A plain language summary of publication of the efficacy and safety of individualized niraparib dosing based on baseline body weight and platelet count in the PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26/GOG-3012 trial

WHAT IS THIS SUMMARY ABOUT?

This document provides a summary of results from the article that evaluated the safety and efficacy of the fixed and individualized starting doses of niraparib in the PRIMA study. The original article was published in the journal Cancer in March 2023. The PRIMA study included adult patients with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer who had finished treatment with chemotherapy and surgery. Once patients entered the study, they were treated with an oral (by mouth) medication called niraparib or placebo (substance with no effects that a doctor gives to a patient instead of a drug). The amount of drug (dose) prescribed for patients to take at the start of treatment was determined by the study plan (a document that describes in detail how the study will be performed). Some patients were treated with a fixed starting dose (300 milligrams [mg] once daily), while others were treated with an individualized dose (200 or 300 mg once daily) based on how much they weighed and the results of their blood test. The individualized dose was tested to see if it improved patient safety without changing its efficacy (how well the drug worked).

WHAT WERE THE RESULTS?

The individualized starting dose of niraparib improved patient safety, with a lower proportion of patients experiencing side effects than the fixed starting dose. The individualized starting dose of niraparib also delayed the cancer from coming back (recurring) or getting worse (progressing) compared with placebo. The delay in the cancer coming back or getting worse with niraparib treatment was generally similar in patients who received the individualized starting dose and those who received the fixed starting dose of niraparib.

WHAT DO THE RESULTS MEAN?

The results support the use of the individualized starting dose of niraparib, which uses a patient's body weight and blood test results to determine how much drug they should receive at the start of treatment. The study found that the individualized starting dose improved safety compared with the fixed starting dose while still delaying the cancer from coming back or getting worse. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT02655016 (PRIMA study) (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Addressing disparities in cancer clinical trials: a roadmap to more equitable accrual

The Georgia Center for Oncology Research and Education (Georgia CORE) and the Georgia Society of Clinical Oncology (GASCO) held a one-day summit exploring opportunities and evidence-based interventions to address disparities in cancer clinical trials. The purpose of the summit was to identify clear and concise recommendations aimed at decreasing clinical trial accrual disparities in Georgia for rural and minority populations. The summit included expert presentations, panel discussions with leaders from provider organizations throughout Georgia, and breakout sessions to allow participants to critically discuss the information presented. Over 120 participants attended the summit. Recognizing the need for evidence-based interventions to improve clinical trial accrual among rural Georgians and persons of color, summit participants identified four key areas of focus that included: improving clinical trial design, providing navigation for all, enhancing public education and awareness of cancer clinical trials, and identifying potential policy and other opportunities. A comprehensive list of takeaways and action plans was developed in the four key areas of focus with the expectation that implementation of the strategies that emerged from the summit will enhance cancer clinical trial accrual for all Georgians.

Phase I Trial of First-line Bintrafusp Alfa in Patients with Locally Advanced or Persistent/Recurrent/Metastatic Cervical Cancer

PURPOSE

Bintrafusp alfa, a first-in-class bifunctional fusion protein composed of the extracellular domain of TGFβ receptor II (a TGFβ "trap") fused to a human IgG1 mAb blocking programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), was evaluated as treatment in patients with locally advanced or persistent, recurrent, or metastatic (P/R/M) cervical cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this multicenter, open-label, phase Ib trial (NCT04551950), patients with P/R/M cervical cancer received bintrafusp alfa 2,400 mg once every 3 weeks plus cisplatin or carboplatin plus paclitaxel with (Cohort 1A; n = 8) or without (Cohort 1B; n = 9) bevacizumab; patients with locally advanced cervical cancer received bintrafusp alfa 2,400 mg every 3 weeks plus cisplatin plus radiation, followed by bintrafusp alfa monotherapy maintenance (Cohort 2; n = 8). The primary endpoint was safety; secondary endpoints included efficacy (including objective response rate) and pharmacokinetics.

RESULTS

At the data cutoff of April 27, 2022, patients in Cohorts 1A, 1B, and 2 had received bintrafusp alfa for a median duration of 37.9, 31.1, and 16.7 weeks, respectively. Two dose-limiting toxicities (grade 4 amylase elevation and grade 3 menorrhagia) unrelated to bintrafusp alfa were observed in Cohort 1B and none in other cohorts. Most treatment-emergent adverse events of special interest were grades 1-2 in severity, most commonly anemia (62.5%-77.8%) and bleeding events (62.5%-77.8%). Objective response rate was 75.0% [95% confidence interval (CI), 34.9-96.8], 44.4% (95% CI, 13.7-78.8), and 62.5% (95% CI, 24.5-91.5) in Cohorts 1A, 1B, and 2, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Bintrafusp alfa had manageable safety and demonstrated clinical activity, further supporting the investigation of TGFβ/PD-L1 inhibition in human papillomavirus-associated cancers, including cervical cancer.

Prospective evaluation of the tolerability and efficacy of niraparib dosing based on baseline body weight and platelet count: Results from the PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26/GOG-3012 trial

BACKGROUND

The PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26/GOG-3012 (NCT02655016) trial was amended to prospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of an individualized starting dose (ISD) regimen of niraparib for first-line maintenance therapy in patients with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer.

METHODS

In the phase 3 PRIMA trial, patients with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer with a complete/partial response to first-line platinum-based chemotherapy (N = 733) were initially treated with a fixed starting dose (FSD) regimen of 300 mg every day. Subsequently, the protocol was amended so newly enrolled patients received an ISD: 200 mg every day in patients with baseline body weight < 77 kg or baseline platelet count < 150,000/µL, and 300 mg every day in all other patients. Efficacy and safety outcomes were assessed by starting dose.

RESULTS

Overall, 475 (64.8%) patients were assigned to an FSD (niraparib, n = 317; placebo, n = 158) and 258 (35.2%) were assigned to an ISD (niraparib, n = 170; placebo, n = 88). Efficacy in patients who received FSD or ISD was similar for the overall (FSD hazard ratio [HR], 0.59 [95% CI, 0.46-0.76] vs. ISD HR, 0.69 [95% CI, 0.48-0.98]) and the homologous recombination-deficient (FSD HR, 0.44 [95% CI, 0.30-0.64] vs. ISD HR, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.22-0.72]) populations. In patients with low body weight/platelet count, rates of grades ≥3 and 4 hematologic treatment-emergent adverse events, dose interruptions, and dose reductions were lower for those who received ISD than for those who received FSD.

CONCLUSIONS

In PRIMA, similar dose intensity, similar efficacy, and improved safety were observed with the ISD compared with the FSD regimen.

Randomized phase II trial of farletuzumab plus chemotherapy versus placebo plus chemotherapy in low CA-125 platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer

OBJECTIVE

The primary purpose of this study was to determine if farletuzumab, an antifolate receptor-α monoclonal antibody, improved progression-free survival (PFS) versus placebo when added to standard chemotherapy regimens in patients with platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer (OC) in first relapse (platinum-free interval: 6-36 months) with low cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) levels.

METHODS

Eligibility included CA-125 ≤ 3 x upper limit of normal (ULN, 105 U/mL), high-grade serous, platinum-sensitive recurrent OC, previous treatment with debulking surgery, and first-line platinum-based chemotherapy with 1st recurrence between 6 and 36 months since frontline platinum-based treatment. Patients received investigator's choice of either carboplatin (CARBO)/paclitaxel (PTX) every 3 weeks or CARBO/pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) every 4 weeks x6 cycles in combination with either farletuzumab [5 mg/kg weekly] or placebo randomized in a 2:1 ratio. Maintenance treatment with farletuzumab (5 mg/kg weekly) or placebo was given until disease progression or intolerance.

RESULTS

214 patients were randomly assigned to farletuzumab+chemotherapy (142 patients) versus placebo+chemotherapy (72 patients). The primary efficacy endpoint, PFS, was not significantly different between treatment groups (1-sided α = 0.10; p-value = 0.25; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.89, 80% confidence interval [CI]: 0.71, 1.11), a median of 11.7 months (95% CI: 10.2, 13.6) versus 10.8 months (95% CI: 9.5, 13.2) for farletuzumab+chemotherapy and placebo+chemotherapy, respectively. No new safety concerns were identified with the combination of farletuzumab+chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Adding farletuzumab to standard chemotherapy does not improve PFS in patients with OC who were platinum-sensitive in first relapse with low CA-125 levels. Folate receptor-α expression was not measured in this study. (Clinical Trial Registry NCT02289950).

ATHENA–MONO (GOG-3020/ENGOT-ov45): A randomized, double-blind, phase 3 trial evaluating rucaparib monotherapy versus placebo as maintenance treatment following response to first-line platinum-based chemotherapy in ovarian cancer

LBA5500

Background: While PARP inhibitors have shown efficacy as first-line (1L) maintenance treatment for patients (pts) with ovarian cancer (OC), questions remain about the pt population that may benefit from their use. ATHENA (NCT03522246) was designed to test if rucaparib may be effective as 1L maintenance treatment in a broad pt population, including those without BRCA mutations or other evidence of homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), or high-risk clinical characteristics such as residual disease. Here we report results from the ATHENA–MONO comparison of rucaparib vs placebo. Methods: Pts with stage III–IV high-grade OC who had completed cytoreductive surgery (R0 permitted) and 4–8 cycles of 1L platinum-doublet (bevacizumab allowed with chemotherapy) with a response were randomized 4:1 to oral rucaparib 600 mg BID or placebo. Pts were stratified by HRD status (as determined by FoundationOne CDx), residual disease status after chemotherapy, and timing of surgery. The primary endpoint of investigator-assessed PFS per RECIST was assessed in a step-down procedure first in the HRD population (BRCA mutant or BRCA wild-type/loss of heterozygosity [LOH] high carcinoma) and then in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population. Blinded independent central review (BICR)–assessed PFS was a stand-alone, secondary endpoint. PFS in BRCA mutant and HRD-negative pts (BRCA wild-type/LOH low) were exploratory endpoints. Results: As of Mar 23, 2022 (visit cutoff), 427 and 111 pts were randomized to rucaparib monotherapy or placebo (median time on treatment, 14.7 and 9.9 mo). PFS data are shown in the Table. Most common grade ≥3 TEAEs were anemia (rucaparib, 28.7% vs placebo, 0%), neutropenia (14.6% vs 0.9%), and ALT/AST increased (10.6% vs 0.9%). Rucaparib dose reduction, interruption, and discontinuation due to TEAEs occurred in 49.4%, 60.7%, and 11.8% of pts. Conclusions: Rucaparib monotherapy is effective as 1L maintenance with significant benefit vs placebo observed in the ITT and HRD populations, as well as the non-nested subgroup of pts without known HRD. Clinical trial information: NCT03522246. [Table: see text]

Cluster-randomized trial to evaluate the implementation of reproductive health care in cancer care delivery in community oncology practices: Results from ECOG-ACRIN E1Q11

1519

Background: Reproductive health (RH) needs of women newly diagnosed with cancer have been poorly addressed. RH management must be aligned with cancer treatment to optimize cancer survivorship. The primary objective of the EROS trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of implementing RH programming to improve RH care among reproductive aged women with cancer. Methods: E1Q11 used a cluster randomized design with 17 NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) Sites randomized to intervention (n = 8) or usual care (n = 9). Intervention sites received study-specific training delivered via webinar and tools to support RH care implementation. Pre-menopausal women aged 15-55 years newly diagnosed with cancer and pre-initiation of treatment were eligible. The primary endpoint was defined as the delivery of RH goal-concordant management within the first 3 months since enrollment. Data were obtained through patient completed questionnaires and medical record abstraction forms at baseline and 3 months. The management rate was analyzed using generalized estimating equations (GEEs) method. Results: From 7/2016 - 4/2021, 434 women enrolled (156 intervention, 278 usual care) and 392 were analyzable. The median age was 41 years. Patients self-identified as White 67.5%; Black 21.1%; Hispanic 15.9%. Most patients had breast cancer (83.5%) and local/regional disease (69.5%). A higher proportion of patients at intervention sites (77.1%, 108/140, 90% CI: 0.71-0.83) received goal-concordant RH care compared to patients enrolled from usual care sites (61.5%; 155/252, 90% CI: 0.56, 0.67). A total of 263/392 (67.1%) patients received goal-concordant RH care within the first 3 months of enrollment. The GEE analysis demonstrated patients enrolled from intervention sites were approximately twice more likely to receive goal- concordant RH care than patients at usual care sites (odds ratio, OR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.30, 3.44, p = 0.003). Younger age (< / = 35 years vs. > 35 years) and better ECOG performance status (PS 0 vs. PS 1-3) were statistically associated with the adoption of RH goal-concordant management (OR = 2.85, 95% CI: 1.59, 5.12, p = 0.0004 and OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.63, p = 0.04, respectively). The intervention effect on the primary endpoint remained after age and PS were adjusted in the model (adjusted OR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.30, 3.84, p = 0.004). Conclusions: The EROS trial demonstrated significant improvement of goal-concordant reproductive health management amongst racially diverse women newly diagnosed with cancer treated in community oncology practices. Sites randomized to intervention more frequently delivered reproductive care compared to usual care sites. Findings support wider implementation of this intervention to improve reproductive health care delivery, improving cancer care quality for pre-menopausal women diagnosed with cancer. Clinical trial information: NCT01806129.

Phase 1 trial of first-line bintrafusp alfa in combination with other anticancer therapies in patients (pts) with locally advanced or advanced cervical cancer

5528

Background: Until the recent FDA approval of pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy ± bevacizumab, there have been limited treatment options that address the underlying biology for pts with persistent, recurrent, or metastatic (P/R/M) or locally advanced (LA) cervical cancer. Persistent HPV infection is associated with 99% of cervical cancers and is linked to upregulation of TGF-β. Bintrafusp alfa, a first-in-class bifunctional fusion protein composed of the extracellular domain of TGF-βRII (a TGF-β “trap”) fused to a human IgG1 mAb blocking PD-L1, has shown promising clinical activity and manageable safety in pts with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer. We report data from a phase 1 trial evaluating safety of first-line bintrafusp alfa plus chemotherapy ± bevacizumab for pts with P/R/M cervical cancer or bintrafusp alfa plus chemoradiotherapy for pts with LA cervical cancer (INTR@PID 046; NCT04551950). Methods: Pts with P/R/M cervical cancer who had not received prior systemic therapy received bintrafusp alfa 2400 mg Q3W plus cisplatin/carboplatin and paclitaxel with (cohort 1A) or without (cohort 1B) bevacizumab. Pts with LA cervical cancer received bintrafusp alfa 2400 mg Q3W plus concurrent weekly cisplatin and radiotherapy followed by maintenance therapy with bintrafusp alfa (cohort 2). Pts were treated until disease progression, death, unacceptable toxicity, or withdrawal. Primary endpoints were safety and tolerability of bintrafusp alfa in combination with current standard-of-care therapies in pts with P/R/M or LA cervical cancer. Results: As of November 25, 2021, 8 pts in cohort 1A, 9 in cohort 1B, and 8 in cohort 2 had received bintrafusp alfa for a median of 11.6, 10.0, and 5.6 cycles, respectively. At the time of this analysis, 11 of 25 pts remained on bintrafusp alfa therapy. Any-grade bintrafusp alfa–related adverse events (AEs) occurred in 75.0%, 100.0%, and 75.0% of pts in cohorts 1A, 1B, and 2, respectively (Table). The most-common grade ≥3 AEs were anemia and hematuria (25.0% each) in cohort 1A and vaginal hemorrhage (22.2%) in cohort 1B. One pt had grade 4 anemia and vaginal hemorrhage in cohort 1B. No treatment-related deaths occurred. AEs led to permanent discontinuation of bintrafusp alfa in 37.5%, 33.3%, and 12.5% of pts in cohorts 1A, 1B, and 2, respectively; the most common any-grade AE was vaginal hemorrhage (22.2%). Conclusions: No new safety signals were observed with first-line bintrafusp alfa plus chemotherapy ± bevacizumab or chemoradiotherapy in pts with P/R/M or LA cervical cancer. Clinical trial information: NCT04551950. [Table: see text]

Dostarlimab in advanced/recurrent (AR) mismatch repair deficient/microsatellite instability–high or proficient/stable (dMMR/MSI-H or MMRp/MSS) endometrial cancer (EC): The GARNET study

5509

Background: Dostarlimab is a programmed death 1 (PD-1) inhibitor approved in the U.S. as a monotherapy in patients (pts) with dMMR AR EC that has progressed on or after treatment with a platinum-containing regimen or dMMR solid tumors that have progressed on or after prior treatment, with no satisfactory alternative treatment options; and in the E.U. as a monotherapy in pts with dMMR/MSI-H AR EC that has progressed on or after treatment with a platinum-containing regimen. Here, we report on efficacy and safety in the 2 expansion cohorts of the GARNET trial that enrolled pts with EC. Methods: GARNET is a multicenter, open-label, single-arm phase 1 study. Pts were assigned to cohort A1 (dMMR/MSI-H EC) or cohort A2 (MMRp/MSS EC) based on local assessment. Pts received 500 mg of dostarlimab IV Q3W for 4 cycles, then 1,000 mg Q6W until disease progression, discontinuation, or withdrawal. The primary endpoints are ORR and DOR by blinded independent central review using RECIST v1.1. Results: For this third interim analysis, 153 dMMR/MSI-H and 161 MMRp/MSS pts were enrolled and dosed. Of these, 143 dMMR/MSI-H and 156 MMRp/MSS pts had measurable disease at baseline and ≥ 6 mo of follow-up and were included in the efficacy-evaluable population. ORRs were 45.5% (dMMR/MSI-H) and 15.4% (MMRp/MSS; Table). Median (m) DORs were not reached (NR; dMMR/MSI-H) and 19.4 mo (MMRp/MSS). Probability of PFS at 6, 9, and 12 mo was 49.5%, 48.0%, and 46.4% in dMMR/MSI-H EC and 35.8%, 31.3%, and 29.4% in MMRp/MSS EC, respectively. mOS was NR (dMMR/MSI-H) and 16.9 mo (MMRp/MSS). Overall, 27 pts (8.6%) discontinued treatment because of a treatment-related adverse event (TRAE; 13 dMMR/MSI-H, 14 MMRp/MSS). The majority of TRAEs were grade 1 or 2. The most common any-grade TRAEs were fatigue (56; 17.8%), diarrhea (46; 14.6%), and nausea (43; 13.7%). No deaths were attributed to dostarlimab in the EC cohorts. Hypothyroidism (12; 8%) was the most common any-grade immune-related TRAE. Conclusions: Dostarlimab demonstrated durable antitumor activity in both dMMR/MSI-H and MMRp/MSS AR EC. dMMR/MSI-H was associated with better outcomes: a higher response rate and longer PFS and OS. Safety was consistent with other PD-1 antibodies. Clinical trial information: NCT02715284. [Table: see text]

Adavosertib with Chemotherapy in Patients with Primary Platinum-Resistant Ovarian, Fallopian Tube, or Peritoneal Cancer: An Open-Label, Four-Arm, Phase II Study

PURPOSE

This study assessed the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of adavosertib in combination with four chemotherapy agents commonly used in patients with primary platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Women with histologically or cytologically confirmed epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer with measurable disease were enrolled between January 2015 and January 2018 in this open-label, four-arm, multicenter, phase II study. Patients received adavosertib (oral capsules, 2 days on/5 days off or 3 days on/4 days off) in six cohorts from 175 mg once daily to 225 mg twice daily combined with gemcitabine, paclitaxel, carboplatin, or pegylated liposomal doxorubicin. The primary outcome measurement was overall response rate.

RESULTS

Three percent of patients (3/94) had confirmed complete response and 29% (27/94) had confirmed partial response. The response rate was highest with carboplatin plus weekly adavosertib, at 66.7%, with 100% disease control rate, and median progression-free survival of 12.0 months. The longest median duration of response was in the paclitaxel cohort (12.0 months). The most common grade ≥3 adverse events across all cohorts were neutropenia [45/94 (47.9%) patients], anemia [31/94 (33.0%)], thrombocytopenia [30/94 (31.9%)], and diarrhea and vomiting [10/94 (10.6%) each].

CONCLUSIONS

Adavosertib showed preliminary efficacy when combined with chemotherapy. The most promising treatment combination was adavosertib 225 mg twice daily on days 1-3, 8-10, and 15-17 plus carboplatin every 21 days. However, hematologic toxicity was more frequent than would be expected for carboplatin monotherapy, and the combination requires further study to optimize the dose, schedule, and supportive medications.

Maintenance vigil immunotherapy in newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer: Efficacy assessment of homologous recombination proficient (HRP) patients in the phase IIb VITAL trial

5502

Background: In the VITAL (NCT02346747) trial, maintenance therapy with Vigil, an autologous tumor cell vaccine transfected with a DNA plasmid encoding GMCSF and bi-shRNA-furin for TGFβ expression control, following frontline platinum-based chemotherapy led to a recurrence-free survival (RFS) benefit in patients with advanced high-grade ovarian cancer (HR=0.69, 90% CI 0.44–1.07, p=0.078) and significantly in BRCA-wt patients (HR=0.51, 90% CI 0.30-0.88, p=0.020) ( Rocconi et al. Lancet Oncol. 2020). Here we report post-hoc HR deficiency (HRD) subgroup analysis and identification of an additional molecular subgroup sensitive to Vigil therapy involving STRING analysis. Methods: This double-blind, placebo-controlled, Phase 2b study randomized 92 patients with newly diagnosed stage III/IV ovarian cancer with a complete clinical response (CR) to frontline surgery and chemotherapy. Patients received 1 x 10e7 cells/ml of Vigil or placebo intradermally once a month for up to 12 doses or disease progression. RFS was the primary endpoint assessed by blinded independent central review. HRD status was determined according to the Myriad Genetics myChoice CDx assay (HRD score < 42 for proficient). Using tumor annotated DNA polymorphism data, a protein-protein interaction network was constructed using the STRING database. Properties of this network including topological distance and the identification of hub genes were used to predict a target molecular population sensitive to Vigil. Results: In the per-protocol population (PP, n=91), 62 BRCA-wt patients were tested for HRD status. Forty-five patients were HR proficient (HRP) and 17 patients were HR deficient (HRD). No HRP patients in the Vigil group reported treatment related Grade 3 or higher adverse events. From the time of study randomization median RFS was improved with Vigil (n=25) in HRP patients compared to placebo (n=20) (Table 1). Similarly, overall survival (OS) benefit was observed in the Vigil group compared to placebo (Table 1). Improved RFS was demonstrated for a subset of patients with STRING predicted molecular profile. Conclusions: Vigil immunotherapy as frontline maintenance in Stage III/IV ovarian cancer is well tolerated and showed clinical benefit in both BRCA-wt and HRP molecular profile patients. Results suggest a unique molecular network that enhances sensitivity to Vigil therapy. Clinical trial information: NCT02346747. [Table: see text]

Standardization of lower extremity quantitative lymphedema measurements and associated patient-reported outcomes in gynecologic cancers

Practice changing standardization of lower extremity lymphedema quantitative measurements with integrated patient reported outcomes will likely refine and redefine the optimal risk-reduction strategies to diminish the devastating limb-related dysfunction and morbidity associated with treatment of gynecologic cancers. The National Cancer Institute (NCI), Division of Cancer Prevention brought together a diverse group of cancer treatment, therapy and patient reported outcomes experts to discuss the current state-of-the-science in lymphedema evaluation with the potential goal of incorporating new strategies for optimal evaluation of lymphedema in future developing gynecologic clinical trials.

Immune Activation in Patients with Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer Treated with Ipilimumab Following Definitive Chemoradiation (GOG-9929)

PURPOSE

A phase I clinical trial (GOG-9929) examined the safety and efficacy of adjuvant immune-modulation therapy with the checkpoint inhibitor ipilimumab [anti-CTL antigen-4 (anti-CTLA-4)] following chemoradiation therapy (CRT) for newly diagnosed node-positive human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cervical cancer. To better understand the mechanism of action and to identify predictive biomarkers, immunologic and viral correlates were assessed before, during, and after treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-one patients who received CRT and ≥2 doses of ipilimumab and 5 patients who received CRT only were evaluable for translational endpoints. Circulating T-cell subsets were evaluated by multiparameter flow cytometry. Cytokines were evaluated by multiplex ELISA. HPV-specific T cells were evaluated in a subset of patients by IFNγ ELISpot.

RESULTS

Expression of the activation markers ICOS and PD-1 significantly increased on T-cell subsets following CRT and were sustained or increased following ipilimumab treatment. Combined CRT/ipilimumab treatment resulted in a significant expansion of both central and effector memory T-cell populations. Genotype-specific E6/E7-specific T-cell responses increased post-CRT in 1 of 8 HPV16⁺ patients and in 2 of 3 HPV18⁺ patients. Elevation in levels of tumor-promoting circulating cytokines (TNFα, IL6, IL8) post-CRT was significantly associated with worse progression-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate that CRT alone and combined with ipilimumab immunotherapy show immune-modulating activity in women with locally advanced cervical cancer and may be a promising therapeutic option for the enhancement of antitumor immune cell function after primary CRT for this population at high risk for recurrence and metastasis. Several key immune biomarkers were identified that were associated with clinical response.

A phase I combination study of vigil and atezolizumab in recurrent/refractory advanced-stage ovarian cancer: Efficacy assessment in BRCA1/2-wt patients

3002

Background: Recent studies have shown poor clinical outcomes and limited survival advantage to checkpoint inhibitors (CIs) in advanced stage ovarian cancer (OvC). Vigil is a personalized precision vaccine constructed from autologous tumor tissue transfected with a DNA plasmid encoding GM-CSF and bi-shRNA-furin thereby creating TGFβ expression control and enhancing immune activation. Phase 1 and 2 trials in OvC demonstrate safety, functional immune activation and clinical response benefit. Combining Vigil with CIs may broaden responsiveness of immunotherapy in OvC. Methods: This is a randomized, 3-part safety Phase 1 study of Vigil in combination with Atezolizumab in recurrent OvC patients. Part 2 is a randomized, intra-patient crossover study of Vigil first (VF) or Atezolizumab first (AF) for two cycles followed by sequence of the combination of the two agents. Vigil (1 x 106 or 1 x 107 cells/ml) or Atezolizumab (1200mg) were administered 1x every 21 days each cycle until progression or untoward adverse event. We now report the preliminary results of part 2 of the study. Results: Twenty-one patients were randomized (1:1) to VF (n = 11) or AF (n = 10), groups were similar in demographics. Grade 3/4 toxic events occurred in 17% of AF patients compared to 3% in VF patients. Median OS of VF patients (n = 11) was not reached vs. AF (n = 10) 10.8 months suggested modest advantage to VF (HR 0.33, one-sided p 0.097). However, the subset analysis of BRCA1/2 wild type (wt) demonstrated more significant overall survival benefit in VF (n = 7) median OS not reached vs. AF (n = 7) 5.2 months (HR 0.12, one-sided p 0.015). Conclusions: The combination of Vigil immunotherapy and checkpoint inhibitor atezolizumab in recurrent OvC demonstrated safety and suggest a lower toxicity profile and a significant OS advantage in recurrent BRCA1/2-wt OvC patients treated with Vigil first followed by the combination of Vigil and Atezolizumab. Clinical trial information: NCT03073525 . [Table: see text]

Niraparib exposure-response relationship in patients (pts) with newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer (AOC)

6051

Background: Niraparib improves progression-free survival (PFS) in pts with newly diagnosed AOC after complete or partial response to first-line, platinum-based chemotherapy. In the PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26/GOG-3012 (PRIMA) trial, pts were treated with a fixed starting dose (FSD) of 300 mg QD until a protocol amendment introduced the individualized starting dose (ISD) regimen: 200 mg QD for pts with baseline bodyweight (BW) < 77 kg and/or platelet count (PC) < 150,000/µL, or 300 mg QD for pts with baseline BW ≥77 kg and PC ≥150,000/µL. Here, we developed a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model for niraparib and evaluated exposure-response relationships for pts receiving niraparib using safety and efficacy data from PRIMA. Methods: The PopPK model for niraparib was developed based on 7418 plasma samples from 1442 pts from 4 studies: PN001, NOVA, QUADRA, and PRIMA. PRIMA PK samples were collected on cycle 1, day 1 (C1D1), C2D1 pre-dose and 2 h post-dose, C4D1, and C8D1 pre-dose (or EOT if patient discontinued before C8D1). The relationship between PopPK model-based prospective exposure (average concentration [ Cave] until progression/death) and efficacy (PFS) were evaluated in pts receiving niraparib in both the homologous-recombination deficient (HRd) and overall population. The relationship between model-predicted exposure metrics and incidence of clinically relevant adverse events (AEs) was analyzed using univariate logistic regression in pts receiving niraparib. Results: Of 484 pts receiving niraparib in PRIMA, 480 had PK data and were included in the efficacy and safety analysis. The safety exposure-response showed significant associations ( p≤0.0128) between increasing niraparib exposure and increasing probability of experiencing any-grade and grade ≥3 AEs, except grade ≥3 hypertension. The incidence of AEs, including thrombocytopenia, was lower in pts who received a 200-mg ISD. Efficacy was not compromised in these pts. Conclusions: Niraparib exposure was associated with increased risk of select AEs. However, the ISD regimen decreased AE risk without compromising efficacy. Clinical trial information: NCT02655016.

Evaluation of an individualized starting-dose of niraparib in the PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26/GOG-3012 study

6050

Background: Niraparib is approved at a fixed starting dose (FSD) of 300 mg QD for maintenance treatment of patients (pts) with recurrent ovarian cancer (OC) achieving a complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy based in the ENGOT-OV16/NOVA study. A post-hoc analysis of NOVA showed baseline bodyweight (BW) and platelet count (PC) were predictive for hematologic toxicities and dose reductions. Following this analysis, the PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26/GOG-3012 study was amended to prospectively evaluate the safety and efficacy of an individualized starting dose (ISD) regimen. Methods: This double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase III study randomized 733 pts with newly diagnosed advanced OC with a complete or partial response to first-line (1L) platinum-based chemotherapy. The protocol was amended to change the dose from 300 mg FSD for all patients to an ISD regimen: 200 mg QD in pts with BW <77 kg and/or PC <150,000/µL or 300 mg QD in pts with BW ≥77 kg and PC ≥150,000/µL. Exposure, efficacy, and safety data were compared between patients treated with FSD vs ISD. Results: Efficacy in the ISD subgroup was comparable to the FSD subgroup relative to placebo (Table). An interaction test showed no treatment difference between ISD and FSD at the pre-specified 0.10 significance level ( p=0.30). Medians for dose intensity and relative dose intensity in pts who received niraparib were similar. The overall safety profile among pts in the niraparib arm (n=484), including grade ≥3 hematologic toxicities, improved with the ISD. Conclusions: The ISD in the 1L maintenance setting provides comparable efficacy to the FSD while reducing the risk of hematologic toxicities. No new safety signals were identified. Clinical trial information: NCT02655016. [Table: see text]

Cediranib in combination with olaparib in patients without a germline BRCA1/2 mutation with recurrent platinum-resistant ovarian cancer: Phase IIb CONCERTO trial

6056

Background: A Phase I trial (NCT01116648) of cediranib (cedi) in combination with olaparib (ola) (cedi + ola) demonstrated an overall response rate of 44% in patients (pts) with recurrent ovarian cancer (OC), including pts without a deleterious or suspected deleterious gBRCAm (non-gBRCAm; Liu et al. Eur J Cancer 2013). The subsequent Phase II trial (NCT01116648) showed significant improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) with cedi + ola versus ola monotherapy in recurrent platinum-sensitive OC pts, notably in non-gBRCAm pts (Liu et al. Lancet Oncol 2014). We report data from the Phase IIb, single-arm, open-label CONCERTO study investigating cedi + ola in non-gBRCAm pts with recurrent platinum-resistant OC who had received ≥3 previous lines of therapy for advanced OC (NCT02889900). Methods: Pts with disease progression <6 months from the last receipt of platinum-based chemotherapy received cedi tablets (30 mg once daily) plus ola tablets (200 mg twice daily) until progression or unacceptable toxicity. gBRCAm pts were ineligible. Primary endpoint: objective response rate (ORR) by independent central review (ICR; RECIST 1.1). Key secondary endpoints: PFS and safety. Results: 60 pts from the USA were included (median age: 64.5 years; median number of previous systemic treatment regimens: 4 [range: 2–9]; previous bevacizumab: 53). All pts had high-grade OC (90% serous; 3.3% clear cell; 3.3% endometrioid; 3.3% other). 7% of pts had tumor BRCA2 (confirmed somatic) mutations, 80% of pts had no tumor BRCA mutation (non-tBRCAm) and 13% of pts were not evaluable for tBRCAm. Five (8%) pts who were non-tBRCAm carried somatic homologous recombination repair gene mutations (FoundationOne Clinical Trial Assay, Foundation Medicine, Inc). The Table shows results of key endpoints. Most common grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs) that occurred in pts were hypertension (30%), fatigue (22%) and diarrhea (13%). 37% of pts reported serious AEs, of which nausea (7%) was most common. Dose interruptions, reductions and discontinuations were caused by AEs in 55%, 18% and 18% of pts, respectively, who received cedi + ola. Conclusions: Cedi + ola showed evidence of antitumor activity in heavily pretreated non-gBRCAm pts with recurrent platinum-resistant OC. Toxicity was manageable with dose modifications. Clinical trial information: NCT02889900. [Table: see text]

Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of primary maintenance vigil immunotherapy (VITAL study) in stage III/IV ovarian cancer: Efficacy assessment in BRCA1/2-wt patients

6017

Background: Vigil is an autologous tumor cell vaccine constructed from autologous harvested tumor tissue transfected with a DNA plasmid encoding GMCSF and bi-shRNA-furin thereby creating TGFβ expression control. Methods: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of Vigil vs. placebo was performed in advanced stage frontline OC patients. Relapse-free survival (RFS) and safety were endpoints. Patients who achieved complete clinical response were randomized [1:1 to placebo (control group, CG) or Vigil (Vigil group, VG)] after completion of frontline surgery and chemotherapy. All patients received 1 x 10e7 cells/ml of Vigil or placebo intradermally once a month for up to 12 doses. Results: Ninety-two patients were randomized with 91 patients in the per-protocol population (PP), (VG n=46; CG n=45). 62 patients were tested for BRCA1/2 status. VG showed no added overall toxicity compared to CG and no grade 4/5 toxicities were observed. Grade 2/3 toxic events were observed in 18% of CG patients (most common bone pain, fatigue) compared to 8% of VG patients (most common nausea, musculoskeletal pain). From time of randomization median RFS for all 91 patients was favorable in the VG (HR 0.69, one-sided p 0.088).Stratified by BRCA status, an advantage in RFS was seen in the BRCA1/2-wt patients in VG (19.4 mo) compared to CG (8 mo) (HR 0.51, 90% CI 0.26 – 1.01, one-sided p 0.050) from time of randomization and HR of 0.49 (90% CI 0.25 – 0.97, one-sided p 0.038) from time of surgery. Median time from surgery to randomization was 208.5 days (6.9 mo) in VG vs. 200 days (6.6 mo) in CG. 37.5% BRCA1/2-wt Vigil treated patients relapsed compared to 71% of placebo at time of data snap for analysis (HR 0.51, one-sided p 0.05), (median follow-up of 34.3 mo for all n=91 subjects). Germline and somatic BRCA1/2 molecular testing via central third party is underway on all 91 patients under continued blinded conditions to validate activity in BRCA1/2-wt. Conclusions: Vigil immunotherapy as frontline maintenance in Stage III/IV ovarian cancer is well tolerated and showed RFS clinical benefit, particularly in BRCA1/2-wt disease. Clinical trial information: NCT02346747. [Table: see text]

Identification of a transcriptomic signature with excellent survival prediction for squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix

Survival for patients with newly diagnosed cervical cancer has not significantly improved over the past several decades. We sought to identify a clinically relevant set of prognostic genes for squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix (SCCC), the most common cervical cancer subtype. Using RNA-sequencing data and survival data from 203 patients in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we conducted a series of analyses using different decile cutoffs for gene expression to identify genes that could indicate large and consistent survival differences across different decile cutoffs of gene expression. Those analyses identified 42 high-risk genes. A patient's survivability could be estimated by simply counting the number of high-risk genes with extremely high expression (above the 90^th percentile) or estimating a transcriptomic risk score (TRS) using a machine learning algorithm with 9 of the 42 genes. On multivariate analysis, the significant predictors of mortality included high TRS (HR = 44.8), stage IV (HR = 28.1), intermediate TRS (HR = 4.75), and positive lymph node status (HR = 2.92). Approximately 18% of earlier-stage patients were identified as a poor-prognosis subgroup with high TRS. In patients with SCCC, transcriptomic risk appears to better predict survival than clinical prognostic factors, including stage.

Use of nivolumab as salvage therapy in heavily pretreated patients with gynecologic malignancies

5593

Background: There are limited effective treatments for gynecologic cancer patients who have been previously treated with multiple lines of chemotherapy. Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has demonstrated significant activity in certain cancers but has been inconclusive in most gynecologic malignancies. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of salvage ICI therapy in heavily pretreated gynecologic oncology patients. Methods: An IRB approved retrospective study was performed of women with gynecologic cancer treated with nivolumab on a compassionate use program between October 2015 and January 2018. Patient demographics, disease characteristics, pathology and treatment history were collected. Survival probabilities were calculated. Results: Twenty-eight women were identified. Median age at start of treatment was 63 years with a median of 4 prior lines of chemotherapy. Median ECOG status was 2. Disease site was evenly distributed among uterus, ovary and cervix. 67.9% of patients completed 3 or more cycles of treatment. Median PFS of all patients was only 2.6 months however when comparing patients who received 2-3 cycles (n = 13) with those who received 4 or more (n = 9), median PFS was statistically significant 2.4 months vs 6.4 months (p = 0.0005). When looking at treatment response, 7 patients had partial response/stable disease after 3 cycles (25%). Median PFS of the 7 “responders” was 6.6 months vs 2.5 months of the non-responders (p < 0.001). Only 1 of 9 patients with uterine cancer had a disease response and that patient’s tumor was MSI high. Five patients had low grade serous ovarian cancer. Four of them had a treatment response with a median PFS of 6.1 months (range 3.8 – 25 months). Adverse events were experienced by 68% of patients; most commonly being fatigue (46.4%), arthralgia (25%), and anemia (21.4%). Only 1 patient experienced a grade 3-4 event (a diffuse maculopapular rash). Conclusions: In patients with heavily pretreated gynecologic malignancies with suboptimal performance status, immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy may prolong survival without significant toxicity. Also, there may be a role for ICI in patients with historically chemo resistant low grade serous ovarian cancers.

DPX-Survivac and intermittent low-dose cyclophosphamide (CPA) with or without epacadostat (E) in the treatment of subjects with advanced recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer (DeCidE1 trial): T cell responses and tumor infiltration correlate with tumor regression

5576

Background: DPX-Survivac is a novel T cell activating therapy designed to elicit an effective immune response against recurrent ovarian cancers that express the survivin protein. The survivin specific T cells induced by DPX-Survivac can infiltrate the tumors and are associated with clinical responses. It is likely that achieving an anti-tumor effect requires a favorable ratio of T cells to tumor cells. Epacadostat (E) is an IDO1 enzyme inhibitor that may enhance effector T cell proliferation, shifting the tumor microenvironment (TME) away from an immunosuppressive state toward one supporting productive immune response. Methods: Recurrent ovarian cancer patients with advanced and metastatic progressive disease were treated with DPX-Survivac, intermittent low dose CPA with or without E. In the Phase 1b, 53 subjects were enrolled to receive DPX-Survivac, low dose CPA and E BID. In the Phase 2, 12 subjects were randomized to receive DPX-Survivac and low dose CPA with or without E. The data on immunological responses, biomarkers, and clinical responses were analyzed in relation to the baseline sum of target lesions per RECIST 1.1. Results: The study showed that DPX-Survivac and intermittent low dose CPA with or without E can generate strong T cell responses. The infiltration of tumors with survivin-specific T cells correlates with the observed tumor regression. The sum of target tumor measurements at baseline by RECIST 1.1 correlated with observed clinical benefits. In the group of 15 patients with the baseline sum of target lesions less than 5 cm, all subjects have shown clinical benefits. Four of these subjects reached partial response and remained without progression over a prolonged period. Conclusions: The treatment studied leads to strong survivin-specific T cell responses. Infiltration of tumors by survivin-specific T cells correlated with clinical benefit in treated subjects. A predictive model based on tumor size to improve response to DPX-Survivac in recurrent ovarian cancer is being prospectively explored. Clinical trial information: NCT02785250.

Adavosertib with chemotherapy (CT) in patients (pts) with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PPROC): An open label, four-arm, phase II study

5513

Background: Adavosertib (AZD1775; A), a highly selective WEE1 inhibitor, demonstrated activity and tolerability in combination with carboplatin (C) in primary PROC. This study (NCT02272790) assessed the objective response rate (ORR) and safety of A in PROC. Methods: Pts with recurrent RECIST v1.1 measurable PROC received A with C, gemcitabine (G), weekly paclitaxel (P), or pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) in 3- (C) or 4-week (G, P, PLD) cycles (Table). Tumor assessments were performed every 2 cycles until disease progression. Primary objective: ORR; other objectives: disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS) and safety. Results: In the 94 pts treated (median treatment duration 3 months; range 0–16 months), outcomes were greatest with A (weeks [W]1–3) + C (Table), with ORR of 67% and median PFS (mPFS) of 10.1 months for this cohort. Most common grade ≥3 treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) are shown in the Table, with hematologic toxicity most notable with A (W1–3) + C. TEAEs led to A dose interruptions, reductions and discontinuations in 63%, 30% and 13% of the whole cohort, respectively. A possible positive relationship between CCNE1 amplification and response warrants further investigation. Conclusions: A shows preliminary efficacy when combined with CT. Pts receiving A (W1–3) + C showed greatest benefit. The increased but not unexpected hematologic toxicity is a challenge and could be further studied to optimize the dose schedule and supportive medications. Clinical trial information: NCT02272790. [Table: see text]

Healthy lifestyle intervention for African American uterine cancer survivors: Study protocol

BACKGROUND

Cancer of the uterine corpus is the most common gynecologic malignancy and the fourth most common cancer in U.S. women. There is a racial disparity in the survival from endometrial cancer and this may be addressed by culturally-tailored lifestyle interventions to help African American (AA) endometrial cancer survivors lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

OBJECTIVE

The overall purpose of this pilot study is to develop and evaluate a culturally-tailored lifestyle intervention to help AA uterine cancer survivors reduce their risk of cancer recurrence and improve their quality of life through healthy eating, physical activity, and weight management. While many interventions have been evaluated to assist cancer survivors through diet and physical activity, few have focused on AA women with a uterine cancer diagnosis.

METHODS

Community-engaged research principles are being followed. This study was developed with input from the Augusta University (AU) College of Nursing Community Advisory Board (CAB) and the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the Georgia Cancer Center at AU. Weekly sessions throughout a 12-week intervention will include physical activity and lectures on improving nutritional status. The pre/post-test design includes baseline and 6-month follow-up, where participants will complete a questionnaire that assesses knowledge and attitudes about physical activity, nutrition, uterine cancer, social support, and quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

From this pilot study, we will learn more about the feasibility and integration of healthy lifestyle interventions in this patient population, and the results can provide an opportunity for a larger-scale, multi-center study with a randomized controlled design.

ENGAGE: Evaluation of a streamlined oncologist-led BRCA mutation (BRCAm) testing and counselling model for patients with ovarian cancer

5559

Background: Short BRCAm testing turnaround times (TAT) are crucial to making timely treatment decisions for patients (pts) with ovarian cancer. ENGAGE (NCT02406235; D0816R00006) evaluated a streamlined, oncologist-led germline BRCAm testing model, piloted by the Institute of Cancer Research and the Royal Marsden Hospital, London, UK. Results presented are from the final analysis (data cut-off: 30 Sep 2016). Methods: This prospective, observational study enrolled pts with ovarian cancer across sites in the US (n = 11), Italy (n = 8) and Spain (n = 7). Oncologists and nurses at participating sites were trained on genetic counselling techniques relating to BRCAm testing. Primary endpoints were BRCAm testing TAT (time from initial counselling to the provision of test results or post- BRCAm test counselling [whichever occurred latest]); pts’ satisfaction with the oncogenetic testing model, evaluated using pre- and post- BRCAm testing surveys; and clinicians’ opinion on the value of this new testing pathway, evaluated using a post- BRCAm testing survey. Results: For the 700 evaluable pts enrolled (US = 317; EU = 383), pre- BRCAm testing counselling was carried out by either an oncologist (40.7%) or clinical staff (nurse or research coordinator; 59.3%) in the US, and only by oncologists in the EU. The median overall TAT was 9.1 weeks (all pts), with 12.0 weeks in Spain, 20.4 weeks in Italy (17.4 weeks EU median) and 4.1 weeks in the US. The differences were mainly due to the time from BRCAm testing to obtaining the test results. Satisfaction with the overall counselling was high amongst pts, with a mean dimension score rating of 3.8/4 (where 4.0 = highest satisfaction). 93.6% of pts were happy to have received genetic testing as part of an existing oncologist appointment, and more than 80% of oncologists were satisfied with the screening process, agreeing that it was an efficient use of their time. Conclusions: The ENGAGE study results show that a streamlined oncologist-led BRCAm testing model can offer reduced TAT and high levels of satisfaction amongst pts and clinicians. The success of this model is enhanced by access to a BRCAm testing facility, from which results can be obtained quickly. Clinical trial information: NCT02406235; D0816R00006.

A phase I study of sequential ipilimumab in the definitive treatment of node positive cervical cancer: GOG 9929

5526

Background: The outcome of lymph node positive (LN) cervical cancer (CC) with chemoradiation (CRT) is dismal, especially with involved para-aortic nodes (PAN). The anti-CTLA-4 immune checkpoint inhibitor ipilimumab (ipi) holds promise. We report the safety, tolerability, and efficacy in this GOG phase I study examining sequential ipi after CRT for CC. Methods: Patients (pts) with LN CC were treated with 6 weekly doses of cisplatin (40 mg/m2) and extended field radiation (RT). 2-6 weeks after RT, if there was no progression of disease, sequential ipi was given at the following dose levels: dose level 1: 3mg/kg, level 2: 10mg/kg, and an expansion cohort of 10mg/kg. The primary endpoints (endpts) were the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) of adjuvant ipi. Secondary endpt included the 1-yr disease free survival (DFS). Translational endpts included the effect of CRT on enumeration and subsets of T-cells, and CTLA4, PD-1 and ICOS expression. Results: 34 pts were enrolled, and 19 pts are evaluable for the endpts: 14 pts went off study to reasons unrelated to the study drug, 1 pt continues in her DLT evaluable period. Of the evaluable pts, all had pelvic LN, with 25% PAN. All pts completed CRT, 90% had 4 cycles of ipi, and the other 10% had 2 cycles of ipi. The ipi MTD was 10 mg/kg. There were 3 pts (16%) with acute grade 3 toxicity (lipase, ↓ANC, rash) which self-resolved. Most of the acute toxicities were grade 1-2 GI distress, rash, endocrinopathies. There were no minor or major RT quality deviations. With a median follow up of 12 months, there were no major late toxicities reported, with a 1-year DFS of 74%. There was no difference in CD4+- and CD8+- T cell levels nor CTLA-4 expression with sequential ipi. CRT itself increased ICOS and PD-1 expression. Conclusions: This study is the first to describe the safety of immunotherapy sequencing with definitive CRT in CC. Our data suggests that immunotherapy is tolerable and shows possible activity in this population with a historical dismal prognosis with standard therapy. CRT increased ICOS and PD-1 expression which was sustained with ipi, illustrative of immune modulation targets for future clinical trials and radioimmunotherapy combinations. Clinical trial information: NCT01711515.

Clinical trial in progress: A phase 3 study of maintenance bi-shRNA-furin/GM-CSF-expressing autologous tumor cell vaccine in women with stage IIIb-IV high-grade epithelial ovarian cancer

TPS5604

Background: Vigil is an immuno-stimulatory autologous cellular therapy, which uses patient tumor cells transfected with a plasmid encoding genes for GM-CSF and furin (to down regulate TGFβ 1&2). In Phase I, systemic immune activation was demonstrated in the majority of patients using an IFNƔ ELISPOT assay. A randomized Phase 2 assessment of Vigil maintenance therapy vs. observation in ovarian cancer demonstrated prolonged relapse free survival (RFS) (Oh J, Barve M, et al. Gynecologic Oncology, 2016; 143: 504–510.). Based on these observations, a Phase 3 study of maintenance Vigil therapy in patients with advanced ovarian cancer was initiated (NCT02346747). Methods: This is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, Phase 3 study of maintenance Vigil in women with Stage IIIb,c or IV high-grade papillary serous/clear cell/ endometrioid ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer. Patients will have a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 12 Vigil doses manufactured from tumor obtained at primary debulking surgery. Patients must achieve a complete clinical remission following primary surgery and chemotherapy before being randomized 1:1 to receive either monthly intradermal Vigil or placebo. Randomization is stratified by extent of surgical cytoreduction (complete/microscopic vs. macroscopic residual disease) and neoadjuvant vs. adjuvant chemotherapy. The primary objective is to compare RFS of subjects randomized to Vigil vs. placebo, and the key secondary objective is overall survival (OS). The sample size calculation of 222 patients assumes 24 months for accrual and 36 months of follow-up with a median RFS of 19 months from randomization, in the control group. This provides 90% power to detect a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.6 favoring Vigil at the 0.05 level of significance. To date, 61 patients have been randomized and an additional 55 patients are receiving chemotherapy in anticipation of randomization. Tumor tissue is being obtained from approximately 20 patients per month at multiple sites across the U.S. At their last meeting in January, 2017 the independent DSMB recommended that the study continue without change. Clinical trial information: NCT02346747.

Impact of support group participation in women with gynecologic cancer

252

Background: Unlike breast cancer support group literature, there is no data in women with gynecologic cancer who have different perspectives about their disease and therapy. We have a well-established, grass root level support group unique to women with gynecologic cancers that meets monthly. Our goal was to investigate perceived benefits of support group participation. Methods: We developed an original questionnaire to evaluate the CSRA Gynecologic Oncology Support Group (CGOSG) participant’s perceived effects of attending the group on their side effects and disease status which was distributed to patients attending CGOSG meetings. 47 surveys were collected for analysis; Wilcox rank sum test was used as appropriate. Patients were also administered the validated FACT-G questionnaire addressing physical well-being (PWB), emotional well-being (EWB), social well-being (SWB), and functional well-being (FWB). 33 surveys were collected, and t-tests were conducted using FACIT SAS scoring program. Results: In the original questionnaire, the 2 top reasons that patients attended CGOSG were physician driven (28%) and to meet other women with the same diagnosis (26%). The most concerning physical side effect from their cancer or therapy was fatigue (21%), and patients with more than 5 visits reported that CGOSG participation improved their fatigue with a median score of 7.5 ± 4 out of 10. The most concerning emotional side effect was fear of recurrence (26%), and patients reported the CGOSG improved their fear of recurrence with a median score of 9 ± 2 out of 10. Patients with more than one visit, not on treatment reported a higher quality of life score (p = 0.001) and perceived a positive impact on cancer therapy (p = 0.02) compared to patients on treatment. Among patients who took the validated FACT-G questionnaire, those on active treatment had a lower PWB than patients not on therapy (p = 0.01). The mean subscale scores were PWB 21.99, SWB 24.26, EWB 20.08, FWB 20.92 with patients faring best in social well-being. Conclusions: This is a first of a kind attempt to understand the impact of a well-organized support group on women with gynecological cancers which indicates that these women struggle with fear of recurrence but are able to find some solace.

Prospective study to evaluate impact of support group participation in women with gynecological cancer

243

Background: Unlike breast cancer support group literature, there is no data in women with gynecologic cancers who have different perspective about their disease and therapy. We have a well-established (10 years old) active grass root level support group unique to women with gynecologic cancers that meets monthly. Our goal was to investigate perceived benefits of support group participation. Methods: We developed a prospective questionnaire to evaluate the CSRA Gynecologic Oncology Support Group (CGOSG) participant’s perceived effects of attending the group on their side effects and disease status. The questionnaire was distributed to patients attending CGOSG meetings over a 4 month period. 47 surveys were collected for analysis; Wilcox rank sum test was used as appropriate. Results: The common cancers were 52% ovarian, 26% endometrial and 62% were currently on therapy. The 3 top reasons that patients attended CGOSG were physician driven (28%), to meet other women with the same diagnosis (26%) and to learn more about their cancer (22%). The top 3 expectations of patients were emotional support (28%), bonding/companionship (21%), and cancer education (14%). The top 3 concerning physical side effects from their cancer or therapy were fatigue (21%), memory loss (14%), and peripheral neuropathy (14%). Patients with more than 5 visits reported that CGOSG participation improved their most concerning physical side effect (fatigue) with a median score of 7.5 ± 4 out of 10. The top 3 concerning emotional side effects identified were fear of recurrence (26%), living with uncertainty (20%) and defining a new sense of normal (15%). Patients reported the CGOSG improved their most concerning emotional side effect (fear of recurrence) with a median score of 9 ± 2 out of 10. Patients with more than one visit, not on treatment reported a higher quality of life score (p = 0.001) and perceived a positive impact on cancer therapy (p = 0.02) compared to patients on treatment. Conclusions: This is a first of a kind attempt to understand the impact of a well-organized support group on women with gynecological cancers which indicates that these women struggle with fear of recurrence and uncertainty, but are able to find some solace.

PRECEDENT: a randomized phase II trial comparing vintafolide (EC145) and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) in combination versus PLD alone in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer

PURPOSE

Vintafolide (EC145) is a folic acid-desacetylvinblastine conjugate that binds to the folate receptor (FR), which is expressed on the majority of epithelial ovarian cancers. This randomized phase II trial evaluated vintafolide combined with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) compared with PLD alone. The utility of an FR-targeted imaging agent, (99m)Tc-etarfolatide (EC20), in selecting patients likely to benefit from vintafolide was also examined.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Women with recurrent platinum-resistant ovarian cancer who had undergone ≤ two prior cytotoxic regimens were randomly assigned at a 2:1 ratio to PLD (50 mg/m(2) intravenously [IV] once every 28 days) with or without vintafolide (2.5 mg IV three times per week during weeks 1 and 3). Etarfolatide scanning was optional. The primary objective was to compare progression-free survival (PFS) between the groups.

RESULTS

The intent-to-treat population comprised 149 patients. Median PFS was 5.0 and 2.7 months for the vintafolide plus PLD and PLD-alone arms, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.63; 95% CI, 0.41 to 0.96; P = .031). The greatest benefit was observed in patients with 100% of lesions positive for FR, with median PFS of 5.5 compared with 1.5 months for PLD alone (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.17 to 0.85; P = .013). The group of patients with FR-positive disease (10% to 90%) experienced some PFS improvement (HR, 0.873), whereas patients with disease that did not express FR experienced no PFS benefit (HR, 1.806).

CONCLUSION

Vintafolide plus PLD is the first combination to demonstrate an improvement over standard therapy in a randomized trial of patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. Etarfolatide can identify patients likely to benefit from vintafolide.

PRECEDENT: A Randomized Phase II Trial Comparing Vintafolide (EC145) and Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin (PLD) in Combination Versus PLD Alone in Patients With Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer

Purpose

Vintafolide (EC145) is a folic acid–desacetylvinblastine conjugate that binds to the folate receptor (FR), which is expressed on the majority of epithelial ovarian cancers. This randomized phase II trial evaluated vintafolide combined with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) compared with PLD alone. The utility of an FR-targeted imaging agent, 99mTc-etarfolatide (EC20), in selecting patients likely to benefit from vintafolide was also examined.

Patients and Methods

Women with recurrent platinum-resistant ovarian cancer who had undergone ≤ two prior cytotoxic regimens were randomly assigned at a 2:1 ratio to PLD (50 mg/m2 intravenously [IV] once every 28 days) with or without vintafolide (2.5 mg IV three times per week during weeks 1 and 3). Etarfolatide scanning was optional. The primary objective was to compare progression-free survival (PFS) between the groups.

Results

The intent-to-treat population comprised 149 patients. Median PFS was 5.0 and 2.7 months for the vintafolide plus PLD and PLD-alone arms, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.63; 95% CI, 0.41 to 0.96; P = .031). The greatest benefit was observed in patients with 100% of lesions positive for FR, with median PFS of 5.5 compared with 1.5 months for PLD alone (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.17 to 0.85; P = .013). The group of patients with FR-positive disease (10% to 90%) experienced some PFS improvement (HR, 0.873), whereas patients with disease that did not express FR experienced no PFS benefit (HR, 1.806).

Conclusion

Vintafolide plus PLD is the first combination to demonstrate an improvement over standard therapy in a randomized trial of patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. Etarfolatide can identify patients likely to benefit from vintafolide.

Serum protein profile at remission can accurately assess therapeutic outcomes and survival for serous ovarian cancer

BACKGROUND

Biomarkers play critical roles in early detection, diagnosis and monitoring of therapeutic outcome and recurrence of cancer. Previous biomarker research on ovarian cancer (OC) has mostly focused on the discovery and validation of diagnostic biomarkers. The primary purpose of this study is to identify serum biomarkers for prognosis and therapeutic outcomes of ovarian cancer.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Forty serum proteins were analyzed in 70 serum samples from healthy controls (HC) and 101 serum samples from serous OC patients at three different disease phases: post diagnosis (PD), remission (RM) and recurrence (RC). The utility of serum proteins as OC biomarkers was evaluated using a variety of statistical methods including survival analysis.

RESULTS

Ten serum proteins (PDGF-AB/BB, PDGF-AA, CRP, sFas, CA125, SAA, sTNFRII, sIL-6R, IGFBP6 and MDC) have individually good area-under-the-curve (AUC) values (AUC = 0.69-0.86) and more than 10 three-marker combinations have excellent AUC values (0.91-0.93) in distinguishing active cancer samples (PD & RC) from HC. The mean serum protein levels for RM samples are usually intermediate between HC and OC patients with active cancer (PD & RC). Most importantly, five proteins (sICAM1, RANTES, sgp130, sTNFR-II and sVCAM1) measured at remission can classify, individually and in combination, serous OC patients into two subsets with significantly different overall survival (best HR = 17, p<10(-3)).

CONCLUSION

We identified five serum proteins which, when measured at remission, can accurately predict the overall survival of serous OC patients, suggesting that they may be useful for monitoring the therapeutic outcomes for ovarian cancer.

A randomized double-blind phase III trial comparing vintafolide plus pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) versus PLD plus placebo in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROCEED)

TPS5613

Background: Folate receptor (FR) is expressed on the majority of epithelial ovarian cancers and FR expression appears to be a negative prognostic factor in this setting. Vintafolide (EC145) is a folate-conjugate designed to selectively deliver desacetylvinblastine monohydrazide (DAVLBH) to FR-expressing cells. 99mTc-Etarfolatide (EC20) is a technetium-labeled folate that identifies FR-expressing tumors. In a phase 2 study comparing vintafolide + PLD with PLD alone, the combination demonstrated a statistically and clinically significant delay in PFS (5.0 months) compared with PLD alone (2.7 months) in women with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (Naumann et al, ASCO 2011). Data also indicated that 99mTc-etarfolatide may have utility for selecting patients most likely to benefit from vintafolide therapy. Methods: This is an international, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 study of PLD ± vintafolide therapy compared in patients with primary or secondary platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (NCT01170650). Key eligibility criteria include: ≥18 years, pathology-confirmed epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal carcinoma, prior platinum-based chemotherapy, a RECIST v1.1 measureable lesion, and ECOG performance status 0 or 1. At baseline, patients undergo 99mTc-Etarfolatide imaging to identify FR-positive lesions and are subsequently randomized to the vintafolide ± PLD. PLD (50 mg/m2) adjusted for Ideal Body weight is administered on day 1 of a 4-week cycle and treatment continues until the maximum allowable cumulative dose (550 mg/m2) is reached or until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. Vintafolide (2.5 mg) or placebo is administered on days 1, 3, 5, 15, 17, and 19 of a 4-week cycle and treatment can continue for up to 20 cycles or until unacceptable toxicity or disease progression. The primary objective is to assess PFS based on investigator assessment (RECIST v1.1) in FR positive patients. Secondary objectives include OS, safety/tolerability, overall response rate, and disease control rate. Enrollment to the study is currently ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT01170650.

First-line chemotherapy with paclitaxel and platinum for advanced and recurrent cancer of the cervix--a phase II study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the role of first-line chemotherapy with paclitaxel and platinum in the treatment of advanced or recurrent cervix cancer.

METHODS

Twenty patients with advanced or recurrent cancer of the cervix with no prior chemotherapy and measurable disease were entered in a phase II trial from September 1995 to September 1998. Seventeen patients were treated with paclitaxel at 135 mg/m(2) over 24 h followed by cisplatin at 75 mg/m(2) every 4 weeks. Three patients with impaired renal function were treated with paclitaxel at 135 mg/m(2) over 3 h with carboplatin at 300 mg/m(2).

RESULTS

A clinical response rate of 45% was noted (two complete responses and seven partial responses) with a median duration of 6 months (range: 1.5-9). The median progression-free interval and overall survival in patients with a clinical response was 10.5 and 13 months, respectively, compared to 4 (P = 0.015) and 6 months in the nonresponders (P = 0. 14). Seven of nine patients (77.8%) with a clinical response are alive. Patients with recurrences outside the radiation field had twice the response rate (60%) than that of those within the radiated field. The chemotherapy was well tolerated; the most significant toxicity was grade 3/4 neutropenia (55%). No patient had discontinuation of chemotherapy due to toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

First-line chemotherapy with paclitaxel and platinum for advanced and recurrent cervix cancer is promising and deserves consideration for large phase III trials.

Role of salvage chemotherapy with topotecan and cisplatin in patients with paclitaxel- and platinum-resistant recurrent ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer: a phase II pilot study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

We assessed the role of salvage chemotherapy with topotecan and cisplatin in patients with platinum- and paclitaxel-resistant advanced and recurrent ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer, based on the reported in vivo and in vitro synergism between these two drugs.

METHODS

Twenty patients were entered in this phase II trial from November 1997 to November 1998. They received cisplatin at 50 mg/m(2) on day 1 with topotecan at 0.6 mg/m(2) from day 1 to 5 every 28 days. In 70% of patients (14/20), this combination represented at least a third line of therapy.

RESULTS

A clinical response rate of 13.3% (two partial responses) was obtained in the 15 patients with evaluable disease. Sixty percent of patients (9/15) had stable disease and 26.7% (4/15) had progression. The median progression-free interval and survival were 4 months and 7 months, respectively. The 20 patients evaluable for toxicity received a mean of four chemotherapy cycles. Dose reductions were required in 45% of patients despite the administration of growth factors. The major dose-limiting toxicity was a 50% occurrence (10/20) of grade 4 thrombocytopenia and 30% (6/20) grade 4 neutropenia. There was one septic death.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that combination therapy with topotecan and cisplatin has minimal activity in platinum- and paclitaxel-resistant advanced and recurrent ovarian or primary peritoneal cancer at the doses utilized in this trial.

Adenocarcinoma of the ileum with an enterotubal fistula presenting as an adnexal mass

Small bowel adenocarcinomas account for 3% of gastrointestinal malignancies, and 20 to 25% of these arise in the ileum. Clinical presentation is variable, and early diagnosis is difficult. A 56-year-old postmenopausal woman presented with crampy abdominal pain, anorexia, and weight loss. Pelvic examination and ultrasound revealed a 6 x 8-cm complex right adnexal mass. At laparotomy, en bloc resection of the right adnexa and the densely adherent ileal segment was performed along with a hysterectomy and a left salpingo-oophorectomy. The final pathology showed a moderately differentiated invasive adenocarcinoma of the ileum with a malignant enterotubal fistula. This is the first case reported in the literature of an ileal adenocarcinoma with a tubal fistula masquerading as an adnexal mass.

High levels of CA-125 in a case of a parasitic leiomyoma presenting as an abdominal mass

A 32-year-old woman presented with increasing abdominal girth and discomfort secondary to a 18-week-size mass and a CA-125 level of 1539. She underwent an exploratory laparotomy and resection of a parasitic fibroid following which the CA-125 levels decreased and normalized within a month. A review of English literature indicates that association of raised CA-125 levels with fibroids is inconsistent and very modest and such high levels have not been previously reported.

Mucinous adenocarcinomas of the vulva

An 80-year-old nullipara had a 2.0-cm cystic tumor of the right labium majus. Histologic diagnosis was mucinous eccrine carcinoma. Seventy-five percent of these rare skin adnexal tumors arise on the face, eyelid, or scalp; but none has been reported on the vulva. Indolent localized growth is usual with regional nodal spread in 11% and distant metastases in 3%. A 67-year-old multipara had a 1.2-cm polypoidal nodule of the posterior fourchette. Histologically, a colonic type mucinous carcinoma was arising within a villous adenoma. Mucicarmine and CEA stains were positive. Extensive workup failed to reveal other primary cancers in either patient. Both patients are well 19 and 17 months after radical vulvectomies and node-negative groin dissections. These cases illustrate further the diversity in cell type and biologic behavior of vulvar adenocarcinomas.