Gilead And Kite Oncology Present Important New Data Across Multiple Difficult-To-Treat Cancers At ESMO Congress 2023

On October 16, 2023 Gilead Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: GILD) and Kite, a Gilead Company, reported that it will present new data, including three oral presentations, at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) (Free ESMO Whitepaper) Congress 2023 (Press release, Gilead Sciences, OCT 16, 2023, View Source [SID1234636020]). New clinical data for Trodelvy (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) continue to support its use in metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) and pre-treated HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer (mBC) and demonstrate the expanding body of evidence for Trodelvy in small cell lung cancer and head and neck cancer. Kite will also present analyses supporting the use of Yescarta (axicabtagene ciloleucel) in relapsed/refractory large B-Cell lymphoma (LBCL).

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"Our data at ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) 2023 reflect a broad clinical development program in difficult-to-treat cancers," said Bill Grossman, MD, PhD, Senior Vice President, Therapeutic Area Head, Gilead Oncology. "Trodelvy has the potential to impact many patients with cancer across multiple indications, as demonstrated by presentations featuring new data in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer, metastatic urothelial cancer and previously treated head and neck cancer, along with new analyses in metastatic breast cancer."

Data for Trodelvy across a range of difficult-to-treat solid tumors include real-world data that reinforce Trodelvy as a standard-of-care option in second-line metastatic TNBC and new post-hoc efficacy analyses from the Phase 3 TROPiCS-02 study in pre-treated HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer. Two mini-oral presentations from the TROPiCS-03 basket trial also support the potential of Trodelvy in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) and advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Preliminary findings from a clinical collaboration with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in 2L metastatic urothelial cancer, demonstrated for the first time in any tumor, that potentially two ADCs can be given in combination together.

Comparative analyses of Yescarta versus bispecific antibodies
In two separate analyses, a Matching-Adjusted Indirect Comparison (MAIC) was conducted to estimate the treatment effects of Yescarta versus bispecific antibodies glofitamab and epcoritamab, in patients with R/R DLBCL using published evidence from clinical studies of R/R DLBCL patients at third line and beyond. Patient-level data from the pivotal Yescarta study (ZUMA-1) were matched to baseline characteristics of glofitamab and epcoritamab studies, respectively, representing clinically relevant prognostic factors.

"Patients with aggressive relapsed/refractory large B-cell lymphoma face a poor prognosis and have limited options for successful curative therapy," said Frank Neumann, MD, PhD, Senior Vice President, Global Head of Clinical Development, Kite. "We believe our data will help further clinicians’ understanding of when to use Yescarta in these patients and reinforce confidence in CAR T-cell therapies overall."

Table of Accepted Abstracts (all times CET):

Tumor Types

Abstract Title

Breast Cancer

Poster #396P

Saturday, October 21

Poster Area, Hall 8

Real‐World Treatment and Survival Outcomes in Previously Untreated Patients with Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (mTNBC) in the United States (US)

Poster #389P

Saturday, October 21

Poster Area, Hall 8

Efficacy and Safety Analyses by Prior Lines of Chemotherapy From the Phase 3 TROPiCS-02 Study of Sacituzumab Govitecan (SG) vs Treatment of Physician’s Choice (TPC) in Patients (pts) With HR+/HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer (mBC)

Poster #393P

Saturday, October 21

Poster Area, Hall 8

Real-World (RW) Use Patterns, Effectiveness, and Tolerability of Sacituzumab Govitecan (SG) for Second-Line (2L) and Later Treatment of Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (mTNBC)

Large B-cell Lymphomas

Poster #839P

Monday, October 23

Poster Area, Hall 8

Matching-Adjusted Indirect Comparison (MAIC) of Axicabtagene Ciloleucel (axi-cel) and Glofitamab (glofit) in Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) Large B-Cell Lymphoma (LBCL) After at Least Two Prior Systemic Therapies (3L+)

Poster #838P

Monday, October 23

Poster Area, Hall 8

Matching-Adjusted Indirect Comparison (MAIC) of Axicabtagene Ciloleucel (axi-cel) and Epcoritamab (epcor) in Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) Large B-Cell Lymphoma (LBCL) After at Least Two Prior Systemic Therapies (3L+)

Urothelial Cancer

Presentation #2360O (mini oral)

Saturday, October 21

09:10

Barcelona Auditorium, Hall 9

The Double Antibody Drug Conjugate (DAD) Phase I Trial: Sacituzumab Govitecan (SG) Plus Enfortumab Vedotin (EV) as ≥ Second Line Therapy for Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma (mUC)

Head and Neck Cancer

Presentation #859MO (mini oral)

Saturday, October 21

10:45

Málaga Auditorium, Hall 10

Sacituzumab Govitecan (SG) in Patients (pts) With Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) Advanced Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC): Results From the Phase 2 TROPiCS-03 Basket Trial

Small Cell Lung Cancer

Presentation #1990MO (mini oral)

Saturday, October 21

14:55

Salamanca Auditorium, Hall 3

Sacituzumab Govitecan (SG) as Second-Line (2L) Treatment for Extensive Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (ES-SCLC): Preliminary Results From the Phase 2 TROPiCS-03 Basket Trial

Trodelvy has not been approved by any regulatory agency for the treatment of SCLC or HNSCC or in combination with any other medicines for mUC. Its safety and efficacy have not been established for these indications and combinations.

About Trodelvy
Trodelvy (sacituzumab govitecan-hziy) is a first-in-class Trop-2 directed antibody-drug conjugate. Trop-2 is a cell surface antigen highly expressed in multiple tumor types, including in more than 90% of breast and bladder cancers. Trodelvy is intentionally designed with a proprietary hydrolyzable linker attached to SN-38, a topoisomerase I inhibitor payload. This unique combination delivers potent activity to both Trop-2 expressing cells and the microenvironment.

Trodelvy is approved in almost 50 countries, with multiple additional regulatory reviews underway worldwide, for the treatment of adult patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) who have received two or more prior systemic therapies, at least one of them for metastatic disease.

Trodelvy is also approved in the U.S., the European Union, and multiple other global markets to treat certain patients with pre-treated HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer. In the U.S., Trodelvy also has accelerated approval for treatment of certain patients with second-line metastatic urothelial cancer (UC); see below for the full U.S. indication for Trodelvy.

Trodelvy is also being developed for potential investigational use in other TNBC, HR+/HER2- and metastatic UC populations, as well as a range of tumor types where Trop-2 is highly expressed, including metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), metastatic small cell lung cancer (SCLC), head and neck cancer, and endometrial cancer.

U.S. Indications for Trodelvy
In the United States, Trodelvy is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with:

Unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) who have received two or more prior systemic therapies, at least one of them for metastatic disease.
Unresectable locally advanced or metastatic hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative (IHC 0, IHC 1+ or IHC 2+/ISH–) breast cancer who have received endocrine-based therapy and at least two additional systemic therapies in the metastatic setting.
Locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer (mUC) who have previously received a platinum-containing chemotherapy and either programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) or programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.
U.S. Important Safety Information for Trodelvy
BOXED WARNING: NEUTROPENIA AND DIARRHEA

Severe or life-threatening neutropenia may occur. Withhold Trodelvy for absolute neutrophil count below 1500/mm3 or neutropenic fever. Monitor blood cell counts periodically during treatment. Consider G-CSF for secondary prophylaxis. Initiate anti-infective treatment in patients with febrile neutropenia without delay.
Severe diarrhea may occur. Monitor patients with diarrhea and give fluid and electrolytes as needed. At the onset of diarrhea, evaluate for infectious causes and, if negative, promptly initiate loperamide. If severe diarrhea occurs, withhold Trodelvy until resolved to ≤Grade 1 and reduce subsequent doses.
CONTRAINDICATIONS

Severe hypersensitivity reaction to Trodelvy.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Neutropenia: Severe, life-threatening, or fatal neutropenia can occur and may require dose modification. Neutropenia occurred in 64% of patients treated with Trodelvy. Grade 3-4 neutropenia occurred in 49% of patients. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 6%. Neutropenic colitis occurred in 1.4%. Withhold Trodelvy for absolute neutrophil count below 1500/mm3 on Day 1 of any cycle or neutrophil count below 1000/mm3 on Day 8 of any cycle. Withhold Trodelvy for neutropenic fever. Administer G-CSF as clinically indicated or indicated in Table 1 of USPI.

Diarrhea: Diarrhea occurred in 64% of all patients treated with Trodelvy. Grade 3-4 diarrhea occurred in 11% of patients. One patient had intestinal perforation following diarrhea. Diarrhea that led to dehydration and subsequent acute kidney injury occurred in 0.7% of all patients. Withhold Trodelvy for Grade 3-4 diarrhea and resume when resolved to ≤Grade 1. At onset, evaluate for infectious causes and if negative, promptly initiate loperamide, 4 mg initially followed by 2 mg with every episode of diarrhea for a maximum of 16 mg daily. Discontinue loperamide 12 hours after diarrhea resolves. Additional supportive measures (e.g., fluid and electrolyte substitution) may also be employed as clinically indicated. Patients who exhibit an excessive cholinergic response to treatment can receive appropriate premedication (e.g., atropine) for subsequent treatments.

Hypersensitivity and Infusion-Related Reactions: Serious hypersensitivity reactions including life-threatening anaphylactic reactions have occurred with Trodelvy. Severe signs and symptoms included cardiac arrest, hypotension, wheezing, angioedema, swelling, pneumonitis, and skin reactions. Hypersensitivity reactions within 24 hours of dosing occurred in 35% of patients. Grade 3-4 hypersensitivity occurred in 2% of patients. The incidence of hypersensitivity reactions leading to permanent discontinuation of Trodelvy was 0.2%. The incidence of anaphylactic reactions was 0.2%. Pre-infusion medication is recommended. Have medications and emergency equipment to treat such reactions available for immediate use. Observe patients closely for hypersensitivity and infusion-related reactions during each infusion and for at least 30 minutes after completion of each infusion. Permanently discontinue Trodelvy for Grade 4 infusion-related reactions.

Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea occurred in 64% of all patients treated with Trodelvy and Grade 3-4 nausea occurred in 3% of these patients. Vomiting occurred in 35% of patients and Grade 3-4 vomiting occurred in 2% of these patients. Premedicate with a two or three drug combination regimen (e.g., dexamethasone with either a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist or an NK1 receptor antagonist as well as other drugs as indicated) for prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). Withhold Trodelvy doses for Grade 3 nausea or Grade 3-4 vomiting and resume with additional supportive measures when resolved to Grade ≤1. Additional antiemetics and other supportive measures may also be employed as clinically indicated. All patients should be given take-home medications with clear instructions for prevention and treatment of nausea and vomiting.

Increased Risk of Adverse Reactions in Patients with Reduced UGT1A1 Activity: Patients homozygous for the uridine diphosphate-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1)*28 allele are at increased risk for neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, and anemia and may be at increased risk for other adverse reactions with Trodelvy. The incidence of Grade 3-4 neutropenia was 58% in patients homozygous for the UGT1A1*28, 49% in patients heterozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele, and 43% in patients homozygous for the wild-type allele. The incidence of Grade 3-4 anemia was 21% in patients homozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele, 10% in patients heterozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele, and 9% in patients homozygous for the wild-type allele. Closely monitor patients with known reduced UGT1A1 activity for adverse reactions. Withhold or permanently discontinue Trodelvy based on clinical assessment of the onset, duration and severity of the observed adverse reactions in patients with evidence of acute early-onset or unusually severe adverse reactions, which may indicate reduced UGT1A1 function.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Based on its mechanism of action, Trodelvy can cause teratogenicity and/or embryo-fetal lethality when administered to a pregnant woman. Trodelvy contains a genotoxic component, SN-38, and targets rapidly dividing cells. Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Trodelvy and for 6 months after the last dose. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Trodelvy and for 3 months after the last dose.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

In the pooled safety population, the most common (≥ 25%) adverse reactions including laboratory abnormalities were decreased leukocyte count (84%), decreased neutrophil count (75%), decreased hemoglobin (69%), diarrhea (64%), nausea (64%), decreased lymphocyte count (63%), fatigue (51%), alopecia (45%), constipation (37%), increased glucose (37%), decreased albumin (35%), vomiting (35%), decreased appetite (30%), decreased creatinine clearance (28%), increased alkaline phosphatase (28%), decreased magnesium (27%), decreased potassium (26%), and decreased sodium (26%).

In the ASCENT study (locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer), the most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥25%) were fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, alopecia, constipation, vomiting, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (SAR) (>1%) were neutropenia (7%), diarrhea (4%), and pneumonia (3%). SAR were reported in 27% of patients, and 5% discontinued therapy due to adverse reactions. The most common Grade 3-4 lab abnormalities (incidence ≥25%) in the ASCENT study were reduced neutrophils, leukocytes, and lymphocytes.

In the TROPiCS-02 study (locally advanced or metastatic HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer), the most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥25%) were diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, alopecia, and constipation. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (SAR) (>1%) were diarrhea (5%), febrile neutropenia (4%), neutropenia (3%), abdominal pain, colitis, neutropenic colitis, pneumonia, and vomiting (each 2%). SAR were reported in 28% of patients, and 6% discontinued therapy due to adverse reactions. The most common Grade 3-4 lab abnormalities (incidence ≥25%) in the TROPiCS-02 study were reduced neutrophils and leukocytes.

In the TROPHY study (locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer), the most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥25%) were diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, any infection, alopecia, decreased appetite, constipation, vomiting, rash, and abdominal pain. The most frequent serious adverse reactions (SAR) (≥5%) were infection (18%), neutropenia (12%, including febrile neutropenia in 10%), acute kidney injury (6%), urinary tract infection (6%), and sepsis or bacteremia (5%). SAR were reported in 44% of patients, and 10% discontinued due to adverse reactions. The most common Grade 3-4 lab abnormalities (incidence ≥25%) in the TROPHY study were reduced neutrophils, leukocytes, and lymphocytes.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

UGT1A1 Inhibitors: Concomitant administration of Trodelvy with inhibitors of UGT1A1 may increase the incidence of adverse reactions due to potential increase in systemic exposure to SN-38. Avoid administering UGT1A1 inhibitors with Trodelvy.

UGT1A1 Inducers: Exposure to SN-38 may be reduced in patients concomitantly receiving UGT1A1 enzyme inducers. Avoid administering UGT1A1 inducers with Trodelvy.

Please see full Prescribing Information , including BOXED WARNING.

About Yescarta
Please see full Prescribing Information, including BOXED WARNING and Medication Guide.

YESCARTA is a CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy indicated for the treatment of:

Adult patients with large B-cell lymphoma that is refractory to first-line chemoimmunotherapy or that relapses within 12 months of first-line chemoimmunotherapy.
Adult patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma after two or more lines of systemic therapy, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) not otherwise specified, primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma, high grade B-cell lymphoma, and DLBCL arising from follicular lymphoma.
Limitations of Use: YESCARTA is not indicated for the treatment of patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma.

Adult patients with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma (FL) after two or more lines of systemic therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on response rate. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trial(s).
U.S. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
BOXED WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME AND NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving YESCARTA. Do not administer YESCARTA to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids.
Neurologic toxicities, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients receiving YESCARTA, including concurrently with CRS or after CRS resolution. Monitor for neurologic toxicities after treatment with YESCARTA. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed.
YESCARTA is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the YESCARTA and TECARTUS REMS Program.
CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME (CRS)
CRS, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred. CRS occurred in 90% (379/422) of patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), including ≥ Grade 3 in 9%. CRS occurred in 93% (256/276) of patients with large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL), including ≥ Grade 3 in 9%. Among patients with LBCL who died after receiving YESCARTA, 4 had ongoing CRS events at the time of death. For patients with LBCL in ZUMA-1, the median time to onset of CRS was 2 days following infusion (range: 1-12 days) and the median duration was 7 days (range: 2-58 days). For patients with LBCL in ZUMA-7, the median time to onset of CRS was 3 days following infusion (range: 1-10 days) and the median duration was 7 days (range: 2-43 days). CRS occurred in 84% (123/146) of patients with indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma (iNHL) in ZUMA-5, including ≥ Grade 3 in 8%. Among patients with iNHL who died after receiving YESCARTA, 1 patient had an ongoing CRS event at the time of death. The median time to onset of CRS was 4 days (range: 1-20 days) and median duration was 6 days (range: 1-27 days) for patients with iNHL.

Key manifestations of CRS (≥ 10%) in all patients combined included fever (85%), hypotension (40%), tachycardia (32%), chills (22%), hypoxia (20%), headache (15%), and fatigue (12%). Serious events that may be associated with CRS include cardiac arrhythmias (including atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia), renal insufficiency, cardiac failure, respiratory failure, cardiac arrest, capillary leak syndrome, multi-organ failure, and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis/macrophage activation syndrome.

The impact of tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids on the incidence and severity of CRS was assessed in 2 subsequent cohorts of LBCL patients in ZUMA-1. Among patients who received tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids for ongoing Grade 1 events, CRS occurred in 93% (38/41), including 2% (1/41) with Grade 3 CRS; no patients experienced a Grade 4 or 5 event. The median time to onset of CRS was 2 days (range: 1-8 days) and the median duration of CRS was 7 days (range: 2-16 days). Prophylactic treatment with corticosteroids was administered to a cohort of 39 patients for 3 days beginning on the day of infusion of YESCARTA. Thirty-one of the 39 patients (79%) developed CRS and were managed with tocilizumab and/or therapeutic doses of corticosteroids with no patients developing ≥ Grade 3 CRS. The median time to onset of CRS was 5 days (range: 1-15 days) and the median duration of CRS was 4 days (range: 1-10 days). Although there is no known mechanistic explanation, consider the risk and benefits of prophylactic corticosteroids in the context of pre-existing comorbidities for the individual patient and the potential for the risk of Grade 4 and prolonged neurologic toxicities.

Ensure that 2 doses of tocilizumab are available prior to YESCARTA infusion. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of CRS at least daily for 7 days at the certified healthcare facility, and for 4 weeks thereafter. Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS occur at any time. At the first sign of CRS, institute treatment with supportive care, tocilizumab, or tocilizumab and corticosteroids as indicated.

NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES
Neurologic toxicities (including immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome) that were fatal or life-threatening occurred. Neurologic toxicities occurred in 78% (330/422) of all patients with NHL receiving YESCARTA, including ≥ Grade 3 in 25%. Neurologic toxicities occurred in 87% (94/108) of patients with LBCL in ZUMA-1, including ≥ Grade 3 in 31% and in 74% (124/168) of patients in ZUMA-7 including ≥ Grade 3 in 25%. The median time to onset was 4 days (range: 1-43 days) and the median duration was 17 days for patients with LBCL in ZUMA-1. The median time to onset for neurologic toxicity was 5 days (range: 1-133 days) and median duration was 15 days in patients with LBCL in ZUMA-7. Neurologic toxicities occurred in 77% (112/146) of patients with iNHL, including ≥ Grade 3 in 21%. The median time to onset was 6 days (range: 1-79 days) and the median duration was 16 days. Ninety-eight percent of all neurologic toxicities in patients with LBCL and 99% of all neurologic toxicities in patients with iNHL occurred within the first 8 weeks of YESCARTA infusion. Neurologic toxicities occurred within the first 7 days of infusion for 87% of affected patients with LBCL and 74% of affected patients with iNHL.

The most common neurologic toxicities (≥ 10%) in all patients combined included encephalopathy (50%), headache (43%), tremor (29%), dizziness (21%), aphasia (17%), delirium (15%), and insomnia (10%). Prolonged encephalopathy lasting up to 173 days was noted. Serious events, including aphasia, leukoencephalopathy, dysarthria, lethargy, and seizures occurred. Fatal and serious cases of cerebral edema and encephalopathy, including late-onset encephalopathy, have occurred.

The impact of tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids on the incidence and severity of neurologic toxicities was assessed in 2 subsequent cohorts of LBCL patients in ZUMA-1. Among patients who received corticosteroids at the onset of Grade 1 toxicities, neurologic toxicities occurred in 78% (32/41) and 20% (8/41) had Grade 3 neurologic toxicities; no patients experienced a Grade 4 or 5 event. The median time to onset of neurologic toxicities was 6 days (range: 1-93 days) with a median duration of 8 days (range: 1-144 days). Prophylactic treatment with corticosteroids was administered to a cohort of 39 patients for 3 days beginning on the day of infusion of YESCARTA. Of those patients, 85% (33/39) developed neurologic toxicities, 8% (3/39) developed Grade 3, and 5% (2/39) developed Grade 4 neurologic toxicities. The median time to onset of neurologic toxicities was 6 days (range: 1-274 days) with a median duration of 12 days (range: 1-107 days). Prophylactic corticosteroids for management of CRS and neurologic toxicities may result in higher grade of neurologic toxicities or prolongation of neurologic toxicities, delay the onset and decrease the duration of CRS.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicities at least daily for 7 days at the certified healthcare facility, and for 4 weeks thereafter, and treat promptly.

REMS
Because of the risk of CRS and neurologic toxicities, YESCARTA is available only through a restricted program called the YESCARTA and TECARTUS REMS Program which requires that: Healthcare facilities that dispense and administer YESCARTA must be enrolled and comply with the REMS requirements and must have on-site, immediate access to a minimum of 2 doses of tocilizumab for each patient for infusion within 2 hours after YESCARTA infusion, if needed for treatment of CRS. Certified healthcare facilities must ensure that healthcare providers who prescribe, dispense, or administer YESCARTA are trained about the management of CRS and neurologic toxicities. Further information is available at www.YescartaTecartusREMS.com or 1-844-454-KITE (5483).

HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS
Allergic reactions, including serious hypersensitivity reactions or anaphylaxis, may occur with the infusion of YESCARTA.

SERIOUS INFECTIONS
Severe or life-threatening infections occurred. Infections (all grades) occurred in 45% of patients with NHL. ≥ Grade 3 infections occurred in 17% of patients, including ≥ Grade 3 infections with an unspecified pathogen in 12%, bacterial infections in 5%, viral infections in 3%, and fungal infections in 1%. YESCARTA should not be administered to patients with clinically significant active systemic infections. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection before and after infusion and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic antimicrobials according to local guidelines.

Febrile neutropenia was observed in 36% of all patients with NHL and may be concurrent with CRS. In the event of febrile neutropenia, evaluate for infection and manage with broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluids, and other supportive care as medically indicated.

In immunosuppressed patients, including those who have received YESCARTA, life-threatening and fatal opportunistic infections including disseminated fungal infections (e.g., candida sepsis and aspergillus infections) and viral reactivation (e.g., human herpes virus-6 [HHV-6] encephalitis and JC virus progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy [PML]) have been reported. The possibility of HHV-6 encephalitis and PML should be considered in immunosuppressed patients with neurologic events and appropriate diagnostic evaluations should be performed.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, and death, can occur in patients treated with drugs directed against B cells, including YESCARTA. Perform screening for HBV, HCV, and HIV in accordance with clinical guidelines before collection of cells for manufacturing.

PROLONGED CYTOPENIAS
Patients may exhibit cytopenias for several weeks following lymphodepleting chemotherapy and YESCARTA infusion. ≥ Grade 3 cytopenias not resolved by Day 30 following YESCARTA infusion occurred in 39% of all patients with NHL and included neutropenia (33%), thrombocytopenia (13%), and anemia (8%). Monitor blood counts after infusion.

HYPOGAMMAGLOBULINEMIA
B-cell aplasia and hypogammaglobulinemia can occur. Hypogammaglobulinemia was reported as an adverse reaction in 14% of all patients with NHL. Monitor immunoglobulin levels after treatment and manage using infection precautions, antibiotic prophylaxis, and immunoglobulin replacement. The safety of immunization with live viral vaccines during or following YESCARTA treatment has not been studied. Vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least 6 weeks prior to the start of lymphodepleting chemotherapy, during YESCARTA treatment, and until immune recovery following treatment.

SECONDARY MALIGNANCIES
Secondary malignancies may develop. Monitor life-long for secondary malignancies. In the event that one occurs, contact Kite at 1-844-454-KITE (5483) to obtain instructions on patient samples to collect for testing.

EFFECTS ON ABILITY TO DRIVE AND USE MACHINES
Due to the potential for neurologic events, including altered mental status or seizures, patients are at risk for altered or decreased consciousness or coordination in the 8 weeks following YESCARTA infusion. Advise patients to refrain from driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities, such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery, during this initial period.

ADVERSE REACTIONS
The most common non-laboratory adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 20%) in patients with LBCL in ZUMA-7 included fever, CRS, fatigue, hypotension, encephalopathy, tachycardia, diarrhea, headache, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, febrile neutropenia, chills, cough, infection with unspecified pathogen, dizziness, tremor, decreased appetite, edema, hypoxia, abdominal pain, aphasia, constipation, and vomiting.

The most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 20%) in patients with LBCL in ZUMA-1 included CRS, fever, hypotension, encephalopathy, tachycardia, fatigue, headache, decreased appetite, chills, diarrhea, febrile neutropenia, infections with pathogen unspecified, nausea, hypoxia, tremor, cough, vomiting, dizziness, constipation, and cardiac arrhythmias.

The most common non-laboratory adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 20%) in patients with iNHL in ZUMA-5 included fever, CRS, hypotension, encephalopathy, fatigue, headache, infections with pathogen unspecified, tachycardia, febrile neutropenia, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, tremor, chills, diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, cough, vomiting, hypoxia, arrhythmia, and dizziness.

ImCheck to Present New Positive Data on ICT01 Monotherapy in Hematological Cancers at ESMO 2023

On October 16, 2023 ImCheck Therapeutics reported that updated data from its ongoing Phase I/IIa clinical trial EVICTION will be presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) (Free ESMO Whitepaper) Congress in an oral session on October 22nd in Madrid (Press release, ImCheck Therapeutics, OCT 16, 2023, View Source [SID1234636019]). The presentation (8220) entitled: "Activation of γ9δ2 T Cells by ICT01 as a Novel Immunotherapeutic Approach for Relapsed/Refractory Hematologic Cancers (EVICTION Study)" will provide safety and patient response results from the Phase I dose escalation portion of the EVICTION trial of ImCheck’s lead antibody, ICT01, administered as a monotherapy to relapsed/refractory patients with hematological cancers, primarily Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

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"The positive safety profile, consistent with previous data in solid tumor patients, together with the promising clinical activity underscores the potential of ICT01 in hematological malignancies. These results in last-line patients further support the initiation of the ongoing Phase IIa cohort expansion study of ICT01 in combination with standard of care in first-line AML patients," commented Sylvain Garciaz, M.D., Ph.D., member of the Department of Hematology, Institut Paoli-Calmettes, investigator in the EVICTION study, and presenter of the data at ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) 2023.

"We continue to generate highly encouraging clinical signals in both solid and hematological tumors. We remain focused on rapidly advancing ICT01 into late-stage clinical evaluation in combination settings as a unique clinical approach to boost the anti-tumor immune response in cancer patients," commented Pierre d’Epenoux, Chief Executive Officer of ImCheck Therapeutics.

EVICTION is an open-label Phase I/IIa trial assessing ICT01, a humanized anti-BTN3A monoclonal antibody that selectively activates γ9δ2 T cells, as a monotherapy in solid and hematological tumors, and as a combination therapy with pembrolizumab in solid tumors. The Phase 1 dose escalation study in relapsed/refractory hematological cancers included 26 patients who failed all available standard of care, 24 of which had acute myeloid leukemia, 1 with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and 1 with follicular lymphoma. ICT01 was administered at doses ranging from 200 mg to 75 mg every 21 days and primary endpoints consisted of the incidence of treatment-adverse events (AE) and the disease control rate (DCR) defined as the sum of complete response (CR), CR with incomplete recovery (CRi), partial response (PR) and stable disease (SD). Secondary endpoints included circulating γ9δ2 T cell measurements as well as pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analyses. The reported data did not reveal any dose-limiting toxicities and demonstrated a DCR of 30% among the 10 evaluable patients at week 8. Notably, ICT01 treatment safely induced the activation and migration of γ9δ2 T cells from the blood within hours of dosing, suggesting effective target engagement.

Based on these results, the company has started evaluating ICT01 in combination with Venetoclax/azacitidine in a Phase IIa expansion cohort in first-line AML patients.

Details of the presentation are:

Abstract title: "Activation of γ9δ2 T Cells by ICT01 as a Novel Immunotherapeutic Approach for Relapsed/Refractory Hematologic Cancers (EVICTION Study)"
Session title: Proffered paper sessions – Haematological malignancies
Abstract number: 822O
Authors: Sylvain Garciaz (presenter), Stéphane Champiat, Pierre Peterlin, Katrien Lemmens, Aude De Gassart, Patrick Brune, Emmanuel Valentin, Céline Leparquier, Marina Iché, Daniel Olive, Norbert Vey, Paul Frohna
Date/Time: Sunday October 22nd, 2023, 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM CET
Location: Toledo Auditorium – Hall 3
The ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) presentation will be available starting October 22, 2023, at 4:30 pm CET on ImCheck’s corporate website

Perspective Therapeutics Completes Recruitment for First Patient Cohort in Phase 1/2a Dose Escalation Trial of VMT01 in Malignant Melanoma

On October 16, 2023 Perspective Therapeutics, Inc. ("Perspective" or "the Company") (NYSE AMERICAN: CATX), reported the completion of recruitment for the first patient cohort in its Phase 1/2a dose escalation study of 212Pb-VMT01 (clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT05655312), its targeted alpha-particle therapy, in development for the treatment of MC1R-positive metastatic melanoma (Press release, Perspective Therapeutics, OCT 16, 2023, https://perspectivetherapeutics.com/press-releases/perspective-therapeutics-completes-recruitment-for-first-patient-cohort-in-phase-1-2a-dose-escalation-trial-of-vmt01-in-malignant-melanoma/ [SID1234636018]).

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"We are encouraged by the pace of enrollment in the trial which we believe is indicative of the tremendous unmet need for patients with unresectable and intractable melanomas," said Chief Medical Officer Markus Puhlmann, MD MBA, of Perspective Therapeutics. "We are grateful to our clinical collaborators for their diligence in working closely with patients to deliver our targeted alpha-particle therapy, and we look forward to providing an update in the coming months."

"MC1R is a receptor that is displayed on the surface of melanoma cells, making it an attractive target for the treatment of malignant melanomas," said Zachary S. Morris, M.D., Ph.D., Vice Chair and Endowed Professor of Human Oncology, Program Director for the University of Wisconsin Bentson Research Fellowship, and Principal Investigator for the VMT01 clinical study. "Systemic delivery of an MC1R-targeted alpha-particle emitting therapeutic may have potential to eliminate all associated lesions. Given our interactions to date, we are excited to continue our work with Perspective to address this disease with high unmet medical need."

About the study

This ongoing trial (clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT05655312) is a multi-center open-label dose escalation, dose expansion study of 212Pb-VMT01 in subjects with histologically confirmed melanoma and positive MC1R imaging scans. The first part of the study is a dose escalation phase to determine the Maximum Tolerated radioactivity Dose (MTD) or Maximum Feasible radioactivity Dose (MFD) following a single administration of 212Pb-VMT01. Patients with stage IV or unresectable stage III metastatic melanoma who have progressed on at least 1 approved first-line therapy will be scheduled to receive up to 3 administrations of 212Pb-VMT01 approximately 8 weeks apart. The first patient cohort is scheduled to receive 111 MBq (3mCi) per dose. The second cohort will receive administered activities of 185 MBq (5mCi), with cohorts 3 and 4 receiving 370 MBq (10 mCi) and 555 MBq (15 mCi) respectively, if the MTD or MFD is not reached during escalation. According to the Modified Toxicity Probability Interval 2 (mTPI-2) study design, intermediate de-escalation doses are also possible to allow selection of the optimal activity dose to take forward into the dose expansion part of the study.

The second part of the study is a dose expansion phase based on the identified MTD/MFD. Patients may be eligible to receive up to three administrations of 212Pb-VMT01 approximately eight weeks apart. A dosimetry sub-study is included to assess biodistribution, tumor uptake and correlation of uptake with observed toxicities and efficacy.

About Melanoma

Melanoma is a cancer of the skin arising from uncontrollable growth of melanocytes, the melanin producing cells of the body. Metastatic melanoma is the result of melanoma that has progressed through the layers of skin, infiltrated the blood stream or lymphatic system, and traveled to other areas of the body to metastasize. In the United States, there are approximately 100,000 new diagnoses of melanoma annually and approximately 6,850 deaths annually from metastatic melanoma (cancer.org). In most cases, metastatic melanoma cannot be cured but treatment can support a longer life.

About VMT01

VMT01 is a proprietary clinical-stage low molecular weight peptide that is targeted to the melanocortin subtype 1 receptor (MC1R) which is over-expressed on melanoma cells. VMT01 is in development for the treatment and diagnosis of MC1R-positive metastatic melanoma. VMT01 can be labeled with 212Pb to deliver alpha-particle radiation directly to tumor cells, or 203Pb to enable patient selection, diagnostic imaging and dosimetry via SPECT imaging. The product recently completed a pilot imaging study at the Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN. In August 2023, the Company announced that the first patient was dosed in the Phase1/2a study of VMT01 (clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT05655312).

Theratechnologies Announces Finalization of Amendments to Some of the Terms and Conditions of its Credit Agreement with Marathon

On October 16, 2023 Theratechnologies Inc. ("Theratechnologies" or the "Company") (TSX: TH) (NASDAQ: THTX), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative therapies, reported that it has finalized all documentation giving effect to the amendments to certain of the terms and conditions of its credit agreement dated July 20, 2022, as amended from time to time (the "Credit Agreement"), with certain funds and accounts for which Marathon Asset Management, L.P. acts as investment manager (collectively, "Marathon") (Press release, Theratechnologies, OCT 16, 2023, View Source [SID1234636017]).

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The amendments to the Credit Agreement provide for, inter alia:

revising the minimum liquidity requirements for all times following October 31, 2023 to be between US$15 million and US$20 million, based on thresholds for adjusted EBITDA over the most recently ended four fiscal quarters;
revising the minimum revenue requirements to be based on adjusted EBITDA-based targets instead of quarterly revenue-based targets, beginning with the quarter ending November 30, 2023;
deleting the prohibition against the Company having a going concern explanatory paragraph in the opinion of the independent registered public accounting firm of the Company that accompanies the Company’s annual report.

As disclosed in its September 25, 2023, press release, in consideration of the proposed amendments, the Company agreed to (i) pay an amount equal to US$600,000, or 100 basis points calculated on the outstanding principal amount of the funded debt as of October 16, 2023 (US$60 million), which such amount was added to the outstanding principal amount of the funded debt as payment in kind ; and (ii) reprice the exercise price of the common share purchase warrants (the "Warrants") held by Marathon to US$0.575 per share from US$1.45 per share. Following the share consolidation completed on July 31, 2023, the exercise of four Warrants and the payment of US$2.30 are required to subscribe to one common share of Theratechnologies, for up to a maximum issuance of 1,250,000 common shares. The Warrants can be exercised until February 27, 2030.

SOTIO Enters Licensing Agreement With Synaffix to Expand ADC Pipeline  

On October 16, 2023 Synaffix B.V., a Lonza company (SIX:LONN) focused on commercializing its clinical-stage platform technology for the development of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) with best-in-class therapeutic index, reported to have entered into a licensing agreement with SOTIO Biotech (SOTIO), a clinical stage immuno-oncology company owned by PPF Group (Press release, Synaffix, OCT 16, 2023, View Source [SID1234636016]).

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SOTIO will gain access to Synaffix’s ADC technologies, GlycoConnect, HydraSpace and toxSYN linker-payloads, in an initial ADC program with the option to expand research and commercial licenses into two additional programs at a later date.

Under the terms of the agreement, Synaffix will be eligible to receive up to $740 million in payments spanning signature, target nomination and milestone payments plus additional royalties on commercial sales. SOTIO will be responsible for the research, development, and commercialization of the ADCs. Synaffix will be responsible for the manufacturing of components that are specifically related to its proprietary technologies.

Peter van de Sande, Head of Synaffix, said: "The selection of our ADC technologies by a seasoned ADC player like SOTIO is a strong recognition of the potential of these technologies to maximize the therapeutic index of ADCs. We look forward to partnering with SOTIO, and believe that with their singular focus on cancer immunotherapies and robust clinical pipeline, this partnership can deliver innovative medicines for patients in areas of high unmet medical need."

Radek Spisek, Chief Executive Officer of SOTIO, said: "At SOTIO, we are building a broad pipeline of next-generation ADCs to address the challenges of solid tumors – and access to Synaffix’s ADC platform technologies will ensure we remain at the leading edge of this space. This collaboration combining SOTIO’s deep expertise in solid tumor drug development with Synaffix’s clinical-stage platform technology will drive important new innovations for the benefit of patients."

Synaffix was fully acquired by Lonza in June 2023 and represents a newly formed ‘Center of Excellence’ for bioconjugation. As a Lonza company, Synaffix will continue to operate under the Synaffix name and further expand its operations in Oss (NL) to cater for further innovation and growth.