Phase II clinical and pharmacokinetic study of aflibercept in patients with previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer

Immunocytes interact directly with cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment: one coin with two sides and future perspectives

The tumor microenvironment is closely linked to the initiation, promotion, and progression of solid tumors. Among its constitutions, immunologic cells emerge as critical players, facilitating immune evasion and tumor progression. Apart from their indirect impact on anti-tumor immunity, immunocytes directly influence neoplastic cells, either bolstering or impeding tumor advancement. However, current therapeutic modalities aimed at alleviating immunosuppression from regulatory cells on effector immune cell populations may not consistently yield satisfactory results in various solid tumors, such as breast carcinoma, colorectal cancer, etc. Therefore, this review outlines and summarizes the direct, dualistic effects of immunocytes such as T cells, innate lymphoid cells, B cells, eosinophils, and tumor-associated macrophages on tumor cells within the tumor microenvironment. The review also delves into the underlying mechanisms involved and presents the outcomes of clinical trials based on these direct effects, aiming to propose innovative and efficacious therapeutic strategies for addressing solid tumors.

Clusterin Expression in Colorectal Carcinomas

Colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer, behind only breast and lung cancer. In terms of overall mortality, it ranks second due to, among other factors, problems with screening programs, which means that one of the factors that directly impacts survival and treatment success is early detection of the disease. Clusterin (CLU) is a molecular chaperone that has been linked to tumorigenesis, cancer progression and resistance to anticancer treatments, which has made it a promising drug target. However, it is still necessary to continue this line of research and to adjust the situations in which its use is more favorable. The aim of this paper is to review the current genetic knowledge on the role of CLU in tumorigenesis and cancer progression in general, and discuss its possible use as a therapeutic target in colorectal cancer.

Targeted Therapy for Cancers: From Ongoing Clinical Trials to FDA-Approved Drugs

The development of targeted therapies has revolutionized cancer treatment, offering improved efficacy with reduced side effects compared with traditional chemotherapy. This review highlights the current landscape of targeted therapy in lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer, focusing on key molecular targets. Moreover, it aligns with US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs and drug candidates. In lung cancer, mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangements have emerged as significant targets. FDA-approved drugs like osimertinib and crizotinib specifically inhibit these aberrant pathways, providing remarkable benefits in patients with EGFR-mutated or ALK-positive lung cancer. Colorectal cancer treatment has been shaped by targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and EGFR. Bevacizumab and cetuximab are prominent FDA-approved agents that hinder VEGF and EGFR signaling, significantly enhancing outcomes in metastatic colorectal cancer patients. In prostate cancer, androgen receptor (AR) targeting is pivotal. Drugs like enzalutamide, apalutamide, and darolutamide effectively inhibit AR signaling, demonstrating efficacy in castration-resistant prostate cancer. This review further highlights promising targets like mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), ROS1, BRAF, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymeras (PARP) in specific cancer subsets, along with ongoing clinical trials that continue to shape the future of targeted therapy.

The Role of Targeted Therapy in the Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Colorectal Liver Metastasis

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States. Among newly diagnosed patients with CRC, 20% will present with metastatic disease and another 25% will develop metastases. The surgical resection of the primary tumor and metastatic disease sites confers the best chance at long-term survival. Unfortunately, many patients will recur after resection or present with unresectable disease. As such, metastatic CRC is commonly treated with a combination of surgery, systemic therapy, and/or liver-directed therapies. Despite best efforts, 5-year survival for unresectable metastatic CRC is only about 20%. CRC is a heterogeneous disease and the underlying genetic differences inform behavior, treatment strategy, and prognosis. Given the limitations of cytotoxic chemotherapy and the growing role of molecular profiling, research has focused on identifying and developing targeted therapies. We herein review how genetic profiling informs prognosis, crucial cell-signaling pathways that play a role in CRC carcinogenesis, and currently approved targeted therapies for metastatic CRC.

Production of a biosimilar version of aflibercept to improve VEGF blocker cytotoxicity on endothelial cells

This project aimed to produce a biosimilar version of aflibercept (AFL) and evaluate the effect of the co-treatment of AFL with other vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) blocker drugs. For this purpose, the optimized gene was inserted into the pCHO1.0 plasmid and transfected into the CHO-S cell line. The final concentration of biosimilar-AFL for the selected clone was 782 mg/L. Results revealed that the inhibition potential of the biosimilar-AFL on HUVEC cells was significant at 10 and 100 nM concentrations and in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, co-treatment of biosimilar-AFL with Everolimus (EVR), Lenvatinib (LEN), and Sorafenib (SOR) could reduce HUVEC cell viability/proliferation, more than when used alone. When LEN and SOR were co-treated with biosimilar-AFL, their cytotoxicity increased 10-fold. The most and least efficient combination was seen when biosimilar-AFL combined with LEN and EVR, respectively. Finally, biosimilar-AFL may improve the efficiency of LEN, EVR, and SOR in reducing the VEGF effect on endothelial cells.

Aflibercept with FOLFIRI in Japanese patients with metastatic colorectal cancer: results of a post-marketing surveillance

BACKGROUND

Safety and effectiveness of aflibercept with 5-fluorouracil/levofolinate/irinotecan have not been reported in Japanese patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) in a real-world clinical setting.

METHODS

This post-marketing surveillance enrolled patients with un-resectable advanced or recurrent mCRC who were prescribed aflibercept from December 2017 to June 2019 in Japan. Data, collected up to 1 year from starting treatment, included patient background, safety, and effectiveness assessed by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 or physician's evaluation.

RESULTS

Of 261 patients registered from 64 centers, 235 [53.2% male with a median age of 67 years (range 28-84)] received treatment and were included in the safety analysis. Aflibercept was received at 1st, 2nd, and ≥ 3rd line in 1.3%, 48.1%, and 50.2% of patients, respectively. Median number of treatment cycles was 6 (range 1-22) and relative dose intensity was 75.4% (range 14.3-101.8%). Adverse events (all grades) were reported in 88.5% of patients, including neutropenia (34.5%), proteinuria (24.7%), hypertension (17.0%), diarrhea (17.0%), and decreased appetite (15.3%). Three treatment-related deaths occurred by perforation of the digestive tract, pneumonia and gastrointestinal bleeding, and sudden death. The effectiveness analysis included 198 patients. Overall response rate was 6.1% (1st line, 0%; 2nd line, 10.1%; ≥ 3rd line, 2.1%) and disease control rate was 47.5% (1st line, 100%; 2nd line, 58.6%; ≥ 3rd line, 34.4%).

CONCLUSION

No new risks of aflibercept were identified in real clinical practice. Effectiveness in patients at the 2nd line was consistent with previous reports.

Antitumor Therapy Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment

The development and progression of tumors in human tissues extensively rely on its surrounding environment, that is, tumor microenvironment which includes a variety of cells, molecules, and blood vessels. These components are modified, organized, and integrated to support and facilitate the growth, invasion, and metabolism of tumor cells, suggesting them as potential therapeutic targets in anticancer treatment. An increasing number of pharmacological agents have been developed and clinically applied to target the oncogenic components in the tumor microenvironment, and in this review, we will summarize these pharmacological agents that directly or indirectly target the cellular or molecular components in the tumor microenvironment. However, difficulties and challenges still exist in this field, which will also be reported in this literature.

Efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness analysis of aflibercept in metastatic colorectal cancer: A rapid health technology assessment

Background: Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) imposes a heavy tumor burden worldwide due to limited availability of therapeutic drugs. Aflibercept, a kind of recombinant protein of the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family, has been approved in clinical application among mCRC patients since 2012. A comprehensive analysis of the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of aflibercept in mCRC treatment is necessary.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of aflibercept for the treatment of mCRC in order to provide a decision-making reference for the selection of targeted drugs for second-line treatment of mCRC in Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan regions of China and the selection of new drugs for medical institutions in these regions.

Methods: A systematic retrieve on databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang, and Weipu, as well as relevant websites and databases of health technology assessment including the National Institute of Health and Clinical Optimization, Centre for Evaluation and Communication at the University of York, and the Canadian Agency for Medicines and Health Technology, was conducted. The literature was screened according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were extracted and analyzed by two authors, while the quality of the literature was assessed.

Results: Finally, we included two HTA reports, 11 systematic reviews/meta-analyses, and two cost-effectiveness studies in the rapid health technology assessment. For mCRC patients receiving second-line treatment, aflibercept combined with FOLFIRI significantly increased progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) and the objective response rate (ORR) also improved, compared with folinic acid + fluorouracil + irinotecan (FOLFIRI). In terms of safety, mCRC patients who received aflibercept combined with FOLFIRI therapy had a higher incidence of grade 3–4 adverse events than those who received FOLFIRI alone, including anti-VEGF–related adverse events (hypertension, hemorrhagic events, and proteinuria) and chemotherapy-related adverse events (diarrhea, weakness, stomatitis, hand-foot syndrome, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia). In terms of cost-effectiveness, two economic studies conducted in the United Kingdom and Japan, respectively, found that compared with FOLFIRI, aflibercept combined with FOLFIRI had no cost-effectiveness advantage in mCRC patients receiving second-line treatment.

Conclusion: Compared with FOLFIRI treatment, aflibercept combined with FOLFIRI for the second-line treatment of mCRC patients has better efficacy, worse safety, and is not cost-effective. More high-quality clinical studies are required for further exploration of aflibercept’s clinical value. Medical institutions in Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan regions of China should be cautious when using or introducing aflibercept plus FOLFIRI as a mCRC treatment.

Safety and efficacy review of aflibercept for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer

INTRODUCTION

Anti-angiogenic drugs are an efficacious class of therapy in the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Aflibercept, a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) trap which binds the angiogenic factors VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PIGF) is approved in combination with FOLFIRI chemotherapy following progression after an oxaliplatin-containing regimen.

AREAS COVERED

This report provides a review of the practice-changing clinical studies which have established the use of anti-angiogenic therapy as second-line therapy in mCRC including aflibercept with FOLFIRI (5FU, leucovorin, irinotecan). This review also evaluates aflibercept with other chemotherapy regimens as well as efficacy and safety data from real-world studies.

EXPERT OPINION

Aflibercept in combination with FOLFIRI chemotherapy is an established safe and efficacious regimen for the treatment of mCRC as second-line chemotherapy. Although several toxicities have been described, the majority are either low grade or manageable by drug cessation and supportive therapies. For optimal outcomes, patient selection and close observation of toxicities is essential.

Strategies for the treatment of colorectal cancer caused by gut microbiota

Colorectal cancer (CRC), also named as colon and rectal or bowel cancer, is one of the leading neoplasia diagnosed in the world. Genetic sequencing studies of microorganisms from the intestinal microbiota of patients with CRC revealed that changes in its composition occur with the development of the disease, which can play a fundamental role in its development, being mediated by the production of metabolites and toxins that damage enterocytes. Some microorganisms are frequently reported in the literature as the main agents of this process, such as the bacteria Fusobacterium nucleatum, Escherichia coli and Bacteroides fragilis. Thus, understanding the mechanisms and function of each microorganism in CRC is essential for the development of treatment tools that focus on the gut microbiota. This review verifies current research aimed at evaluating the microorganisms present in the microbiota that can influence the development of CRC, as well as possible forms of treatment that can prevent the initiation and/or spread of this disease. Due to the incidence of CRC, alternatives have been launched considering factors beyond those already known in the disease development, such as diet, fecal microbiota transplantation, use of probiotics and antibiotics, which have been widely studied for this purpose. However, despite being promising, the studies that focus on the development of new therapeutic approaches targeting the microorganisms that cause CRC still need to be improved and better developed, involving new techniques to elucidate the effectiveness and safety of these new methods.

Pharmacogenomic-Guided Therapy in Colorectal Cancer

Approximately 20 drugs have been shown to be effective for the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC). These drugs are from several classes of agents and include cytotoxic drugs, therapeutics that target cell signaling pathways at the extracellular and/or intracellular levels, and combination therapies that contain multiple targeted agents and/or cytotoxic compounds. Targeted therapeutics can include monoclonal antibodies, fusion proteins, and small molecule drugs. The first introduced into clinical use was 5-fluorouracil in the early 1960s and remains the foundation for most CRC treatments in both adjuvant therapy and in advanced (metastatic) treatment regimens. As with other cancers, the consideration of biomarkers has the potential to improve CRC therapy through patient stratification. The biomarkers can include germline genetic markers, tumor-specific genetic markers, immune markers, and other biomarkers that can predict antitumor efficacy or the likelihood of toxicity prior to administration of a specific drug. Consistent with the benefit of considering biomarkers in treatment, many newer targeted therapies are developed and approved simultaneously with a companion diagnostic test to determine efficacy. This review will focus on biomarkers that have demonstrated clinical utility in CRC treatment; however, it is noted that many additional biomarkers have been theorized to contribute to drug response and/or toxicity based on known biological pathways but thus far have not attained widespread use in the clinic. The importance of pretreatment biomarker testing is expected to increase as future drug development will likely continue to focus on the concurrent development of companion diagnostics.

Up-to-date role of aflibercept in the treatment of colorectal cancer

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health problem. Despite major progress understanding the biological basis of this tumor added to the incorporation of optimized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, prognosis after progression on first-line standard treatment remains poor. Several antiangiogenic treatments have demonstrated improvement in overall survival (OS) in the second-line treatment being aflibercept, a fully humanized recombinant protein, one of them. The results of the VELOUR study showed that the addition of aflibercept to second-line FOLFIRI improved OS and progression-free survival.Areas covered: A literature review of published clinical studies was performed in order to discuss the clinical data on aflibercept in mCRC from early drug development to real-world data.Expert opinion: The combination of aflibercept with FOLFIRI provides a statistical improvement in OS and in all the efficacy endpoints analyzed in the VELOUR trial, showing efficacy independently on time to progression, molecular status, prior biological treatment, or age. Further studies are needed to find new biomarkers and molecular characterization in order to better select patients that could benefit from this treatment.

Emerging trends in colorectal cancer: Dysregulated signaling pathways (Review)

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most frequently detected type of cancer, and the second most common cause of cancer‑related mortality globally. The American Cancer Society predicted that approximately 147,950 individuals would be diagnosed with CRC, out of which 53,200 individuals would succumb to the disease in the USA alone in 2020. CRC‑related mortality ranks third among both males and females in the USA. CRC arises from 3 major pathways: i) The adenoma‑carcinoma sequence; ii) serrated pathway; and iii) the inflammatory pathway. The majority of cases of CRC are sporadic and result from risk factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, processed diets, alcohol consumption and smoking. CRC is also a common preventable cancer. With widespread CRC screening, the incidence and mortality from CRC have decreased in developed countries. However, over the past few decades, CRC cases and mortality have been on the rise in young adults (age, <50 years). In addition, CRC cases are increasing in developing countries with a low gross domestic product (GDP) due to lifestyle changes. CRC is an etiologically heterogeneous disease classified by tumor location and alterations in global gene expression. Accumulating genetic and epigenetic perturbations and aberrations over time in tumor suppressor genes, oncogenes and DNA mismatch repair genes could be a precursor to the onset of colorectal cancer. CRC can be divided as sporadic, familial, and inherited depending on the origin of the mutation. Germline mutations in APC and MLH1 have been proven to play an etiological role, resulting in the predisposition of individuals to CRC. Genetic alterations cause the dysregulation of signaling pathways leading to drug resistance, the inhibition of apoptosis and the induction of proliferation, invasion and migration, resulting in CRC development and metastasis. Timely detection and effective precision therapies based on the present knowledge of CRC is essential for successful treatment and patient survival. The present review presents the CRC incidence, risk factors, dysregulated signaling pathways and targeted therapies.

Therapeutic Targeting of the Tumour Microenvironment in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Liver metastasis is the primary contributor to the death of patients with colorectal cancer. Despite the overall success of current treatments including targeted therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy combinations in colorectal cancer patients, the prognosis of patients with liver metastasis remains poor. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of the tumour microenvironment and the crosstalk within that determines the fate of circulating tumour cells in distant organs. Understanding the interactions between liver resident cells and tumour cells colonising the liver opens new therapeutic windows for the successful treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. Here we discuss critical cellular interactions within the tumour microenvironment in primary tumours and in liver metastases that highlight potential therapeutic targets. We also discuss recent therapeutic advances for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer.

Inclusion of non-inferiority analysis in superiority-based clinical trials with single-arm, two-stage Simon's design

INTRODUCTION

Non-inferiority (NI) analysis is not usually considered in the early phases of clinical development. In some negative phase II trials, a post-hoc NI analysis justified additional phase III trials that were successful. However, the risk of false positive achievements was not controlled in these early phase analyses. We propose to preplan NI analyses in superiority-based Simon's two-stage designs to control type I and II error rates.

METHODS

Simulations have been proposed to assess the control of type I and II errors rates with this method. A total of 12,768 two-stage Simon's design trials were constructed based on different assumptions of rejection response probability, desired response probability, type I and II errors, and NI margins. P-value and type II error were calculated with stochastic ordering using Uniformly Minimum Variance Unbiased Estimator. Type I and II errors were simulated using the Monte Carlo method. The agreement between calculated and simulated values was analyzed with Bland-Altman plots.

RESULTS

We observed the same level of agreement between calculated and simulated type I and II errors from both two-stage Simon's superiority designs and designs in which NI analysis was allowed. Different examples has been proposed to explain the utility of this method.

CONCLUSION

Inclusion of NI analysis in superiority-based single-arm clinical trials may be useful for weighing additional factors such as safety, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamic, and biomarker data while assessing early efficacy. Implementation of this strategy can be achieved through simple adaptations to existing designs for one-arm phase II clinical trials.

Safety of Aflibercept in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Literature Review and Expert Perspective on Clinical and Real-World Data

BACKGROUND

Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) represents a substantial health burden globally and an increasing challenge in Asian countries. Treatment options include chemotherapy plus a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor (such as bevacizumab, aflibercept or ramucirumab), or anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) therapies. Aflibercept, a recombinant fusion protein, has been approved for treatment of mCRC in combination with FOLFIRI for patients whose disease progresses during or after treatment with an oxaliplatin-containing regimen, based on its efficacy and tolerability profile in clinical trials. This report aims to provide an overview of both clinical and real-world evidence and experience on the use of aflibercept in routine clinical practice, with a focus on European, American and Asian populations.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in PubMed (on 28th February 2019) using the search terms ("aflibercept") and ("Colorectal"OR"CRC") to identify publications containing information on aflibercept-containing regimens.

RESULTS

The adverse events (AE) profile was similar between geographical locations. Across trials, real-world and retrospective studies, grade ≥ 3 hypertension and proteinuria were amongst the most frequently reported AEs.

CONCLUSIONS

The safety profile of aflibercept is generally manageable and comparable across various geographic locations.

Comprehensive review of targeted therapy for colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is among the most lethal and prevalent malignancies in the world and was responsible for nearly 881,000 cancer-related deaths in 2018. Surgery and chemotherapy have long been the first choices for cancer patients. However, the prognosis of CRC has never been satisfying, especially for patients with metastatic lesions. Targeted therapy is a new optional approach that has successfully prolonged overall survival for CRC patients. Following successes with the anti-EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) agent cetuximab and the anti-angiogenesis agent bevacizumab, new agents blocking different critical pathways as well as immune checkpoints are emerging at an unprecedented rate. Guidelines worldwide are currently updating the recommended targeted drugs on the basis of the increasing number of high-quality clinical trials. This review provides an overview of existing CRC-targeted agents and their underlying mechanisms, as well as a discussion of their limitations and future trends.

Meta-analysis of safety and efficacy of antiangiogenic drug aflibercept for metastatic colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have reported that the combination of arbacicept and FOLFOX4/FOLFIRI regimen can more effectively treat metastatic colon cancer (mCRC). In the preset study, we performed a meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of arbacicept for mCRC to provide an evidence-based medicine related basis for the application of this drug.

AIM

To systematically assess the clinical efficacy and safety of aflibercept for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) by meta-analysis.

METHODS

Controlled trials that involved aflibercept with FOLFOX4/FOLFIRI regimen for treating mCRC from January 2009 to January 2019 were searched, covering China HowNet database, Weipu database, Wanfang database, China Biomedical Literature database, PubMed, as well as The Cochrane Library and EMBASE. The retrieved studies were evaluated according to the Cochrane Systematic Evaluation Manual. A meta-analysis was performed with RevMan5.3 software and 95% confidence interval (CI) estimation.

RESULTS

Five studies were included. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the 3-year overall survival rate and 3-year recurrence-free survival rate were significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (OR [odds ratio] = 0.52, 95%CI: 0.35-0.79, P = 0.002; OR = 0.63, 95%CI: 0.45-0.89, P = 0.008). Compared with the control group, the study group had fewer adverse events (OR = 0.58, 95%CI: 0.40-0.84, P = 0.004). Furthermore, the study group had a significantly lower incidence of diarrhea, leukopenia, loss of appetite, and nausea and vomiting than the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Aflibercept with FOLFOX4/FOLFIRI regimen has better efficacy and adverse event profile for treatment of refractory mCRC than FOLFOX4/FOLFIRI alone.

Targeted therapy for colorectal cancer metastases: A review of current methods of molecularly targeted therapy and the use of tumor biomarkers in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer

Despite recent advances in the management of colorectal cancer, metastatic disease remains challenging, and patients are rarely cured. However, a better understanding of the pathways implicated in the evolution and proliferation of cancer cells has led to the development of targeted therapies, that is, agents with action directed at these pathways/features. This approach is more specific to cells within which these pathways, such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), are overactive; this is in contrast to the relatively indiscriminate mechanism by which cytotoxic chemotherapy tends to affect rapidly dividing cells, regardless of their role. Although factors unique to a given patient, such as the location of the primary tumor (sidedness) or the presence of mutations that confer resistance, may limit the utility of these agents, targeted therapies are now a part of the treatment paradigm for metastatic colorectal cancer, and survival outcomes have significantly improved. This review provides an overview of the role of targeted therapy in the management of patients with colorectal cancer metastases as well as a discussion of issues in patient selection, with a focus on inhibitors of angiogenesis, EGFR-targeted therapy, BRAF mutation-targeted therapies, and other novel strategies, including immunotherapy.

Inflammation- and angiogenesis-related biomarkers are correlated with cancer-related fatigue in colorectal cancer patients: Results from the ColoCare Study

Cancer-related fatigue is one of the most common side effects of colorectal cancer treatment and is affected by biomedical factors. We investigated the association of inflammation- and angiogenesis-related biomarkers with cancer-related fatigue. Pre-surgery (baseline) serum samples were obtained from n = 236 newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients. Meso Scale Discovery assays were performed to measure levels of biomarkers for inflammation and angiogenesis (CRP, SAA, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, sICAM-1, sVCAM-1, TNFα, VEGFA and VEGFD). Cancer-related fatigue was assessed with the EORTC QLQ-30 questionnaire at baseline and 6 and 12 months post-surgery. We tested associations using Spearman's partial correlations and logistic regression analyses, adjusting for age, sex and body mass index. sICAM-1 and VEGFD showed a significant positive correlation with cancer-related fatigue at baseline and 6-, and 12-month follow-up (sICAM-1: r = 0.19, p = 0.010; r = 0.24, p = 0.004; r = 0.25, p = 0.006; VEGFD: r = 0.20, p = 0.006; r = 0.15, p = 0.06; r = 0.23, p = 0.01 respectively). Biomarkers of inflammation and angiogenesis measured prior to surgery are associated with cancer-related fatigue in colorectal cancer patients throughout various time points. Our results suggest the involvement of overexpressed sICAM-1 and VEGFD in the development of fatigue.

[Systemic safety following intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF]

The goal of this manuscript is to assess data suggesting that intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGFs) could result in systemic adverse events (AEs). The class-specific systemic AEs should be similar to those encountered in cancer trials. The most frequent AE observed in oncology, hypertension and proteinuria, should thus be the most common expected in ophthalmology, but their severity should be lower because of the much lower doses of anti-VEGFs administered intravitreally. Such AEs have not been frequently reported in ophthalmology trials. In addition, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data describing systemic diffusion of anti-VEGFs should be interpreted with caution because of significant inconsistencies reported. Thus, safety data reported in ophthalmology trials and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic data provide robust evidence that systemic events after intravitreal injection are very unlikely. Additional studies are needed to explore this issue further, as much remains to be understood about local and systemic side effects of anti-VEGFs.

Early small bowel perforation due to aflibercept

In patients with malignancy who receive aflibercept based chemotherapy, gastrointestinal perforation is among the reported adverse events with a prevalence of 1.9%. This complication may lead to mortality up to 10.8%. We here report a case of small bowel perforation that occurred fifteen days after the first cycle of aflibercept in a 58-year old female who had metachronous colorectal liver metastases. Emergency laparotomy was performed and revealed a small bowel perforation without any anastomotic dehiscence. Surgery was followed by uneventful outcome. The use of aflibercept in patients with malignancy may be associated with very early gastrointestinal perforation and this should be known by oncologist and surgeons.

Antiangiogenic tyrosine kinase inhibitors in colorectal cancer: is there a path to making them more effective?

Antiangiogenic therapy has a proven survival benefit in metastatic colorectal cancer. Inhibition of the VEGF pathway using a variety of extracellular antibody approaches has clear benefit in combination with chemotherapy, while intracellular blockade using tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as sorafenib and regorafenib has had more limited success. Pharmacodynamic modeling using modalities such as DCE-MRI indicates potent antiangiogenic effects of these TKIs, yet numerous combination therapies, primarily with chemotherapy, have failed to demonstrate an additive benefit. The sole comparative study of a single agent TKI against placebo showed a survival benefit of regorafenib in patients with advanced, refractory disease. Preclinical data demonstrate synergy between antiantiogenic TKIs and targeted interventions including autophagy inhibition, and together with a renewed effort to define markers of susceptibility, such combinations may be a way to improve the limited efficacy of this once-promising drug class.

A phase I and pharmacokinetic study of afilbercept with FOLFIRI: comparison of Chinese and Caucasian populations

Background This study assessed the preliminary safety, pharmacokinetics (PK) and anti-tumor effects of aflibercept in combination with 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) in Chinese patients with previously-treated advanced solid malignancies. Patients and Methods This open-label single-arm Phase I study conducted at two centers in China included adult (≥18 years) patients with metastatic or unresectable solid malignancies who had received ≥1 prior treatment. Patients received aflibercept 4 mg/kg IV on Day 1 followed by FOLFIRI over Days 1 and 2 every 2 weeks, and were assessed for safety, tumor response, PK parameters and immunogenicity. Post-hoc analyses included calculation of progression-free survival (PFS) for patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Results A total of 20 patients were enrolled. The most common Grade 3/4 adverse events included neutropenia (35%), hypertension (30%), stomatitis (20%) and proteinuria (20%), and no anti-aflibercept antibodies were detected. Six patients achieved a partial response, and in 15 patients with CRC median PFS was 5.95 months (95% CI: 5.29-8.77). Free aflibercept remained in excess of VEGF-bound aflibercept for the majority of the study treatment duration. The mean free aflibercept values for C_max (64.8 μg/mL) AUC (291 μg.day/mL), CL (0.92 L/day) and V_ss (5.9 L) were similar to those measured in Caucasian patients. The addition of aflibercept did not influence the PK of the chemotherapy agents. Conclusion For Chinese patients with pre-treated advanced solid malignancies, 4 mg/kg of aflibercept in combination with FOLFIRI was well-tolerated, demonstrated preliminary anti-tumor activity and had a PK profile consistent with that in Caucasian patients.

Factors associated with failure of oncology drugs in late-stage clinical development: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

We aimed to describe the reasons for failure of experimental anticancer drugs in late-stage clinical development.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We searched the PharmaProjects database (https://citeline.com/products/pharmaprojects/) for anticancer drugs discontinued between 01/01/2009 and 06/30/2014. Drug programs that reached phase III trials, but never gained Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval were compared to 37 anti-cancer drugs achieving FDA approval in this time period.

RESULTS

Forty-two drugs fit our criteria for development failures. These failed drugs (49% targeted, 23% cytotoxics, and 28% other) were tested in 43 cancer indications (drug programs). Only 16% (7/43) of failed drug programs adopted a biomarker-driven rationale for patient selection versus 57% (21/37) of successful drug programs (P<0.001). Phase II trial information was available in 32 of 43 failed drug programs and in 32 of 37 successful programs. Nine of the 32 trials (28%) of failed drugs versus 28 of 32 trials (87%) of successful drugs (P<0.001) achieved proof of concept (single agent response rate (RR) ⩾20% or combination therapy showing a ⩾20% RR increase above the median historical RR without the experimental agent (with a minimal absolute increase of 5%) or a randomized phase II trial showing significance (P⩽0.05) for its primary outcome). No pattern of study sites, trial design or funding characteristics emerged from the failed drug analysis.

CONCLUSION

For drugs that reached Phase III, lack of a biomarker-driven strategy and failure to attain proof of concept in phase II are potential risk factors for later discontinuation, especially for targeted agents.

Targeting angiogenesis in gastrointestinal tumors: current challenges

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the few cancers where screening modalities are standardized, but it still remains the third leading cause of cancer related mortality. For more than a decade now, the approval of anti-angiogenic therapy has led to an increase in the rate of overall survival (OS) of patients with advanced colon cancer. The drawback of the anti-angiogenic therapy is that their effect is short-lived and many patients progress through these therapies. Various mechanisms of resistance have been hypothesized, but overcoming this has been challenging. Also, there are no standardized predictive biomarkers that could aid in selecting patients who responds to the therapy upfront. This review focuses on the basis of angiogenesis, describing the approved anti-angiogenic therapies, discusses the challenges in terms of resistance to anti-angiogenic therapy and also the role of biomarkers. In the future, hopefully newer targeted therapies, immunotherapy, combination therapies and the standardization of biomarkers may result in improved outcomes and cure rates.

Aflibercept: A Review in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Aflibercept is a recombinant fusion protein that acts as a soluble decoy receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a key regulator of angiogenesis. It binds to all isoforms of VEGF-A as well as VEGF-B and placental growth factor, and, thus, prevents them from binding to and activating their cognate receptors. In the USA and EU, intravenously administered aflibercept in combination with an infusion of leucovorin, fluorouracil and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) is approved for the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer that is resistant to or has progressed after treatment with an oxaliplatin-containing regimen. The efficacy of aflibercept in this indication was assessed in a multinational, pivotal phase 3 trial (VELOUR), in which the approved regimen of aflibercept 4 mg/kg every 2 weeks plus FOLFIRI significantly prolonged median overall survival by 1.44 months compared with FOLFIRI alone (primary endpoint). The addition of aflibercept also significantly prolonged progression-free survival and significantly increased the objective response rate compared with FOLFIRI alone. Addition of aflibercept to FOLFIRI was associated with anti-VEGF-related adverse events and an increased incidence of FOLFIRI-related adverse events, but the tolerability of the combination was generally acceptable in this pre-treated population. The most common grade 3 or 4 adverse events with aflibercept plus FOLFIRI included neutropenia, diarrhoea and hypertension. In conclusion, aflibercept plus FOLFIRI is a useful treatment option for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer previously treated with an oxaliplatin-containing regimen, with or without bevacizumab.

Second-line angiogenesis inhibition in metastatic colorectal cancer patients: Straightforward or overcrowded?

Although the number of therapeutic options targeting tumour angiogenesis is becoming increasingly relevant, the question of the optimal choice for second-line anti-angiogenic inhibition in combination with chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer patients remains largely unanswered. In fact the lack of head to head comparison between consolidated options such as bevacizumab and new treatment alternatives such as aflibercept and ramucirumab makes the selection in the clinical practice challenging, particularly when the patient has already received an anti-angiogenic-based combination up-front. In the following pages we described the biological scenario validating second-line angiogenesis inhibition in colorectal cancer along with potential mechanism of resistance. We also critically described the available evidence recommending the use of the bevacizumab, aflibercept and ramucirumab in this setting with the final aim to guide the choice in the clinical practice.

Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic evaluation of aflibercept for the treatment of colorectal cancer

INTRODUCTION

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is currently one of the most lethal and prevalent tumors worldwide. Prognosis in the metastatic setting remains poor despite therapeutic advances. In addition to chemotherapy, new drugs have recently been developed targeting signaling pathways involved in tumor growth, differentiation and angiogenesis. Aflibercept , a recombinant protein derived from VEGF receptors 1 and 2, also targets this angiogenesis pathway but via a different mechanism, acting as VEGF decoy, thus blocking other VEGFs.

AREAS COVERED

A comprehensive review of preclinical studies with aflibercept in cell lines and xenografts of different tumor types is presented. Aflibercept safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics data from Phase I studies in solid tumor patients are discussed. Implications of Phase II studies and the pivotal Phase III VELOUR trial of second-line treatment in metastatic CRC (mCRC) patients evaluating aflibercept alone or combined with chemotherapy are also described.

EXPERT OPINION

In this challenging field, aflibercept offers a good option for oxaliplatin-refractory mCRC patients when combined with irinotecan and 5-fluorouracil irrespective of prior anti-angiogenic treatment. Therapeutic management may be further advanced by characterization of patients with predictive biomarkers and molecular profiles to improve benefit with this treatment.

Update on Anti-Angiogenesis Therapy in Colorectal Cancer

Angiogenesis is a complex biologic process critical to growth and proliferation of colorectal cancer. The safety and efficacy of various anti-angiogenic agents have been investigated in many treatment settings. Bevacizumab, an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agent, has efficacy in both the first-line setting and beyond progression in metastatic colorectal cancer. The decoy vascular endothelial growth factor receptor aflibercept has been approved in combination with 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin and irinotecan-based chemotherapy in metastatic colorectal cancer patients whose disease has progressed on a prior oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy regimen. The multikinase inhibitor regorafenib is modestly effective in the refractory colorectal cancer setting but confers significant toxicity. Ramucirumab, an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 molecule, has efficacy in combination with 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin and irinotecan after disease progression on a first-line bevacizumab-, oxaliplatin- and fluoropyrimidine-containing regimen. Questions regarding optimal treatment setting, predictive biomarkers of response, and cost effectiveness of these anti-angiogenic agents and others are as yet unanswered.

Anti-angiogenic agents in metastatic colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health concern being the third leading cause of cancer mortality in the United States. The availability of better therapeutic options has led to a decline in cancer mortality in these patients. Surgical resection should be considered in all stages of the disease. The use of conversion therapy has made surgery a potentially curative option even in patients with initially unresectable metastatic disease. In this review we discuss the role of various anti-angiogenic agents in patients with metastatic CRC (mCRC). We describe the mechanism of action of these agents, and the rationale for their use in combination with chemotherapy. We also review important clinical studies that have evaluated the safety and efficacy of these agents in mCRC patients. Despite the discovery of several promising anti-angiogenic agents, mCRC remains an incurable disease with a median overall survival of just over 2 years in patients exposed to all available treatment regimens. Further insights into tumor biology and tumor microenvironment may help improve outcomes in these patients.

Aflibercept a new target therapy in cancer treatment: a review

Angiogenesis is the process through which new blood vessels are formed from pre-existing vessels and is essential for the growth of all solid tumors. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a regulator of angiogenesis, which is crucial for tumor growth and metastasis. Its inhibition with antiangiogenic drugs is thought to improve delivery of chemotherapy through vascular normalization and disruption of tumor vasculature. Aflibercept is a recombinant fusion protein of the VEGF receptor (VEGFR)1 and VEGFR2 extracellular domains that binds to VEGF-A, VEGF-B, placental growth factor (PlGF) 1 and 2. Aflibercept has demonstrated preclinical efficacy in different tumor types and exerts its antiangiogenic effects through regression of tumor vasculature, remolding of vasculature, and inhibition of new tumor vessel growth. This review examines the effects of aflibercept on tumor vasculature and on different types of solid tumors, and explores the preclinical and clinical benefits of inclusion aflibercept into anticancer treatment strategies.

Beyond peptides and mAbs--current status and future perspectives for biotherapeutics with novel constructs

Biotherapeutics are attractive anti-cancer agents due to their high specificity and limited toxicity compared to conventional small molecules. Antibodies are widely used in cancer therapy, either directly or conjugated to a cytotoxic payload. Peptide therapies, though not as prevalent, have been utilized in hormonal therapy and imaging. The limitations associated with unmodified forms of both types of biotherapeutics have led to the design and development of novel structures, which incorporate key features and structures that have improved the molecules' abilities to bind to tumor targets, avoid degradation, and exhibit favorable pharmacokinetics. In this review, we highlight the current status of monoclonal antibodies and peptides, and provide a perspective on the future of biotherapeutics using novel constructs.

Risk of hypertension in cancer patients treated with aflibercept: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Aflibercept is currently approved as second-line treatment for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, and its application in other types of tumors is undergoing clinical evaluation. Hypertension is one of its major adverse effects with a substantial variation in the reported incidences and has not been systematically investigated.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases from January 2000 to August 2013 and abstracts presented at annual meetings from 2004 to 2013 to identify relevant studies. Eligible studies were phase II and III prospective clinical trials of aflibercept in patients with any type of cancer describing events of hypertension. Summary incidence rates, odds ratios (OR), and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated employing fixed- or random-effects models depending on the heterogeneity of the included trials.

RESULTS

A total of 15 trials with 4,451 patients were included for the meta-analysis. The summary incidences of all-grade and high-grade hypertension were 42.4 % (95 % CI 35.0-50.3) and 17.4 % (95 % CI 13.7-21.9), respectively. The use of aflibercept in cancer patients was associated with a significantly increased risk of all-grade (OR 4.47, 95 % CI 3.84-5.22, p < 0.001) and high-grade (OR 4.97, 95 % CI 3.95-6.27, p < 0.001) hypertension. The risk of developing hypertension with aflibercept was significantly higher than that of bevacizumab (all-grade: OR 1.93, 95 % CI 1.61-2.32, p < 0.001; high-grade: OR 2.06, 95 % CI 1.79-2.37, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of aflibercept is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing all-grade and high-grade hypertension compared with control. Close monitoring and adequate managements are highly recommended to decrease cardiovascular complication.

Incidence and management of ZIv-aflibercept related toxicities in colorectal cancer

Ziv-afilbercept (Zaltrap, Ziv) is a humanized fusion protein constructed by joining the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) binding portions of human VEGF receptors 1 and 2 to the Fc portion of human immunoglobulin IgG1. Recently, a randomized, open-label, phase III study compared 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, irinotecan (FOLFIRI)/Ziv with FOLFIRI/placebo in patients who had been previously treated with oxaliplatin based chemotherapy for metastatic colon cancer (mCRC). Patients who had received prior bevacizumab therapy were also eligible. This study showed that the addition of Ziv improved overall survival with median survival time of 13.5 mo vs 12.06 mo in ziv vs placebo arm. Ziv also improved progression free survival from 4.67 mo to 6.9 mo with a response rate of 19.8% in the Ziv/FOLFIRI group vs 11.1% in FOLFIRI alone group. This led to the approval of Ziv in combination with FOLFIRI in metastatic colon cancer patients treated with prior oxaliplatin regimens. The most common side effects were diarrhea, stomatitis, fatigue, hypertension, weight loss, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and headache. As the use of Ziv has become more widespread in oncology practices, familiarity with the toxicity profile of the drug and the use of practice guidelines for their treatment has become increasing important. This review will address the toxicities noted in trials using Ziv for the treatment of mCRC, and will provide recommendations for toxicity management.

Incidence and risk of proteinuria with aflibercept in cancer patients: a meta-analysis

Background

Aflibercept is a human recombinant fusion protein with antiangiogenic effects that functions as a decoy receptor to bind vascular endothelial growth factor A. Proteinuria is one of its major adverse effects with a substantial variation in the incidence rate, and the overall risk of proteinuria has not been systematically studied. We performed a meta-analysis of published clinical trials to quantify the incidence and relative risk of proteinuria in cancer patients treated with aflibercept.

Methods

The electronic databases were searched, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane databases, and ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) abstracts. Eligible studies were phase II and III prospective clinical trials of cancer patients treated with aflibercept with toxicity data on proteinuria. Overall incidence rates, relative risk (RR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using fixed or random effects models depending on the heterogeneity of the included studies.

Results

A total of 4,596 patients with a variety of solid tumors from 16 prospective clinical trials were included for the meta-analysis. The overall incidences of all-grade and high-grade proteinuria in cancer patients were 33.9% (95% CI: 27.3–42.1%) and 7.9% (95% CI: 6.1–10.2%). The relative risks of proteinuria of aflibercept compared to control were increased for all-grade (RR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.13–1.77) and high-grade (RR = 6.18, 95% CI: 3.78–10.12) proteinuria. The risk of developing all-grade and high-grade proteinuria with aflibercept was substantially higher than that of bevacizumab (all-grade: RR 1.85, 95% CI: 1.63–2.11; high-grade: RR 2.37, 95% CI: 1.84–3.05).

Conclusions

Aflibercept is associated with an increased risk of developing proteinuria. Appropriate monitoring and treatment is strongly recommended to prevent potential renal damage. Future studies are still needed to investigate the risk reduction and possible use of aflibercept in cancer patients.

Aflibercept--a decoy VEGF receptor

Aflibercept (known as ziv-aflibercept in the USA and sold under the trade name Zaltrap®) is a human recombinant fusion protein with antiangiogenic effects that functions as a decoy receptor to bind vascular endothelial growth factors A and B and placental growth factor. Its unique mechanism of action with respect to other agents targeting angiogenesis led investigators to speculate that it may be more ubiquitously efficacious in tumors highly dependent on pathologic angiogenesis for their growth. Despite encouraging preclinical studies in various tumor types, aflibercept has not been proven efficacious in most later-phase clinical studies. In fact, its only currently held US Food and Drug Administration indication is in metastatic colorectal cancer in combination with 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan for those patients previously treated with an oxaliplatin-containing chemotherapy regimen. Given aflibercept's toxicity profile and cost, further investigation is needed to better understand its mechanism of action and to discover predictive biomarkers for optimization of its appropriate use in treatment of cancer patients.

Risk of gastrointestinal perforation in cancer patients treated with aflibercept: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Gastrointestinal (GI) perforation is a serious adverse event associated with aflibercept, a novel vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-targeted agent currently approved as second-line treatment for previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer, but the incidence and risk of GI perforation associated with aflibercept has not been well determined. We thus conducted this meta-analysis to investigate the overall incidence and risk of developing GI perforation associated with aflibercept. Databases from PubMed, Web of Science, and abstracts presented at American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) meeting up to January, 2014 were searched to identify relevant studies. Eligible studies included prospective phase II and III trials evaluating aflibercept in cancer patients with adequate data on GI perforation. Statistical analyses were conducted to calculate the summary incidence, odds ratio, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by using either random effects or fixed effect models according to the heterogeneity of included studies. A total of 4,101 patients with a variety of solid tumors from eight clinical trials were included in our analysis. The incidence of GI perforation associated with aflibercept was 1.9% (95%CI, 1.0-3.8%), with a mortality of 10.8% (95%CI, 4.1-25.5%). In addition, patients treated with aflibercept had a significantly increased risk of developing all-grade (OR 3.76; 95%CI, 1.94-7.25; p < 0.001) and high-grade GI (OR 4.14; 95%CI; 2.12-8.06; p < 0.001) perforation compared with patients treated with control medication. No evidence of publication bias was observed. The use of aflibercept is associated with a significantly increased risk of GI perforation compared to controls.

A systematic review of salvage therapy to patients with metastatic colorectal cancer previously treated with fluorouracil, oxaliplatin and irinotecan +/- targeted therapy

Oxaliplatin, irinotecan and 5-fluorouracil in combination with or without targeted therapies are well-documented treatment options for first- and second-line treatments of metastatic colorectal cancer. However, there are much less data on the beneficial effect on systemic therapy in the third-line setting. We therefore performed a systematic review of the current literature on third or later lines of treatment to patients with metastatic colorectal cancer after the use of approved drugs or combinations.

METHODS

A computer-based literature search was carried out using Pubmed and data reported at international meetings. Original studies reporting ≥15 patients who had previously received 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin and irinotecan were included. Furthermore, patients with KRAS wild type tumours should had received EGFR-directed therapy.

RESULTS

Conventional chemotherapeutic agents as capecitabine, mitomycin C, and gemcitabine have limited or no activity. Retreatment with oxaliplatin might be an option in selected patients. In addition, rechallenge with EGFR-directed therapy might be a valuable strategy. Data also suggest that angiogenetic drugs may postpone further progression and prolong survival. Lately, regorafinib has been approved. In conclusion, our current knowledge is based on many retrospective studies, some phase II studies and very few randomized clinical trials. Further prospective phase III trials comparing an investigational drug or combination with best supportive care in third- or later lines of treatment in metastatic colorectal cancer are highly warranted. Identification of predictive biomarkers and improvement of our understanding of molecular mechanisms is crucial.

Genetic markers of bevacizumab-induced hypertension

PURPOSE

There are currently no validated biomarkers predicting bevacizumab treatment outcome or toxicity. We combined biomarker data from six phase III trials of bevacizumab to assess whether genetic variation in vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) pathway or hypertension-related genes are associated with bevacizumab-induced hypertension.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Germline DNA was available from 1,631 patients receiving bevacizumab-containing therapy for advanced solid tumors. Overall, 194 white patients had grade 1-4 bevacizumab-induced hypertension. In total, 236 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in VEGF-A, VEGF-A receptors (FLT1 and KDR), and other genes were selected using a SNP tagging approach and genotyped. A logistic regression on individual patient data was performed after adjustment for cancer type and five other covariates.

RESULTS

Ten SNPs were associated with bevacizumab-induced hypertension (P ≤ 0.05), but none surpassed the threshold adjusted for multiple testing (P < 0.0002). The most significant VEGF-A pathway SNP was rs1680695 in EGLN3 [allelic odds ratio (OR) 1.50 [95 % confidence interval (Cl) 1.09-2.07], P = 0.012]. Two additional SNPs, rs4444903 in EGF and rs2305949 in KDR, were associated with hypertension (allelic OR 1.57 [95 % CI 1.17-2.11], P = 0.0025; allelic OR 0.62 [95 % CI 0.42-0.93], P = 0.020, respectively) and closely linked to nearby functional variants. Consistent with previous reports, rs11064560 in WNK1 was also associated with bevacizumab-induced hypertension (OR 1.41 [95 % CI 1.04-1.92], P = 0.028).

CONCLUSIONS

The genes described in this large genetic analysis using pooled datasets warrant further functional investigation regarding their role in mediating bevacizumab-induced hypertension.

Treatment-related mortality with aflibercept in cancer patients: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Aflibercept, a fully humanized vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-targeted agent, has emerged as an effective therapy in the treatment of various solid tumors. We carried out an up-to-date meta-analysis to determine the risk of fatal adverse events (FAEs) in cancer patients treated with aflibercept.

METHODS

We searched databases such as PubMed and Web of Science, and abstracts presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) meetings for records up to August 2013 to identify relevant studies. Eligible studies included prospective phase II and III trials evaluating aflibercept in cancer patients with adequate data on FAEs. Statistical analyses were conducted to calculate the summary incidence, odds ratio (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) by using either random effects or fixed-effect models according to the heterogeneity of included studies.

RESULTS

A total of 3,060 patients with a variety of solid tumors from ten clinical trials were included in our analysis. The overall incidence of FAEs associated with aflibercept was 5.1 % (95%CI: 3.8-6.8 %). The use of aflibercept significantly increased the risk of FAEs compared to patients treated with control medication (OR 1.81, 95 % CI: 1.20-2.72, p = 0.004). Additionally, the most common causes of FAEs were infection (38.8 %), hemorrhage (5.9 %) and GI perforation (5.9 %), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

With available evidence, the use of aflibercept is associated with an increased risk of FAEs compared to controls. Further studies are still needed to investigate this association. In the appropriate clinical scenario, the use of aflibercept remains justified in its approved indications.

Targeting angiogenesis and tumor microenvironment in metastatic colorectal cancer: role of aflibercept

In the last decades, we have progressively observed an improvement in therapeutic options for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) treatment with a progressive prolongation of survival. mCRC prognosis still remains poor with low percentage of 5-year survival. Targeted agents have improved results obtained with standard chemotherapy. Angiogenesis plays a crucial role in colorectal cancer growth, proliferation, and metastasization and it has been investigated as a potential target for mCRC treatment. Accordingly, novel antiangiogenic targeted agents bevacizumab, regorafenib, and aflibercept have been approved for mCRC treatment as the result of several phase III randomized trials. The development of a tumor permissive microenvironment via the aberrant expression by tumor cells of paracrine factors alters the tumor-stroma interactions inducing an expansion of proangiogenic signals. Recently, the VELOUR study showed that addition of aflibercept to FOLFIRI regimen as a second-line therapy for mCRC improved significantly OS, PFS, and RR. This molecule represents a valid second-line therapeutic option and its peculiar ability to interfere with placental growth factor (PlGF)/vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1) axis makes it effective in targeting angiogenesis, inflammatory cells and in overcoming resistances to anti-angiogenic first-line treatment. Here, we discuss about Aflibercept peculiar ability to interfere with tumor microenvironment and angiogenic pathway.

Ziv-aflibercept in metastatic colorectal cancer

The combination of cytotoxic chemotherapy and antiangiogenic agents has become a conventional treatment option for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Ziv-aflibercept is a fusion protein which acts as a decoy receptor for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PlGF); it was approved in combination with 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) for the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer that is resistant to or has progressed after an oxaliplatin-containing fluoropyrimidine-based regimen. Herein we review the role of tumor angiogenesis as the rationale for antiangiogenic therapy, the clinical data associated with ziv-aflibercept, and its current role as a treatment option compared to other antiangiogenic agents, such as bevacizumab and regorafenib.

Ziv-aflibercept: A novel angiogenesis inhibitor for the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer

Purpose

The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, safety, and administration of ziv-aflibercept in combination therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) are reviewed.

Summary

Ziv-aflibercept (Zaltrap, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and sanofi-aventis) is a novel recombinant fusion protein that targets the angiogenesis signaling pathway of tumor cells by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors that play a key role in tumor growth and metastasis; it is a more potent VEGF blocker than bevacizumab. Ziv-aflibercept is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in combination with fluorouracil, irinotecan, and leucovorin (the FOLFIRI regimen) for second-line treatment of patients with mCRC who have disease progression during first-line oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy. A Phase III trial demonstrated that relative to FOLFIRI therapy alone, the use of ziv-aflibercept was associated with significantly improved patient response, overall survival, and progression-free survival in patients with good performance status at baseline, including some who had received prior bevacizumab therapy. The most common grade 3 or 4 adverse effects associated with ziv-aflibercept use in clinical studies were neutropenia, hypertension, and diarrhea; the U.S. product labeling warns of potential hemorrhage and other treatment-related risks.

Conclusion

Current clinical data are insufficient to directly compare ziv-aflibercept and bevacizumab when used with standard combination chemotherapy as first- or second-line regimens for mCRC. The role of ziv-aflibercept is currently limited to the second-line setting in combination with irinotecan-based regimens in mCRC patients who have not received irinotecan previously. The role of ziv-aflibercept in chemotherapy for other tumor types is yet to be determined.

Aflibercept in the treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer: latest findings and interpretations

Inhibition of angiogenesis is an established adjunct in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. Bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody that binds to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A, improves clinical outcomes when added to standard chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer. Unfortunately, the development of resistance is inevitable, and novel therapeutic strategies are needed. Aflibercept is an intravenously administered fusion protein of the human vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (VEGFR1) and VEGFR2 extracellular domains. This antiangiogenic agent binds to VEGF A, VEGF B, and placental growth factor 1 (PlGF1) and PlGF2 with high affinity and inhibits downstream signaling. Common side effects of single agent aflibercept are similar to other antiangiogenic drugs and include hypertension, proteinuria, fatigue, and headache. Recent clinical data regarding the efficacy of aflibercept with standard chemotherapy for metastatic colorectal cancer, associated adverse events, and future areas of research are reviewed.