ABL3m were 0.321 and 0.018 respectively. The estimated DMR at 12 months, 95% CI and probability (P), obtained by Kaplan-Myer analysis, were shown in Figure 1. Odd' ratio, obtained by Chi-square test, was shown in Table 1. The patients with less than 0.321 at V-BCR-ABL1m showed the highest DMR at 12 months (80%), the least probability (P=0.009) and the least odd' ratio (0.175). At 3 months, there were similar data in these parameters among BCR-ABL IS3m, halving time3m and V-BCR-ABL3m. Figure 1 showed the cumulative DMR rate according to the cutoff values in V-BCR-ABL1m and V-BCR-ABL3m. V-BCR-ABL1m 0.321 and V-BCR-ABL3m 0.018 separated best.Conclusion: These data strongly suggested that V-BCR-ABL1m,3m would be a significant landmark to predict DMR at 12 months as well as BCR-ABL IS1m,3m, halving time1m,3m. Among them, less than 0.321 in V-BCR-ABL1m was identified as an optimized predictive cutoff value of DMR at 12 months. [Display omitted] [Display omitted] DisclosuresIshida:Bristol-Myers Squibb: Honoraria.

Frontline nilotinib in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase: results from the European ENEST1st study

The Evaluating Nilotinib Efficacy and Safety in Clinical Trials as First-Line Treatment (ENEST1st) study included 1089 patients with newly diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase. The rate of deep molecular response (MR4 (BCR-ABL1⩽0.01% on the International Scale or undetectable BCR-ABL1 with ⩾10 000 ABL1 transcripts)) at 18 months was evaluated as the primary end point, with molecular responses monitored by the European Treatment and Outcome Study network of standardized laboratories. This analysis was conducted after all patients had completed 24 months of study treatment (80.9% of patients) or discontinued early. In patients with typical BCR-ABL1 transcripts and ⩽3 months of prior imatinib therapy, 38.4% (404/1052) achieved MR4 at 18 months. Six patients (0.6%) developed accelerated or blastic phase, and 13 (1.2%) died. The safety profile of nilotinib was consistent with that of previous studies, although the frequencies of some nilotinib-associated adverse events were lower (for example, rash, 21.4%). Ischemic cardiovascular events occurred in 6.0% of patients. Routine monitoring of lipid and glucose levels was not mandated in the protocol. These results support the use of frontline nilotinib, particularly when achievement of a deep molecular response (a prerequisite for attempting treatment-free remission in clinical trials) is a treatment goal.

Safety and efficacy of imatinib in CML over a period of 10 years: data from the randomized CML-study IV.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have changed the natural course of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). With the advent of second-generation TKI safety and efficacy issues have gained interest. The randomized CML - Study IV was used for a long-term evaluation of imatinib (IM). 1503 patients have received IM, 1379 IM monotherapy. After a median observation of 7.1 years, 965 patients (64%) still received IM. At 10 years, progression-free survival was 82%, overall survival 84%, 59% achieved MR(5), 72% MR(4.5), 81% MR(4), 89% major molecular remission and 92% MR(2) (molecular equivalent to complete cytogenetic remission). All response levels were reached faster with IM800 mg except MR(5). Eight-year probabilities of adverse drug reactions (ADR) were 76%, of grades 3-4 22%, of non-hematologic 73%, and of hematologic 28%. More ADR were observed with IM800 mg and IM400 mg plus interferon α (IFN). Most patients had their first ADR early with decreasing frequency later on. No new late toxicity was observed. ADR to IM are frequent, but mostly mild and manageable, also with IM 800 mg and IM 400 mg+IFN. The deep molecular response rates indicate that most patients are candidates for IM discontinuation. After 10 years, IM continues to be an excellent initial choice for most patients with CML.

Achieving the Deep Molecular Response Levels Required for an Imatinib Discontinuation Trial Is Strongly Associated with the BCR-ABL Level at the First Qualifying Timepoint

Achieving the Deep Molecular Response Levels Required for an Imatinib Discontinuation Trial Is Strongly Associated with the BCR-ABL Level at the First Qualifying Timepoint

Five-Year Results of Nilotinib 400 Mg BID in Early Chronic Phase Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): High Rate of Deep Molecular Response - Update of the Gimema CML WP Trial CML0307

AbstractAbstract 3784 INTRODUCTION:Nilotinib is a potent and selective BCR-ABL inhibitor approved for the frontline treatment of CML based on the results of the phase 3 ENESTnd trial that demonstrated superior efficacy of nilotinib vs. imatinib, with higher and faster molecular responses and lower rates of progressions to accelerated-blastic phase (AP/BP)(3 years of follow-up). In the IRIS trial, after 5 years of follow-up, 69% of patients were still on imatinib; the event-free survival (EFS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were 83% and 93%, respectively (Druker BJ et al, NEJM 2006). In an intention-to-treat analysis of patients treated frontline with imatinib at the Hammersmith Hospital, EFS at 5 years was 63% and PFS was 83% (de Lavallade H, J Clin Oncol 2008). The long-term evaluation of the patients treated with nilotinib frontline is extremely relevant. METHODS:The GIMEMA CML WP conducted a multicentre phase 2 trial with nilotinib 400mg BID as frontline therapy (ClinicalTrials.gov.NCT00481052). Median follow-up for the present analysis was 51 months (range: 48 – 58 months); five years median follow-up data will be presented. Definitions: MR3.0 (Major Molecular Response) as a BCR-ABL/ABL ratio <0.1% IS; MR4.0, BCR-ABL/ABL ratio <0.01% with ≥10,000 ABL transcripts; failures: according to the 2009 ELN recommendations; events: failures and treatment discontinuation for any reason. All the analysis has been made according to the intention-to-treat principle. RESULTS:73 patients enrolled: median age 51 years; 45% low, 41% intermediate and 14% high Sokal risk. The cumulative incidence of CCyR at 12 months was 100%. Only 1 patient had a confirmed loss of CCyR and subsequently progressed to AP/BP (see below). Two out of 73 patients never achieved a MR3.0, 1 is the patient who progressed to AP/BP (see below), the other 1 is in stable and confirmed CCyR at 48 months. Only 3 patients had a confirmed loss of MMR due to low adherence (all 3 still on nilotinib). The overall estimated probability of MR4.0 was 82%. Twenty-five percent (18/73 patients) showed a stable MR4.0 (defined based on 3 consecutive MR4.0 samples 4 months apart). Only one patient progressed at 6 months to AP/BP and subsequently died (high Sokal risk, T315I mutation). Overall, eleven patients (15%) discontinued permanently nilotinib: 1 patient progressed to AP/BP; 3 patients had recurrent episodes of amylase and/or lipase increase (no pancreatitis); 3 patients had peripheral arterial obstructive disease (after 45, 46, and 52 months of therapy; age at nilotinib start: 65, 66, and 76 years; 2 out of 3 with at least 1 cardiovascular risk factor); 1 patient had atrial fibrillation (unrelated to study drug); 1 patient died after 32 months of mental deterioration and starvation (unrelated to study drug); 2 patients for refusal (1 patient in confirmed MR4, still off-treatment and in MR4 9 months after discontinuation); 1 patient for withdrawal of informed consent, on imatinib). The estimated probability of overall survival, progression-free survival and failure-free survival was 97% at 5 years; the estimated probability of event-free survival was 83% at 5 years. CONCLUSIONS:After a median follow-up of 5 years, the great majority of patients are still on nilotinib and, reasonably, they will continue in the next future. Even more importantly, only 1 progression so far: considering the kinetic of progression with any TKI in CML (most progressions reported during the first 2–3 years with imatinib and during the first 1–2 years with nilotinib and dasatinib), a relevant future progression incidence is very unlikely. Given the very high rate of deep molecular response, many are candidate to treatment discontinuation. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:European LeukemiaNet, COFIN, Bologna University, BolognAIL Disclosures:Rosti:Novartis Pharma: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Bristol Myers Squibb: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Roche: Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Speakers Bureau. Gugliotta:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Bristol-Myers-Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria. Castagnetti:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Bristol-Myers-Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria. Breccia:Bristol Myers Squibb: Consultancy; Novartis: Consultancy. Soverini:Novartis: Consultancy; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Consultancy; ARIAD: Consultancy. Saglio:Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; BMS: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Consultancy. Martinelli:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau; Bristol-Myers-Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Baccarani:ARIAD, Novartis, Bristol Myers-Squibb, and Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau.

Outcome of Patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia in Chronic Phase (CML-CP) Based On Early Molecular Response and Factors Associated with Early Response: 4-Year Follow-up Data From Enestnd (Evaluating Nilotinib Efficacy and Safety in Clinical Trials Newly Diagnosed Patients)

Abstract Abstract 167 Background: In the ENESTnd study, nilotinib significantly reduced progression to accelerated phase/blast crisis (AP/BC) and demonstrated superior rates of deep molecular response vs imatinib. Data from ENESTnd demonstrated that significantly more patients achieved early molecular response of both &lt; 10% and &lt; 1% BCR-ABLIS at both 3 and 6 months on nilotinib vs imatinib. Here, we report landmark analyses based on BCR-ABL transcript levels at 3 and 6 months using data with a minimum follow-up of 3 years and also provide data on factors associated with poor early molecular response; data based on longer follow-up of 4 years will be presented. Methods: The nilotinib 300 mg twice daily (BID; n = 282) and imatinib 400 mg once daily (QD; n = 283) arms from ENESTnd were used for this analysis. Patients were grouped based on BCR-ABL transcript levels of ≤ 1%, &gt; 1% to ≤ 10%, and &gt; 10% at 3 months (n = 258 and n = 264 patients with available PCR samples at 3 months in the nilotinib and imatinib arms, respectively) and at 6 months (n = 257 and n = 256 patients with available PCR samples at 6 months in the nilotinib and imatinib arms, respectively). Rates of major molecular response (MMR; ≤ 0.1% BCR-ABLIS) and molecular response with a 4.5-log reduction in BCR-ABL transcript levels (MR4.5, ≤ 0.0032%IS) as well as rates of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated among patients grouped according to their BCR-ABL transcript levels at 3 and 6 months. Data on selected baseline characteristics and dose intensity were also assessed. Results: Among evaluable patients at 3 months, 9% of patients (n = 24) in the nilotinib arm vs 33% (n = 88) in the imatinib arm had BCR-ABL transcript levels of &gt; 10%; among evaluable patients at 6 months, 3% of patients (n = 7) in the nilotinib arm vs 16% (n = 40) in the imatinib arm had BCR-ABL transcript levels of &gt; 10%. Patients with a BCR-ABL transcript level of &gt; 10% had a lower probability of future MMR or MR4.5 as well as poorer PFS and OS compared with patients who had BCR-ABL transcript levels ≤ 10% at 3 months (Table). Results were similar based on 6-month landmark analyses. In patients with &gt; 10% BCR-ABL transcript levels at 3 months, the average dose intensity of nilotinib within the first 3 months was 474 mg/day compared with 600 mg/day for patients with ≤ 10% BCR-ABL transcript levels; the average dose intensity of imatinib within the first 3 months was the same (400 mg/day) for patients with both ≤ 10% and &gt; 10% BCR-ABL levels at 3 months (Table). Patients with &gt; 10% BCR-ABL transcript levels at 3 months were also more likely to have high Sokal risk, larger spleen size, and additional chromosomal abnormalities compared with patients with ≤ 10% BCR-ABL transcript levels at 3 months. Other factors associated with early response and further data on long-term outcomes are being assessed and will be presented with a minimum follow-up of 4 years. Conclusions: Fewer patients in the nilotinib arm vs the imatinib arm had BCR-ABL transcript levels &gt; 10% at 3 and 6 months. Reasons for poor early response appeared to be related, at least in part, to baseline factors and dose intensity. Early molecular response at 3 and 6 months correlated with future MMR and MR4.5as well as an increased probability of PFS and OS. Nilotinib frontline therapy allows more patients to achieve deeper responses earlier, associated with improved long-term outcomes vs imatinib. Disclosures: Hochhaus: BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Ariad: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding. Hughes:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Ariad: Consultancy, Honoraria; CSL: Research Funding. Saglio:Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; BMS: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Consultancy. Guilhot:Celgene: Consultancy; Novartis: Honoraria, Research Funding; BMS: Honoraria, Research Funding; Ariad: Honoraria. Al-Ali:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria; Celgene: Honoraria, Research Funding; Sanofi-Aventis: Consultancy, Honoraria. Rosti:Novartis: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau; Roche: Speakers Bureau; BMS: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Speakers Bureau. Kemp:Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp: Employment. Fan:Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp: Employment. Hoenekopp:Novartis Pharma AG: Employment, Equity Ownership. Larson:Novartis: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy, Research Funding; Pfizer: Consultancy; Ariad: Consultancy, Research Funding. Kantarjian:Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp: Consultancy, Research Funding; BMS: Research Funding; Pfizer: Research Funding.

Switching to Nilotinib Is Associated with Continued Deeper Molecular Responses in CML-CP Patients with Minimal Residual Disease After ≥ 2 Years On Imatinib: Enestcmr 2-Year Follow-up Results

AbstractAbstract ▪694▪This icon denotes a clinically relevant abstract Background:Superior rates of deeper molecular responses were achieved with nilotinib vs imatinib in patients newly diagnosed with Philadelphia chromosome–positive (Ph+) chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase (CML-CP) in the Evaluating Nilotinib Efficacy and Safety in Clinical Trials—newly diagnosed patients (ENESTnd) trial. In addition, the 12-month (mo) analysis of the ENEST—complete molecular response (ENESTcmr) study demonstrated that switching to nilotinib after a minimum of 2 years on imatinib led to increased rates of major molecular response (MMR) and deeper molecular responses vs remaining on imatinib. Results from ENESTcmr are presented here with minimum 24 mo of patient follow-up. Methods:Patients with Ph+ CML-CP who had achieved complete cytogenetic responses but still had persistent BCR-ABL positivity by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RQ-PCR) after ≥ 2 years on imatinib were eligible. Patients (n = 207) were randomized to switch to nilotinib 400 mg twice daily (BID; n = 104) or to continue on the same dose of imatinib (400 or 600 mg once daily [QD]; n = 103). Rates of MMR, MR4 (BCR-ABL ≤ 0.01% according to the International Scale [IS], corresponding to a 4-log reduction), MR4.5 (BCR-ABL ≤ 0.0032%IS, corresponding to 4.5-log reduction), and undetectable BCR-ABL via RQ-PCR with ≥ 4.5-log sensitivity were measured. Results:Among all randomized patients (intent-to-treat population), significantly more patients treated with nilotinib continued to achieve undetectable BCR-ABL by 24 mo (32.7% on nilotinib vs 16.5% on imatinib; P =.005; Table).The difference between the arms in achievement of this endpoint increased between 1 and 2 years (from 12.4% to 16.2%). The median time to MR4.5 and undetectable BCR-ABL was also significantly faster on nilotinib than on imatinib (P = .005 and .003, respectively). Cumulative rates of MR4.5 and undetectable BCR-ABL continued to be higher with nilotinib in patients without those responses at baseline, and the difference between arms appeared to increase over time. The safety profiles for nilotinib and imatinib were consistent with prior studies. By 24 mo, no patients in either arm progressed to accelerated phase/blast crisis. No patients on nilotinib died since the 12-mo analysis; 1 patient on imatinib died from metastatic prostate cancer in follow-up after discontinuation from the study. Conclusions:Switching to nilotinib led to significantly faster, deeper molecular responses in patients with minimal residual disease on long-term imatinib therapy. Since the 12-mo analysis, rates of deep molecular response (MR4.5 and undetectable BCR-ABL) have remained significantly higher in patients who did not have the response at baseline and were switched to nilotinib (vs those remaining on imatinib). In fact, the difference in favor of nilotinib increased between 1 and 2 years. These results suggest that switching to the more potent, selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor nilotinib is beneficial in patients with minimal residual disease after long-term imatinib therapy. Achievement of these deeper molecular responses (MR4.5 and undetectable BCR-ABL) after switching to nilotinib may enable a greater proportion of CML-CP patients to be eligible for future discontinuation studies. Cumulative rates of confirmed undetectable BCR-ABL by 24 mo will be presented as the confirmation assessments for several responders were not available at the time of this analysis.TableMolecular ResponsesNilotinib 400 mg BID (n = 104)Imatinib 400 or 600 mg QD (n = 103)Difference Between ArmsP ValueaUndetectable BCR-ABL (ITT Population), %Undetectable BCR-ABL by 12 mo23.110.712.4.02Undetectable BCR-ABL by 24 mo32.716.516.2.005Molecular Response (in Patients without the Response of Interest at Baseline), %Nilotinib 400 mg BIDImatinib 400 or 600 mg QDDifference Between ArmsP ValueaMR4.5 by 12 mon = 94n = 9116.5.00833.016.5MR4.5 by 24 mon = 94n = 9117.4.00839.422.0Undetectable BCR-ABL by 12 mon = 101n = 10010.8.0320.810.0Undetectable BCR-ABL by 24 mon = 101n = 10013.0.0330.917.9ITT, intent-to-treat.aStratified Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test. Disclosures:Hughes:Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Bristol Myers Squibb: Consultancy, Honoraria, Research Funding; Ariad: Consultancy; CSL: Research Funding. Lipton:Novartis: Consultancy, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau. Spector:Novarits: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; BMS: Consultancy. Leber:Novartis: Advisory Board Other, Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Schwarer:Novartis: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; BMS: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Pfizer: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Etienne:Novartis: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau; Pfizer: Consultancy; BMS: Consultancy, Speakers Bureau. Branford:Novartis: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding; BMS: Honoraria, Research Funding; Ariad: Research Funding. Purkayastha:Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp: Employment. Collins:Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp: Employment. Szczudlo:Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp: Employment. Cervantes:Novartis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Sanofi-Aventis: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; BMS: Speakers Bureau; Celgene: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Pfizer: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Teva Pharmaceuticals: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.