[PDF]Kyowa Hakko Kirin Announces Results of Phase 3 Clinical Study of Mogamulizumab (KW-0761) in Patients with Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma at the American Society of Hematology 2017

On December 10, 2017 Kyowa Hakko Kirin Co., Ltd. (Tokyo: 4151, President and CEO: Nobuo Hanai, "Kyowa Hakko Kirin") reported that the results of the Global Phase 3 study (MAVORIC: Mogamulizumab anti-CCR4 Antibody Versus ComparatOR In CTCL) investigating the use of mogamulizumab (KW-0761) in patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) will be presented at the Annual Meeting of American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2017 (Press release, Kyowa Hakko Kirin, DEC 10, 2017, View Source [SID1234522494]).

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The American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2017 Oral Presentation 817:

Title: Anti-CCR4 Monoclonal Antibody, Mogamulizumab, Demonstrates Significant Improvement in PFS Compared to Vorinostat in Patients with Previously Treated Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL): Results from the Phase III MAVORIC Study

MAVORIC is a phase 3 open-label, multi-centre, randomised study of mogamulizumab versus vorinostat in patients with CTCL who have failed at least one prior systemic treatment. The study was conducted in the US, Europe, Japan and Australia and randomised 372 patients to receive either the investigational monoclonal antibody, mogamulizumab, or vorinostat. The primary endpoint was investigator-assessed Progression-free Survival (PFS), and the key secondary endpoints included overall response rate (ORR).

In the study, the patients who received mogamulizumab had significantly better PFS compared to vorinostat with a median PFS of 7.7 months for mogamulizumab and 3.1 months for vorinostat (p<0.0001). Global ORR was significantly improved in the patients randomised to mogamulizumab at 28.0% vs 4.8% for vorinostat (p<0.0001). Patient-reported outcomes, as measured by the Skindex-29 and FACT-G, showed significantly greater symptom reduction and improved functional status in favor of mogamulizumab vs vorinostat (p<0.05).

The most common treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) that were more frequent in the mogamulizumab arm included infusion-related reactions (33.2%, vs 0.5% in the vorinostat arm) and drug rash (23.9% vs 0.5%). Common TEAEs reported more often with vorinostat included diarrhoea (23.4%, vs 61.8% in the vorinostat arm) nausea (15.2% vs 42.5%), thrombocytopenia (11.4% vs 30.6%), dysgeusia (3.3% vs 29.0%), and increased blood creatinine (3.3% vs 28.0%).

In conclusion, mogamulizumab demonstrated significant PFS and ORR improvement compared to vorinostat in patients with previously treated CTCL.

"We are delighted with the finding from the MAVORIC study which is the largest, global randomised phase 3 clinical study ever conducted in patients with CTCL," said Jeffrey S. Humphrey, MD., Chief Medical Officer and President of Kyowa Kirin Pharmaceutical Development, Inc. "We look forward to having the data reviewed by regulatory agencies in the near future and to providing mogamulizumab to patients with CTCL if approved."

The Kyowa Hakko Kirin Group companies strive to contribute to the health and well-being of people around the world by creating new value through the pursuit of advances in life sciences and technologies.

About MAVORIC

MAVORIC is a Phase 3 open-label, multi-center, randomized study of mogamulizumab versus vorinostat, active comparator, in patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS) who have failed at least one prior systemic treatment. The study was the largest comparative trial in patients with MF and SS conducted in the US, Europe, Japan and Australia and randomised 372 patients.

About Mogamulizumab

Mogamulizumab is an investigational humanised monoclonal antibody (mAb) directed against CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), which is frequently expressed on leukemic cells of certain haematologic malignancies including CTCL. Mogamulizumab was produced using Kyowa Hakko Kirin’s proprietary POTELLIGENT platform, which is associated with enhanced antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC).

About Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL)

CTCL is a rare type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma which is characterised by localisation of malignant T lymphocytes to the skin. The two most common types of CTCL are mycosis MF and SS, and depending on the stage, the disease may involve skin, blood, lymph nodes, viscera and other organs.

Kura Oncology Reports Positive Phase 2 Study of Tipifarnib in Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia

On December 10, 2017 Kura Oncology, Inc., (Nasdaq:KURA) a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of precision medicines for oncology, reported positive, preliminary results from a Phase 2 clinical study of its lead candidate tipifarnib in patients with chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) (Press release, Kura Oncology, DEC 10, 2017, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2321958 [SID1234522493]). The data were presented today at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting and Exposition in Atlanta. A copy of the poster is now available on the company’s website at www.kuraoncology.com.

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The CMML study is one of four ongoing company-sponsored Phase 2 studies of tipifarnib. The open-label study is evaluating the anti-tumor activity of tipifarnib as a single agent in patients with CMML, retrospectively stratified based on RAS mutational status. In addition, patient samples are analyzed for the presence or absence of various biomarkers potentially relevant to the activity of tipifarnib.

As of the data cutoff date of November 7, 2017, all nine evaluable patients in the study with RAS wild-type CMML had achieved stable disease or better, including three objective responses as assessed using the MDS/MPN International Working Group criteria. The primary objective of the study was met with an overall response rate of 33% in patients with RAS wild-type CMML. The study has enrolled 24 patients of whom 16 were evaluable for response as of the data cutoff date. Nine patients had tumors with RAS wild-type status and seven were RAS mutant.

"CMML is an aggressive malignancy with few therapeutic options, particularly for those patients who have been treated with hypomethylating agents," said Eric Padron, M.D., of the Department of Hematologic Malignancies at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute in Tampa, Florida, a clinical investigator on this study. "These encouraging preliminary data indicate that tipifarnib has anti-tumor activity in a post-hypomethylating agent setting and support further study of tipifarnib for the treatment of CMML."

"Although the signal observed in RAS wild-type patients is encouraging, these data are still immature and time to event endpoints cannot be yet fully evaluated. We continue to follow these patients and evaluate biomarkers of activity, and look forward to reporting additional data from this study in the year ahead," said Antonio Gualberto, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Officer of Kura Oncology.

Patients receive tipifarnib administered at a starting dose of 900 mg, orally, twice a day for 7 days in alternating weeks in 28-day cycles. Tipifarnib was generally well-tolerated in the study, with adverse events consistent with its known safety profile.

In addition to the CMML study, Kura Oncology is also conducting Phase 2 clinical trials in HRAS mutant head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). In September 2017, Kura Oncology reported that its Phase 2 trial of tipifarnib in patients with HRAS mutant HNSCC achieved its primary efficacy endpoint prior to the completion of patient enrollment. The company is now planning to initiate a registration-enabling study of tipifarnib in HRAS mutant HNSCC in 2018.

About Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia

CMML is a clonal disorder of bone marrow stem cells that shares characteristics of both myeloproliferative and myelodysplastic diseases. CMML is characterized by increased monocytes and blasts in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, as well as dysplasia in at least one type of blood cell. The prognosis of CMML is poor, with a median survival of 2 to 3 years, due in part to limited therapeutic options. Hypomethylating agents are the most commonly used therapeutic intervention in CMML.

About Tipifarnib

Kura Oncology’s lead candidate, tipifarnib, is a potent and selective inhibitor of farnesyl transferase, a key cell signaling process implicated in cancer initiation and development. In extensive clinical trials, tipifarnib has shown a well-established safety profile and compelling and durable anti-cancer activity in certain patient subsets. Leveraging advances in next-generation sequencing as well as emerging information about cancer genetics and tumor biology, the company is seeking to identify patients most likely to benefit from tipifarnib.

Karyopharm Presents Positive Selinexor Data from the Phase 1b/2 STOMP Study at the American Society of Hematology 2017 Annual Meeting

On December 10, 2017 Karyopharm Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq:KPTI), a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company, reported the presentation of four posters highlighting clinical data from the ongoing Phase 1b/2 STOMP study at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2017 annual meeting held December 9-12, 2017 in Atlanta (Press release, Karyopharm, DEC 10, 2017, View Source [SID1234522492]). The STOMP study is evaluating selinexor, the Company’s lead, novel, oral SINE compound, in combination with backbone therapies for the treatment of patients with heavily pretreated multiple myeloma (MM). Two of the presentations feature updated data from the STOMP arms evaluating selinexor plus low dose dexamethasone (Sd) in combination with either Velcade (bortezomib) (SVd), or Pomalyst (pomalidomide) (SPd). The other two presentations feature new data from the STOMP arms evaluating Sd with Revlimid (lenalidomide) (SRd) and with Darzalex (daratumumab) (SDd).

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"The results from the SVd arm of the Phase 1b/2 STOMP study, particularly the high response rates of 83% in the same patient population eligible for the BOSTON study and 84% in proteasome inhibitor (PI)-naïve or PI-relapsed patients, together with prolonged progression-free survival (PFS), strongly support our ongoing, pivotal Phase 3 BOSTON study," said Sharon Shacham, PhD, MBA, President and Chief Scientific Officer of Karyopharm. "Overall, the four presentations continue to highlight evidence of strong activity when oral selinexor is combined with the currently available "backbone" myeloma therapies, including PIs, immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies. Oral selinexor continues to demonstrate an expected and manageable tolerability profile, particularly in the SVd regimen where the combination produced higher response rates, paired with lower rates of peripheral neuropathy (PN), compared to the commonly used regimen of Velcade plus dexamethasone. We are delighted to share the results of this research with the medical community at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) this year."

Selinexor in Combination with Velcade and Low-dose Dexamethasone (SVd)

In the poster presentation titled, "Selinexor in combination with weekly low dose bortezomib and dexamethasone (SVd) induces a high response rate with durable responses in patients with refractory multiple myeloma," (Abstract #3135) Nizar Bahlis, MD, Southern Alberta Cancer Research Institute, presented updated clinical data from the SVd arm of the STOMP study. The study included patients whose disease was PI naïve, exposed or refractory, provided their disease was not refractory to Velcade as a last therapy. In this study arm, oral selinexor was dose-escalated in once-weekly (80 or 100mg) or twice-weekly (60 or 80mg) regimens. Velcade (1.3mg/m2 subcutaneously) was administered once-weekly or twice-weekly. Dexamethasone (dex) was administered orally either 40mg once-weekly or 20mg twice-weekly. The following table is a summary of the efficacy results:

Best Responses1 in Evaluable SVd Patients as of 15-Nov-20172
Category N3 ORR (%) CR VGPR PR4 Median PFS
PI Relapsed/Naïve 19 16 (84%) 2 (11%) 5 (26%) 9 (47%) >13 months
PI Relapse/Naïve, ≤3 Prior Treatments (BOSTON5) 18 15 (83%) 2 (11%) 6 (33%) 7 (39%)
PI Refractory (Velcade, Kyprolis, Ninlaro) 21 9 (43%) 1 (5%) 4 (19%) 4 (19%) 6.4 months
All 40 25 (63%) 3 (8%) 9 (23%) 13 (33%) 9.0 months
Key: ORR=Overall Response Rate (CR+VGPR+PR), CR=Complete Response, VGPR=Very Good Partial Response, PR=Partial Response
1Responses were adjudicated according to the International Myeloma Working Group criteria
2Based on interim unaudited data
3Two patients not evaluable for response: one death unrelated to myeloma and one withdrawal of consent before disease follow up
4One unconfirmed PR
5Patient population eligible for the ongoing Phase 3, randomized BOSTON study evaluating SVd versus Vd

The majority of patients had reductions in M-protein, including 33% with a ≥90% reduction. In the PI Relapsed/Naïve population (N=19), the ORR was 84% and the median PFS was >13 months with similar results in the "BOSTON" population (N=18). This compares favorably to standard Vd regimens (the control arm of the BOSTON study) with ORR 60-65% and PFS 7-9 months across many previous studies.

Adverse events were consistent with those reported previously from the SVd arm of the STOMP study with nausea, anorexia, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting the most commonly reported for Grade 1/2. Importantly, the reported PN across all patients was Grade 1/2 and limited to six patients (14%), of which five had prior Velcade exposure. Grade ≥3 adverse events were also consistent with those reported previously with thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, fatigue and anemia being the most common. The recommended Phase 2 dose (RP2D) regimen for SVd is oral selinexor (100mg once weekly), Velcade (1.3mg/m2 once-weekly subcutaneously) and oral dex (40mg once weekly), which represents 40% less Velcade and 25% less dex compared to the approved standard Velcade + dex (Vd) regimen.

Dr. Bahlis commented, "These updated data continue to support the thesis that selinexor combined with once-weekly Velcade and low-dose dex is well tolerated and highly active in relapsed or refractory myeloma. The high response rates and durability observed with SVd are achieved with 40% less Velcade and 25% less dex, with no overt major organ toxicities. The SVd response rates in patients with PI non-refractory myeloma, together with the low rate of PN, compares favorably to the response rates and much higher PN reported from other late-stage Vd trials. In patients with PI refractory myeloma, the response rates reported here support prior preclinical findings suggesting selinexor’s potential to re-sensitize myeloma to PIs."

Selinexor in Combination with Pomalyst and Low-dose Dexamethasone (SPd)

In the poster presentation titled, "Selinexor in Combination with Pomalidomide and Low Dose Dexamethasone in a Relapsed / Refractory Multiple Myeloma Patient Population with Prior Proteasome Inhibitor and Lenalidomide Exposure," (Abstract #3136) Christine Chen, MD, FRCP, University of Toronto, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, presented updated clinical data from the SPd arm of the STOMP study which includes MM patients who previously received Revlimid and a PI. In this study arm, selinexor was dosed orally either once weekly (60 or 80mg) or twice weekly (60 or 80mg) with Pomalyst (4mg orally, once daily) and dex (orally, 40mg once weekly or 20mg twice weekly). The following table is a summary of the efficacy results:

Best Responses1 in Evaluable SPd Patients as of 15-Nov-20172
Category N3 ORR (%) VGPR PR4 Median PFS
Pomalyst Naïve and Revlimid Refractory or Relapsed 19 12 (63%) 2 (11%) 10 (53%) 11.6 months
Pomalyst and Revlimid Refractory 8 3 (38%) - 3 (38%) 4.8 months
All 27 15 (56%) 2 (7%) 13 (48%) 11.6 months
Key: ORR=Overall Response Rate (VGPR+PR)
1Responses were adjudicated according to the International Myeloma Working Group criteria
2Based on interim unaudited data
3Four patients not evaluable for response: one death unrelated to myeloma, one non-compliance with study procedures, two withdrawals of consent before disease follow up
4One unconfirmed PR

Responses tended to occur rapidly with a median of one month to onset. Median PFS of 11.6 for SPd compares favorably with the PFS of ~4 months reported for Pomalyst-dex in the Revlimid refractory or relapsed population.

Among the 31 patients evaluable for safety, the most common Grade 1/2 adverse events were nausea (52%), anorexia (45%), fatigue (45%) and diarrhea (32%). The most common Grade ≥3 adverse events were neutropenia (55%), thrombocytopenia (32%) and anemia (29%). Gastrointestinal adverse events were generally manageable with antiemetics. There were two Grade 5 treatment-related events (febrile neutropenia and intracranial hemorrhage). Five DLTs (Grade 3 fatigue, neutropenia and febrile neutropenia) were observed in patients receiving selinexor 60mg twice weekly and 80mg once weekly. Based on the activity and tolerability observed in this study arm, 60-80mg of oral selinexor 60mg once weekly are being evaluated in combination with Pomalyst (3mg orally, once daily) and low dose dex to determine the RP2D for this combination regimen.

Dr. Chen commented, "Myeloma patients whose disease is refractory to a PI and an IMiD would typically move to the currently approved regimen of Pomalyst and dex, which carries an expected ORR of up to 30% and PFS of approximately four months in this patient population. The 56% ORR reported here shows the significant clinical activity of this novel, all oral, SPd regimen in patients with heavily pretreated myeloma. These data continue to build upon the body of clinical data suggesting that once-weekly selinexor is generally well tolerated and can rapidly induce durable responses when combined with Pomalyst and dex in patients with PI- and Revlimid-exposed myeloma, including patients whose disease was refractory to prior therapy with Pomalyst. This SPd regimen has the potential to provide a new therapeutic option for myeloma patients where a significant unmet need remains."

Selinexor in Combination with Revlimid and Low-dose Dexamethasone (SRd)

In the poster presentation titled, "A Phase Ib/II Trial of Selinexor Combined with Lenalidomide and Low Dose Dexamethasone in Patients with Relapsed / Refractory Multiple Myeloma," (Abstract #1861) Darrell White, MD, Dalhousie University and QEII Health Sciences Center, presented new clinical data from the SRd arm of the STOMP study evaluating patients who received at least one prior therapy, which may include prior Revlimid, as long as the patient’s MM was not refractory to prior Revlimid. Patients whose MM was refractory to Revlimid maintenance regimens were also allowed in this cohort. In this study arm, oral selinexor was dose-escalated starting at either 60mg once weekly or 60mg twice weekly, with Revlimid (25mg orally, once daily), and dex (orally, 40mg once weekly or 20mg twice weekly). The following table is a summary of the efficacy results:

Best Responses1 in Evaluable SRd Patients as of 15-Nov-20172
Category N3 ORR VGPR PR4
Revlimid Naïve (All) 12 11 (92%) 3 (25%) 8 (67%)
Revlimid Naïve, ≤2 Prior Treatments 10 10 (100%) 3 (30%) 7 (70%)
Revlimid Relapsed or Refractory 4 2 (50%) - 2 (50%)
All 16 13 (81%) 3 (19%) 10 (63%)
Key: ORR=Overall Response Rate (VGPR+PR)
1Responses were adjudicated according to the International Myeloma Working Group criteria
2Based on interim unaudited data
3Three patients not evaluable for response: two deaths unrelated to myeloma, one withdrawal of consent before disease follow up
4Three unconfirmed PRs

Median PFS for the overall study population and for patients with Revlimid-naïve disease was not reached. The median time on treatment for the overall study population was not reached.

Among the 19 patients evaluable for safety, the most common Grade 1/2 adverse events were nausea (68%), anorexia (42%), fatigue (42%), weight loss (42%), constipation (32%) and vomiting (32%). The most common Grade ≥3 adverse events were thrombocytopenia (68%) and neutropenia (58%). Gastrointestinal adverse events were generally manageable with antiemetics. Five DLTs (thrombocytopenia (n=4) and anorexia (n=1)) were observed in patients receiving selinexor 60mg twice weekly and 80mg once weekly. Thrombocytopenia and anorexia were reduced in the selinexor 60mg once weekly cohort versus the twice weekly groups. Based on the activity and tolerability observed in this study arm, the RP2D of the all-oral SRd is selinexor (60mg orally, once weekly), Revlimid (25mg orally, once daily) and dex (40mg orally, once weekly).

Dr. White commented, "These Phase 1 results suggest that selinexor can be safely combined with Revlimid and dex in an all oral regimen in patients with relapsed or refractory myeloma who have received at least one prior therapy. We were especially pleased to see an encouraging 81% response rate across all patients and a 92% response rate in patients with Revlimid-naïve disease, clear signals of clinical activity, with no new or unexpected toxicities observed. Importantly, this combination shows no evidence of cardiac, pulmonary, liver or renal toxicity. We look forward to continuing our evaluation of selinexor in this SRd regimen in patients with relapsed or refractory myeloma."

Selinexor in Combination with Darzalex and Low-dose Dexamethasone (SDd)

In the poster presentation titled, "A Phase 1b Study to Assess the Combination of Selinexor and Daratumumab in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma Previously Exposed to Proteasome Inhibitors (PI) and Immunomodulatory Drugs," (Abstract #3100) Cristina Gasparetto, MD, Duke University Cancer Center, presented new clinical data from the SDd arm of the STOMP study evaluating MM patients who received at least three prior lines of therapy, including a PI and an IMiD, or patients with MM refractory to both a PI and an IMiD. In this study arm, oral selinexor was dose escalated using either 100mg once weekly or 60mg twice weekly, with Darzalex (16mg/kg intravenously once weekly) and dex (orally, 40mg once weekly or 20mg twice weekly). The following table is a summary of the efficacy results:

Best Responses1 in Evaluable SDd Patients as of 15-Nov-20172
Category N3 ORR VGPR PR4
Darzalex Naïve 6 5 (83%) 3 (50%) 2 (33%)
All 8 5 (63%) 3 (38%) 2 (25%)
Key: ORR=Overall Response Rate (VGPR+PR)
1Responses were adjudicated according to the International Myeloma Working Group criteria
2Based on interim unaudited data
3One patient not evaluable for response withdrew consent prior to disease follow up due to severe infusion reaction associated with Darzalex
4One unconfirmed PR

Four of nine patients remain on treatment. Responses tended to occur rapidly with a median of one month to onset. Among the nine patients evaluable for safety, the most common Grade 1/2 adverse events were fatigue (44%), nausea (33%) and neutropenia (33%). The most common Grade 3/4 adverse events were thrombocytopenia (56%), leukopenia (44%), anemia (44%) and neutropenia (33%). Gastrointestinal adverse events were generally manageable with antiemetics. The maximum tolerated dose was not reached. Two DLTs (Grade 3 thrombocytopenia and Grade 2 fatigue) were observed in patients receiving selinexor 60mg twice weekly; both patients showed responses. Based on the preliminary tolerability and efficacy data, the RP2D of SDd is selinexor (100mg orally, once weekly), Darzalex (16mg/kg, once weekly) and dex (40mg orally, once weekly).

"Preclinical results have shown that oral selinexor sensitizes patients’ myeloma cells to the anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, Darzalex," stated Dr. Gasparetto. "These Phase 1b data are early but encouraging, and suggest that selinexor can be safely combined with Darzalex and low-dose dexamethasone in patients with heavily pretreated myeloma. The responses observed occur rapidly within a median one cycle of treatment. We look forward to further evaluating the SDd combination."

About Selinexor

Selinexor (KPT-330) is a first-in-class, oral Selective Inhibitor of Nuclear Export / SINE compound. Selinexor functions by binding with and inhibiting the nuclear export protein XPO1 (also called CRM1), leading to the accumulation of tumor suppressor proteins in the cell nucleus. This reinitiates and amplifies their tumor suppressor function and is believed to lead to the selective induction of apoptosis in cancer cells, while largely sparing normal cells. To date, over 2,200 patients have been treated with selinexor, and it is currently being evaluated in several mid- and later-phase clinical trials across multiple cancer indications, including in multiple myeloma in a pivotal, randomized Phase 3 study in combination with Velcade (bortezomib) and low-dose dexamethasone (BOSTON), in combination with low-dose dexamethasone (STORM) and backbone therapies (STOMP), and in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (SADAL), and liposarcoma (SEAL), among others. Additional Phase 1, Phase 2 and Phase 3 studies are ongoing or currently planned, including multiple studies in combination with one or more approved therapies in a variety of tumor types to further inform Karyopharm’s clinical development priorities for selinexor. Additional clinical trial information for selinexor is available at www.clinicaltrials.gov.

Karyopharm Presents Positive Phase 1/2 Eltanexor Data at the American Society of Hematology 2017 Annual Meeting

On December 10, 2017 Karyopharm Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq:KPTI), a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company, reported the presentation of Phase 1/2 clinical data for its novel, second-generation oral SINE compound eltanexor (KPT-8602) at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2017 annual meeting being held December 9-12, 2017 in Atlanta (Press release, Karyopharm, DEC 10, 2017, View Source [SID1234522491]). Clinical and preclinical data for its lead, oral SINE compound selinexor, and other pipeline asset KPT-9274, an oral, dual inhibitor of p21-activated kinase 4 (PAK4) and nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) were also presented.

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"A key presentation at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) this year features updated Phase 1/2 data showing that eltanexor is well tolerated and demonstrates promising durable activity in patients with heavily pre-treated myeloma," said Sharon Shacham, PhD, MBA, President and Chief Scientific Officer of Karyopharm. "The recommended Phase 2 dose (RP2D) has now been established. We have now begun enrolling patients into expansion cohorts where we are evaluating eltanexor in patients with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC), castration-resistant prostate cancer (crPC), and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)."

Updated Phase 1/2 Clinical Data for Oral Eltanexor

In the poster presentation titled, "Eltanexor (KPT-8602), a Second-Generation Selective Inhibitor of Nuclear Export (SINE) Compound, in Patients with Refractory Multiple Myeloma," (Abstract #3134) Robert Frank Cornell, MD, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, presented updated clinical data from a Phase 1/2 study evaluating the efficacy, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of oral eltanexor with or without low dose dexamethasone, in patients with relapsed or refractory MM, most with quad- or penta-refractory disease. Using a 3+3 dose escalation design, oral eltanexor (5, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 60mg) was dosed either once daily for five days per week or once every other day for three days each week for a 28-day cycle. Patients with less than a minimal response after one cycle or partial response after two cycles were permitted to add dex. In some patients, dex was added beginning on Day 1. The following table is a summary of the efficacy results:

Best Responses1 in Evaluable Patients as of 3-Nov-20172
N3 ORR VGPR PR MR SD CBR
Patients receiving 20 and 30mg + dex 14 5 (36%) 1 (7%) 4 (29%) 4 (29%) 4 (29%) 9 (64%)
All 34 7 (21%) 1 (3%) 6 (18%) 9 (26%) 12 (35%) 16 (47%)
Key: ORR=Overall Response Rate (VGPR+PR), MR=Minor Response, SD=Stable Disease, CBR=Clinical Benefit Rate (VGPR+PR+MR)
1Responses were adjudicated according to the International Myeloma Working Group criteria
2Based on interim unaudited data
3Five non-evaluable patients: 1 dose limiting toxicity, 2 patient decisions, 1 lost to follow up, 1 principal investigator decision

Of the 34 evaluable patients, 14 received dex with their eltanexor regimen. Objective responses correlated with longer overall survival and all patients with a VGPR or PR are still alive or censored as of November 24, 2017. Deeper and faster responses were observed when dex was started on Day 1 of Cycle 1 versus delayed dex. Among the 35 patients evaluable for M-protein, 25 patients (71%) had reductions in M-protein. The median time on treatment for the overall study population was greater than 96 days (range, 10-441).

Among the 39 patients evaluable for safety, the most common Grade 1/2 adverse events were nausea (54%), fatigue (46%), anemia (38%), diarrhea (38%), dysgeusia (33%), weight loss (33%) and neutropenia (31%). As expected in this patient population, the most common Grade 3/4 adverse events were thrombocytopenia (56%), neutropenia (26%), anemia (15%), leukopenia (15%) and hyponatremia (10%). Importantly, nausea, fatigue, diarrhea and vomiting were nearly all Grade 1, manageable and transient, and bleeding was uncommon. The maximum tolerated dose was not reached; however, dose escalation was halted as responses were achieved. Based on these data, the RP2D has been established as 20mg eltanexor dosed five times per week with 20mg dex dosed twice weekly.

Based on these results, this Phase 1/2 study is being expanded to include patients with advanced CRC, crPC, and high risk MDS. These are indications where selinexor and XPO1 inhibition has shown clear activity, but where side effects such as fatigue and anorexia were problematic for patients due to the underlying malignancies. To date, eltanexor has shown lower levels of these side effects compared to selinexor and Karyopharm believes eltanexor has the potential to control malignancies in these indications with a favorable side effect profile.

"These Phase 1/2 results show that eltanexor, both alone or in combination with dex, induces responses or disease control and is associated with prolonged survival. The combination of eltanexor and low-dose dex was well tolerated and improved the anti-cancer activity, especially if started on Day 1 of Cycle 1. The RP2D regimen has now been established and we look forward to evaluating this promising combination in patients with CRC, crPC and high risk MDS," stated Dr. Cornell.

In addition to the Phase 1/2 eltanexor data, several other abstracts describing Karyopharm’s drug candidates were presented at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2017, including:

Oral Presentations

Title: PAK4 Inhibition Impacts Growth and Survival, and Increases Sensitivity to DNA-Damaging Agents in Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia (WM)
Presenter: Li Na, Dana Farber Cancer Institute
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 648

Title: Selinexor in Combination with Cladribine, Cytarabine and G-CSF for Relapsed or Refractory AML
Presenter: Geoffrey Uy, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 816

Title: The Mechanisms by Which Mutant-NPM1 Uncouples Differentiation from Proliferation Are Reversed By Several Drugs, Enabling Rational Multi-Component Non-Cytotoxic Differentiation Therapy
Presenter: Saunthararajah Yogen, Cleveland Clinic
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 878

Poster Presentations

Title: A Phase I/II study of Selinexor (SEL) with Sorafenib in Patients (pts) with Relapsed and/or Refractory (R/R) FLT3 mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
Presenter: Naval Daver, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 1344

Title: Selective Inhibition of Nucleocytoplasmic Transport Overcomes Ruxolitinib Resistance in Myelofibrosis (MF)
Presenter: Dongqing Yan, Huntsman Cancer Institute
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 1660

Title: XPO1 Inhibition Synergizes with BCR Inhibition, Blocks Tumor Growth and Prolongs Survival in a Bioluminescent Animal Model of Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma (PCNSL)
Presenter: Marta Crespo, Hall d’Hebron, Barcelona
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 2808

Title: Phase I/II Study of Liposomal Doxorubicin (DOX) in Combination with Selinexor (SEL) and Dexamethasone (Dex) for Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Presenter: Rachid Baz, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 3095

Title: Selinexor maintenance is feasible and tolerable after allogeneic stem cell transplant (allo-SCT) for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)
Presenter: Hongtao Liu, University of Chicago Medical Center
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 3312

Title: Inhibition of XPO1 by KPT-330 (Selinexor) Enhances Cell Death Induced by the BCL-2 Selective Inhibitor ABT-199 (Venetoclax) through Downregulation of Mcl-1 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Presenter: Daniel Luedtke, Wayne State University School of Medicine
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 3819

Title: XPO1 Inhibitor Selinexor Overcomes Ibrutinib Resistance in Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) via Nuclear Retention of IκB
Presenter: Mei Ming, University of Chicago
Abstract Number/Publication ID: 3837

About Eltanexor (KPT-8602)

Eltanexor (KPT-8602) is a second generation oral SINE compound. Eltanexor functions by binding to and inhibiting the nuclear export protein XPO1 (also called CRM1), leading to the accumulation of tumor suppressor proteins in the cell nucleus. Eltanexor has demonstrated minimal brain penetration in animals, which has been associated with reduced toxicities in preclinical studies while maintaining potent anti-tumor effects.

About Selinexor

Selinexor (KPT-330) is a first-in-class, oral Selective Inhibitor of Nuclear Export / SINE compound. Selinexor functions by binding with and inhibiting the nuclear export protein XPO1 (also called CRM1), leading to the accumulation of tumor suppressor proteins in the cell nucleus. This reinitiates and amplifies their tumor suppressor function and is believed to lead to the selective induction of apoptosis in cancer cells, while largely sparing normal cells. To date, over 2,200 patients have been treated with selinexor, and it is currently being evaluated in several mid- and later-phase clinical trials across multiple cancer indications, including in multiple myeloma in a pivotal, randomized Phase 3 study in combination with Velcade (bortezomib) and low-dose dexamethasone (BOSTON), in combination with low-dose dexamethasone (STORM) and backbone therapies (STOMP), and in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (SADAL), and liposarcoma (SEAL), among others. Additional Phase 1, Phase 2 and Phase 3 studies are ongoing or currently planned, including multiple studies in combination with one or more approved therapies in a variety of tumor types to further inform Karyopharm’s clinical development priorities for selinexor. Additional clinical trial information for selinexor is available at www.clinicaltrials.gov.

Combination of G100 with KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) Triggers Robust Systemic Responses in Follicular NHL Patients

On December 10, 2017 Immune Design (Nasdaq:IMDZ), a clinical-stage immunotherapy company focused on oncology, reported data from the randomized Phase 2 trial of its investigational intratumoral TLR4 agonist G100 plus low-dose radiation (G100 Monotherapy) with or without KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab), Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, in follicular non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (FL) patients (Press release, Immune Design, DEC 10, 2017, View Source [SID1234522489]). The G100 Monotherapy and pembrolizumab combination resulted in a 39% objective response rate (ORR), with a 57% ORR in those patients who expressed a potential predictive biomarker. These data were presented at the 59th American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual meeting in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, December 10, 2017.

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"We have been developing two immuno-oncology platforms in parallel: an intratumoral immunization approach with G100 as the lead therapeutic candidate, and novel cancer vaccines from the Dendritic cell-targeting RNA vector platform, ZVex. We believe these data presented at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) confirm that G100 is an active and safe agent that results in systemic tumor responses, which are further enhanced in combination with KEYTRUDA," said Carlos Paya, M.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Immune Design. "In light of the fact that some inhibitors of the anti-PD-1 class are viewed to have limited activity in this type of hematological malignancy, these positive data support further investigation of the potential synergy of G100 with anti-PD-1/L1 agents and the use of TLR4 expression as a potential predictive biomarker."

The randomized Phase 2 trial was designed to examine intratumoral (IT) administration of G100 Monotherapy vs. G100 Monotherapy + pembrolizumab (G+P) in either treatment naïve or recurrent/refractory FL patients (13 patients/arm). Highlights from the study include:

Clinical Benefit
Patients receiving G+P showed a 39% ORR, as compared to 15% in the G100 Monotherapy arm.
Pembrolizumab monotherapy in a similar recurrent/refractory FL study showed 11% ORR (Ding, ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2017 abstract).
Patients receiving G+P also had more frequent and deeper abscopal tumor shrinkage and a trend toward a better progression free survival (PFS).
Safety: Adverse events considered possibly related to G100 were Grade 1 or 2, with no related serious adverse events. The safety experience in the G+P arm did not suggest any unexpected or worsening toxicity compared to what has been reported previously with pembrolizumab alone.
Potential Predictive Biomarker: A strong association between baseline tumor TLR4 expression and objective clinical response was observed. Reported ORR in patients with a >50% TLR4 expression by IHC (TLR4high) receiving G+P increased to 57%, including patients with recurrent/refractory disease.
Potential Further Development: Because clinical responses were observed in patients with recurrent/refractory disease, treatment failure <2 years after rituximab-containing chemotherapy, and high-risk patients based on GELF criteria, G+P may provide a therapeutic option in this unmet medical need population. Enrichment of patients more likely to respond may be attained by selecting for high expression of TLR4.
Additional subtypes of indolent lymphomas with injectable lesions are known to express TLR4, which expands the potential of this combination of G100 and pembrolizumab in hematological malignancies beyond FL. Likewise, many solid tumors are known to express TLR4.

G100 has been granted orphan drug designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency for the treatment of FL.

Conference Call Information

Immune Design will hold a conference call on Monday, December 11, 2017 at 8:00 a.m. EST. Ahmad S Halwani, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, and a Principal Investigator on the trial, will join the call.

The live call may be accessed by dialing 844-266-9538 for domestic callers and 216-562-0391 for international callers. The audience passcode is 3258589. A live webcast of the call will be available online from the investor relations section of the company website at View Source and will be archived there for 30 days. A telephone replay of the call will be available for five days by dialing 855-859-2056 for domestic callers or 404-537-3406 for international callers and entering the conference code: 3258589.

ASH Presentation Details:

Intratumoral G100 Induces Systemic Immunity and Abscopal Tumor Regression in Patients with Follicular Lymphoma: Results of a Phase 1/2 Study Examining G100 Alone and in Combination with Pembrolizumab (Abstract # 2771)

Presenter: Christopher R. Flowers, M.D.
Session Name: 623. Mantle Cell, Follicular, and Other Indolent B-Cell Lymphoma—Clinical Studies: Poster II
Poster Discussion: Sunday, December 10, 2017, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Eastern
Location: Georgia World Congress Center, Bldg A, Lvl 1, Hall A2

About G100

G100 is a product candidate from Immune Design’s GLAAS discovery platform. It contains a potent synthetic small molecule toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) agonist, Glucopyranosyl Lipid A (GLA), and is the lead product candidate in Immune Design’s Antigen Agnostic approach. G100 activates innate and adaptive immunity in the tumor microenvironment to generate an immune response against the tumor’s preexisting diverse set of antigens. A growing set of clinical and preclinical data have demonstrated the ability of G100 to activate tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, macrophages and dendritic cells, and promote antigen-presentation and the recruitment of T cells to the tumor. The induction of local and systemic immune responses has been shown in preclinical studies to result in local and abscopal (shrinking of tumors outside the scope of the localized treatment) tumor control.

About Follicular Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

Follicular lymphoma is a malignancy affecting the lymph nodes and may spread to the bone marrow or spleen. The most common type of slow-growing (indolent) non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), it represents approximately 20% of all NHL cases. Despite advances in treatment options in recent decades, FL is considered incurable. Currently, patients who do not respond to initial treatment or whose disease progresses within two years of diagnoses after treatment have a worse survival prognosis and may constitute an unmet medical need population. In 2017, it is estimated that more than 14,000 new cases of FL will be diagnosed in the United States alone.