Vandetanib in advanced medullary thyroid cancer: review of adverse event management strategies

Inhibitory effect of luteolin on the metabolism of vandetanib in vivo and in vitro

This study aimed to examine the potential drug-drug interaction (DDI) between vandetanib and luteolin in vivo and in vitro, with the objective of establishing a scientific foundation for their appropriate utilization in clinical settings. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into two groups: a control group (vandetanib administered by gavage alone) and an experimental group (vandetanib and luteolin administered together). A series of blood samples were collected at different time intervals. The plasma concentrations of vandetanib and its metabolite N-demethyl vandetanib in rats were determined using an ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Incubation systems were set up with rat liver microsomes (RLM) and human liver microsomes (HLM) to measure the Michaelis-Menten constant (Km) and half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) values. Additionally, the inhibitory mechanism of luteolin on vandetanib was also investigated. Ultimately, the molecular mechanism of inhibition was examined through the utilization of molecular docking techniques. In vivo animal experiment results showed that compared with the control group, the AUC(0-t) and Cmax of vandetanib in the experimental group were significantly increased. The findings from the in vitro experiments revealed that luteolin exhibited a moderate inhibitory effect on the metabolism of vandetanib. The IC50 values for RLM and HLM were determined to be 8.56 μM and 15.84 μM, respectively. The identified inhibition mechanism was classified as mixed. This study utilized molecular docking analysis to provide additional evidence supporting the competitive inhibition of luteolin on vandetanib in CYP3A4. The data presented in our study indicated a potential interaction between vandetanib and luteolin, which may necessitate the need for dose adjustment during their co-administration in clinical settings.

Recent advances in the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors against thyroid cancer

INTRODUCTION

Oncogenic tyrosine kinases (TK) are enzymes that play a key role in cell growth and proliferation and their mutations can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and development of aggressive cancer. This knowledge has led to the development of new classes of drugs, Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI). They target oncogenic kinases who are associated with advanced radioactive iodine (RAI) refractory TC, which is not able to uptake RAI anymore and/or still grows between consecutive treatments with Iodine 131 (I131).

AREAS COVERED

Since Lenvatinib and Sorafenib approval, several other molecular inhibitors have been studied and then introduced for the treatment of aggressive and refractory thyroid cancer (TC), and, although the development of adverse effects or tumor resistance mechanisms, more and more compounds are still under investigation. The literature search was executed in PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify relevant articles and clinical trials published until December 2023.

EXPERT OPINION

In the context of clinical trials, driven by the presence of specific molecular mutations or even in the absence of both conditions, systemic therapy TKIs are valuable weapons to be used in patients affected by aggressive forms of TC, waiting for further expansion of the treatment landscape with more efficacious and safer drugs.

Vandetanib in locally advanced or metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer refractory to radioiodine therapy

The VERIFY study aimed to determine the efficacy of vandetanib in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) that is either locally advanced or metastatic and refractory to radioiodine (RAI) therapy. Specifically, VERIFY is a randomized, double-blind, multicenter phase III trial aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of vandetanib in tyrosine kinase inhibitor-naive patients with locally advanced or metastatic RAI-refractory DTC with documented progression (NCT01876784). Patients were randomized 1:1 to vandetanib or placebo. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included best objective response rate, overall survival (OS), safety, and tolerability. Patients continued to receive randomized treatment until disease progression or for as long as they were receiving clinical benefit unless criteria for treatment discontinuation were met. Following randomization, 117 patients received vandetanib, and 118 patients received a placebo. Median PFS was 10.0 months in the vandetanib group and 5.7 months in the placebo group (hazard ratio: 0.75; 95% CI: 0.55-1.03; P = 0.080). OS was not significantly different between treatment arms. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) of grade ≥3 were reported in 55.6% of patients in the vandetanib arm and 25.4% in the placebo arm. Thirty-three deaths (28.2%; one related to study treatment) occurred in the vandetanib arm compared with 16 deaths (13.6%; two related to treatment) in the placebo arm. No statistically significant improvement was observed in PFS in treatment versus placebo in patients with locally advanced or metastatic, RAI-refractory DTC. Moreover, active treatment was associated with more adverse events and more deaths than placebo, though the difference in OS was not statistically significant.

Vandetanib as a prospective anti-inflammatory and anti-contractile agent in asthma

Background: Vandetanib is a small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor. It exerts its therapeutic effects primarily in a range of lung cancers by inhibiting the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2. However, it remains unclear whether vandetanib has therapeutic benefits in other lung diseases, particularly asthma. The present study investigated the pioneering use of vandetanib in the treatment of asthma. Methods: In vivo experiments including establishment of an asthma model, measurement of airway resistance measurement and histological analysis were used primarily to confirm the anticontractile and anti-inflammatory effects of vandetanib, while in vitro experiments, including measurement of muscle tension and whole-cell patch-clamp recording, were used to explore the underlying molecular mechanism. Results: In vivo experiments in an asthmatic mouse model showed that vandetanib could significantly alleviate systemic inflammation and a range of airway pathological changes including hypersensitivity, hypersecretion and remodeling. Subsequent in vitro experiments showed that vandetanib was able to relax the precontracted rings of the mouse trachea via calcium mobilization which was regulated by specific ion channels including VDLCC, NSCC, NCX and K+ channels. Conclusions: Taken together, our study demonstrated that vandetanib has both anticontractile and anti-inflammatory properties in the treatment of asthma, which also suggests the feasibility of using vandetanib in the treatment of asthma by reducing abnormal airway contraction and systemic inflammation.

Delayed Postoperative Intracerebral Hemorrhage Associated With Oral Multikinase Inhibitor Therapy for Cancer: A Case Report

Regorafenib is a multikinase inhibitor with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGF) activity used as an antiangiogenic agent for metastatic colorectal cancer treatment and has been studied as a potential therapeutic agent for several other cancer treatments. Adverse reactions commonly reported with the use of regorafenib and similar oral multikinase inhibitors include hemorrhage, gastrointestinal fistulas, hypertension, and incomplete wound healing. We report a case of a 59-year-old man with metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma post-colostomy on regorafenib treatment presenting to the emergency department with altered mental status. MRI showed a left frontoparietal mass, which was resected with a left frontal craniotomy. Postoperative MRI showed a resection cavity without significant hemorrhage. He had been prescribed regorafenib preceding his hospitalization, which was continued after admission before surgery and on postoperative day 1. Thirty-two hours after surgery, the patient exhibited sudden right-sided facial droop and right arm weakness. Imaging revealed an acute intraparenchymal hemorrhage within and adjacent to the tumor resection bed, which was managed conservatively. The patient was subsequently discharged to an inpatient rehabilitation facility. The unusual timing of the hemorrhage suggests that the hemorrhage was due to adverse effects of regorafenib. Patients undergoing neurosurgery should have regorafenib discontinued in preparation for surgery. Similar management should be considered for other anti-VEGF medications to avoid serious complications.

The Evolving Treatment Landscape of Medullary Thyroid Cancer

OPINION STATEMENT

Genetic assessment is crucial to address the correct treatment for advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Multi tyrosine kinase inhibitors (mTKIs) cabozantinib and vandetanib are good first line options, even vandetanib prescription is currently limited to RET mutated patients. Selective RET inhibitors such as pralsetinib could be a preferred upfront treatment in case of RET mutated MTC presenting common or gatekeeper RET mutations (e.g. M918T; V804L/M). Selpercatinib, otherwise, can be prescribed as the second line after disease progression to mTKIs. The best option for subsequent lines is to consider inclusion in clinical trials or alternatively other mTKIs such as sunitinib, sorafenib, lenvatinib, or pazopanib could be evaluated. New perspectives include next-generation RET inhibitors able to overcome resistance mechanisms responsible for disease progression to standard mTKIs and RET inhibitors, and immunotherapy for MTC presenting with high tumor mutational burden.

Hantavirus: an overview and advancements in therapeutic approaches for infection

Hantaviruses are a significant and emerging global public health threat, impacting more than 200,000 individuals worldwide each year. The single-stranded RNA viruses belong to the Hantaviridae family and are responsible for causing two acute febrile diseases in humans: Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). Currently, there are no licensed treatments or vaccines available globally for HTNV infection. Various candidate drugs have shown efficacy in increasing survival rates during the early stages of HTNV infection. Some of these drugs include lactoferrin, ribavirin, ETAR, favipiravir and vandetanib. Immunotherapy utilizing neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) generated from Hantavirus convalescent patients show efficacy against HTNV. Monoclonal antibodies such as MIB22 and JL16 have demonstrated effectiveness in protecting against HTNV infection. The development of vaccines and antivirals, used independently and/or in combination, is critical for elucidating hantaviral infections and the impact on public health. RNA interference (RNAi) arised as an emerging antiviral therapy, is a highly specific degrades RNA, with post-transcriptional mechanism using eukaryotic cells platform. That has demonstrated efficacy against a wide range of viruses, both in vitro and in vivo. Recent antiviral methods involve using small interfering RNA (siRNA) and other, immune-based therapies to target specific gene segments (S, M, or L) of the Hantavirus. This therapeutic approach enhances viral RNA clearance through the RNA interference process in Vero E6 cells or human lung microvascular endothelial cells. However, the use of siRNAs faces challenges due to their low biological stability and limited in vivo targeting ability. Despite their successful inhibition of Hantavirus replication in host cells, their antiviral efficacy may be hindered. In the current review, we focus on advances in therapeutic strategies, as antiviral medications, immune-based therapies and vaccine candidates aimed at enhancing the body's ability to control the progression of Hantavirus infections, with the potential to reduce the risk of severe disease.

Myocardial Protection and Current Cancer Therapy: Two Opposite Targets with Inevitable Cost

Myocardial protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is mediated by various ligands, activating different cellular signaling cascades. These include classical cytosolic mediators such as cyclic-GMP (c-GMP), various kinases such as Phosphatydilinositol-3- (PI3K), Protein Kinase B (Akt), Mitogen-Activated-Protein- (MAPK) and AMP-activated (AMPK) kinases, transcription factors such as signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and bioactive molecules such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Most of the aforementioned signaling molecules constitute targets of anticancer therapy; as they are also involved in carcinogenesis, most of the current anti-neoplastic drugs lead to concomitant weakening or even complete abrogation of myocardial cell tolerance to ischemic or oxidative stress. Furthermore, many anti-neoplastic drugs may directly induce cardiotoxicity via their pharmacological effects, or indirectly via their cardiovascular side effects. The combination of direct drug cardiotoxicity, indirect cardiovascular side effects and neutralization of the cardioprotective defense mechanisms of the heart by prolonged cancer treatment may induce long-term ventricular dysfunction, or even clinically manifested heart failure. We present a narrative review of three therapeutic interventions, namely VEGF, proteasome and Immune Checkpoint inhibitors, having opposing effects on the same intracellular signal cascades thereby affecting the heart. Moreover, we herein comment on the current guidelines for managing cardiotoxicity in the clinical setting and on the role of cardiovascular confounders in cardiotoxicity.

Thyroid Carcinoma, Version 2.2022, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology

Differentiated thyroid carcinomas is associated with an excellent prognosis. The treatment of choice for differentiated thyroid carcinoma is surgery, followed by radioactive iodine ablation (iodine-131) in select patients and thyroxine therapy in most patients. Surgery is also the main treatment for medullary thyroid carcinoma, and kinase inhibitors may be appropriate for select patients with recurrent or persistent disease that is not resectable. Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is almost uniformly lethal, and iodine-131 imaging and radioactive iodine cannot be used. When systemic therapy is indicated, targeted therapy options are preferred. This article describes NCCN recommendations regarding management of medullary thyroid carcinoma and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, and surgical management of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (papillary, follicular, Hürthle cell carcinoma).

OUP accepted manuscript

Hantavirus-induced diseases are emerging zoonoses with endemic appearances and frequent outbreaks in different parts of the world. In humans, hantaviral pathology is characterized by the disruption of the endothelial cell barrier followed by increased capillary permeability, thrombocytopenia due to platelet activation/depletion and an overactive immune response. Genetic vulnerability due to certain human leukocyte antigen haplotypes is associated with disease severity. Typically, two different hantavirus-caused clinical syndromes have been reported: hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS). The primarily affected vascular beds differ in these two entities: renal medullary capillaries in HFRS caused by Old World hantaviruses and pulmonary capillaries in HCPS caused by New World hantaviruses. Disease severity in HFRS ranges from mild, e.g. Puumala virus-associated nephropathia epidemica, to moderate, e.g. Hantaan or Dobrava virus infections. HCPS leads to a severe acute respiratory distress syndrome with high mortality rates. Due to novel insights into organ tropism, hantavirus-associated pathophysiology and overlapping clinical features, HFRS and HCPS are believed to be interconnected syndromes frequently involving the kidneys. As there are no specific antiviral treatments or vaccines approved in Europe or the USA, only preventive measures and public awareness may minimize the risk of hantavirus infection. Treatment remains primarily supportive and, depending on disease severity, more invasive measures (e.g., renal replacement therapy, mechanical ventilation and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) are needed.

Nursing Management and Adverse Events in Thyroid Cancer Treatments with Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors. A Narrative Review

Simple Summary

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are an effective and promising therapy in the treatment of advanced differentiated medullary thyroid cancers. The prevention and management of new adverse events of these drugs are important to keep patients on their treatment course, avoiding drug discontinuation or interruption, and are associated with a faster recovery of the disease. The contribution of a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals optimizes the management of adverse events, maximizing the benefits and reducing the risks of treatment, consequently improving the quality of life of patients.

Abstract

Background: The advent of multikinase inhibitors has changed the treatment of advanced, metastatic, unresectable thyroid cancers, refractory to available treatments. These drugs cause new adverse events that should be prevented and treated for long periods, and sometimes beyond their discontinuation. The purpose of this narrative review was the description, prevention, and nursing management of the most frequent adverse events of locally advanced or metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer with sorafenib and lenvatinib, and medullary Thyroid cancer with vandetanib and cabozantinib treatment. Methods: A narrative literature review. Results: Studies included in this narrative review suggest that over 90% of patients treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors experience at least 1 adverse event of any grade affecting their quality of life. Patients treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors experienced at least one adverse event at any grade in ≥90% of cases, with a higher incidence in the first 6–8 weeks of treatment. The most frequent adverse events that can affect a patients’ quality of life are dermatological, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and metabolic. Conclusions: Early assessment of risk factors and identification of adverse events can help nurses support these patients throughout their clinical-therapeutic pathway, increasing the benefits of treatment and reducing reduction/discontinuation.

Management of VEGFR-Targeted TKI for Thyroid Cancer

Recent advances in the development of multitarget tyrosine kinase inhibitors (MTKIs), which mainly target the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), have improved prognoses and dramatically changed the treatment strategy for advanced thyroid cancer. However, adverse events related to this inhibition can interrupt treatment and sometimes lead to discontinuation. In addition, they can be annoying and potentially jeopardize the subjects' quality of life, even allowing that the clinical outcome of patients with advanced thyroid cancer remains limited. In this review, we summarize the potential mechanisms underlying these adverse events (hypertension, proteinuria and renal impairment, hemorrhage, fistula formation/gastrointestinal perforation, wound healing, cardiovascular toxicities, hematological toxicity, diarrhea, fatigue, and acute cholecystitis), their characteristics, and actual management. Furthermore, we also discuss the importance of related factors, including alternative treatments that target other pathways, the necessity of subject selection for safer administration, and patient education.

Apoferritin/Vandetanib Association Is Long-Term Stable But Does Not Improve Pharmacological Properties of Vandetanib

A tyrosine kinase inhibitor, vandetanib (Van), is an anticancer drug affecting the signaling of VEGFR, EGFR and RET protooncogenes. Van is primarily used for the treatment of advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer; however, its usage is significantly limited by side effects, particularly cardiotoxicity. One approach to minimize them is the encapsulation or binding of Van in- or onto a suitable carrier, allowing targeted delivery to tumor tissue. Herein, we constructed a nanocarrier based on apoferritin associated with Van (ApoVan). Based on the characteristics obtained by analyzing the average size, the surface ζ-potential and the polydispersive index, ApoVan nanoparticles exhibit long-term stability and maintain their morphology. Experiments have shown that ApoVan complex is relatively stable during storage. It was found that Van is gradually released from its ApoVan form into the neutral environment (pH 7.4) as well as into the acidic environment (pH 6.5). The effect of free Van and ApoVan on neuroblastoma and medullary thyroid carcinoma cell lines revealed that both forms were toxic in both used cell lines, and minimal differences between ApoVan and Van were observed. Thus, we assume that Van might not be encapsulated into the cavity of apoferritin, but instead only binds to its surface.

Potential Drug Interactions of Repurposed COVID-19 Drugs with Lung Cancer Pharmacotherapies

Lung cancer patients are at heightened risk for developing COVID-19 infection as well as complications due to multiple risk factors such as underlying malignancy, anti-cancer treatment induced immunosuppression, additional comorbidities and history of smoking. Recent literatures have reported a significant proportion of lung cancer patients coinfected with COVID-19. Chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir, ribavirin, oseltamivir, remdesivir, favipiravir, and umifenovir represent the major repurposed drugs used as potential experimental agents for COVID-19 whereas azithromycin, dexamethasone, tocilizumab, sarilumab, famotidine and ceftriaxone are some of the supporting agents that are under investigation for COVID-19 management. The rationale of this review is to identify potential drug-drug interactions (DDIs) occurring in lung cancer patients receiving lung cancer medications and repurposed COVID-19 drugs using Micromedex and additional literatures. This review has identified several potential DDIs that could occur with the concomitant treatments of COVID-19 repurposed drugs and lung cancer medications. This information may be utilized by the healthcare professionals for screening and identifying potential DDIs with adverse outcomes, based on their severity and documentation levels and consequently design prophylactic and management strategies for their prevention. Identification, reporting and management of DDIs and dissemination of related information should be a major consideration in the delivery of lung cancer care during this ongoing COVID-19 pandemic for better patient outcomes and updating guidelines for safer prescribing practices in this coinfected condition.

Toward a broader view of mechanisms of drug cardiotoxicity

Cardiotoxicity, defined as toxicity that affects the heart, is one of the most common adverse drug effects. Numerous drugs have been shown to have the potential to induce lethal arrhythmias by affecting cardiac electrophysiology, which is the focus of current preclinical testing. However, a substantial number of drugs can also affect cardiac function beyond electrophysiology. Within this broader sense of cardiotoxicity, this review discusses the key drug-protein interactions known to be involved in cardiotoxic drug response. We cover adverse effects of anticancer, central nervous system, genitourinary system, gastrointestinal, antihistaminic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infective agents, illustrating that many share mechanisms of cardiotoxicity, including contractility, mitochondrial function, and cellular signaling.

Hypertension and QT interval prolongation associated with targeted systemic cancer therapies

Objective

To summarize the proposed mechanisms behind hypertension and QT interval prolongation associated with use of targeted systemic cancer therapies and provide recommendations for monitoring or managing these toxicities.

Summary

The cardiotoxic effects of targeted systemic cancer therapies represents a new paradigm of cancer treatment associated cardiovascular adverse events. National guidelines regarding optimal monitoring and management strategies for hypertension and QT interval prolongation associated with use of these therapies are lacking. While the pathophysiological drivers of hypertension due to targeted systemic cancer therapies differ by class of targeted therapy, general management strategies do not. Routine blood pressure monitoring throughout the duration of therapy is recommended for all agents. Patients who experience hypertension often can be treated with the addition or modification of antihypertensive therapies. Uncontrolled hypertension despite optimal medical management may require dose modifications or discontinuation of the targeted systemic cancer therapy. Electrocardiogram monitoring is recommended for patients who receive targeted therapies that may prolong the QT interval. Minimizing or managing drug interactions with other QT prolonging medications is recommended in addition to ensuring adequate electrolyte supplementation. Dose modifications or discontinuation of the targeted systemic therapy may be necessary for patients who experience QT interval prolongation.

Conclusions

Appropriate cardiovascular monitoring and timely management of treatment-emergent toxicities can optimize therapy for patients receiving targeted systemic cancer therapies associated with a risk of drug-induced hypertension or QT interval prolongation.

Quality of Life in Patients With Hypoparathyroidism After Treatment for Thyroid Cancer

PURPOSE

Surgical complications such as hypoparathyroidism (HPT) or vocal cord palsy are seldom assessed when the quality of life (QOL) in thyroid cancer patients is investigated. The aim of this study was to measure the QOL difference in thyroid cancer survivors with and without HPT.

METHODS

Participants for this analysis were enrolled in 13 countries from a study that pilot-tested a thyroid cancer-specific QOL instrument. They were included if they had been diagnosed with thyroid cancer at least 9 months previously. QOL was measured using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core (EORTC QLQ-C30) and some items on HPT symptoms (eg, tingling in fingers or toes). HPT status and other clinical data were extracted from the patients' medical charts. Comparisons of QOL domains between patients with and without HPT were performed using Mann-Whitney U test. The occurrence of HPT-related symptoms was compared using chi-square tests. Multiple ordinal regression analysis was performed to evaluate factors that might affect QOL.

RESULTS

Eighty-nine patients participated in this study, 17 of whom were considered to have HPT. Patients in the HPT group reported significantly reduced QOL in 9 of the 15 scales of the EORTC QLQ-C30 compared to patients without HPT. Regression analysis showed that HPT was independently negatively associated with various scales of the QLQ-C30. Both groups showed a high prevalence of typical HPT symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Thyroid cancer patients with HPT report significantly impaired QOL compared to thyroid cancer survivors without HPT. The assessment of HPT should be considered when measuring QOL in thyroid cancer patients.

Hantavirus Infections-Treatment and Prevention

Purpose of review

Hantavirus infection is an emerging zoonosis and there are two main clinical presentations, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Although Hantavirus infections have a worldwide distribution with a high mortality rate, a safe and effective vaccine or an antiviral drug against the Hantavirus disease is yet to be available. This review summarizes all the efforts undertaken to develop medical countermeasures in vitro, in vivo, and human clinical trials against Hantavirus infections.

Recent findings

Multiple antivirals are shown to be effective with limited evidence and recent studies on immunotherapy were not very conclusive. There are multiple vaccine candidates with evidence of conferring long protective immunity against Hantaviruses. Some of these had been already trialed on humans.

Summary

At present, severe HPS or HFRS case management is purely based on supportive treatments, often in an intensive care unit. Rodent control and public health education and promotion play a major role in preventing Hantavirus infection.

Ligand-Based Pharmacophore Modeling, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamic Studies of Dual Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor of EGFR and VEGFR2

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) play an important role in cancer growth. Both of them have close relationships. Expression of EGFR will induce an angiogenic factor (VEGF) release for binding with VEGFR2. However, the existence of VEGF up-regulation independent of EGFR leads to cancer cell resistance to anti-EGFR. Therefore, a therapeutic approach targeting EGFR and VEGFR2 simultaneously may improve the outcome of cancer treatment. The present study was designed to identify potential compounds as a dual inhibitor of EGFR and VEGFR2 by the computational method. Firstly, the ligand-based pharmacophore model for each target was setup to screen of ZINC database of purchasable compounds. The hit compounds obtained by pharmacophore screening were then further screened by molecular docking studies. Taking erlotinib (EGFR inhibitor) and axitinib (VEGFR2 inhibitor) as reference drugs, six potential compounds (ZINC08398597, ZINC12047553, ZINC16525481, ZINC17418102, ZINC21942954, and ZINC38484632) were selected based on their docking scores and binding interaction. However, molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that only ZINC16525481 and ZINC38484632 which have good binding free energy and stable hydrogen bonding interactions with EGFR and VEGFR2. The result represents a promising starting point for developing potent dual tyrosine kinases inhibitor of EGFR and VEGFR2.

Efficacy and Safety of Vandetanib in Progressive and Symptomatic Medullary Thyroid Cancer: Post Hoc Analysis From the ZETA Trial

PURPOSE

We conducted a post hoc analysis of the vandetanib phase III trial involving patients with advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) to assess the efficacy and safety of vandetanib in patients with progressive and symptomatic MTC. The primary objective of the analysis was to determine progression-free survival (PFS) of these patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligible patients from the ZETA trial were divided into 4 disease severity subgroups: progression and symptoms, symptoms only, progression only, and no progression and no symptoms assessed at baseline. PFS, determined from objective tumor measurements performed by the local investigator, overall survival (OS), time to worsening of pain (TWP), and objective response rate (ORR) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of the 331 patients in this trial, 184 had symptomatic and progressive disease at baseline. In this subgroup, results were similar in magnitude to those observed in the overall trial for PFS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.43; 95% CI, 0.28 to 0.64; P < .0001), OS (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.72 to 1.61; P = .71), and TWP (HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.43 to 1.04; P = .07), and the observed adverse events were consistent with the known safety profile of vandetanib. In this subgroup, the ORR was 37% in the treatment arm versus 2% in the placebo arm.

CONCLUSION

Vandetanib demonstrated clinical benefit—specifically, increased PFS—in patients with symptomatic and progressive MTC.

Medullary Thyroid Cancer - Feature Review and Update on Systemic Treatment

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare malignancy that originates from parafollicular (C cells) of the thyroid and accounts for 2-4% of all thyroid malignancies. MTC may be sporadic or inherited, the latter as part of the MEN 2 syndromes. Germline mutations in the RET proto-oncogene (REarranged during Transfection) are driver mutations in hereditary MTC, whereas somatic RET mutations and, less frequently, RAS mutations, have been described in tumor tissues of sporadic MTC. Genetic screening for germline mutations in RET proto-oncogene identifies gene carriers of germline mutations. That enables primary prevention (the avoidance of disease onset by total prophylactic thyroidectomy), or at least secondary prevention (early detection) of the disease. Radical surgery with complete tumor resection is still pivotal in attaining cure for MTC. Despite recent advances, the treatment of advanced, metastatic, and progressive MTC remains challenging. Metastatic MTC can have an indolent clinical course; therefore, it is necessary to assess which patient to cure and when to initiate the treatment. Multidisciplinary boards of various specialists involved in the diagnostics and therapy of the patients with MTC in highly specialized centers with a high volume of patients provide optimal patient management. Multikinase inhibitors (MKI) vandetanib and cabozantinib were approved for the treatment of progressive or symptomatic metastatic/unresectable MTC. Although these treatments have been shown to improve progression-free survival (PFS) with higher overall response rates (ORR) compared with placebo, no MKI has been shown to increase the overall survival (OS) yet, except in the subgroup of patients with RETM918T-mutations on cabozantinib therapy. As these drugs are nonselective, significant off-target toxicities may occur. Recently, next-generation small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been developed. These highly selective RET-inhibitors are specifically designed for highly potent and selective targeting of oncogenic RET alterations, making them promising drugs for the treatment of advanced MTC. The selective RET-inhibitor selpercatinib has been very recently registered for the treatment of RET-mutated thyroid cancer.

Development of small-molecule inhibitors against hantaviruses

Hantavirus (HV), a pathogen of animal infectious diseases that poses a threat to humans, has attracted extensive attention. Clinically, HV can cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), between which HFRS is mostly in Eurasia, and HPS is mostly in the Americas. This paper reviews the research progress of small-molecule inhibitors of HV.

Safety and efficacy of two starting doses of vandetanib in advanced medullary thyroid cancer

Vandetanib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for treatment of advanced symptomatic or progressive medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). The current study (Nbib1496313) evaluated the benefit-risk of two starting doses of vandetanib in patients with symptomatic or progressive MTC. Patients were randomized 1:1 to receive vandetanib 150 or 300 mg daily and followed for a maximum of 14 months (Part A), with the option to then enter an open-label phase (Part B) investigating vandetanib 100, 150, 200 and 300 mg daily doses. Efficacy was assessed in Part A, and safety and tolerability during Parts A and B up to 2 years post randomization. Eighty-one patients were randomized in Part A and 61 patients entered Part B, of whom 37 (60.7%) received 2 years of treatment. Overall, 25% of patients experienced an objective response (OR) at 14 months (OR rate, 0.29 (95% CI, 0.176-0.445) for 300 mg, and 0.20 (95% CI, 0.105-0.348) for 150 mg; one-sided P value approximately 0.43). The most common adverse events (AEs) included diarrhea, hypocalcemia, asthenia, QTc prolongation, hypokalemia and keratopathy, all at generally higher incidence with 300 vs 150 mg (Part A). Part B safety and tolerability was consistent with Part A. OR was observed with both vandetanib doses; the 300 mg dose showed a more favorable trend vs 150 mg as initial dose. Thus, for most patients, 300 mg vandetanib is the most appropriate starting dose; dose reductions to manage AEs and lower initial doses for patients with particular comorbidities can be considered.

The anti-neoplastic activity of Vandetanib against high-risk medulloblastoma variants is profoundly enhanced by additional PI3K inhibition

Medulloblastoma is comprised of at least four molecular subgroups with distinct clinical outcome (WHO classification 2016). SHH-TP53-mutated as well as MYC-amplified Non-WNT/Non-SHH medulloblastoma show the worst prognosis.Here we present evidence that single application of the multi-kinase inhibitor Vandetanib displays anti-neoplastic efficacy against cell lines derived from high-risk SHH-TP53-mutated and MYC-amplified Non-WNT/Non-SHH medulloblastoma. The narrow target spectrum of Vandetanib along with a favourable toxicity profile renders this drug ideal for multimodal treatment approaches. In this context our investigation documents that Vandetanib in combination with the clinically available PI3K inhibitor GDC-0941 leads to enhanced cytotoxicity against MYC-amplified and SHH-TP53-mutated medulloblastoma. In line with these findings we show for MYC-amplified medulloblastoma a profound reduction in activity of the oncogenes STAT3 and AKT. Furthermore, we document that Vandetanib and the standard chemotherapeutic Etoposide display additive anti-neoplastic efficacy in the investigated medulloblastoma cell lines that could be further enhanced by PI3K inhibition. Of note, the combination of Vandetanib, GDC-0941 and Etoposide results in MYC-amplified and SHH-TP53-mutated cell lines in complete loss of cell viability. Our findings therefore provide a rational to further evaluate Vandetanib in combination with PI3K inhibitors as well as standard chemotherapeutics in vivo for the treatment of most aggressive medulloblastoma variants.

Targeted Therapy in Thyroid Cancer: State of the Art

Thyroid cancer typically has a good outcome following standard treatments, which include surgery, radioactive iodine ablation for differentiated tumours and treatment with thyrotropine hormone-suppressive levothyroxine. Thyroid cancers that persist or recur following these therapies have a poorer prognosis. Cytotoxic chemotherapy or external beam radiotherapy has a low efficacy in these patients. 'Target therapy' with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) represent an important therapeutic option for the treatment of advanced cases of radioiodine refractory (RAI-R) differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and possibly for cases of poorly differentiated (PDTC) and anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). In the last few years, several TKIs have been tested for the treatment of advanced, progressive and RAI-R thyroid cancers and some of them have been recently approved for use in clinical practice: sorafenib and lenvatinib for DTC and PDTC; vandetanib and cabozantinib for MTC. The objective of this overview is to present the current status of the treatment of advanced DTC, MTC, PDTC and ATC with the use of TKIs by describing the benefits and the limits of their use. A comprehensive analysis and description of the molecular basis of these drugs and the new therapeutic perspectives are also reported. Some practical suggestions are also given for the management to the potential side-effects of these drugs.

Managing tyrosine kinase inhibitors side effects in thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are a new group of drugs that show the activity against receptors of different growth factors leading to the inhibition of tumor cells growth and proliferation. To date, four different TKIs have been approved for RAI-refractory DTC or MTC: sorafenib, lenvatinib, vandetanib and cabozantinib.

METHODS

This review focuses on treatment toxicity related to above-mentioned TKIs administration in thyroid carcinoma.

RESULTS

TKIs cause a variety of side effects in nearly all treated patients, among them: hypertension, gastrointestinal disturbances (diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting), skin reactions (rashes, acne, hand-foot syndrome), fatigue and weight loss. Most of side effects are mild and moderate and manageable by dose adjustment (dose interruptions and dose reductions) and concomitant therapy. However, some complications although rare may be life-threatening or even fatal. Conclusion​: TKIs shows an acceptable toxicity profile in patients with advanced and progressive RAI refractory DTC and MTC but only in experienced hands familiar with TKIs, particularly with diagnostics and management of treatment-related complications and also with thyroid carcinoma, what is essential to safely care for the patients and keep them on kinase inhibitor therapy as long as the treatment is beneficial without an unfavorable impact on their quality of life.

Updates on the Management of Advanced, Metastatic, and Radioiodine Refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer

Differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) accounts for 95% of all thyroid cancers and is generally an indolent tumor, treated effectively with surgery, radioactive iodine, and thyroid-stimulating hormone suppressive therapy. However, 5-10% of patients have advanced disease, with aerodigestive tract invasion, distant metastases, or radioiodine refractory disease, with poor prognosis. This review focuses on the approaches for treating advanced DTC, including management of gross extra-thyroidal extension, recurrent loco-regional or distant metastatic disease, the role of external beam radiation therapy and systemic treatment. Locally ablative treatment modalities, including surgery, radiation therapy, and thermal ablation are evolving and can be used in selected patients. In recent years, new therapeutic agents with molecular targets have become available and two multi-kinase inhibitors, Sorafenib and Lenvatinib, have been licensed for iodine refractory DTC showing an advantage in terms of progression-free survival, although an impact on overall survival has not been proven yet. Management of advanced thyroid cancer can be challenging but a multidisciplinary approach can significantly improve outcomes for this patient population.

Development of Photoonycholysis with Vandetanib Therapy

Vandetanib therapy is a novel once-daily oral multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which is currently used in advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer. Skin toxicities are among the most prevalent adverse events reported with this targeted therapy (e.g. acne-like rash, hand-foot skin reaction, hair changes, and paronychia). In addition, photosensitivity reactions may affect more than one third of treated patients. We report here 2 patients developing photosensitivity reactions with vandetanib therapy, including photoonycholysis. Our patients presented a wide range of phototoxic reactions with exaggerated sunburn reactions solely located to photoexposed areas or hyperpigmentation with visible blue dots. More importantly, both patients concomitantly developed nail changes consistent with type 1 photoonycholysis, which had never been reported so far neither with vandetanib therapy nor with other anticancer-targeted therapies. In addition, histopathologic findings and reflectance confocal microscopy imaging performed in one patient suffering from photodistributed skin hyperpigmentation both strengthen the likelihood of a postinflammatory mechanism. Clinicians should be aware of these underestimated but very characteristic photoinduced adverse events, which can lead to treatment interruption and require very strict photoprotective measures in treated patients.

Effect of an Outreach Programme on Vandetanib Safety in Medullary Thyroid Cancer

OBJECTIVES

Effective management of adverse events (AEs) following vandetanib treatment is important to maximize clinical benefits. We examined whether more frequent contact with vandetanib-treated patients reduced AEs of CTCAE grade 2 or higher.

STUDY DESIGN

In this open-label, multicentre, phase III study, patients with locally advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer were randomized to a patient outreach programme (outreach) or a standard AE monitoring schedule (vandetanib control) for 52 weeks. In addition to standard AE monitoring, patients in the outreach arm were contacted every 2 weeks by telephone/during their clinic visit for specific AE questioning related to diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache and rash. Patients received vandetanib at 200 or 300 mg/day, depending on the creatinine levels at screening.

RESULTS

Altogether, 205 patients were randomized (outreach, n = 103; vandetanib control, n = 102). This study did not meet its primary objective; the mean percentage of time patients experienced at least one AE of grade 2 or higher was higher for the outreach group (51.65%) than for the vandetanib control group (45.19%); the difference was not statistically significant (t statistic: 1.29; 95% CI -3.44 to 16.37%; p = 0.199). The most frequently reported AEs were diarrhoea (56.9% for the outreach group vs. 46.6% for the vandetanib controls), hypertension (36.3 vs. 31.1%), rash (25.5 vs. 24.3%) and nausea (25.5% vs. 18.4%), and the most frequently reported AEs of grade 2 or higher were hypertension (33.3 vs. 23.3%), diarrhoea (26.5 vs. 24.3%) and dermatitis acneiform (11.8 vs. 9.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Additional outreach to patients treated with vandetanib had no impact on the rate or severity of AEs compared to the standard AE monitoring schedule. AEs were consistent with the known safety profile of vandetanib.

Recent Updates on the Management of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor derived from the thyroid C cells producing calcitonin. MTC accounts for 0.6% of all thyroid cancers and incidence of MTC increased steadily between 1997 and 2011 in Korea. It occurs either sporadically or in a hereditary form based on germline rearranged during transfection (RET) mutations. MTC can be cured only by complete resection of the thyroid tumor and any loco-regional metastases. The most appropriate treatment is still less clear in patients with residual or recurrent disease after initial surgery or those with distant metastases because most patients even with metastatic disease have indolent courses with slow progression for several years and MTC is not responsive to either radioactive iodine therapy or thyroid-stimulating hormone suppression. Recently, two tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), vandetanib and cabozantinib, are approved for use in patients with advanced, metastatic or progressive MTC. In this review, we summarize the current approach according to revised American Thyroid Association guidelines and recent advances in systemic treatment such as TKIs for patients with persistent or recurrent MTC after surgery.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the risk of diarrhea associated with vandetanib treatment in carcinoma patients

Background and purpose

Vandetanib is a promising anticancer targeted agent for treating advanced carcinomas, such as non-small-cell lung cancer, small-cell lung cancer, breast cancer, malignant glioma, hepatocellular cancer, and unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic medullary thyroid cancer. However, diarrhea is a frequently reported adverse event. The incidence of vandetanib-associated diarrhea varies extensively in different study populations and has not been carefully estimated. This systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials aims to figure out the overall risks of all-grade and high-grade diarrhea during vandetanib treatment and get a better understanding of its prediction and management.

Materials and methods

A comprehensive search was performed in EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane Library for clinical trials studying vandetanib and diarrhea prior to April 2015. Eligible articles were selected according to the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted to calculate the summary incidence of all-grade and high-grade diarrhea caused by vandetanib treatment.

Results

Thirteen clinical trials that involved 3,264 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The overall incidences of all-grade and high-grade diarrhea caused by vandetanib treatment were 52.1% (95% confidence interval [CI], 48.3%–55.8%) and 5.6% (95% CI, 4.4%–76.7%), respectively. The risk ratios of the all-grade and high-grade diarrhea for vandetanib arm versus control arm were 1.932 (95% CI, 1.746–2.138; P<0.001) and 3.190 (95% CI, 2.061–4.938; P<0.001), respectively. Studies with small-cell lung cancer demonstrated the highest incidence of all-grade diarrhea (78.85%) and high-grade diarrhea (17.31%), whereas the lowest incidences of all-grade (42.11%) and high-grade (2.67%) diarrhea are seen in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and non-small-cell lung cancer, respectively.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that the administration of vandetanib leads to a significantly increased risk of diarrhea, which varies in different carcinoma patients. Early recognition and timely management may be key factors to avoid dose reduction, drug interruption, and drug discontinuation, which is significant to maximize the treatment benefits.

Effect of Vandetanib on Andes virus survival in the hamster model of Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a severe disease caused by hantavirus infection of pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells leading to microvascular leakage, pulmonary edema, pleural effusion and high case fatality. Previously, we demonstrated that Andes virus (ANDV) infection caused up-regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and concomitant downregulation of the cellular adhesion molecule VE-cadherin leading to increased permeability. Analyses of human HPS-patient sera have further demonstrated increased circulating levels of VEGF. Here we investigate the impact of a small molecule antagonist of the VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) activation in vitro, and overall impact on survival in the Syrian hamster model of HPS.

New systemic therapies for locally advanced and metastatic thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer affects one in 100 people over their lifetime. Differentiated and medullary thyroid cancer, refractory to traditional therapy, respond poorly to chemotherapeutic agents. However, tyrosine kinase inhibitors provide new hope for stabilizing disease in patients with advanced progressive disease. There are multiple tyrosine kinase inhibitors under study for thyroid cancer and currently four drugs that are US FDA approved. Nonetheless, use of these drugs should be selective given a significant adverse event profile and diseases with a typically indolent course. This review will cover molecular mechanisms in thyroid cancer as they are relevant to targeted therapies and review available evidence for the safety and efficacy of therapies currently approved and under study for thyroid cancer.

Selective use of vandetanib in the treatment of thyroid cancer

Vandetanib is a once-daily orally available tyrosine kinase inhibitor that works by blocking RET (REarranged during Transfection), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR-2, VEGFR-3), and epidermal growth factor receptor and to a lesser extent VEGFR-1, which are important targets in thyroid cancer (TC). It is emerging as a potentially effective option in the treatment of advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) and in dedifferentiated papillary thyroid cancer not responsive to radioiodine. The most important effect of vandetanib in aggressive MTC is a prolongation of progression-free survival and a stabilization of the disease. Significant side effects have been observed with the vandetanib therapy (as fatigue, hypertension, QTc prolongation, cutaneous rash, hand-and-foot syndrome, diarrhea, etc), and severe side effects can require the suspension of the drug. Several studies are currently under way to evaluate the long-term efficacy and tolerability of vandetanib in MTC and in dedifferentiated papillary TC. The efficacy of vandetanib in patients with MTC in long-term treatments could be overcome by the resistance to the drug. However, the effectiveness of the treatment could be ameliorated by the molecular characterization of the tumor and by the possibility to test the sensitivity of primary TC cells from each subject to different tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Association studies are evaluating the effect of the association of vandetanib with other antineoplastic agents (such as irinotecan, bortezomib, etc). Further research is needed to determine the ideal therapy to obtain the best response in terms of survival and quality of life.

Non-rash dermatologic adverse events related to targeted therapies

OBJECTIVES

To provide background information and management strategies for non-rash dermatological adverse events.

DATA SOURCES

Peer-reviewed journal articles, professional manuals, online sources.

CONCLUSION

During the last decade, many dermatological adverse events of targeted therapy have been reported, including xerosis, skin fissures, pruritus, photosensitivity, pigmentation changes, hair and nail changes, hand-foot skin reaction, squamoproliferative lesions, Stevens-Johnsons syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Although evidenced-based treatment options are scarce, many recommendations have been described in the literature that should be considered to apply in daily practice.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nursing practice will be enhanced by education, assessment, and management recommendations.

Conquests and perspectives of cardio-oncology in the field of tumor angiogenesis-targeting tyrosine kinase inhibitor-based therapy

INTRODUCTION

Angiogenesis is fundamental for tumor development and progression. Hence, anti-angiogenic drugs have been developed to target VEGF and its receptors (VEGFRs). Several tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been developed over the years and others are still under investigation, each anti-VEGFR TKI showing a different cardiotoxic profile. Knowledge of the cardiac side-effects of each drug and the magnitude of their expression and frequency can lead to a specific approach.

AREAS COVERED

This work reviews the mechanism of action of anti-VEGFR TKIs and the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to cardiotoxicity, followed by close examination of the most important drugs individually. A literature search was conducted on PubMed selecting review articles, original studies and clinical trials, with a focus on Phase III studies.

EXPERT OPINION

Side-effects on the cardiovascular system could lead both to the worsening of general health status of cancer patients and to the discontinuation of the cancer treatment affecting its efficacy. Cardiologists often have to face new triggers of heart disease in these patients. They need a specific approach, which must be carried out in cooperation with oncologists. It must start before cancer treatment, continue during it and extend after its completion.

[Vandetanib, in the management of patients with locally advanced or metastatic medullary thyroid carcinomas]

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare cancer. Vandetanib, a RET tyrosine-kinase inhibitor, significantly increased progression free survival and is the first treatment approved in France for unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic MTC that is symptomatic or progressive. Most frequents adverse events are diarrhea, folliculitis and asthenia. The prolongation of the QT interval on electrocardiogram is frequent but in the most of cases not clinically relevant. A good selection of the patients who could benefit from this treatment and management of side effect are important for the risk-benefit assessment.

The use of betaine HCl to enhance dasatinib absorption in healthy volunteers with rabeprazole-induced hypochlorhydria

Many orally administered, small-molecule, targeted anticancer drugs, such as dasatinib, exhibit pH-dependent solubility and reduced drug exposure when given with acid-reducing agents. We previously demonstrated that betaine hydrochloride (BHCl) can transiently re-acidify gastric pH in healthy volunteers with drug-induced hypochlorhydria. In this randomized, single-dose, three-way crossover study, healthy volunteers received dasatinib (100 mg) alone, after pretreatment with rabeprazole, and with 1500 mg BHCl after rabeprazole pretreatment, to determine if BHCl can enhance dasatinib absorption in hypochlorhydric conditions. Rabeprazole (20 mg b.i.d.) significantly reduced dasatinib Cmax and AUC0-∞ by 92 and 78%, respectively. However, coadministration of BHCl significantly increased dasatinib Cmax and AUC0-∞ by 15- and 6.7-fold, restoring them to 105 and 121%, respectively, of the control (dasatinib alone). Therefore, BHCl reversed the impact of hypochlorhydria on dasatinib drug exposure and may be an effective strategy to mitigate potential drug-drug interactions for drugs that exhibit pH-dependent solubility and are administered orally under hypochlorhydric conditions.