Impact of immunotherapy time-of-day infusion on survival and immunologic correlates in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma: a multicenter cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent studies have demonstrated that earlier time-of-day infusion of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is associated with longer progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) among patients with metastatic melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer. These data are in line with growing preclinical evidence that the adaptive immune response may be more effectively stimulated earlier in the day. We sought to determine the impact of time-of-day ICI infusions on outcomes among patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC).

METHODS

The treatment records of all patients with stage IV RCC who began ICI therapy within a multicenter academic hospital system between 2015 and 2020 were reviewed. The associations between the proportion of ICI infusions administered prior to noon (denoting morning infusions) and PFS and OS were evaluated using univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression.

RESULTS

In this study, 201 patients with mRCC (28% women) received ICIs and were followed over a median of 18 months (IQR 5-30). The median age at the time of ICI initiation was 63 years (IQR 56-70). 101 patients (50%) received ≥20% of their ICI infusions prior to noon (Group A) and 100 patients (50%) received <20% of infusions prior to noon (Group B). Across the two comparison groups, initial ICI agents consisted of nivolumab (58%), nivolumab plus ipilimumab (34%), and pembrolizumab (8%). On univariate analysis, patients in Group A had longer PFS and OS compared with those in Group B (PFS HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.94, Punivar=0.020; OS HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.95, Punivar=0.033). These significant findings persisted following multivariable adjustment for age, sex, performance status, International Metastatic RCC Database Consortium risk score, pretreatment lactate dehydrogenase, histology, and presence of bone, brain, and liver metastases (PFS HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.98, Pmultivar=0.040; OS HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.98, Pmultivar=0.043).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with mRCC may benefit from earlier time-of-day receipt of ICIs. Our findings are consistent with established mechanisms of chrono-immunology, as well as with preceding analogous studies in melanoma and lung cancer. Additional prospective randomized trials are warranted.

Shifting Sociodemographic Characteristics of a Phase I Clinical Trial Population at an NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the Southeast

Racial and ethnic minority populations are consistently under-represented in oncology clinical trials despite comprising a disproportionate share of a cancer burden. Phase I oncology clinical trials pose a unique challenge and opportunity for minority inclusion. Here we compared the sociodemographic characteristics of patients participating in phase 1 clinical trials a National Cancer Institute ( NCI)-designated comprehensive center to all patients at the center, patients with new cancer diagnosis in metropolitan Atlanta and patients with new cancer diagnoses in the state of Georgia. From 2015 to 2020, 2325 patients (43.4% female, 56.6% male) consented to participate in a phase I trial. Grouped self-reported race distribution was 70.3% White, 26.2% Black, and 3.5% other. Of new patient registrations at Winship Cancer Institute (N = 107 497) (50% F, 50% M), grouped race distribution was 63.3% White, 32.0% Black, and 4.7% other. Patients with new cancer diagnoses in metro Atlanta from 2015 to 2016 (N = 31101) were 58.4% White, 37.2% Black, and 4.3% other. Race and sex distribution of phase I patients was significantly different than Winship patients (P < .001). Over time, percent of White patients decreased in both phase I and Winship groups (P = .009 and P < .001, respectively); percentage of females did not change in either group (P = .54 phase I, P = .063 Winship). Although phase I patients were more likely to be White, male, and privately ensured than the Winship cohort, from 2015 to 2020 the percentage of White patients in phase I trials and among all new patients treated at Winship decreased. The intent of characterizing existing disparities is to improve the representation of patients from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds in phase I clinical trials.

Safety and efficacy of durvalumab after concurrent chemoradiation in Black patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

The PACIFIC trial established consolidative durvalumab after concurrent chemoradiation as standard-of-care in patients with stage III or unresectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Black patients, however, comprised just 2% (n = 14) of randomized patients in this trial, warranting real-world evaluation of the PACIFIC regimen in these patients.

METHODS

This single-institution, multi-site study included 105 patients with unresectable stage II/III NSCLC treated with concurrent chemoradiation followed by durvalumab between 2017 and 2021. Overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and grade ≥3 pneumonitis-free survival (PNFS) were compared between Black and non-Black patients using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 105 patients with a median follow-up of 22.8 months (interquartile range, 11.3-37.3 months) were identified for analysis, including 57 Black (54.3%) and 48 (45.7%) non-Black patients. The mean radiation prescription dose was higher among Black patients (61.5 ± 2.9 Gy vs. 60.5 ± 1.9 Gy; p = .031), but other treatment characteristics were balanced between groups. The median OS (not-reached vs. 39.7 months; p = .379) and PFS (31.6 months vs. 19.3 months; p = .332) were not statistically different between groups. Eight (14.0%) Black patients discontinued durvalumab due to toxicity compared to 13 (27.1%) non-Black patients (p = .096). The grade ≥3 pneumonitis rate was similar between Black and non-Black patients (12.3% vs. 12.5%; p = .973), and there was no significant difference in time to grade ≥3 PNFS (p = .904). Three (5.3%) Black patients and one (2.1%) non-Black patient developed grade 5 pneumonitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy and tolerability of consolidative durvalumab after chemoradiation appears to be comparable between Black and non-Black patients.

Advancing immunotherapy in small cell lung cancer

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a rapidly progressive neuroendocrine carcinoma that, until recently, had a very small armamentarium of effective treatments. Advances in DNA sequencing and whole transcriptomics have delineated key subtypes; therefore, SCLC is no longer viewed as a homogeneous cancer. Chemoimmunotherapy with PD1 blockade is now the standard of care for advanced disease, and ongoing research efforts are moving this strategy into the limited stage setting. Combination strategies of immunotherapy with radiation are also under active clinical trial in both limited and extensive stage disease. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a rapidly progressive neuroendocrine carcinoma that, until recently, had a very small armamentarium of effective treatments. Chemoimmunotherapy with immune check point inhibitors is now the standard of care for advanced disease. This comprehensive review provides an overview of current treatment strategies for SCLC, unmet needs in this patient population, and emerging treatment strategies incorporating immunotherapy that will hopefully further improve outcomes for patients.

Characteristics and anatomic location of PD-1+TCF1+ stem-like CD8 T cells in chronic viral infection and cancer

CD8 T cells play an essential role in antitumor immunity and chronic viral infections. Recent findings have delineated the differentiation pathway of CD8 T cells in accordance with the progenitor-progeny relationship of TCF1+ stem-like and Tim-3+TCF1- more differentiated T cells. Here, we investigated the characteristics of stem-like and differentiated CD8 T cells isolated from several murine tumor models and human lung cancer samples in terms of phenotypic and transcriptional features as well as their location compared to virus-specific CD8 T cells in the chronically lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV)-infected mice. We found that CD8 tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in both murine and human tumors exhibited overall similar phenotypic and transcriptional characteristics compared to corresponding subsets in the spleen of chronically infected mice. Moreover, stem-like CD8 TILs exclusively responded and produced effector-like progeny CD8 T cells in vivo after antigenic restimulation, confirming their lineage relationship and the proliferative potential of stem-like CD8 TILs. Most importantly, similar to the preferential localization of PD-1+ stem-like CD8 T cells in T cell zones of the spleen during chronic LCMV infection, we found that the PD-1+ stem-like CD8 TILs in lung cancer samples are preferentially located not in the tumor parenchyma but in tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs). The stem-like CD8 T cells are present in TLSs located within and at the periphery of the tumor, as well as in TLSs closely adjacent to the tumor parenchyma. These findings suggest that TLSs provide a protective niche to support the quiescence and maintenance of stem-like CD8 T cells in the tumor.

Impact of Radiation Dose to the Immune Cells in Unresectable or Stage III Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in the Durvalumab Era

BACKGROUND /PURPOSE

Higher estimated radiation doses to immune cells (EDIC) have correlated with worse overall survival (OS) in patients with locally-advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) prior to the PACIFIC trial, which established consolidative durvalumab as standard-of-care. Here, we examine the prognostic impact of EDIC in the durvalumab era.

MATERIALS/METHODS

This single-institution, multi-center study included patients with unresectable stage II/III NSCLC treated with chemoradiation followed by durvalumab. Associations between EDIC [analyzed continuously and categorically (≤6 Gy vs. >6 Gy)] and OS, progression-free survival (PFS), and locoregional control (LRC) were evaluated by Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional methods.

RESULTS

100 patients were included with median follow-up of 23.7 months. The EDIC >6 Gy group had a significantly greater percentage of stage IIIB/IIIC disease (76.0% vs. 32.6%; p<0.001) and larger tumor volumes (170cc vs. 42cc; p<0.001). There were no differences in early durvalumab discontinuation from toxicity (24.1% vs. 15.2%; p=0.27). Median OS was shorter among the EDIC >6 Gy group (29.6 months vs. not reached; p<0.001). On multivariate analysis, EDIC >6 Gy correlated with worse OS (HR: 4.15, 95%CI: 1.52-11.33; p=0.006), PFS (HR: 3.79; 95%CI: 1.80-8.0; p<0.001), and LRC (HR: 2.66, 95%CI: 1.15-6.18; p=0.023). Analyzed as a continuous variable, higher EDIC was associated with worse OS (HR: 1.34; 95%CI: 1.16-1.57; p<0.001), PFS (HR: 1.52; 95%CI: 1.29-1.79; p<0.001), and LRC (HR: 1.34, 95%CI: 1.13-1.60; p=0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

In the immunotherapy era, EDIC is an independent predictor of OS and disease control in locally advanced NSCLC, warranting investigation into techniques to reduce dose to the immune compartment.

High-Dose Osimertinib for CNS Progression in EGFR+ NSCLC: A Multi-Institutional Experience

Introduction

This multicenter review evaluated the efficacy and safety of osimertinib dose escalation for central nervous system (CNS) progression developing on osimertinib 80 mg in EGFR-mutant NSCLC.

Methods

Retrospective review identified 105 patients from eight institutions with advanced EGFR-mutant NSCLC treated with osimertinib 160 mg daily between October 2013 and January 2020. Radiographic responses were clinically assessed, and Kaplan-Meier analyses were used. We defined CNS disease control as the interval from osimertinib 160 mg initiation to CNS progression or discontinuation of osimertinib 160 mg.

Results

Among 105 patients treated with osimertinib 160 mg, 69 were escalated for CNS progression, including 24 treated with dose escalation alone (cohort A), 34 who received dose-escalated osimertinib plus concurrent chemotherapy and/or radiation (cohort B), and 11 who received osimertinib 160 mg without any prior 80 mg exposure. The median duration of CNS control was 3.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7-5.8) in cohort A, 5.1 months (95% CI, 3.1-6.5) in cohort B, and 4.2 months (95% CI 1.6-not reached) in cohort C. Across all cohorts, the median duration of CNS control was 6.0 months (95% CI, 5.1-9.0) in isolated leptomeningeal progression (n = 27) and 3.3 months (95% CI, 1.0-3.1) among those with parenchymal-only metastases (n = 23). Patients on osimertinib 160 mg experienced no severe or unexpected side effects.

Conclusion

Among patients with EGFR-mutant NSCLC experiencing CNS progression on osimertinib 80 mg daily, dose escalation to 160 mg provided modest benefit with CNS control lasting approximately 3 to 6 months and seemed more effective in patients with isolated leptomeningeal CNS progression.

Comparison of sociodemographic characteristics of a phase 1 clinical trial population at an NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in the Southeast to catchment area

e18591

Background: Racial and ethnic minority populations are consistently under-represented in oncology clinical trials despite comprising a disproportionate share of cancer burden. Due in part to difficulties associated with participation, phase 1 trials pose a unique challenge and opportunity for minority inclusion. Here we examine the sociodemographics of phase 1 clinical trial patients at an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center compared to all patients treated at the center, patients with new cancer diagnoses in metropolitan Atlanta, and the state of Georgia (GA). Methods: Patients enrolled on phase 1 trials at the Winship Cancer Institute (WCI) from 2015-2020, identified from a data warehouse, were compared to new patient registrations at WCI from 2015-2019. Patients with cancer in metro Atlanta and GA were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program: Nov 2018 Submission. Covariates for the phase 1 and institutional cohort included sex, race, ECOG PS, insurance, and age at consent. Covariates for SEER patients included sex, race, and age at diagnosis. Summary statistics are reported for categorical variables using frequencies and percentages, and for continuous variables using mean, median, standard deviation, and range. One-sample proportion tests were utilized to compare observed demographic proportions on phase 1 trials with proportions calculated from new patient registrations at WCI and from SEER case data. Results: From 2015-2020, 2325 patients (43.4% F, 56.6% M) signed consent for phase 1 trials. Grouped race distribution was 70.3% White, 26.2% Black, 3.5% Other. Insurance distribution was 42.9% private, 48% government, 9.1% uninsured/other. Mean age at consent was 61.7 years (MD 63, ran 19-92). Of new patient registrations at WCI in 2015 ( N= 12358) (49.7% F, 50.3% M), grouped race distribution was 64.0% W, 28.2% B, 8% O. Atlanta 2015 SEER patients ( N= 31101) (50.3%F, 49.7%M) showed grouped race distribution 58.4% W, 37.2% B, 4.3% O. Mean age at diagnosis was 62.9. GA 2015 SEER patients ( N= 99487) (48.6%F, 51.4%M) showed grouped race distribution 71.2% W, 26.7% B, 2.1% O. Mean age at diagnosis was 64.2. The race and sex distribution of phase 1 patients was significantly different than proportions calculated from new patient registrations at WCI and SEER data from patients in Atlanta ( p< 0.001). Sex distribution was significantly different than GA SEER patients. Conclusions: Phase 1 patients were significantly more likely to be white and male, compared with patients treated at the cancer center, as well as patients with cancer in Atlanta. Race distribution was not significantly different from patients with cancer in GA. Our intent is to characterize existing disparities in order to increase representation of patients from racial and ethnic minority backgrounds in phase 1 clinical trials.

First-in-human study of pelcitoclax (APG-1252) in combination with paclitaxel in patients (pts) with relapsed/refractory small-cell lung cancer (R/R SCLC)

e20612

Background: Targeting BCL-2/BCL-xL proteins is considered an important approach for anticancer drug development. Investigational pelcitoclax (APG-1252) as a single agent is a novel BCL-2/BCL-xL dual inhibitor, which has demonstrated synergistic antitumor activity in combination with chemotherapy preclinically through targeting both BCL-xL and MCL-1 pathways. The phase I study of pelcitoclax suggested promising antitumor activity and a favorable safety profile. Methods: The primary aim of this study was to determine the safety and preliminary efficacy of pelcitoclax combined with paclitaxel in patients with R/R SCLC. Patients received pelcitoclax 160 mg or 240 mg IV infusion on Days 1, 8, and 15 plus paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 on Days 1 and 8 of a 21-day cycle. The primary endpoint of phase Ib was to characterize the safety and tolerability of the combination. The primary endpoint of phase 2 was the objective response rate (ORR) of pelcitoclax at the RP2D plus paclitaxel using RECIST v1.1. Results: On December 20, 2021, 28 pts (median age, 63 [range, 37-77] years) were enrolled. The median (range) duration of treatment was 84 (7-259) days. The RP2D of pelcitoclax was determined to be 240 mg. A total of 26 pts experienced any grade treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs), including anemia (32.1%); ALT or AST elevation (28.6% each); neutropenia (25%); fatigue, leukopenia, or thrombocytopenia (21.4% each); peripheral neuropathy, nausea, or alopecia (17.9% each); peripheral sensory neuropathy or decreased appetite (14.3% each); and lymphopenia, hyponatremia, or dizziness (10.7% each). A total of 15 pts had at least one ≥ grade 3-4 TRAE, and 11 (39.3%) had serious AEs. No dose-limiting toxicity was reported. A total of 5 of 20 evaluable pts (4 pts in the 240 mg cohort and 1 in the 160 mg cohort) reported PR (ORR 25%), with a median response duration of 83 days. The pharmacokinetics profile showed that pelcitoclax systemic exposure increased between 160 and 240 mg, with an average terminal half-life of 3.7 to 7.4 hours and without any drug-drug interaction. Conclusions: Pelcitoclax was well tolerated at doses of up to 240 mg/week. Treatment with pelcitoclax 240 mg and paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 demonstrated modest antitumor activity in pts with R/R SCLC. Further clinical exploration, preferably in selected patient populations with relevant biomarkers, is warranted to fully elucidate the clinical activity of pelcitoclax. Clinical trial information: NCT04210037.

Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors, Antibody-Drug Conjugates, and Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras: The Pharmacology of Cutting-Edge Lung Cancer Therapies

The number of therapeutic options available for patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer has been led by deeper understanding of molecular drivers, immune function, and fundamental biology. In this article, we describe the relevant clinical pharmacologic characteristics of three broad classes of existing and investigational treatments, with a focus on mechanisms of action, adverse event profiles, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties, and known and predicted resistance pathways. Specifically, within the kinase inhibitor class, agents directed against the RET, MET, and KRAS pathways are reviewed. Additionally, the first antibody-drug conjugates that target HER2 and HER3 are in trials and will ideally be available for patients soon. Finally, proteolysis-targeting chimeras approach pathway inhibition through enzyme degradation rather than target inhibition and are a promising platform for new agents in non-small-cell lung cancer and across cancer types. Each of these classes requires knowledge of clinical pharmacologic principles in development and use to ensure patient care in clinics and trials is optimized and personalized, including dosing and scheduling strategies, potential drug interactions, use in special populations, and monitoring parameters. Ideally, oncologists will continue to have new agents available across the non-small-cell lung cancer treatment spectrum to offer to a patient group that, until relatively recently, had few options.

Trial in progress: A multicenter phase Ib/II study of pelcitoclax (APG-1252) in combination with paclitaxel in patients with relapsed/refractory small-cell lung cancer (R/R SCLC)

TPS8589

Background: Increased expression of BCL-2, BCL-xL, and MCL-1 allows certain tumors to evade apoptosis. Pelcitoclax is a novel, dual BCL-2/BCL-xL inhibitor with strong single-agent antitumor activity against tumor cells addicted to BCL-2, BCL-xL, and BCL-w, and exhibits even broader antitumor activity when administered with chemotherapy. Pelcitoclax reduces tumor growth in SCLC and other human cancer xenograft models, with manageable effects on platelet counts. Preliminary findings from the first-in-human study suggested promising antitumor activity and a favorable safety profile. Methods: This open-label study is evaluating the safety and preliminary efficacy of pelcitoclax combined with paclitaxel in adults with R/R SCLC that has progressed on or after initial treatment. Prior treatments may include platinum-based therapy (± thoracic radiation), immunotherapy, or chemotherapeutic agents other than paclitaxel. Eligible patients have an ECOG performance status of 0-2; adequate organ function; no known bleeding diathesis, immune thrombocytopenic purpura, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, serious gastrointestinal bleeding, or concomitant use of most anticoagulants; and no residual grade ≥ 2 adverse events from previous treatment. In the phase Ib study, the pelcitoclax maximum tolerated dose is being determined using a time-to-event continual reassessment method. In this phase, pelcitoclax is administered by IV infusion over 30 minutes on Days 1, 8, and 15 at dose levels of 80, 160, and 240 mg per week, with fixed-dose paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 on Days 1 and 8 of a 21-day cycle. In addition to a baseline scan within 4 weeks before study entry, computed tomography will be performed every two cycles to evaluate antitumor response. Treatment will continue until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, consent withdrawal, or administrative discontinuation. The primary endpoint of this phase includes dose-limiting toxicity by NCI CTCAE v5.0 over 21 days. After determination of the recommended phase II dose of pelcitoclax in the phase Ib study, the efficacy of pelcitoclax with paclitaxel will be determined in the phase II study using a Simon two-stage design, with overall response rate as the primary endpoint. Other study endpoints in the phase II study include pharmacokinetics of pelcitoclax with paclitaxel, as well as progression-free and overall survival. As of February 8, 2021, 15 of 58 patients had been enrolled. Internal study identifier APG1252SU101. Clinical trial information: NCT04210037.

An open-label phase 1b/2 study of surufatinib in combination with tislelizumab in subjects with advanced solid tumors

TPS2677

Background: Surufatinib (S) is an inhibitor of VEGFR1, 2, & 3; FGFR1; and CSF-1R. In two phase 3 randomized trials (SANET-ep; NCT02588170 & SANET-p; NCT02589821) S demonstrated a manageable safety profile and statistically significant efficacy. Patients (pts) with extrapancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (epNETs) achieved a median progression free survival (PFS) of 9.2 v 3.8 months (mo) (hazard ratio [HR] 0.334; p<0.0001), and pts with pancreatic NETs (pNETs) achieved a median PFS of 10.9 v 3.7 mo (HR 0.491; p=0.0011), with S v placebo, respectively. S was recently approved for the treatment of pts with epNET in China. Tislelizumab (T) is a humanized immunoglobulin G4 anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody engineered to minimize binding to Fc-gamma-receptor on macrophages. T is approved in China in combination with chemotherapy for squamous non-small cell lung cancer and has conditional approval for Hodgkin’s lymphoma and locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma with PD-L1 high expression. The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combination therapy with S and T, which may have synergistic effects, where inhibition of angiogenesis along with stimulation of an immune response may enhance the overall antitumor activity. Methods: This study (NCT04579757) will include pts, ≥18 years of age, with advanced metastatic solid tumors, who have an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 or 1 and have progressed on or are intolerant to standard therapies. The primary objective of part 1 (dose escalation) will be to evaluate the safety and tolerability of S and T to determine the recommended phase 2 dose of the combination. The starting dose in part 1 will be 250 mg of S, orally, daily, and 200mg of T, intravenously, every 3 weeks. The dose of S will be escalated during part 1, while the dose of T will remain fixed. Endpoints include dose limiting toxicities, treatment emergent adverse events, serious adverse events, adverse events leading to discontinuation, electrocardiograms, clinical laboratory abnormalities and vital signs. Antitumor activity will be evaluated as a secondary objective. Six to 12 pts will be enrolled. The primary objective of part 2 (dose expansion) will be to evaluate the objective response rate (ORR) of S in combination with T per RECIST v1.1. The endpoint will be ORR at 12 weeks. Key secondary endpoints include PFS, disease control rate, duration of response, safety endpoints, and PK parameters. Approximately 95 pts with indications of interest will be enrolled: colorectal cancer, neuroendocrine tumors (thoracic and gastroenteropancreatic), small-cell lung cancer, gastric cancer, and soft tissue sarcoma (undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma and alveolar soft part sarcoma). Enrollment in the United States is open and ongoing, and enrollment in Europe is planned for fourth quarter 2021. Clinical trial information: NCT04579757.

Phase I/II study of nivolumab plus vorolanib in patients with thoracic malignancies: Interim efficacy of the SCLC and primary refractory NSCLC cohorts, and safety data across all cohorts

2578

Background: Combination strategies to improve the efficacy of single agent immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly being explored, with one strategy being the addition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition. Having shown promise in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma and renal cell carcinoma, NCT03583086 is a multi-institutional, phase I/II study of combination vorolanib and nivolumab in both naïve and refractory thoracic tumors that progressed on at least one prior line of platinum-based chemotherapy. Though structurally similar to the tyrosine kinase inhibitor, sunitinib, vorolanib was designed to have a more favorable safety profile with comparable efficacy. Here we present safety data across all cohorts and interim efficacy analyses of the SCLC and NSCLC with primary resistance to ICI-based therapy cohorts, both of which have now completed enrolment. Methods: The maximum tolerated dose determined in phase I was vorolanib 200mg daily and nivolumab 240mg q2 weeks. Phase II uses a two-stage MinMax design across 5 cohorts with objective response rate (ORR) as the primary endpoint: NSCLC (ICI naïve, primary refractory, and acquired resistance), SCLC, and thymic carcinoma. Primary refractory is defined as radiographic progression of disease within 12 weeks of ICI initiation. Results: As of January 2021, 75 patients have been enrolled across all cohorts. Stage 1 of the SCLC and primary refractory NSCLC cohorts have completed accrual at 18 and 15 patients, respectively. In the SCLC cohort, disease-control rate (DCR) was 7% and no objective responses were achieved among 14 evaluable patients. In the primary refractory NSCLC cohort, DCR was 57% and ORR 7% (1 partial response) among 14 evaluable patients. A total of 140 treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) have been reported, 13 (9%) were grade 3 and there were no grade 4/5 events. Fatigue (9%), nausea (6%), diarrhea (6%), ALT elevation (5%), and AST elevation (5%) were the most common all grade TRAEs. The most common grade 3 TRAEs were ALT elevation and hypertension. Conclusions: This therapeutic strategy of nivolumab plus vorolanib appears to be a well-tolerated combination with a manageable safety profile. Adding VEGF inhibition may offer additional disease control in the setting of NSCLC with primary resistance to ICIs, but neither the SCLC or primary refractory NSCLC cohorts achieved the pre-determined target number of objective responses for progression to stage 2 of the study. Enrolment in the other 3 cohorts as well as exploratory correlatives are ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT03583086.

An update on the immune landscape in lung and head and neck cancers

Immunotherapy has dramatically changed the treatment landscape for patients with cancer. Programmed death-ligand 1/programmed death-1 checkpoint inhibitors have been in the forefront of this clinical revolution. Currently, there are 6 US Food and Drug Administration-approved checkpoint inhibitors for approximately 18 different histologic types of cancer. Lung cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) are 2 diseases that have led the way in the development of immunotherapy. Atezolizumab, durvalumab, nivolumab, and pembrolizumab are all currently used as part of standard-of-care treatment for different stages of lung cancer. Similarly, nivolumab and pembrolizumab have US regulatory approval as treatment for advanced metastatic HNSCC. This is significant because lung cancer represents the most common and most fatal cancer globally, and HNSCC is the sixth most common. Currently, most of the approvals for the use of immunotherapy agents are for patients diagnosed in the metastatic setting. However, research is ongoing to evaluate these drugs in earlier stage disease. There is plausible biological rationale to expect that pharmacologic activation of the immune system will be effective for early-stage and smaller tumors. In addition, selecting patients who are more likely to respond to immunotherapy and understanding why resistance develops are crucial areas of ongoing research. The objective of this review was to provide an overview of the current immune landscape and future directions in lung cancer and HNSCC.

Integrating Genetic and Genomic Testing Into Oncology Practice

Genetic information, both germline and somatic, is an increasingly important consideration in therapeutic decision-making in cancer. Germline mutations in genes associated with increased cancer risk can identify those individuals without cancer who may benefit from enhanced screening and prevention strategies. In individuals with cancer, germline and somatic mutations may help to guide local and systemic management decisions. Here, we review considerations of these issues in selected cancer types.

YAP1 positive small-cell lung cancer subtype is associated with the T-cell inflamed gene expression profile and confers good prognosis and long term survival

9019

Background: The dominant expression of transcription factors ASCL1, NeuroD1, YAP1 or POU2F3 characteristically defines four small cell lung cancer (SCLC) subtypes (SCLC-A, SCLC-N, SCLC-Y and SCLC-P). The clinical validation and biological relevance of these emerging SCLC subtypes is currently lacking. Methods: Using the Illumina TruSeq RNA Exome Kit, we generated RNA-Seq data from 61 cases of SCLC and pulmonary carcinoid to interrogate gene expression differences in SCLC subtypes as well as in survival outliers (top and bottom decile) matched for clinically relevant prognostic factors and treatment. We also assessed YAP1 protein expression in a blinded fashion by immunohistochemistry in 130 SCLC cases. Results: We successfully classified 68% of SCLC into one of the four SCLC subtypes whereas 81.5% of carcinoids did not fit into any of these categories. GSEA for differentially expressed genes between outlier subgroups showed significant upregulation of interferon gamma and interferon alpha response genes in late survivors. Moreover, a previously validated 18-gene T-cell inflamed gene expression profile was upregulated in late survivors and in the SCLC-Y subtype. Furthermore, the SCLC-Y subtype and late survivors showed higher expression of HLA gene family and reduced expression of cancer testis antigens. The median (95%CI) OS was 14 (4.3, 28.8), 16.7 (0.9, NA), 8.1 (2, 9.7) and 20.1 (0.6, 39.5) months respectively, for SCLC-A, N, P and Y subtypes. YAP-1 protein expression was positive in 17 of 130 (13%) SCLC cases. The majority of cases with positive YAP1 expression by immunohistochemistry, 12 of 17 cases (70.6%), were limited stage SCLC at the time of original diagnosis. Conclusions: SCLC subtypes have clinical implication as predictive and prognostic biomarker. SCLC-Y subtype is enriched for T-cell inflamed phenotype and long term survival, and may predict for clinical benefit of immunotherapy.

KRAS G12C mutation associated outcomes among patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer

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Background: Recent progress in targeted therapy includes the demonstration of promising anti-tumor activity and safety of a KRAS inhibitor in patients with advanced malignancies harboring the G12C somatic mutation ( KRASG12C). KRAS mutations are present in one-third of all non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), of which KRASG12C comprises about 40%. In this study we characterize the outcomes of patients with stage III NSCLC who received radiotherapy, stratified by KRASG12C status. Methods: Level 3 data for NSCLC patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Clinical and somatic mutation data were analyzed for the 118 NSCLC patients with stage III disease whose treatment included radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were then compared between patients whose tumors possess versus lack KRASG12C using Cox proportional hazards regression. Results: This TCGA cohort study consists of 75 males and 43 females with stage III NSCLC (57 adenocarcinomas and 61 squamous cell carcinomas) enrolled between February 2010 and November 2014. Presence of KRASG12C was detected in 7 patients (6%) and conferred poorer OS (HR 3.14, 95% CI 1.12–8.84, P = 0.030) as well as PFS (HR 3.74, 95% CI 1.46–9.56, P = 0.0059) compared to absence of KRASG12C, with median survival of 9.0 versus 28.9 months and median time to progression of 8.5 versus 16.8 months. All 7 patients with KRASG12C had lung adenocarcinomas (ACs). Inferior survival of patients with KRASG12C persisted on subgroup analyses of AC and KRAS mutation status (Table). Conclusions: Among patients with stage III NSCLC in TCGA treated by radiotherapy, those with KRASG12C had significantly worse OS and PFS. Clinical trial of a KRAS inhibitor is a rational next step toward improving outcomes for this patient population, which has yet to be remarkably impacted by existing precision oncology approaches. [Table: see text]

High-dose osimertinib for CNS progression in EGFR+ non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): A multi-institutional experience

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Background: High-dose osimertinib 160 mg QD (osi160) has activity in osi-naïve, EGFR+ NSCLC pts with CNS or leptomeningeal disease (LMD) per the BLOOM trial, but the role of dose-escalation for CNS progression (PD) and/or LMD that develops while on 80 mg QD (osi80) is unclear. We describe here our multi-institutional experience with osi160. Methods: 105 pts from 8 institutions with advanced EGFR+ NSCLC treated with osi160 were retrospectively reviewed. To assess the CNS efficacy of dose escalation for CNS PD, we focused on pts who escalated from osi80 to osi160 for CNS PD without the addition of chemo and/or RT during dose escalation (cohort A, 24 pts). We also examined osi escalation for CNS PD while receiving chemo and/or RT (cohort B, 34 pts) and those who started on osi160 for CNS PD as the initial osi dose without overlapping therapies (cohort C, 11 pts). Radiographic responses were clinically assessed via chart review of scan reports. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used for time-to-event endpoints. We defined median duration of CNS disease control (MedDurCNSCon) on osi160 as time from the start of osi160 to CNS PD or discontinuation of osi160. Results: Among the 105 pts, 69 (26M, 43F; median age 57) EGFR+ NSCLC pts (29 del19, 31 L858R, 9 other) received osi160 for CNS PD between 10/2013 and 1/2020. Median lines of therapy pre-osi was 1 (range 0-8). While all 69 pts had CNS PD at the start of osi160, 61 (90%) had isolated CNS/LMD PD, without systemic PD. In cohort A, osi160 monotherapy had a MedDurCNSCon of 3.8 mos (95% CI, 1.7 – 5.8). Cohort A pts with isolated LMD (11) had MedDurCNSCon 5.8 mos (95% CI, 1.7 – 9) while those with parenchymal mets only (11) had MedDurCNSCon of 2 mos (95% CI, 1 - 4.9). In cohort B, osi160 in combination with RT (22) and/or chemo (14), had a MedDurCNSCon of 5.1 mos (95% CI, 3.1 – 6.5). In cohort C, osi160 monotherapy had a MedDurCNSCon of 4.2 mos (95% CI, 1.6 – NA). Pts on osi160 had no severe or life-threatening side effects. Conclusions: In this real-world cohort of EGFR+ NSCLC pts with CNS and/or LMD PD on osi80, dose escalation to 160 provided modest benefit with median 3.8 mos added CNS disease control. Dose escalation appeared more effective in pts with LMD versus parenchymal disease (MedDurCNSCon of 5.8 vs 2 mos). Treatment intensification with osi escalation plus RT and/or chemo appeared to confer about 1 month additional CNS disease control (power for comparison limited). Osi naïve pts started at 160 for CNS PD derived similar benefit. While limited by small numbers and retrospective design, this study suggests we need improved strategies to optimally manage CNS PD arising on osi80.

An intra-tumoral niche maintains and differentiates stem-like CD8 T cells

Tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes are associated with a survival benefit in several tumour types and with the response to immunotherapy^1-8. However, the reason some tumours have high CD8 T cell infiltration while others do not remains unclear. Here we investigate the requirements for maintaining a CD8 T cell response against human cancer. We find that CD8 T cells within tumours consist of distinct populations of terminally differentiated and stem-like cells. On proliferation, stem-like CD8 T cells give rise to more terminally differentiated, effector-molecule-expressing daughter cells. For many T cells to infiltrate the tumour, it is critical that this effector differentiation process occur. In addition, we show that these stem-like T cells reside in dense antigen-presenting-cell niches within the tumour, and that tumours that fail to form these structures are not extensively infiltrated by T cells. Patients with progressive disease lack these immune niches, suggesting that niche breakdown may be a key mechanism of immune escape.

Abstract 2700: CD8 T-cell infiltration into renal tumors requires a supportive antigen-presenting niche

Background: Tumor infiltrating immune cells have a clear prognostic benefit in many tumor types. Immune variables have independently improved prognostication in various cancer types, with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) more accurately predicting patient survival than currently employed methods. This has been shown using the Immuno-score, which predicts disease progression in colorectal cancer based on CD8 T cell infiltration. Many recent studies have also highlighted similar observations in other cancers, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma. These observations raise the question of whether the level of CD8 T cell infiltration into renal cell tumors may also predict patient survival, and more fundamentally, why some patients may mount a strong immune response to their tumors and others do not.

Methods: Tumor tissue was collected from 68 renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients undergoing surgery at Emory University Hospital. Patients had a minimum follow up time of 24 months. Intraoperative tumor samples were processed and analyzed by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence.

Results: The proportion of CD8 TILs, measured by flow cytometry, was found to vary widely in RCC patients. This CD8 T cell response is independent of standard risk assessment tools, tumor size, pathology, and patient demographics. Significantly, an increasing percent of tumor CD8 T cells is associated with improved cancer-specific survival in these patients, and this association is particularly strong in a small cohort of stage III patients.

The phenotype and functional capacity of TILs were examined, and presence of a stem-like CD8 T cell—that can proliferate and differentiate—was required to generate a strong anti-tumor Tcell response. When this stem-like T cell is lost, there is a poor anti-tumor immune response and patients experience progressive disease. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the number of dendritic cells in the tumor correlates with T cell infiltration, and immunofluorescence image analysis showed that stem-like T cells reside in areas of high antigen-presenting cell density. Tumors with poor T cell infiltration lack APC density, suggesting that an antigen presenting niche is required for a strong T cell response.

Conclusions: Measuring CD8 T cell infiltration in RCC predicts cancer-specific survival, particularly in patients with advanced disease. As this patient population is one for whom improved prognostication is a critical clinical goal, this study represents an opportunity to inform future prognostic measures and to direct reduction or intensification of therapy.

The T cell response was found to be maintained by a population of cells, which harbor both proliferative and differentiation capacity. These stem-like cells require a supportive niche inside the tumor in order to persist, and without this support, the T cell response collapses, resulting in disease progression.

Citation Format: Caroline S. Jansen, Nataliya Prokhnevska, Viraj A. Master, Jennifer W. Carlisle, Mehmet A. Bilen, Adriana M. Reyes, Haydn T. Kissick. CD8 T-cell infiltration into renal tumors requires a supportive antigen-presenting niche [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2700.

Role of osimertinib in the treatment of EGFR-mutation positive non-small-cell lung cancer

Mutations in the EGFR occur in approximately 10–35% of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Osimertinib is a third-generation oral small molecule inhibitor of EGFR, active against the common targetable activating EGFR mutations in L858R and exon 19 deletion; it also inhibits the T790M mutation. It was initially developed and approved for the treatment of acquired resistance to EGFR inhibition mediated by the T790M pathway activation. Recently, the FLAURA trial showed significantly improved progression-free survival with osimertinib compared with the first generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors gefitinib or erlotinib; this has led to its approval by US FDA and European Medicines Agency (EMA) as frontline therapy. Ongoing studies will define the resistance mechanisms to osimertinib, novel combination approaches and role in earlier stages of NSCLC.

The prospects for combination therapy with capecitabine in the rapidly evolving treatment landscape of renal cell carcinoma

INTRODUCTION

Although significant advances have been made in the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC), patients still develop resistance to standard therapies and require the administration of subsequent lines of treatment. New therapeutic approaches are thus imperative to improve the prognosis for patients with RCC.

AREAS COVERED

Based on the current literature, we summarize the treatment of metastatic RCC, including the use of cytotoxic chemotherapy, in this review article. We also review the existing scientific literature regarding the role of capecitabine in the treatment of RCC.

EXPERT OPINION

Currently, targeted therapies including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors are widely used in the treatment of metastatic RCC. More recently, the role of immune checkpoint inhibitors has been established in the treatment of advanced RCC. Traditionally, the use of cytotoxic chemotherapy in the treatment of RCC is limited. However, cytotoxic chemotherapy may have benefit in different types of RCC, such as variant histology. Furthermore, new combinations of chemotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors may provide new treatment options for our patients.

Ultrastructure of the intraerythrocytic stage of Cytauxzoon felis

The erythrocytes of 2 cats experimentally infected with Cytauxzoon felis were examined by light and electron microscopy. In stained blood smears, parasitized erythrocytes usually contained a single, roundish organism, but occasionally up to 4 were present in a cell. Chains of these roundish organisms also were seen. Elongated parasites, sometimes with ear-like projections, were present in a few erythrocytes. By electron microscopy, the parasite contained a poorly defined nucleus, rough endoplasmic reticulum, ribosomes, nonplicated mitochondria, food vacuoles, and a cytostome on its limiting membrane. Usually, the parasite was oval, but budding forms also were evident. Crystalloid inclusions were present in parasitized and nonparasitized erythrocytes.

Ultrastructure of schizonts in the liver of cats with experimentally induced cytauxzoonosis

Schizonts in the liver of 2 cats with cytauxzoonosis were studied by both light and electron microscopies. By light microscopy, the cytoplasm of macrophages in the sinusoids and small vascular channels contained schizonts with cytomeres or both cytomeres and mature merozoites. By electron microscopy, it was determined that schizogony occurred in 4 stages. The earliest stage was the presence of a multilobed structure containing finely granular protoplasm in the cytoplasm of the macrophage. The 2nd stage was an increase in height and number of the lobulations on the surface of the schizont. The 3rd stage involved the development of cytomeres and the appearance of a polar ring and rhoptries in everted sacculations on the cytomere membrane. Nuclei and mitochondria were incorporated into the sacculations before the release of mature merozoites into the host cell cytoplasm. In the last stage of schizogony, following massive merozoite formation and reduction in size of the schizont, residual nuclei divided by multiple fission. Each nuclear division became incorporated into a developing merozoite having preformed rhoptries, mitochondria, and a polar ring.

Tetrameres columbicola (Nematoda: Spiruridae) infection of pigeons: ultrastructure of the gravid female in glands of the proventriculus

The light and electron microscopies of Tetrameres columbicola gravid females in sections of the parasitized proventriculus of pigeons were studied. By light microscopy, the most conspicuous structures in the sectioned parasite were the intestine, ovary, and especially the uterus that contained numerous eggs. By electron microscopy, there was a thick mat of pigment-coated microvilli on the surfaces of the intestinal epithelial cells. The germinal zone of the ovary contained nonmembrane-bound oocytes, but oocytes were confined by a membrane in the growth zone of the ovary. The core of the spermatheca contained oocytes and the periphery harbored sperm. In this location, the unfertilized oocyte had pseudopods; sperm had invaginations of the plasma membrane. After fertilization, there was proliferation of ribosomes within the oocyte. Embryonating eggs in the uterus had thick shells and were partially enveloped by elongations of the uterine epithelial cells. Surfaces of the epithelial cells were pleated and they had electron opaque areas at the points of the pleats. Larvae in eggs had a well developed annulated cuticle and muscular layer. Somatic muscle cells had tailed appendages that protruded into the pseudocoelom. The single layer of cells beneath the hypodermis had lateral processes at the base of the cells that interdigitated with similarly elongated processes of adjacent muscle cells. Striated fibers were present in the central portion of the cells.