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Murdock HM, Ho VT, Garcia JS. Innovations in conditioning and post-transplant maintenance in AML: genomically informed revelations on the graft-versus-leukemia effect. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1359113. [PMID: 38571944 PMCID: PMC10987864 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1359113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is the prototype of cancer genomics as it was the first published cancer genome. Large-scale next generation/massively parallel sequencing efforts have identified recurrent alterations that inform prognosis and have guided the development of targeted therapies. Despite changes in the frontline and relapsed standard of care stemming from the success of small molecules targeting FLT3, IDH1/2, and apoptotic pathways, allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) and the resulting graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect remains the only curative path for most patients. Advances in conditioning regimens, graft-vs-host disease prophylaxis, anti-infective agents, and supportive care have made this modality feasible, reducing transplant related mortality even among patients with advanced age or medical comorbidities. As such, relapse has emerged now as the most common cause of transplant failure. Relapse may occur after alloHSCT because residual disease clones persist after transplant, and develop immune escape from GVL, or such clones may proliferate rapidly early after alloHSCT, and outpace donor immune reconstitution, leading to relapse before any GVL effect could set in. To address this issue, genomically informed therapies are increasingly being incorporated into pre-transplant conditioning, or as post-transplant maintenance or pre-emptive therapy in the setting of mixed/falling donor chimerism or persistent detectable measurable residual disease (MRD). There is an urgent need to better understand how these emerging therapies modulate the two sides of the GVHD vs. GVL coin: 1) how molecularly or immunologically targeted therapies affect engraftment, GVHD potential, and function of the donor graft and 2) how these therapies affect the immunogenicity and sensitivity of leukemic clones to the GVL effect. By maximizing the synergistic action of molecularly targeted agents, immunomodulating agents, conventional chemotherapy, and the GVL effect, there is hope for improving outcomes for patients with this often-devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. Moses Murdock
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Vincent T. Ho
- Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jacqueline S. Garcia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, United States
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2
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Pasvolsky O, Saliba RM, Popat UR, Alousi A, Mehta R, Yeh J, Al-Atrash G, Adeel M, Ramdial J, Marin D, Rondon G, Kebriaei P, Champlin R, Daver N, Dinardo C, Short NJ, Shpall EJ, Oran B. Azacitidine Post-transplant Maintenance Improves Disease Progression in High-Risk Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Clin Lymphoma Myeloma Leuk 2024:S2152-2650(24)00056-9. [PMID: 38403505 DOI: 10.1016/j.clml.2024.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maintenance after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) with hypomethylating agents has yielded conflicting results. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a single center retrospective matched-control analysis with the study group (5-azacitidine [AZA] group) including adults with FLT3-negative acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) who received post-transplant AZA maintenance off clinical trial (n = 93). A matched control group was comprised of contemporaneous AML/MDS patients who did not receive any maintenance (n = 357). Primary endpoint was disease progression. RESULTS The AZA and control groups had comparable patient and disease characteristics except for older age (median: 61 vs. 57 years, P = .01) and lower hematopoietic comorbidity index (median: 2 vs. 3, P = .04) in the AZA group. The 3-year cumulative incidence of progression in the AZA and control groups was 29% vs. 33% (P = .09). The protective effect of AZA on progression was limited to patients with high-risk AML/MDS (HR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.2-0.8, P = .009). This led to improved progression-free survival both in high-risk AML and MDS patients with maintenance (HR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.1-0.6, P = .004 and HR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.2-0.9, P = .04). CONCLUSION AZA maintenance was associated with a lower progression rate in patients with high-risk FLT3-negative AML or MDS, and AZA maintenance should be considered for post-alloHCT maintenance in this subset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oren Pasvolsky
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Rima M Saliba
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Uday R Popat
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Amin Alousi
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Rohtesh Mehta
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Jason Yeh
- Division of Pharmacy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Gheath Al-Atrash
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Masood Adeel
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Jeremy Ramdial
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - David Marin
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Gabriela Rondon
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Partow Kebriaei
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Richard Champlin
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Naval Daver
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Courtney Dinardo
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Nicholas J Short
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Elizabeth J Shpall
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Betül Oran
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX.
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3
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Schroeder T, Stelljes M, Christopeit M, Esseling E, Scheid C, Mikesch JH, Rautenberg C, Jäger P, Cadeddu RP, Drusenheimer N, Holtick U, Klein S, Trenschel R, Haas R, Germing U, Kröger N, Kobbe G. Azacitidine, lenalidomide and donor lymphocyte infusions for relapse of myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia after allogeneic transplant: the Azalena-Trial. Haematologica 2023; 108:3001-3010. [PMID: 37259567 PMCID: PMC10620594 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2022.282570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Azacitidine (Aza) combined with donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI) is an established treatment for relapse of myeloid malignancies after allogeneic transplantation. Based on its immunomodulatory and anti-leukemic properties we considered Lenalidomide (Lena) to act synergistically with Aza/DLI to improve outcome. We, therefore, prospectively investigated tolerability and efficacy of this combination as first salvage therapy for adults with post-transplant relapse of acute myeloid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. Patients were scheduled for eight cycles Aza (75 mg/m2 day 1-7), Lena (2.5 or 5 mg, days 1-21) and up to three DLI with increasing T-cell dosages (0.5×106-1.5×107 cells/kg). Primary endpoint was safety, while secondary endpoints included response, graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and overall survival (OS). Fifty patients with molecular (52%) or hematological (48%) relapse of myelodysplastic syndromes (n=24), acute myeloid leukemia (n=23) or chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (n=3) received a median of seven (range, 1-8) cycles including 14 patients with 2.5 mg and 36 with 5 mg Lena daily dosage. Concomitantly, 34 patients (68%) received at least one DLI. Overall response rate was 56% and 25 patients (50%) achieved complete remission being durable in 80%. Median OS was 21 months and 1-year OS rate 65% with no impact of type of or time to relapse and Lena dosages. Treatment was well tolerated indicated by febrile neutropenia being the only grade ≥3 non-hematologic adverse event in >10% of patients and modest acute (grade 2-4 24%) and chronic (moderate/severe 28%) GvHD incidences. In summary, Lena can be safely added to Aza/DLI without excess of GvHD and toxicity. Its significant anti-leukemic activity suggests that this combination is a novel salvage option for post-transplant relapse (clinicaltrials gov. Identifier: NCT02472691).
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schroeder
- Department of Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, West German Cancer Center Essen, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany; Department of Hematology, Oncology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine - University, Duesseldorf.
| | - Matthias Stelljes
- Department of Medicine A, Hematology and Oncology, University of Muenster, Muenster
| | | | - Eva Esseling
- Department of Medicine A, Hematology and Oncology, University of Muenster, Muenster
| | - Christoph Scheid
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne
| | - Jan-Henrik Mikesch
- Department of Medicine A, Hematology and Oncology, University of Muenster, Muenster
| | - Christina Rautenberg
- Department of Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, West German Cancer Center Essen, University Hospital Essen, Essen
| | - Paul Jäger
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine - University, Duesseldorf
| | - Ron-Patrick Cadeddu
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine - University, Duesseldorf
| | - Nadja Drusenheimer
- Coordination Center for Clinical Trials, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine - University, Duesseldorf
| | - Udo Holtick
- Department I of Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne
| | - Stefan Klein
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Mannheim, Mannheim
| | - Rudolf Trenschel
- Department of Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation, West German Cancer Center Essen, University Hospital Essen, Essen
| | - Rainer Haas
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine - University, Duesseldorf
| | - Ulrich Germing
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine - University, Duesseldorf
| | - Nicolaus Kröger
- University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Clinic for Stem Cell Transplantation, Hamburg
| | - Guido Kobbe
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Clinical Immunology, University Hospital Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine - University, Duesseldorf
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4
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Liberatore C, Di Ianni M. Novel Approaches to Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Relapse Post Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15019. [PMID: 37834466 PMCID: PMC10573608 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241915019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The management of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) relapsed post allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) remains a clinical challenge. Intensive treatment approaches are limited by severe toxicities in the early post-transplantation period. Therefore, hypomethylating agents (HMAs) have become the standard therapeutic approach due to favorable tolerability. Moreover, HMAs serve as a backbone for additional anti-leukemic agents. Despite discordant results, the addition of donor lymphocytes infusions (DLI) generally granted improved outcomes with manageable GvHD incidence. The recent introduction of novel targeted drugs in AML gives the opportunity to add a third element to salvage regimens. Those patients harboring targetable mutations might benefit from IDH1/2 inhibitors Ivosidenib and Enasidenib as well as FLT3 inhibitors Sorafenib and Gilteritinib in combination with HMA and DLI. Conversely, patients lacking targetable mutations actually benefit from the addition of Venetoclax. A second HSCT remains a valid option, especially for fit patients and for those who achieve a complete disease response with salvage regimens. Overall, across studies, higher response rates and longer survival were observed in cases of pre-emptive intervention for molecular relapse. Future perspectives currently rely on the development of adoptive immunotherapeutic strategies mainly represented by CAR-T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmine Liberatore
- Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology and Hematology, Santo Spirito Hospital, 65124 Pescara, Italy;
| | - Mauro Di Ianni
- Hematology Unit, Department of Oncology and Hematology, Santo Spirito Hospital, 65124 Pescara, Italy;
- Department of Medicine and Sciences of Aging, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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5
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Feng Y, Chen T, Zhang Y, Yao H, Wang P, Wang L, Cassady K, Zou Z, Liu Y, Zhao L, Gao L, Zhang X, Kong P. Azacitidine and lenalidomide combination: a novel relapse prophylaxis regimen after allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation in patients with acute myeloid leukemia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1182251. [PMID: 37435080 PMCID: PMC10332158 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1182251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction While allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) can be a curative regimen for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), relapse of AML remains a serious risk post-transplantation. Once relapsed, salvage options are limited and management of AML is difficult. Here we designed a prospective study to examine the efficacy and tolerability of maintenance therapy with azacytidine (AZA) plus low-dose lenalidomide (LEN) to prevent relapse after allo-HSCT for AML patients (ChiCTR2200061803). Methods AML patients post-allo-HSCT were treated with AZA (75 mg/m2 for 7 days), followed by LEN (5 mg/m2, day 10-28), and a 4-week resting interval, which was defined as one treatment cycle. A total of 8 cycles was recommended. Results 37 patients were enrolled, 25 patients received at least 5 cycles, and 16 patients finished all 8 cycles. With a median follow-up time of 608 (43-1440) days, the estimated 1-year disease free survival (DFS) was 82%, cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR) was 18%, and overall survival (OS) was 100%. Three patients (8%) had grade 1-2 neutropenia without fever; one patient developed grade 3-4 thrombocytopenia and minor subdural hematoma; 4/37 patients (11%) developed chronic GVHD with a score of 1-2, without requiring systemic treatment; No patient developed acute GVHD. After AZA/LEN prophylaxis, increasing numbers of CD56+NK and CD8+ T, and decreasing of CD19+ B cells were observed. Discussion Azacitidine combined with low-dose lenalidomide was observed to be an effective relapse prophylaxis option after allo-HSCT in AML patients, and can be administered safely without significantly increasing the risk of GVHD, infection and other AEs. Clinical Trial Registration www.chictr.org, identifier ChiCTR2200061803.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimei Feng
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Han Yao
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | | | - Zhongmin Zou
- Department of Chemical Defense, School of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuqing Liu
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Zhao
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Peiyan Kong
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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6
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Stavrou V, Fultang L, Booth S, De Simone D, Bartnik A, Scarpa U, Gneo L, Panetti S, Potluri S, Almowaled M, Barlow J, Jankevics A, Lloyd G, Southam A, Priestman DA, Cheng P, Dunn W, Platt F, Endou H, Craddock C, Keeshan K, Mussai F, De Santo C. Invariant NKT cells metabolically adapt to the acute myeloid leukaemia environment. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:543-560. [PMID: 35962843 PMCID: PMC9947083 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03268-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) creates an immunosuppressive environment to conventional T cells through Arginase 2 (ARG2)-induced arginine depletion. We identify that AML blasts release the acute phase protein serum amyloid A (SAA), which acts in an autocrine manner to upregulate ARG2 expression and activity, and promote AML blast viability. Following in vitro cross-talk invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells become activated, upregulate mitochondrial capacity, and release IFN-γ. iNKT retain their ability to proliferate and be activated despite the low arginine AML environment, due to the upregulation of Large Neutral Amino Acid Transporter-1 (LAT-1) and Argininosuccinate Synthetase 1 (ASS)-dependent amino acid pathways, resulting in AML cell death. T cell proliferation is restored in vitro and in vivo. The capacity of iNKT cells to restore antigen-specific T cell immunity was similarly demonstrated against myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in wild-type and Jα18-/- syngeneic lymphoma-bearing models in vivo. Thus, stimulation of iNKT cell activity has the potential as an immunotherapy against AML or as an adjunct to boost antigen-specific T cell immunotherapies in haematological or solid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Stavrou
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Livingstone Fultang
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sarah Booth
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Daniele De Simone
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Arekdiusz Bartnik
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ugo Scarpa
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Luciana Gneo
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Silvia Panetti
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sandeep Potluri
- Institute of Cancer and Genomics, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Meaad Almowaled
- Paul O'Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
| | - Jonathan Barlow
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andris Jankevics
- School of Biosciences and Phenome Centre Birmingham, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Gavin Lloyd
- School of Biosciences and Phenome Centre Birmingham, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andrew Southam
- School of Biosciences and Phenome Centre Birmingham, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - David A Priestman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QT, UK
| | - Paul Cheng
- Bio-Cancer Treatment International, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Warwick Dunn
- Institute of Cancer and Genomics, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.,Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Frances Platt
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QT, UK
| | - Hitoshi Endou
- J-Pharma Co. Ltd, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0046, Japan
| | - Charles Craddock
- Institute of Cancer and Genomics, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Karen Keeshan
- Paul O'Gorman Leukaemia Research Centre, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 0YN, UK
| | - Francis Mussai
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Carmela De Santo
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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7
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Mongiorgi S, De Stefano A, Ratti S, Indio V, Astolfi A, Casalin I, Pellagatti A, Paolini S, Parisi S, Cavo M, Pession A, McCubrey JA, Suh PG, Manzoli L, Boultwood J, Finelli C, Cocco L, Follo MY. A miRNA screening identifies miR-192-5p as associated with response to azacitidine and lenalidomide therapy in myelodysplastic syndromes. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:27. [PMID: 36803590 PMCID: PMC9940408 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01441-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND miRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and are linked to cancer development and progression. miRNA profiles are currently studied as new prognostic factors or therapeutic perspectives. Among hematological cancers, myelodysplastic syndromes at higher risk of evolution into acute myeloid leukemia are treated with hypomethylating agents, like azacitidine, alone or in combination with other drugs, such as lenalidomide. Recent data showed that, during azacitidine and lenalidomide therapy, the concurrent acquisition of specific point mutations affecting inositide signalling pathways is associated with lack or loss of response to therapy. As these molecules are implicated in epigenetic processes, possibly involving miRNA regulation, and in leukemic progression, through the regulation of proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis, here we performed a new miRNA expression analysis of 26 high-risk patients with myelodysplastic syndromes treated with azacitidine and lenalidomide at baseline and during therapy. miRNA array data were processed, and bioinformatic results were correlated with clinical outcome to investigate the translational relevance of selected miRNAs, while the relationship between selected miRNAs and specific molecules was experimentally tested and proven. RESULTS Patients' overall response rate was 76.9% (20/26 cases): complete remission (5/26, 19.2%), partial remission (1/26, 3.8%), marrow complete remission (2/26, 7.7%), hematologic improvement (6/26, 23.1%), hematologic improvement with marrow complete remission (6/26, 23.1%), whereas 6/26 patients (23.1%) had a stable disease. miRNA paired analysis showed a statistically significant up-regulation of miR-192-5p after 4 cycles of therapy (vs baseline), that was confirmed by real-time PCR analyses, along with an involvement of BCL2, that was proven to be a miR-192-5p target in hematopoietic cells by luciferase assays. Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier analyses showed a significant correlation between high levels of miR-192-5p after 4 cycles of therapy and overall survival or leukemia-free survival, that was stronger in responders, as compared with patients early losing response and non-responders. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that high levels of miR-192-5p are associated with higher overall survival and leukemia-free survival in myelodysplastic syndromes responding to azacitidine and lenalidomide. Moreover, miR-192-5p specifically targets and inhibits BCL2, possibly regulating proliferation and apoptosis and leading to the identification of new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mongiorgi
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessia De Stefano
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Ratti
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Indio
- "Giorgio Prodi" Cancer Research Center, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Astolfi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Irene Casalin
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Pellagatti
- Blood Cancer UK Molecular Haematology Unit, Nuffield Division of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, and Oxford BRC Haematology Theme, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Stefania Paolini
- IRCCS - Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Institute of Hematology " L. e A. Seràgnoli", University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sarah Parisi
- IRCCS - Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Institute of Hematology " L. e A. Seràgnoli", University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michele Cavo
- IRCCS - Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Institute of Hematology " L. e A. Seràgnoli", University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Pession
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Division of Pediatrics, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA
| | - Pann-Ghill Suh
- Korea Brain Research Institute, Daegu, 41062, South Korea
| | - Lucia Manzoli
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jacqueline Boultwood
- Blood Cancer UK Molecular Haematology Unit, Nuffield Division of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, and Oxford BRC Haematology Theme, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Carlo Finelli
- IRCCS - Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Institute of Hematology " L. e A. Seràgnoli", University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 9, 40138, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Matilde Y Follo
- Cellular Signalling Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 48, 40126, Bologna, Italy.
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Serroukh Y, Hébert J, Busque L, Mercier F, Rudd CE, Assouline S, Lachance S, Delisle JS. Blasts in context: the impact of the immune environment on acute myeloid leukemia prognosis and treatment. Blood Rev 2023; 57:100991. [PMID: 35941029 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2022.100991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer that originates from the bone marrow (BM). Under physiological conditions, the bone marrow supports the homeostasis of immune cells and hosts memory lymphoid cells. In this review, we summarize our present understanding of the role of the immune microenvironment on healthy bone marrow and on the development of AML, with a focus on T cells and other lymphoid cells. The types and function of different immune cells involved in the AML microenvironment as well as their putative role in the onset of disease and response to treatment are presented. We also describe how the immune context predicts the response to immunotherapy in AML and how these therapies modulate the immune status of the bone marrow. Finally, we focus on allogeneic stem cell transplantation and summarize the current understanding of the immune environment in the post-transplant bone marrow, the factors associated with immune escape and relevant strategies to prevent and treat relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmina Serroukh
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Erasmus Medical center Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Hematology, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Josée Hébert
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada; The Quebec Leukemia Cell Bank, Canada
| | - Lambert Busque
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada
| | - François Mercier
- Division of Hematology and Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University, 3755 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, Canada
| | - Christopher E Rudd
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sarit Assouline
- Division of Hematology and Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, McGill University, 3755 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Côte-Sainte-Catherine Road, Montreal, Canada
| | - Silvy Lachance
- Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jean-Sébastien Delisle
- Centre de recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, 5415 Boul. de L'Assomption, Montréal, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Institute for Hematology-Oncology, Transplantation, Cell and Gene Therapy, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Canada
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9
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Maffini E, Ursi M, Barbato F, Dicataldo M, Roberto M, Campanini E, Dan E, De Felice F, De Matteis S, Storci G, Bonafè M, Arpinati M, Bonifazi F. The prevention of disease relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in acute myeloid leukemia. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1066285. [DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1066285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Disease relapse represents by far the most frequent cause of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) failure. Patients with acute leukemia suffering relapse after HCT have limited conventional treatment options with little possibility of cure and represent, de facto, suitable candidates for the evaluation of novel cellular and biological-based therapies. Donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI) has been one of the first cellular therapies adopted to treat post HCT relapse of acute leukemia patients and still now, it is widely adopted in preemptive and prophylactic settings, with renewed interest for manipulated cellular products such as NK-DLI. The acquisition of novel biological insights into pathobiology of leukemia relapse are translating into the clinic, with novel combinations of target therapies and novel agents, helping delineate new therapeutical landscapes. Hypomethylating agents alone or in combination with novel drugs demonstrated their efficacy in pre-clinical models and controlled trials. FLT3 inhibitors represent an essential therapeutical instrument incorporated in post-transplant maintenance strategies. The Holy grail of allogeneic transplantation lies in the separation of graft-vs.-host disease from graft vs. tumor effects and after more than five decades, is still the most ambitious goal to reach and many ways to accomplish are on their way.
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10
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Yang G, Wang X, Huang S, Huang R, Wei J, Wang X, Zhang X. Generalist in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for MDS or AML: Epigenetic therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1034438. [PMID: 36268012 PMCID: PMC9577610 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1034438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) remains the only curative treatment for patients with myeloid malignancies such as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, relapse and graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) still affect the survival of patients who receive allo-HSCT, and more appropriate therapeutic strategies should be applied at all stages of transplantation to prevent these adverse events. The use of epigenetics agents, such as hypomethylating agents (HMAs), has been explored to decrease the risk of relapse by epigenetic modulation, which is especially effective among AML patients with poor mutations in epigenetic regulators. Furthermore, epigenetic agents have also been regarded as prophylactic methods for GvHD management without abrogating graft versus leukemia (GvL) effects. Therefore, the combination of epigenetic therapy and HSCT may optimize the transplantation process and prevent treatment failure. Existing studies have investigated the feasibility and effectiveness of using HMAs in the pretransplant, transplant and posttransplant stages among MDS and AML patients. This review examines the application of HMAs as a bridge treatment to reduce the tumor burden and the determine appropriate dose during allo-HSCT. Within this review, we also examine the efficacy and safety of HMAs alone or HMA-based strategies in posttransplant settings for MDS and AML. Finally, we provide an overview of other epigenetic candidates, which have been discussed in the nontransplant setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guancui Yang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Xiang Wang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Shiqin Huang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Ruihao Huang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jin Wei
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Xiaoqi Wang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Xiaoqi Wang,
| | - Xi Zhang
- Medical Center of Hematology, Xinqiao Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
- Department of Hematology, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- *Correspondence: Xi Zhang, ; Xiaoqi Wang,
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Zhang B, Zhang Y, Dang W, Xing B, Yu C, Guo P, Pi J, Deng X, Qi D, Liu Z. The anti-tumor and renoprotection study of E-[c(RGDfK)2]/folic acid co-modified nanostructured lipid carrier loaded with doxorubicin hydrochloride/salvianolic acid A. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:425. [PMID: 36153589 PMCID: PMC9509648 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01628-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Poor in vivo targeting of tumors by chemotherapeutic drugs reduces their anti-cancer efficacy in the clinic. The discovery of over-expressed components on the tumor cell surface and their specific ligands provide a basis for targeting tumor cells. However, the differences in the expression levels of these receptors on the tumor cell surface limit the clinical application of anti-tumor preparations modified by a single ligand. Meanwhile, toxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs leads to poor tolerance to anti-tumor therapy. The discovery of natural active products antagonizing these toxic side effects offers an avenue for relieving cancer patients’ pain during the treatment process. Since the advent of nanotechnology, interventions, such as loading appropriate drug combinations into nano-sized carriers and multiple tumor-targeting functional modifications on the carrier surface to enhance the anti-tumor effect and reduce toxic and side effects, have been widely used for treating tumors.
Results
Nanocarriers containing doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) and salvianolic acid A (Sal A) are spherical with a diameter of about 18 nm; the encapsulation efficiency of both DOX and salvianolic acid A is greater than 80%. E-[c(RGDfK)2]/folic acid (FA) co-modification enabled nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) to efficiently target a variety of tumor cells, including 4T1, MDA-MB-231, MCF-7, and A549 cells in vitro. Compared with other preparations (Sal A solution, NLC-Sal A, DOX solution, DOX injection, Sal A/DOX solution, NLC-DOX, NLC-Sal A/DOX, and E-[c(RGDfK)2]/FA-NLC-Sal A/DOX) in this experiment, the prepared E-[c(RGDfK)2]/FA-NLC-Sal A/DOX had the best anti-tumor effect. Compared with the normal saline group, it had the highest tumor volume inhibition rate (90.72%), the highest tumor weight inhibition rate (83.94%), led to the highest proportion of apoptosis among the tumor cells (61.30%) and the lowest fluorescence intensity of proliferation among the tumor cells (0.0083 ± 0.0011). Moreover, E-[c(RGDfK)2]/FA-NLC-Sal A/DOX had a low level of nephrotoxicity, with a low creatinine (Cre) concentration of 52.58 μmoL/L in the blood of mice, and no abnormalities were seen on pathological examination of the isolated kidneys at the end of the study. Sal A can antagonize the nephrotoxic effect of DOX. Free Sal A reduced the Cre concentration of the free DOX group by 61.64%. In NLC groups, Sal A reduced the Cre concentration of the DOX group by 42.47%. The E-[c(RGDfK)2]/FA modification reduced the side effects of the drug on the kidney, and the Cre concentration was reduced by 46.35% compared with the NLC-Sal A/DOX group. These interventions can potentially improve the tolerance of cancer patients to chemotherapy.
Conclusion
The E-[c(RGDfK)2]/FA co-modified DOX/Sal A multifunctional nano-drug delivery system has a good therapeutic effect on tumors and low nephrotoxicity and is a promising anti-cancer strategy.
Graphical Abstract
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Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (allo-HCT) for eligible patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in first complete remission is a central treatment paradigm to achieve durable remission. However, disease relapse after allo-HCT remains a significant concern and generally portends a poor prognosis. There is significant interest regarding the role for maintenance therapy after allo-HCT for patients with high risk of relapse, regardless of the presence of measurable residual disease. While there are currently no therapies approved for maintenance therapy for AML after allo-HCT, there are a number of ongoing investigations examining the role of maintenance therapies that include targeted agents against FLT3-ITD or IDH mutations, hypomethylating agents, immunomodulatory therapies and cellular therapies. In this review, we examine the current landscape and future strategies for maintenance therapy for AML after allo-HCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul K. Nayak
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yi-Bin Chen
- Hematopoietic Cell Transplant and Cell Therapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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13
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Li X, Wang W, Zhang X, Wu Y. Azacitidine and donor lymphocyte infusion for patients with relapsed acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: A meta-analysis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:949534. [PMID: 35992868 PMCID: PMC9389555 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.949534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For patients with relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), azacitidine with donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) is a feasible option to perform a preemptive or salvage treatment. However, its efficacy lacked comprehensive analysis, and this study aimed to fill this gap. Methods We searched potential studies in PUBMED, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Thirteen studies involving 811 patients were analyzed. The inverse variance method was used to calculate the pooled proportion and 95% confidence interval (CI). Subgroup analysis was performed to explore the source of heterogeneity. Results The rate of pooled complete remission + partial remission (CR + PR), CR, and 2-year overall survival (OS) were 30% (95% CI: 22%-39%), 21% (95% CI: 16%-28%), and 31% (95% CI: 27%-35%), respectively. The pooled acute graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) and chronic GvHD rates were 15% (95% CI: 9%-23%) and 14% (95% CI: 8%-23%), respectively. Adverse cytogenetics and a higher percentage of bone marrow (BM) blasts at relapse were correlated with worse CR + PR and CR (interaction p < 0.05). Higher 2-year OS was found in patients with lower BM blasts at relapse or a longer time from allo-HSCT to relapse (interaction p < 0.05). Furthermore, the preemptive treatment for molecular relapse/minimal residual disease positivity resulted in much better outcomes than that for hematological relapse, both in terms of CR and 2-year OS (interaction p < 0.001). Conclusion The regimen of azacitidine and DLI could safely improve the outcomes of relapsed AML/MDS after allo-HSCT, especially in those with signs of early relapse. The administration of targeted medicines in azacitidine-based therapies may further improve the outcomes of relapsed AML/MDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuefeng Li
- Department of Hematology and Institute of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wen Wang
- Chinese Evidence-based Medicine Center and Cochrane China Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Hematology and Institute of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Department of Hematology and Institute of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Tang Y, Zhou Z, Yan H, You Y. Case Report: Preemptive Treatment With Low-Dose PD-1 Blockade and Azacitidine for Molecular Relapsed Acute Myeloid Leukemia With RUNX1-RUNX1T1 After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:810284. [PMID: 35185899 PMCID: PMC8847388 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.810284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients who develop hematological relapse (HR) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) generally have dismal clinical outcomes. Measurable residual disease (MRD)-directed preemptive interventions are effective approaches to prevent disease progression and improve prognosis for molecular relapsed patients with warning signs of impending HR. In this situation, boosting the graft-vs-leukemia (GVL) effect with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) might be a promising prevention strategy, despite the potential for causing severe graft-vs-host disease (GVHD). In the present study, we reported for the first time an AML patient with RUNX1-RUNX1T1 who underwent preemptive treatment with the combined application of tislelizumab (an anti-PD-1 antibody) and azacitidine to avoid HR following allo-HSCT. On day +81, molecular relapse with MRD depicted by RUNX1-RUN1T1-positivity as well as mixed donor chimerism occurred in the patient. On day +95, with no signs of GVHD and an excellent eastern cooperative oncology group performance status (ECOG PS), the patient thus was administered with 100 mg of tislelizumab on day 1 and 100 mg of azacitidine on days 1-7. After the combination therapy, complete remission was successfully achieved with significant improvement in hematologic response, and the MRD marker RUNX1-RUNX1T1 turned negative, along with a complete donor chimerism in bone marrow. Meanwhile, the patient experienced moderate GVHD and immune-related adverse events (irAEs), successively involving the lung, liver, lower digestive tract and urinary system, which were well controlled by immunosuppressive therapies. As far as we know, this case is the first one to report the use of tislelizumab in combination with azacitidine to prevent post-transplant relapse in AML. In summary, the application of ICIs in MRD positive patients might be an attractive strategy for immune modulation in the future to reduce the incidence of HR in the post-transplant setting, but safer clinical application schedules need to be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Tang
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhenyang Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Wuhan, China
| | - Han Yan
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yong You
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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15
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Ciotti G, Marconi G, Martinelli G. Hypomethylating Agent-Based Combination Therapies to Treat Post-Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Relapse of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2022; 11:810387. [PMID: 35071015 PMCID: PMC8770807 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.810387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic stem cell transplantation still represents the best curative option for most patients with acute myeloid leukemia, but relapse is still dramatically high. Due to their immunologic activity and safety profile, hypomethylating agents (HMAs) represent an interesting backbone for combination therapies. This review reports mechanism of action, safety, and efficacy data on combination strategies based on HMAs in the setting of post-allogeneic stem cell transplant relapse. Several studies highlighted how HMAs and donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI) combination may be advantageous. The combination strategy of HMA with venetoclax, possibly in association with DLI, is showing excellent results in terms of response rate, including molecular responses. Lenalidomide, despite its well-known high rates of severe graft-versus-host disease in post-transplant settings, is showing an acceptable safety profile in association with HMAs with a competitive response rate. Regarding FLT3 internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutant AML, tyrosine kinase inhibitors and particularly sorafenib have promising results as monotherapy and in combination with HMAs. Conversely, combination strategies with gemtuzumab ozogamicin or immune checkpoint inhibitors did not show competitive response rates and seem to be currently less attractive strategies. Associations with histone deacetylase inhibitors and isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (IDH1/2) inhibitors represent new possible strategies that need to be better investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ciotti
- Ematologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale e di Precisione, Università La Sapienza, Azienda Ospedaliera Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marconi
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
| | - Giovanni Martinelli
- IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) "Dino Amadori", Meldola, Italy
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16
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Abou Dalle I, Atoui A, Bazarbachi A. The Elephant in The Room: AML Relapse Post Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation. Front Oncol 2022; 11:793274. [PMID: 35047405 PMCID: PMC8761806 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.793274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is an unfavorable event associated with a poor prognosis, particularly for patients with early relapses. It usually arises from resistant leukemic blasts that escaped both preparative chemotherapy regimen and the graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect. Independent from the choice of salvage treatment, only minority of patients can achieve durable remissions. In recent years, better understanding of the disease relapse biology post allo-HCT allowed the application of newer strategies that could induce higher rates of remission, and potential longer survival. Those strategies aim at optimizing drugs that have a direct anti-leukemia activity by targeting different oncogenic mutations, metabolism pathways or surface antigens, and concurrently enhancing the immune microenvironment to promote GVL effect. This review discusses the current treatment landscape of AML relapse post allo-HCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Abou Dalle
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Atoui
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali Bazarbachi
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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17
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Abstract
PURPOSE We propose a novel early completion method for phase I dose-finding trials using model-assisted designs. The trials can halt when a maximum tolerated dose (MTD) is estimated with sufficient accuracy. Early completion can reduce the average number of patients treated relative to the planned number, thereby allowing the trial to proceed to enrolling an expansion cohort for efficacy and enabling the trial to reach the next phase faster. METHODS Early completion is conducted on the basis of a dose-retainment probability using dose-assignment decisions. We evaluated early the completion for two actual trials. In addition, we performed a computer simulation to confirm the percentage of correctly selected MTDs, the early completion percentage, and the average number of patients treated. RESULTS In the evaluation of the two actual trials, we confirmed that the trials completed early. In the simulation results, we confirmed that the percentages of correct MTD selection were maintained relative to the original model-assisted designs. The early completion percentages ranged from 50% to 90%, and the number of patients treated reduced from 20%-60% relative to the planned number of patients. CONCLUSION We conclude that the early completion method can be applied unproblematically to the model-assisted design of phase I dose-finding trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Kojima
- Biometrics Department, R&D Division, Kyowa Kirin Co, Ltd, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Statistical Science, School of Multidisciplinary Sciences, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, Tokyo, Japan
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Leotta S, Condorelli A, Sciortino R, Milone GA, Bellofiore C, Garibaldi B, Schininà G, Spadaro A, Cupri A, Milone G. Prevention and Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Relapse after Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: The State of the Art and Future Perspectives. J Clin Med 2022; 11:253. [PMID: 35011994 PMCID: PMC8745746 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11010253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) for high-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML) represents the only curative option. Progress has been made in the last two decades in the pre-transplant induction therapies, supportive care, selection of donors and conditioning regimens that allowed to extend the HSCT to a larger number of patients, including those aged over 65 years and/or lacking an HLA-identical donor. Furthermore, improvements in the prophylaxis of the graft-versus-host disease and of infection have dramatically reduced transplant-related mortality. The relapse of AML remains the major reason for transplant failure affecting almost 40-50% of the patients. From 10 to 15 years ago to date, treatment options for AML relapsing after HSCT were limited to conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy and donor leukocyte infusions (DLI). Nowadays, novel agents and targeted therapies have enriched the therapeutic landscape. Moreover, very recently, the therapeutic landscape has been enriched by manipulated cellular products (CAR-T, CAR-CIK, CAR-NK). In light of these new perspectives, careful monitoring of minimal-residual disease (MRD) and prompt application of pre-emptive strategies in the post-transplant setting have become imperative. Herein, we review the current state of the art on monitoring, prevention and treatment of relapse of AML after HSCT with particular attention on novel agents and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annalisa Condorelli
- Division of Hematology, AOU “Policlinico G. Rodolico-San Marco”, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95124 Catania, Italy; (S.L.); (R.S.); (G.A.M.); (C.B.); (B.G.); (G.S.); (A.S.); (A.C.); (G.M.)
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Abstract
With advances in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HCT), disease relapse has replaced transplant-related mortality as the primary cause of treatment failure for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The efficacy of allo-HCT in AML is a consequence of a graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect that is mediated by T lymphocytes, and unique mechanisms of immune evasion underlying post-allo-HCT AML relapses have recently been characterized. Relapsed AML following allo-HCT presents a particularly vexing clinical challenge because transplant-related toxicities, such as graft-versus-host (GVHD) and infections, increase the risk of treatment-related morbidity and mortality. In general, the prognosis of relapsed AML following allo-HCT is poor with most patients failing to achieve a subsequent remission and 2-year survival consistently <15%. The two factors that have been found to predict a better prognosis are a longer duration of post-transplant remission prior to relapse and a lower disease burden at the time of relapse. When considered in combination with a patient's age; co-morbidities; and performance status, these factors can help to inform the appropriate therapy for the treatment of post-transplant relapse. This review discusses the options for the treatment of post-transplant AML relapse with a focus on the options to achieve a subsequent remission and consolidation with cellular immunotherapy, such as a second transplant or donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI). While intensive reinduction therapy and less intensive approaches with hypomethylating agents have long represented the two primary options for the initial treatment of post-transplant relapse, molecularly targeted therapies and immunotherapy are emerging as potential alternative options to achieve remission. Herein, we highlight response and survival outcomes achieved specifically in the post-transplant setting using each of these approaches and discuss how some therapies may overcome the immunologic mechanisms that have been implicated in post-transplant relapse. As long-term survival in post-transplant relapse necessarily involves consolidation with cellular immunotherapy, we present data on the efficacy and toxicity of both DLI and second allo-HCT including when such therapies are integrated with reinduction. Finally, we provide our general approach to the treatment of post-transplant relapse, integrating both novel therapies and our improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying post-transplant relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Webster
- Hematologic Malignancies and Bone Marrow Transplantation Program, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Leo Luznik
- Hematologic Malignancies and Bone Marrow Transplantation Program, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ivana Gojo
- Hematologic Malignancies and Bone Marrow Transplantation Program, Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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20
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Kinsella F, Craddock C. The Evolving Role of Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant in the Era of Molecularly Targeted Agents. Cancer J 2022; 28:78-84. [DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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21
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Xia R, Cheng Y, Han X, Wei Y, Wei X. Ikaros Proteins in Tumor: Current Perspectives and New Developments. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:788440. [PMID: 34950704 PMCID: PMC8689071 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.788440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ikaros is a zinc finger transcription factor (TF) of the Krüppel family member, which significantly regulates normal lymphopoiesis and tumorigenesis. Ikaros can directly initiate or suppress tumor suppressors or oncogenes, consequently regulating the survival and proliferation of cancer cells. Over recent decades, a series of studies have been devoted to exploring and clarifying the relationship between Ikaros and associated tumors. Therapeutic strategies targeting Ikaros have shown promising therapeutic effects in both pre-clinical and clinical trials. Nevertheless, the increasingly prominent problem of drug resistance targeted to Ikaros and its analog is gradually appearing in our field of vision. This article reviews the role of Ikaros in tumorigenesis, the mechanism of drug resistance, the progress of targeting Ikaros in both pre-clinical and clinical trials, and the potential use of associated therapy in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruolan Xia
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuan Cheng
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuejiao Han
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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22
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Chang YJ, Zhao XY, Huang XJ. Haploidentical Stem Cell Transplantation for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Current Therapies, Challenges and Future Prospective. Front Oncol 2021; 11:758512. [PMID: 34778077 PMCID: PMC8581046 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.758512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Haploidentical stem cell transplantation (haplo-SCT), an alternative donor source, offers a curative therapy for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are transplant candidates. Advances in transplantation techniques, such as donor selection, conditioning regimen modification, and graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis, have successfully improved the outcomes of AML patients receiving haplo-SCT and extended the haploidentical transplant indictions for AML. Presently, treating de novo AML, secondary AML, therapy-related AML and refractory and relapsed AML with haplo-SCT can achieve comparable outcomes to those of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched sibling donor transplantation (MSDT), unrelated donor transplantation or umbilical cord blood transplantation. For some subgroups of AML subjects, such as patients with positive pretransplantation minimal/measurable residual disease, recent studies suggest that haplo-SCT might be superior to MSDT in decreasing relapse and improving survival. Unfortunately, for patients with AML after haplo-SCT, relapse and infections remain the causes of death that restrict further improvement in clinical outcomes. In this review, we discuss the recent advances and challenges in haplo-SCT for AML treatment, mainly focusing on unmanipulated haplo-SCT protocols. We provide an outlook on future prospects and suggest that relapse prophylaxis, intervention, and treatment, as well as infection prevention and therapy, are areas of active research in AML patients who receive haploidentical allografts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Jun Chang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Zhao
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Huang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
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23
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Mayerhofer C, Niemeyer CM, Flotho C. Current Treatment of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3084. [PMID: 34300250 PMCID: PMC8305558 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10143084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare pediatric leukemia characterized by mutations in five canonical RAS pathway genes. The diagnosis is made by typical clinical and hematological findings associated with a compatible mutation. Although this is sufficient for clinical decision-making in most JMML cases, more in-depth analysis can include DNA methylation class and panel sequencing analysis for secondary mutations. NRAS-initiated JMML is heterogeneous and adequate management ranges from watchful waiting to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Upfront azacitidine in KRAS patients can achieve long-term remissions without HSCT; if HSCT is required, a less toxic preparative regimen is recommended. Germline CBL patients often experience spontaneous resolution of the leukemia or exhibit stable mixed chimerism after HSCT. JMML driven by PTPN11 or NF1 is often rapidly progressive, requires swift HSCT and may benefit from pretransplant therapy with azacitidine. Because graft-versus-leukemia alloimmunity is central to cure high risk patients, the immunosuppressive regimen should be discontinued early after HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Mayerhofer
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (C.M.N.)
| | - Charlotte M. Niemeyer
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (C.M.N.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Flotho
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (C.M.N.)
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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24
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Abstract
For decades, anticancer targeted therapies have been designed to inhibit kinases or other enzyme classes and have profoundly benefited many patients. However, novel approaches are required to target transcription factors, scaffolding proteins and other proteins central to cancer biology that typically lack catalytic activity and have remained mostly recalcitrant to drug development. The selective degradation of target proteins is an attractive approach to expand the druggable proteome, and the selective oestrogen receptor degrader fulvestrant served as an early example of this concept. Following a long and tragic history in the clinic, the immunomodulatory imide drug (IMiD) thalidomide was discovered to exert its therapeutic activity via a novel and unexpected mechanism of action: targeting proteins to an E3 ubiquitin ligase for subsequent proteasomal degradation. This discovery has paralleled and directly catalysed myriad breakthroughs in drug development, leading to the rapid maturation of generalizable chemical platforms for the targeted degradation of previously undruggable proteins. Decades of clinical experience have established front-line roles for thalidomide analogues, including lenalidomide and pomalidomide, in the treatment of haematological malignancies. With a new generation of 'degrader' drugs currently in development, this experience provides crucial insights into class-wide features of degraders, including a unique pharmacology, mechanisms of resistance and emerging therapeutic opportunities. Herein, we review these past experiences and discuss their application in the clinical development of novel degrader therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Jan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adam S Sperling
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Benjamin L Ebert
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
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25
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Yoshimoto G, Mori Y, Kato K, Odawara J, Kuriyama T, Ueno T, Obara T, Yurino A, Yoshida S, Ogawa R, Ohno Y, Iwasaki H, Eto T, Akashi K, Miyamoto T. Azacitidine for the treatment of patients with relapsed acute myeloid leukemia after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Leuk Lymphoma 2021; 62:2939-2948. [PMID: 34159882 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2021.1941937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We retrospectively analyzed 38 patients with AML who received azacitidine (AZA) to treat disease relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Patients with objective response (OR) (n = 20) after AZA had significantly higher 2-year overall survival (OS) (45.0% vs 5.6%; p = 0.004) than progressive disease. The 2-year OS was significantly higher in the retransplant group (n = 23) than in the nonretransplant group (n = 15) (34.8% vs 13.3%; p = 0.034). We analyzed 167 patients who underwent the second allo-HSCT to clarify the impact of pretransplant AZA after the second allo-HSCT. Patients in the AZA group (n = 21) had significantly higher 2-year disease-free survival (DFS) (32.7% vs 14.5%; p = 0.012) and OS (38.1% vs 17.5%; p = 0.044) than those in the SOC group (n = 146). Our data demonstrate that AZA is an effective and well-tolerated bridging therapy to the second allo-HSCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goichi Yoshimoto
- Department of Medicine and Biosystemic Science, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Science, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yasuo Mori
- Department of Medicine and Biosystemic Science, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Science, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Koji Kato
- Department of Medicine and Biosystemic Science, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Science, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Jun Odawara
- Department of Hematology, National Kyushu Medical Center, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takuro Kuriyama
- Department of Hematology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Ueno
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kitakyushu Municipal Medical Center, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Teppei Obara
- Department of Hematology, Japan Community Health Care Organization Kyushu Hospital, KitaKyushu, Japan
| | - Ayano Yurino
- Department of Hematology, Harasanshin Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shuro Yoshida
- Department of Hematology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Ogawa
- Department of Hematology, Japan Community Health Care Organization Kyushu Hospital, KitaKyushu, Japan
| | - Yuju Ohno
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kitakyushu Municipal Medical Center, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Hiromi Iwasaki
- Department of Hematology, National Kyushu Medical Center, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Eto
- Department of Hematology, Hamanomachi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Koichi Akashi
- Department of Medicine and Biosystemic Science, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Science, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Miyamoto
- Department of Medicine and Biosystemic Science, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Science, Fukuoka, Japan
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerard Cathal Millen
- Paediatric Oncology, Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christina Yap
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham College of Medical and Dental Sciences, Birmingham, UK
- Clinical Trials and Statistics Unit, Institute of Cancer Research, London, UK
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27
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Abstract
Although the majority of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) treated with intensive chemotherapy achieve a complete remission (CR), many are destined to relapse if treated with intensive chemotherapy alone. Allogeneic stem cell transplant (allo-SCT) represents a pivotally important treatment strategy in fit adults with AML because of its augmented anti-leukemic activity consequent upon dose intensification and the genesis of a potent graft-versus-leukemia effect. Increased donor availability coupled with the advent of reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) regimens has dramatically increased transplant access and consequently allo-SCT is now a key component of the treatment algorithm in both patients with AML in first CR (CR1) and advanced disease. Although transplant related mortality has fallen steadily over recent decades there has been no real progress in reducing the risk of disease relapse which remains the major cause of transplant failure and represents a major area of unmet need. A number of therapeutic approaches with the potential to reduce disease relapse, including advances in induction chemotherapy, the development of novel conditioning regimens and the emergence of the concept of post-transplant maintenance, are currently under development. Furthermore, the use of genetics and measurable residual disease technology in disease assessment has improved the identification of patients who are likely to benefit from an allo-SCT which now represents an increasingly personalized therapy. Future progress in optimizing transplant outcome will be dependent on the successful delivery by the international transplant community of randomized prospective clinical trials which permit examination of current and future transplant therapies with the same degree of rigor as is routinely adopted for non-transplant therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Loke
- Centre for Clinical Haematology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- CRUK Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Buka
- Centre for Clinical Haematology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- CRUK Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Charles Craddock
- Centre for Clinical Haematology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- CRUK Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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28
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Bruserud Ø, Tsykunova G, Hernandez-Valladares M, Reikvam H, Tvedt THA. Therapeutic Use of Valproic Acid and All-Trans Retinoic Acid in Acute Myeloid Leukemia-Literature Review and Discussion of Possible Use in Relapse after Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14050423. [PMID: 34063204 PMCID: PMC8147490 DOI: 10.3390/ph14050423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Even though allogeneic stem cell transplantation is the most intensive treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chemo-resistant leukemia relapse is still one of the most common causes of death for these patients, as is transplant-related mortality, i.e., graft versus host disease, infections, and organ damage. These relapse patients are not always candidates for additional intensive therapy or re-transplantation, and many of them have decreased quality of life and shortened expected survival. The efficiency of azacitidine for treatment of posttransplant AML relapse has been documented in several clinical trials. Valproic acid is an antiepileptic fatty acid that exerts antileukemic activity through histone deacetylase inhibition. The combination of valproic acid and all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is well tolerated even by unfit or elderly AML patients, and low-toxicity chemotherapy (e.g., azacitidine) can be added to this combination. The triple combination of azacitidine, valproic acid, and ATRA may therefore represent a low-intensity and low-toxicity alternative for these patients. In the present review, we review and discuss the general experience with valproic acid/ATRA in AML therapy and we discuss its possible use in low-intensity/toxicity treatment of post-allotransplant AML relapse. Our discussion is further illustrated by four case reports where combined treatments with sequential azacitidine/hydroxyurea, valproic acid, and ATRA were used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Øystein Bruserud
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, N-5021 Bergen, Norway;
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, N-5021 Bergen, Norway; (G.T.); (T.H.A.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Galina Tsykunova
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, N-5021 Bergen, Norway; (G.T.); (T.H.A.T.)
| | - Maria Hernandez-Valladares
- The Proteomics Facility of the University of Bergen (PROBE), University of Bergen, N-5021 Bergen, Norway;
| | - Hakon Reikvam
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, N-5021 Bergen, Norway;
- Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, N-5021 Bergen, Norway; (G.T.); (T.H.A.T.)
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29
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Loke J, Vyas H, Craddock C. Optimizing Transplant Approaches and Post-Transplant Strategies for Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2021; 11:666091. [PMID: 33937080 PMCID: PMC8083129 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.666091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is the commonest indication for allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) worldwide. The increasingly important role of allo-SCT in the management of AML has been underpinned by two important advances. Firstly, improvements in disease risk stratification utilizing genetic and Measurable Residual Disease (MRD) technologies permit ever more accurate identification of allo-mandatory patients who are at high risk of relapse if treated by chemotherapy alone. Secondly, increased donor availability coupled with the advent of reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) regimens has substantially expanded transplant access for patients with high risk AML In patients allografted for AML disease relapse continues to represent the commonest cause of transplant failure and the development of novel strategies with the potential to reduce disease recurrence represents a major unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Loke
- Centre for Clinical Haematology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Hrushikesh Vyas
- Centre for Clinical Haematology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Charles Craddock
- Centre for Clinical Haematology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom.,Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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30
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O'Neill AT, Chakraverty R. Graft Versus Leukemia: Current Status and Future Perspectives. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:361-372. [PMID: 33434054 DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.01801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aideen T O'Neill
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ronjon Chakraverty
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
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31
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Davids MS, Kim HT, Costello C, Herrera AF, Locke FL, Maegawa RO, Savell A, Mazzeo M, Anderson A, Boardman AP, Weber A, Avigan D, Chen YB, Nikiforow S, Ho VT, Cutler C, Alyea EP, Bachireddy P, Wu CJ, Ritz J, Streicher H, Ball ED, Bashey A, Soiffer RJ, Armand P. A multicenter phase 1 study of nivolumab for relapsed hematologic malignancies after allogeneic transplantation. Blood 2020; 135:2182-91. [PMID: 32478814 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019004710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand-1 blockade may potentially augment graft-vs-tumor effects following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT), but retrospective studies of anti-PD-1 therapy reported substantial toxicity from graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD). Here, we report the results of a prospective clinical trial of PD-1 blockade for relapsed hematologic malignancies (HMs) after alloHCT (NCT01822509). The primary objective in this phase 1 multicenter, investigator-initiated study was to determine maximum tolerated dose and safety. Secondary objectives were to assess efficacy and immunologic activity. Patients with relapsed HMs following alloHCT were eligible. Nivolumab was administered every 2 weeks until progression or unacceptable toxicity, starting with a 1-mg/kg cohort, with planned deescalation based on toxicity to a 0.5-mg/kg cohort. Twenty-eight patients were treated (n = 19 myeloid, n = 9 lymphoid). Median age was 57 years (range 27-76), and median time from alloHCT to enrollment was 21 months (range 5.6-108.5). Two of 6 patients treated at 1 mg/kg experienced dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) from immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Twenty-two patients were treated at 0.5 mg/kg, and 4 DLTs occurred, including 2 irAEs and 2 with fatal GVHD. The overall response rate in efficacy-evaluable patients was 32% (8/25). With a median follow-up of 11 months, the 1-year progression-free survival and overall survival were 23% and 56%, respectively. In this first prospective clinical trial of an anti-PD-1 antibody for post-alloHCT relapse, GVHD and irAEs occurred, requiring dose deescalation, with only modest antitumor activity. Further studies of anti-PD-1 therapy post-alloHCT may require specific toxicity mitigation strategies. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01822509.
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32
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Abstract
Roundabout guidance receptor proteins are crucial components of the SLIT/ROBO signaling pathway. This pathway is important for the nervous system and in embryonic development. Recently, increasing evidence has shown that roundabout guidance receptor proteins and the SLIT/ROBO signaling pathway also participate in tumorigenesis. Here, by analyzing transcriptome data from the TCGA and GEO databases, we found that ROBO3 is highly expressed in non-M3 acute myeloid leukemia. High ROBO3 expression was associated with increased age at diagnosis and poorer risk classification (both P < 0.01). Patients with high ROBO3 expression had higher rates of TP53 and RUNX1 mutations (both P < 0.05). Significantly worse overall survival and event-free survival were observed in high ROBO3 expression patients compared with low ROBO3 expression patients (OS: P = 0.004; EFS: P= 0.012). High ROBO3 expression was also associated with poorer overall survival and event-free survival in a subgroup of patients who received intensive chemotherapy (OS: P = 0.024; EFS: P = 0.040). Moreover, multivariate analysis indicated that high ROBO3 expression was an independent risk factor for poor overall survival in non-M3 acute myeloid leukemia patients who are younger than 60 and received intensive chemotherapy during remission induction. Bioinformatics analysis by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Ontology revealed that high ROBO3 expression significantly altered cell adhesion and extracellular matrix-related pathways (adjusted P < 0.05). Taken together, the data demonstrate that ROBO3 is upregulated in non-M3 acute myeloid leukemia and may be a potent biomarker of inferior prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimei Cai
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University/The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang 222002, China.,Department of Hematology, Lianyungang Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University/The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang 222002, China
| | - Jifeng Wei
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University/The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang 222002, China.,Department of Hematology, Lianyungang Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University/The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang 222002, China
| | - Ze Chen
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University/The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang 222002, China.,Department of Hematology, Lianyungang Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University/The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang 222002, China
| | - Haiqing Wang
- Department of Hematology, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University/The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang 222002, China.,Department of Hematology, Lianyungang Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University/The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang 222002, China
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Khaldoyanidi S, Nagorsen D, Stein A, Ossenkoppele G, Subklewe M. Immune Biology of Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Implications for Immunotherapy. J Clin Oncol 2021; 39:419-432. [PMID: 33434043 PMCID: PMC8078464 DOI: 10.1200/jco.20.00475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anthony Stein
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA
| | - Gerrit Ossenkoppele
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marion Subklewe
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Appelbaum FR. Hypomethylating agents as maintenance therapy following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for myeloid malignancies. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2021; 34:101241. [PMID: 33762112 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2021.101241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
With improved safety of the procedure, disease recurrence is now the leading cause of treatment failure when allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation is used to treat acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Recent studies suggest that maintenance therapy with hypomethylating agents after standard induction and consolidation chemotherapy prolongs disease-free and possibly overall survival in older patients with AML. While these results argue that hypomethylating agents should likewise prolong remission duration if used as maintenance after allogeneic transplantation for AML, trials to date have failed to show a benefit. This failure may be due, in part, to difficulties in administering the drugs in this setting, and in part, because of an inability to identify those patients most likely to benefit. Realizing the full potential of hypomethylating agents in the management of patients with AML will likely require both improved drug formulations as well as an increased understanding of their mechanism of action in the complex post-allogeneic transplant environment.
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Spyridonidis A. How I treat measurable (minimal) residual disease in acute leukemia after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Blood 2020; 135:1639-49. [PMID: 31961921 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019003566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT) is currently the standard curative treatment of acute leukemia, relapse remains unacceptably high. Measurable (minimal) residual disease (MRD) after allo-HCT may be used as a predictor of impending relapse and should be part of routine follow-up for transplanted patients. Patients with MRD may respond to therapies aiming to unleash or enhance the graft-versus-leukemia effect. However, evidence-based recommendations on how to best implement MRD testing and MRD-directed therapy after allo-HCT are lacking. Here, I describe our institutional approach to MRD monitoring for preemptive MRD-triggered intervention, using patient scenarios to illustrate the discussion.
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Hong S, Rybicki L, Corrigan D, Hamilton BK, Sobecks R, Kalaycio M, Gerds AT, Dean RM, Hill BT, Pohlman B, Jagadeesh D, Anwer F, Majhail NS. Survival following relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation for acute leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes in the contemporary era. Hematol Oncol Stem Cell Ther 2020; 14:318-326. [PMID: 33301747 DOI: 10.1016/j.hemonc.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND Relapse is the most common cause of treatment failure after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT). No standard of care exists, and a wide range of treatments are used for post-alloHCT relapse. In the recent era, several novel therapies including targeted agents are available for acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). METHODS We reviewed outcomes after alloHCT relapse, with or without use of these newer agents for ALL, AML, and MDS. In total, 115 adults with relapsed or refractory ALL (n = 17), AML (n = 67), and MDS (n = 31) at median 5 (range, 1-64) months after their first alloHCT in 2010-2018 were included. RESULTS Median follow-up was 19 (range, 6-80) months after relapse from alloHCT. Targeted agents were given to 29 (25%) patients. In multivariable analysis, use of targeted agent at any time point after relapse was not associated with survival. Matched unrelated (vs. matched sibling; hazard ratio [HR] 1.70; p = .027) or haploidentical donor grafts (vs. matched sibling; HR 2.69; p = .003), presence of grade II-IV acute graft-versus-host disease before relapse (HR 2.46; p < .001), and less than 12 months from HCT to relapse (<6 vs. > 12 months; HR 6.34; p < .001; 6-12 vs. > 12 months; HR 3.16; p = .005) were adverse prognostic factors for post-relapse survival. CONCLUSION Outcomes after alloHCT relapse remain poor regardless of the novel agent use. Innovative treatment strategies are needed to improve outcomes after relapse post-alloHCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghee Hong
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Lisa Rybicki
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Donna Corrigan
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Betty K Hamilton
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ronald Sobecks
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Matt Kalaycio
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Aaron T Gerds
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rob M Dean
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Brian T Hill
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Brad Pohlman
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Deepa Jagadeesh
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Faiz Anwer
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Navneet S Majhail
- Blood and Marrow Transplant Program, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Saygin C, Larkin K, Blachly JS, Orwick S, Ngankeu A, Gregory CT, Phelps MA, Mani S, Walker A, Garzon R, Vasu S, Walsh KJ, Bhatnagar B, Klisovic RB, Grever MR, Marcucci G, Byrd JC, Blum W, Mims AS. A phase I study of lenalidomide plus chemotherapy with idarubicin and cytarabine in patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia and high-risk myelodysplastic syndrome. Am J Hematol 2020; 95:1457-1465. [PMID: 32777116 PMCID: PMC7821016 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.25958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have poor outcomes and hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is the only curative treatment. New targeted therapies improved survival in select patients with specific mutations, however management of patients without these molecular alterations is an unmet need. We conducted a phase one study of lenalidomide in combination with cytarabine/idarubicin salvage chemotherapy in patients with R/R AML and high‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes. A total of 33 patients were enrolled in the study (30 AML, 3 MDS), and treated at three dose levels with 3 + 3 design. Dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT) was seen in eight patients, including four hematologic DLTs. The most commonly observed non‐hematologic serious adverse events were febrile neutropenia, rash, sepsis and renal injury. Dose level −1, consisting of 25 mg/d lenalidomide D1‐21, 1 g/m2 cytarabine D5‐8, and 8 mg/m2 idarubicin D5‐7 was determined to be the maximum tolerated dose. Note, 15/33 (45%) of patients were able to receive pre‐planned 21 days of lenalidomide. Overall, 18 patients achieved complete remission (CR) (n = 14) or CR with incomplete count recovery (CRi) (n = 4) with total CR/CRi rate of 56%. The 1‐year and 2‐year overall survival (OS) were 24% and 10%, respectively. Among responders, 10/18 underwent allogeneic HCT and had a 1‐year OS of 40%. There was no molecular pattern associated with response. These data demonstrate that the combination had clinical activity in R/R AML. This regimen should be further investigated for patients who relapsed after HCT, and as a bridge therapy to HCT. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01132586).
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Affiliation(s)
- Caner Saygin
- Department of Internal Medicine The Ohio State University Columbus Ohio
| | - Karilyn Larkin
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - James S. Blachly
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Shelley Orwick
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Apollinaire Ngankeu
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Charles T. Gregory
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Mitch A. Phelps
- Division of Pharmaceutics College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University Columbus Ohio
| | - Shylaja Mani
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Alison Walker
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Ramiro Garzon
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Sumithira Vasu
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Katherine J. Walsh
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Bhavana Bhatnagar
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Rebecca B. Klisovic
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology Emory University School of Medicine, Winship Cancer Institute Atlanta Georgia
| | - Michael R. Grever
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - Guido Marcucci
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation City of Hope Medical Center Duarte California
| | - John C. Byrd
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
| | - William Blum
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology Emory University School of Medicine, Winship Cancer Institute Atlanta Georgia
| | - Alice S. Mims
- Division of Hematology The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center Columbus Ohio
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38
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Shi W, Jin W, Xia L, Hu Y. Novel agents targeting leukemia cells and immune microenvironment for prevention and treatment of relapse of acute myeloid leukemia after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:2125-2139. [PMID: 32837873 PMCID: PMC7326461 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Relapse remains the worst life-threatening complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), whose prognosis has been historically dismal. Given the rapid development of genomics and immunotherapies, the interference strategies for AML recurrence have been changing these years. More and more novel targeting agents that have received the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for de novo AML treatment have been administrated in the salvage or maintenance therapy of post-HSCT relapse. Targeted strategies that regulate the immune microenvironment of and optimize the graft versus leukemia (GVL) effect of immune cells are gradually improved. Such agents not only have been proven to achieve clinical benefits from a single drug, but if combined with classic therapies, can significantly improve the poor prognosis of AML patients who relapse after allo-HSCT. This review will focus on currently available and promising upcoming agents and also discuss the challenges and limitations of targeted therapies in the allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shi
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA 98109-1024, USA
| | - Weiwei Jin
- Department of Cardiovascular, Optical Valley School District, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430061, China
- Hubei Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Linghui Xia
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - Yu Hu
- Institute of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China
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Piccolomo A, Schifone CP, Strafella V, Specchia G, Musto P, Albano F. Immunomodulatory Drugs in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12092528. [PMID: 32899586 PMCID: PMC7573974 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) are analogs of thalidomide. They have immunomodulatory, antiangiogenic and proapoptotic properties and exert a role in regulating the tumor microenvironment. Recently IMiDs have been investigated for their pleiotropic properties and their therapeutic applications in both solid tumors (melanoma, prostate carcinoma and differentiated thyroid cancer) and hematological malignancies. Nowadays, they are applied in de novo and relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, in myelodysplastic syndrome, in del5q syndrome with specific use of lenalidomide and B-cell lymphoma. Several studies have been conducted in the last few years to explore IMiDs possible use in acute myeloid leukemia treatment. Here we report the mechanisms of action of IMiDs in acute myeloid leukemia and their potential future therapeutic application in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Piccolomo
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Claudia Pia Schifone
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Vanda Strafella
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Giorgina Specchia
- Former Full Professor of Hematology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Pellegrino Musto
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
| | - Francesco Albano
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (D.E.T.O.), Hematology and Stem cell Transplantation Unit, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.P.); (C.P.S.); (V.S.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-080-5478031
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40
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Rautenberg C, Bergmann A, Pechtel S, Fischermanns C, Haas R, Germing U, Kobbe G, Schroeder T. Wilm's Tumor 1-guided preemptive treatment with hypomethylating agents for molecular relapse of AML and MDS after allogeneic transplantation. Bone Marrow Transplant 2021; 56:442-50. [PMID: 32873914 DOI: 10.1038/s41409-020-01039-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Hypomethylating agents (HMA) for relapsed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) after allogeneic transplantation (allo-SCT) are most effective when used at the stage of molecular relapse. As Wilm's Tumor 1 (WT1)- expression has proven to serve as broadly applicable, sensitive and specific minimal residual disease (MRD) marker, we measured WT1-expression in 35 AML and MDS patients using a standardized assay for the guidance of therapy with HMA and donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI). Molecular relapse was detected in median 168 days post-transplant prompting therapy with a median of six HMA cycles and at least one DLI (n = 22, 63%). Hereby, 13 patients (37%) achieved major response (=MRD- complete remission [CR]), and 7 patients (20%) achieved minor response (=MRD+ CR), whereas 15 patients (43%) progressed into hematologic relapse. Two-year overall survival (OS) rate was 35% including 11 patients (31%) with ongoing MRD- remission for a median of 21 months. Patients with the major response after six cycles had significantly better OS suggesting that those not achieving MRD negativity after six cycles are candidates for alternative therapies. Combining MRD-monitoring of WT1-expression and preemptive therapy with HMA and DLI appears as a practicable and efficient approach for imminent relapse after allo-SCT.
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41
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Rautenberg C, Bergmann A, Germing U, Fischermanns C, Pechtel S, Kaivers J, Jäger P, Schuler E, Haas R, Kobbe G, Schroeder T. Prediction of Response and Survival Following Treatment with Azacitidine for Relapse of Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Myelodysplastic Syndromes after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082255. [PMID: 32806572 PMCID: PMC7464210 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To provide long-term outcome data and predictors for response and survival, we retrospectively analyzed all 151 patients with relapse of myeloid neoplasms after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) who were uniformly treated with first-line azacitidine (Aza) salvage therapy at our center. Patients were treated for molecular (39%) or hematologic relapse (61%), with a median of 5 cycles of Aza and at least one donor lymphocyte infusion in 70% of patients. Overall response was 46%, with 41% achieving complete (CR) and 5% achieving partial remission. CR was achieved after a median of 4 cycles and lasted for a median of 11 months (range 0.9 to 120 months). With a median follow-up of 22 months (range: 1 to 122 months), the 2-year survival rate was 38% ± 9%, including 17 patients with ongoing remission for >5 years. Based on results from multivariate analyses, molecular relapse and time to relapse were integrated into a score, clearly dividing patients into 3 subgroups with CR rates of 71%, 39%, and 29%; and 2-year survival rates of 64%, 38%, and 27%, respectively. In the subgroup of MDS and secondary AML, receiving upfront transplantation was associated with superior response and survival, and therefore pretransplant strategy was integrated together with relapse type into a MDS–sAML-specific score. Overall, Aza enables meaningful responses and long-term survival, which is a predictable with a simple-to-use scoring system.
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42
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Baek DW, Kim J, Cho HJ, Moon JH, Sohn SK. Hypomethylating agent-based post-transplant strategies to maximize the outcome of high-risk acute myeloid leukemia after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Expert Rev Hematol 2020; 13:959-969. [PMID: 32731765 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2020.1804355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clinical outcomes of patients diagnosed with high-risk acute myeloid leukemia (AML) are poor, and relapse or refractoriness is main cause of treatment failure, even in those who underwent standard allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT). Therefore, innovative or additional approaches are necessary to overcome refractoriness to the graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect immediately after allo-SCT. AREAS COVERED Hypomethylating agents (HMA) present a feasible option that can be adopted during the post-transplant phase. Moreover, combination strategies based on HMA may induce a synergistic effect by promoting anti-leukemic effects that overcome residual leukemic burden, and it is a well-tolerated therapeutic option for high-risk disease. Relevant literatures published in the last 30 years were searched from PubMed to review the topic of AML, allo-SCT, and HMAs. EXPERT OPINION Post-transplant therapy is strongly needed to improve the outcomes of allogeneic transplantation for certain AML patients classified with high-risk disease. In that sense, prophylactic and preemptive HMAs are a promising additive therapy for allogeneic recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Won Baek
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University , Daegu, South Korea
| | - Juhyung Kim
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University , Daegu, South Korea
| | - Hee Jeong Cho
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University , Daegu, South Korea
| | - Joon Ho Moon
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University , Daegu, South Korea
| | - Sang Kyun Sohn
- Department of Hematology/Oncology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University , Daegu, South Korea
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43
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Sterling C, Webster J. Harnessing the immune system after allogeneic stem cell transplant in acute myeloid leukemia. Am J Hematol 2020; 95:529-547. [PMID: 32022292 DOI: 10.1002/ajh.25750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) is the most successful and widely used immunotherapy for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as a result of its anti-leukemic properties driven by T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, leading to a graft-vs-leukemia (GVL) effect. Despite its essential role in AML treatment, relapse after allo-SCT is common and associated with a poor prognosis. There is longstanding interest in developing immunologic strategies to augment the GVL effect post-transplant to prevent relapse and improve outcomes. In addition to prophylactic maintenance strategies, the GVL effect can also be used in relapsed patients to reinduce remission. While immune checkpoint inhibitors and other novel immune-targeted agents have been successfully used in the post-transplant setting to augment the GVL effect and induce remission in small clinical trials of relapsed patients, exacerbations of graft-vs-host disease (GVHD) have limited their broader use. Here we review advances in three areas of immunotherapy that have been studied in post-transplant AML: donor lymphocyte infusion (DLI), immune checkpoint inhibitors, and other monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and ligand receptor antagonists. We also discuss additional therapies with proposed immunologic mechanisms, such as hypomethylating agents, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and the FLT3 inhibitor sorafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cole Sterling
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer CenterJohns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore Maryland
| | - Jonathan Webster
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer CenterJohns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore Maryland
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44
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Poiré X, Labopin M, Polge E, Forcade E, Ganser A, Volin L, Michallet M, Blaise D, Yakoub-Agha I, Maertens J, Espiga CR, Cornelissen J, Finke J, Mohty M, Esteve J, Nagler A. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation using HLA-matched donors for acute myeloid leukemia with deletion 5q or monosomy 5: a study from the Acute Leukemia Working Party of the EBMT. Haematologica 2020; 105:414-423. [PMID: 31048355 PMCID: PMC7012466 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2019.216168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Deletion 5q or monosomy 5 (-5/5q-) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a common high-risk feature that is referred to allogeneic stem cell transplantation. However, -5/5q- is frequently associated with other high-risk cytogenetic aberrations such as complex karyotype, monosomal karyotype, monosomy 7 (-7), or 17p abnormalities (abn (17p)), the significance of which is unknown. In order to address this question, we studied adult patients with AML harboring -5/5q- having their first allogeneic transplantation between 2000 and 2015. Five hundred and one patients with -5/5q- have been analyzed. Three hundred and thirty-eight patients (67%) were in first remission and 142 (28%) had an active disease at time of allogeneic transplantation. The 2-year probabilities of overall survival and leukemia-free survival were 27% and 20%, respectively. The 2-year probability of treatment-related mortality was 20%. We identified four different cytogenetic groups according to additional abnormalities with prognostic impact: -5/5q- without complex karyotype, monosomal karyotype or abn(17p), -5/5q- within a complex karyotype, -5/5q- within a monosomal karyotype and the combination of -5/5q- with abn(17p). In multivariate analysis, factors associated with worse overall survival and leukemia-free survival across the four groups were active disease, age, monosomal karyotype, and abn(17p). The presence of -5/5q- without monosomal karyotype or abn(17p) was associated with a significantly better survival rate while -5/5q- in conjunction with monosomal karyotype or abn(17p) translated into a worse outcome. The patients harboring the combination of -5/5q- with abn(17p) showed very limited benefit from allogeneic transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Poiré
- Section of Hematology, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Myriam Labopin
- Acute Leukemia Working Party of the EBMT.,Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR 938, Paris, France.,Service d'Hématologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuelle Polge
- Acute Leukemia Working Party of the EBMT.,Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR 938, Paris, France.,Service d'Hématologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| | | | - Arnold Ganser
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Liisa Volin
- HUCH Comprehensive Cancer Center, Stem Cell Transplantation Unit, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Didier Blaise
- Institut Paoli Calmette, Programme de Transplantation Thérapie Cellulaire, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Carlos Richard Espiga
- Servicio de Hematologica-Hemoterapia, Hospital U. Marquès de Valdecilla, Santander, Spain
| | - Jan Cornelissen
- Department of Hematology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jürgen Finke
- Department of Medicine-Hematology-Oncology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Mohamad Mohty
- Acute Leukemia Working Party of the EBMT.,Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,INSERM UMR 938, Paris, France.,Service d'Hématologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
| | - Jordi Esteve
- Hematology Department, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arnon Nagler
- Acute Leukemia Working Party of the EBMT.,Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
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45
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Rundgren IM, Ryningen A, Anderson Tvedt TH, Bruserud Ø, Ersvær E. Immunomodulatory Drugs Alter the Metabolism and the Extracellular Release of Soluble Mediators by Normal Monocytes. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25020367. [PMID: 31963193 PMCID: PMC7024334 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25020367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) are used in the treatment of hematological malignancies, especially multiple myeloma. IMiDs have direct anticancer effects but also indirect effects via cancer-supporting stromal cells. Monocytes are a stromal cell subset whose metabolism is modulated by the microenvironment, and they communicate with neighboring cells through extracellular release of soluble mediators. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is then a common regulator of monocyte metabolism and mediator release. Our aim was to investigate IMiD effects on these two monocyte functions. We compared effects of thalidomide, lenalidomide, and pomalidomide on in vitro cultured normal monocytes. Cells were cultured in medium alone or activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a TLR4 agonist. Metabolism was analyzed by the Seahorse XF 96 cell analyzer. Mediator release was measured as culture supernatant levels. TLR4 was a regulator of both monocyte metabolism and mediator release. All three IMiDs altered monocyte metabolism especially when cells were cultured with LPS; this effect was strongest for lenalidomide that increased glycolysis. Monocytes showed a broad soluble mediator release profile. IMiDs decreased TLR4-induced mediator release; this effect was stronger for pomalidomide than for lenalidomide and especially thalidomide. To conclude, IMiDs can alter the metabolism and cell–cell communication of normal monocytes, and despite their common molecular target these effects differ among various IMiDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Marie Rundgren
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Scientist Education and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, 5020 Bergen, Norway; (I.M.R.); (A.R.); (E.E.)
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Anita Ryningen
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Scientist Education and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, 5020 Bergen, Norway; (I.M.R.); (A.R.); (E.E.)
| | | | - Øystein Bruserud
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
- Section for Hematology, Department of Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, 5021 Bergen, Norway;
- Correspondence:
| | - Elisabeth Ersvær
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Scientist Education and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, 5020 Bergen, Norway; (I.M.R.); (A.R.); (E.E.)
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46
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Loke J, Malladi R, Moss P, Craddock C. The role of allogeneic stem cell transplantation in the management of acute myeloid leukaemia: a triumph of hope and experience. Br J Haematol 2020; 188:129-146. [PMID: 31823351 PMCID: PMC6972492 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.16355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is the commonest indication for allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) worldwide. The accumulated experience of allografting in AML over the last four decades has provided critical insights into both the contribution of the conditioning regimen and the graft-versus-leukaemia effect to the curative potential of the most common form of immunotherapy utilised in standard clinical practice. Coupled with advances in donor availability and transplant technologies, this has resulted in allo-SCT becoming an important treatment modality for the majority of adults with high-risk AML. At the same time, advances in genomic classification, coupled with progress in the accurate quantification of measurable residual disease, have increased the precision with which allo-mandatory patients can be identified, whilst simultaneously permitting accurate identification of those patients who can be spared the toxicity of an allograft. Despite this progress, disease recurrence still remains a major cause of transplant failure and AML has served as a paradigm for the development of strategies to reduce the risk of relapse - notably the novel concept of post-transplant maintenance, utilising pharmacological or cellular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Loke
- Centre for Clinical HaematologyQueen Elizabeth HospitalBirminghamUK
- University of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Ram Malladi
- Centre for Clinical HaematologyQueen Elizabeth HospitalBirminghamUK
- University of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Paul Moss
- Centre for Clinical HaematologyQueen Elizabeth HospitalBirminghamUK
- University of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Charles Craddock
- Centre for Clinical HaematologyQueen Elizabeth HospitalBirminghamUK
- University of BirminghamBirminghamUK
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47
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Knorr DA, Goldberg AD, Stein EM, Tallman MS. Immunotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia: from allogeneic stem cell transplant to novel therapeutics. Leuk Lymphoma 2019; 60:3350-3362. [PMID: 31335250 PMCID: PMC6928392 DOI: 10.1080/10428194.2019.1639167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy in the form of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) plays an instrumental role in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), with non-transplant modalities of immunotherapy including checkpoint blockade now being actively explored. Here, we provide an overview of the graft versus leukemia (GVL) effect in AML as a window into understanding the prospects of AML immunotherapy. We explore the roles of various cell types in orchestrating anti-leukemic immunity, as well as those contributing to the unique immune suppressive state of myeloid diseases. We discuss specific approaches to engage the immune system, while noting the challenges of the AML antigen landscape and the barriers to immune modulation. We review the potential for immunomodulatory agents in combination with cellular therapies, donor lymphocyte infusion, and following SCT. Finally, to address the challenge of minimal residual disease (MRD) following chemotherapy, we propose combination epigenetic and immunotherapy for the eradication of MRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Knorr
- Leukemia Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics and Immunology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aaron D. Goldberg
- Leukemia Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eytan M. Stein
- Leukemia Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Martin S. Tallman
- Leukemia Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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48
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Bewersdorf JP, Stahl M, Zeidan AM. One plus one does not always equal two, especially with regard to hypomethylating agents: the question of synergy of azacitidine and lenalidomide for treatment of relapsed acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes post allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Expert Rev Hematol 2019; 12:575-578. [PMID: 31225770 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2019.1635005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Key paper evaluation: Craddock C, et al. Combination Lenalidomide and Azacitidine: A Novel Salvage Therapy in Patients Who Relapse After Allogeneic Stem-Cell Transplantation for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Clin Oncol. 2019; 37: 580-8. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT) is the only potentially curative treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). However, most patients relapse after allo-HSCT and treatment options are limited. Craddock et al. reported recently in the Journal of Clinical Oncology results from a small phase Ib study combining azacitidine (AZA) and lenalidomide (LEN) for treatment of 29 patients (24 AML and 5 MDS patients) who relapsed after allo-HSCT. Overall response rate was 24%. Patients who received ≥3 cycles of treatment had a higher response rate and responders had a better survival compared to non-responders (27 months vs. 10 months; p = 0.004). Combination treatment was well tolerated with three cases of graft-versus-host disease. While this study suggests a potential synergistic effect of LEN + AZA combination therapy, many questions remain. Efficacy and safety should be confirmed in larger, ideally randomized, studies. Further research on mechanism of action of this combination, comparison with other treatment combinations (e.g. AZA + venetoclax) and use during other disease stages are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA
| | - Maximilian Stahl
- b Leukemia Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center , New York , NY , USA
| | - Amer M Zeidan
- a Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Hematology, Yale School of Medicine , New Haven , CT , USA.,c Cancer Outcomes, Public Policy, and Effectiveness Research (COPPER) Center, Yale University , New Haven , CT , USA
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