Iambic Therapeutics Announces Poster Presentation for IAM1363, a Clinical Stage Type II HER2 Inhibitor, at the 2024 ASCO Annual Meeting

On May 23, 2024 Iambic Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel therapeutics using its unique AI-driven discovery platform, reported a poster presentation highlighting the ongoing Phase 1 study of IAM1363, a selective and brain-penetrant inhibitor of HER2 signaling for the treatment of HER2-driven cancers (Press release, Iambic Therapeutics, MAY 23, 2024, View Source [SID1234643664]). The TIP (trials in progress) poster will be shared at the American Society for Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, taking place May 31-June 4 in Chicago.

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

Early/Late Stage Pipeline Development - Target Scouting - Clinical Biomarkers - Indication Selection & Expansion - BD&L Contacts - Conference Reports - Combinatorial Drug Settings - Companion Diagnostics - Drug Repositioning - First-in-class Analysis - Competitive Analysis - Deals & Licensing

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

IAM1363 is a small molecule inhibitor of wild-type and oncogenic mutant HER2 proteins, designed to expand the therapeutic index compared to available HER2 inhibitors and to avoid toxicities from off-target inhibition of EGFR. In preclinical studies, IAM1363 has demonstrated over 1000-fold selectivity for HER2 compared to EGFR, a promising pharmacokinetic and safety profile, preferential tumor enrichment, and penetrance of the central nervous system. In HER2 tumor models, including intracranial tumor models, IAM1363 has demonstrated favorable efficacy and tolerability compared to benchmark tyrosine kinase inhibitors and HER2-targeted antibody-drug conjugates. IAM1363 was identified using Iambic’s AI-driven discovery platform and is now being evaluated in a Phase 1 clinical study, IAM1363-01 (NCT06253871).

Poster Presentation Details:

Title: IAM1363-01: A phase 1/1b Study of a Selective and Brain-Penetrant HER2 inhibitor for HER2-driven Solid Tumors

Abstract Number: TPS3186

Session Title: Developmental Therapeutics—Molecularly Targeted Agents and Tumor Biology

Location: Hall A, Poster board 318a

Date and Time: June 1, 9:00am-12:00pm CT

Presenter: Alex A. Adjei, MD, PhD, FACP, Chief of the Cleveland Clinic’s Cancer Institute

Xspray to present data at ASCO highlighting frequent comedication of PPIs with TKIs in CML-patients and greater than expected negative effects on the bioavailability of crystalline dasatinib

On May 23, 2024 Xspray Pharma AB (publ) (Nasdaq Stockholm: XSPRAY), a Swedish pharmaceutical company which uses its innovative Hynap technology to develop 505(b)(2) improved versions of marketed drugs for the treatment of cancer reported the online publication of its abstract titled "Frequency of Comedication of Proton Pump Inhibitors with Crystalline Dasatinib in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and Effects on TKI-Bioavailability" for presentation at the upcoming American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting in Chicago on June 3rd, 2024 at 9-12 AM, Poster nr. 120 (1) (Press release, Xspray, MAY 23, 2024, https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240523850369/en/Xspray-to-present-data-at-ASCO-highlighting-frequent-comedication-of-PPIs-with-TKIs-in-CML-patients-and-greater-than-expected-negative-effects-on-the-bioavailability-of-crystalline-dasatinib [SID1234643663]).

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

Early/Late Stage Pipeline Development - Target Scouting - Clinical Biomarkers - Indication Selection & Expansion - BD&L Contacts - Conference Reports - Combinatorial Drug Settings - Companion Diagnostics - Drug Repositioning - First-in-class Analysis - Competitive Analysis - Deals & Licensing

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

While Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKI), including dasatinib, have profoundly improved clinical outcomes in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), the bioavailability and systematic exposure of the crystalline formulation of dasatinib is reduced by comedication with acid reducing agents which may affect the clinical response and comedication with proton pump inhibitors, such as omeprazole, should be avoided (2).

The collaborative analysis with Uppsala University and the Karolinska Institute and University Hospital demonstrates that 54% of CML patients identified in the Swedish CML-register were prescribed at least one PPI and 34% of TKI-treated patients were comedicated with a PPI. Of those prescribed a PPI, 66% of the prescriptions were by a different healthcare provider. Further, the presentation provides new information on the bioavailability of crystalline dasatinib when comedicated with a PPI, demonstrating a substantially higher than previously reported impact of PPIs on the bioavailability of crystalline dasatinib, with Cmax and AUC24 being reduced by 96% and 88% respectively.

"Consistent absorption and bioavailability of dasatinib are critical for adequate disease control and patient outcomes, this is however often overlooked in clinical practice as our data demonstrates," said Per Andersson, CEO of Xspray. "To address this important issue, we are on track to launch Dasynoc, our optimized version of dasatinib, with a Prescription Act Use Fee Amendment date (PDUFA-date) of 31st of July 2024 and the US commercial launch of Dasynoc on 1st September 2024."

The abstract is now available online at View Source

References:

Dahlén T, Larfors G, Lennernäs H et al. Frequency of Comedication of Proton Pump Inhibitors with Crystalline Dasatinib in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and Effects on TKI-Bioavailability. American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper), Annual Meeting 2024. Chicago. Abstract 6561. Poster 120. View Source
Sprycel (dasatinib) Tablets for oral use. Labeling, Supplement 27. 02 Aug 2023. View Source;ApplNo=021986. Accessed 22 May 2024.

Legend Biotech to Highlight Leadership in CAR-T Cell Therapy for Patients with Multiple Myeloma at ASCO and EHA

On May 23, 2024 Legend Biotech Corporation (NASDAQ: LEGN) (Legend Biotech), a global leader in cell therapy, reported that new and updated data from the CARTITUDE clinical development program evaluating CARVYKTI (ciltacabtagene autoleucel; cilta-cel) for patients with multiple myeloma will be presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting and the 2024 European Hematology Association (EHA) (Free EHA Whitepaper)’s (EHA) (Free EHA Whitepaper) Hybrid Congress (Press release, Legend Biotech, MAY 23, 2024, View Source [SID1234643662]).

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

Early/Late Stage Pipeline Development - Target Scouting - Clinical Biomarkers - Indication Selection & Expansion - BD&L Contacts - Conference Reports - Combinatorial Drug Settings - Companion Diagnostics - Drug Repositioning - First-in-class Analysis - Competitive Analysis - Deals & Licensing

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

Data from Cohort D of the Phase 2 CARTITUDE-2 study investigating a single infusion of CARVYKTI with or without lenalidomide maintenance in patients who achieved less than complete response after autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) frontline therapy will be presented for the first time in an oral presentation at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) and in an encore oral presentation at EHA (Free EHA Whitepaper).

Data from the subgroup analysis of the Phase 3 CARTITUDE-4 study of CARVYKTI versus two standard therapies in patients with functional high-risk multiple myeloma after one prior line of treatment will be presented in an oral presentation at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper). Additionally, the results of the CARTITUDE-4 subgroup analysis by cytogenetic risk will be shared at EHA (Free EHA Whitepaper) in a poster session.

"The results of the CARTITUDE clinical development program with CARVYKTI will provide significant insights about the broad range of patients who will benefit from this one-time treatment," said Ying Huang, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Legend Biotech. "We are excited to share our latest data with the hematology and oncology communities as we work to give new hope to patients and strive to one day develop a cure for multiple myeloma."

ASCO Presentations (May 31-June 4, 2024)

Abstract No.

Title

Information

Abstract #7504

Oral Presentation

Ciltacabtagene autoleucel vs standard of care in patients with functional high-risk multiple myeloma: CARTITUDE-4 subgroup analysis

Session Title: Hematologic Malignancies – Plasma Cell Dyscrasia

Date/Time: June 3, 2024, 4:12 – 4:24 p.m. CDT
Location: Hall D1

Abstract #7505 Oral Presentation

Efficacy and safety of ciltacabtagene autoleucel ± lenalidomide maintenance in patients with multiple myeloma who had suboptimal response to frontline autologous stem cell transplant: CARTITUDE-2 cohort D

Session Title: Hematologic Malignancies – Plasma Cell Dyscrasia

Date/Time: June 3, 2024, 4:24 – 4:36 p.m. CDT
Location: Hall D1

Abstract #7535 Poster

Ciltacabtagene autoleucel in patients with lenalidomide-refractory multiple myeloma: CARTITUDE-2 cohort A expansion subgroup

Session Title: Hematologic Malignancies – Plasma Cell Dyscrasia

Poster Bd#: 172

Date/Time: June 3, 2024, 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. CDT
Location: Hall A

EHA Presentations (June 13-16, 2024)

Abstract No.

Title

Information

Abstract #S205 Oral Presentation

Encore: Ciltacabtagene autoleucel ± lenalidomide maintenance in patients with multiple myeloma who had suboptimal response to frontline autologous stem cell transplant: CARTITUDE-2 cohort D

Date/Time: June 15, 2024, 16:30-16:45 CEST
Location: Hall Picasso

Abstract #P959 Poster

Encore: Ciltacabtagene autoleucel vs standard of care in patients with functional high-risk multiple myeloma: CARTITUDE-4 subgroup analysis

Date/Time: June 14, 2024, 18:00-19:00 CEST
Location: Hall 7

Abstract #P978 Poster

Ciltacabtagene autoleucel vs standard of care in lenalidomide-refractory multiple myeloma: Phase 3 CARTITUDE-4 subgroup analysis by cytogenetic risk

Date/Time: June 14, 2024, 18:00-19:00 CEST
Location: Hall 7

Abstract #P967 Poster

Comparative effectiveness of ciltacabtagene autoleucel from the CARTITUDE-4 trial vs real-world physician’s choice of therapy from the flatiron registry in lenalidomide-refractory multiple myeloma

Date/Time: June 14, 2024,18:00-19:00 CEST
Location: Hall 7

Abstract #P863 Poster

Clinical biomarkers associated with progression free survival to ciltacabtagene autoleucel in Chinese patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma from​ CARTIFAN-1 STUDY

Date/Time: June 14, 2024, 18:00-19:00 CEST
Location: Hall 7

CARVYKTI IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME, NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES, HLH/MAS, PROLONGED and RECURRENT CYTOPENIA, and SECONDARY HEMATOLOGICAL MALIGNANCIES

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients following treatment with CARVYKTI . Do not administer CARVYKTI to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids.

Immune Effector Cell-Associated Neurotoxicity Syndrome (ICANS), which may be fatal or life-threatening, occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI , including before CRS onset, concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution, or in the absence of CRS. Monitor for neurologic events after treatment with CARVYKTI . Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed.

Parkinsonism and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and their associated complications resulting in fatal or life-threatening reactions have occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI .

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (HLH/MAS), including fatal and life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients following treatment with CARVYKTI . HLH/MAS can occur with CRS or neurologic toxicities.

Prolonged and/or recurrent cytopenias with bleeding and infection and requirement for stem cell transplantation for hematopoietic recovery occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI .

Secondary hematological malignancies, including myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia, have occurred in patients following treatment with CARVYKTI . T-cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T-cell immunotherapies, including CARVYKTI .

CARVYKTI is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the CARVYKTI REMS Program.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

INCREASED EARLY MORTALITY – In CARTITUDE-4, a (1:1) randomized controlled trial, there was a numerically higher percentage of early deaths in patients randomized to the CARVYKTI treatment arm compared to the control arm. Among patients with deaths occurring within the first 10 months from randomization, a greater proportion (29/208; 14%) occurred in the CARVYKTI arm compared to (25/211; 12%) in the control arm. Of the 29 deaths that occurred in the CARVYKTI arm within the first 10 months of randomization, 10 deaths occurred prior to CARVYKTI infusion, and 19 deaths occurred after CARVYKTI infusion. Of the 10 deaths that occurred prior to CARVYKTI infusion, all occurred due to disease progression, and none occurred due to adverse events. Of the 19 deaths that occurred after CARVYKTI infusion, 3 occurred due to disease progression, and 16 occurred due to adverse events. The most common adverse events were due to infection (n=12).

CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI. Among patients receiving CARVYKTI for RRMM in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies (N=285), CRS occurred in 84% (238/285), including ≥ Grade 3 CRS (ASCT 2019) in 4% (11/285) of patients. Median time to onset of CRS, any grade, was 7 days (range: 1 to 23 days). CRS resolved in 82% with a median duration of 4 days (range: 1 to 97 days). The most common manifestations of CRS in all patients combined (≥ 10%) included fever (84%), hypotension (29%) and aspartate aminotransferase increased (11%). Serious events that may be associated with CRS include pyrexia, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, respiratory failure, disseminated intravascular coagulation, capillary leak syndrome, and supraventricular and ventricular tachycardia. CRS occurred in 78% of patients in CARTITUDE-4 (3% Grade 3 to 4) and in 95% of patients in CARTITUDE-1 (4% Grade 3 to 4). Identify CRS based on clinical presentation. Evaluate for and treat other causes of fever, hypoxia, and hypotension. CRS has been reported to be associated with findings of HLH/MAS, and the physiology of the syndromes may overlap. HLH/MAS is a potentially life-threatening condition. In patients with progressive symptoms of CRS or refractory CRS despite treatment, evaluate for evidence of HLH/MAS. Please see Section 5.4; Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS).

Ensure that a minimum of two doses of tocilizumab are available prior to infusion of CARVYKTI.

Of the 285 patients who received CARVYKTI in clinical trials, 53% (150/285) patients received tocilizumab; 35% (100/285) received a single dose, while 18% (50/285) received more than 1 dose of tocilizumab. Overall, 14% (39/285) of patients received at least one dose of corticosteroids for treatment of CRS.

Monitor patients at least daily for 10 days following CARVYKTI infusion at a REMS-certified healthcare facility for signs and symptoms of CRS. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of CRS for at least 4 weeks after infusion. At the first sign of CRS, immediately institute treatment with supportive care, tocilizumab, or tocilizumab and corticosteroids.

Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS occur at any time.

NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES, which may be severe, life-threatening, or fatal, occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI. Neurologic toxicities included ICANS, neurologic toxicity with signs and symptoms of parkinsonism, GBS, immune mediated myelitis, peripheral neuropathies, and cranial nerve palsies. Counsel patients on the signs and symptoms of these neurologic toxicities, and on the delayed nature of onset of some of these toxicities. Instruct patients to seek immediate medical attention for further assessment and management if signs or symptoms of any of these neurologic toxicities occur at any time.

Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies for RRMM, one or more neurologic toxicities occurred in 24% (69/285), including ≥ Grade 3 cases in 7% (19/285) of patients. Median time to onset was 10 days (range: 1 to 101) with 63/69 (91%) of cases developing by 30 days. Neurologic toxicities resolved in 72% (50/69) of patients with a median duration to resolution of 23 days (range: 1 to 544). Of patients developing neurotoxicity, 96% (66/69) also developed CRS. Subtypes of neurologic toxicities included ICANS in 13%, peripheral neuropathy in 7%, cranial nerve palsy in 7%, parkinsonism in 3%, and immune mediated myelitis in 0.4% of the patients.

Immune Effector Cell-Associated Neurotoxicity Syndrome (ICANS): Patients receiving CARVYKTI may experience fatal or life-threatening ICANS following treatment with CARVYKTI, including before CRS onset, concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution, or in the absence of CRS.

Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, ICANS occurred in 13% (36/285), including Grade ≥3 in 2% (6/285) of the patients. Median time to onset of ICANS was 8 days (range: 1 to 28 days). ICANS resolved in 30 of 36 (83%) of patients with a median time to resolution of 3 days (range: 1 to 143 days). Median duration of ICANS was 6 days (range: 1 to 1229 days) in all patients including those with ongoing neurologic events at the time of death or data cut-off. Of patients with ICANS, 97% (35/36) had CRS. The onset of ICANS occurred during CRS in 69% of patients, before and after the onset of CRS in 14% of patients respectively.

Immune Effector Cell-associated Neurotoxicity Syndrome (ICANS) occurred in 7% of patients in CARTITUDE-4 (0.5% Grade 3) and in 23% of patients in CARTITUDE-1 (3% Grade 3). The most frequent ≥2% manifestations of ICANS included encephalopathy (12%), aphasia (4%), headache (3%), motor dysfunction (3%), ataxia (2%), and sleep disorder (2%) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Monitor patients at least daily for 10 days following CARVYKTI infusion at the REMS-certified healthcare facility for signs and symptoms of ICANS. Rule out other causes of ICANS symptoms. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of ICANS for at least 4 weeks after infusion and treat promptly. Neurologic toxicity should be managed with supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

Parkinsonism: Neurologic toxicity with parkinsonism has been reported in clinical trials of CARVYKTI. Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, parkinsonism occurred in 3% (8/285), including Grade ≥ 3 in 2% (5/285) of the patients. Median time to onset of parkinsonism was 56 days (range: 14 to 914 days). Parkinsonism resolved in 1 of 8 (13%) of patients with a median time to resolution of 523 days. Median duration of parkinsonism was 243.5 days (range: 62 to 720 days) in all patients including those with ongoing neurologic events at the time of death or data cut-off. The onset of parkinsonism occurred after CRS for all patients and after ICANS for 6 patients.

Parkinsonism occurred in 1% of patients in CARTITUDE-4 (no Grade 3 to 4) and in 6% of patients in CARTITUDE-1 (4% Grade 3 to 4).

Manifestations of parkinsonism included movement disorders, cognitive impairment, and personality changes. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of parkinsonism that may be delayed in onset and managed with supportive care measures. There is limited efficacy information with medications used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease for the improvement or resolution of parkinsonism symptoms following CARVYKTI treatment.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A fatal outcome following GBS occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI despite treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins. Symptoms reported include those consistent with Miller-Fisher variant of GBS, encephalopathy, motor weakness, speech disturbances, and polyradiculoneuritis.

Monitor for GBS. Evaluate patients presenting with peripheral neuropathy for GBS. Consider treatment of GBS with supportive care measures and in conjunction with immunoglobulins and plasma exchange, depending on severity of GBS.

Immune Mediated Myelitis: Grade 3 myelitis occurred 25 days following treatment with CARVYKTI in CARTITUDE-4 in a patient who received CARVYKTI as subsequent therapy. Symptoms reported included hypoesthesia of the lower extremities and the lower abdomen with impaired sphincter control. Symptoms improved with the use of corticosteroids and intravenous immune globulin. Myelitis was ongoing at the time of death from other cause.

Peripheral Neuropathy occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI. Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, peripheral neuropathy occurred in 7% (21/285), including Grade ≥3 in 1% (3/285) of the patients. Median time to onset of peripheral neuropathy was 57 days (range: 1 to 914 days). Peripheral neuropathy resolved in 11 of 21 (52%) of patients with a median time to resolution of 58 days (range: 1 to 215 days). Median duration of peripheral neuropathy was 149.5 days (range: 1 to 692 days) in all patients including those with ongoing neurologic events at the time of death or data cut-off.

Peripheral neuropathies occurred in 7% of patients in CARTITUDE-4 (0.5% Grade 3 to 4) and in 7% of patients in CARTITUDE-1 (2% Grade 3 to 4). Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathies. Patients who experience peripheral neuropathy may also experience cranial nerve palsies or GBS.

Cranial Nerve Palsies occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI. Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, cranial nerve palsies occurred in 7% (19/285), including Grade ≥3 in 1% (1/285) of the patients. Median time to onset of cranial nerve palsies was 21 days (range: 17 to 101 days). Cranial nerve palsies resolved in 17 of 19 (89%) of patients with a median time to resolution of 66 days (range: 1 to 209 days). Median duration of cranial nerve palsies was 70 days (range: 1 to 262 days) in all patients including those with ongoing neurologic events at the time of death or data cut-off. Cranial nerve palsies occurred in 9% of patients in CARTITUDE-4 (1% Grade 3 to 4) and in 3% of patients in CARTITUDE-1 (1% Grade 3 to 4).

The most frequent cranial nerve affected was the 7th cranial nerve. Additionally, cranial nerves III, V, and VI have been reported to be affected.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of cranial nerve palsies. Consider management with systemic corticosteroids, depending on the severity and progression of signs and symptoms.

HEMOPHAGOCYTIC LYMPHOHISTIOCYTOSIS (HLH)/MACROPHAGE ACTIVATION SYNDROME (MAS): Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, HLH/MAS occurred in 1% (3/285) of patients. All events of HLH/MAS had onset within 99 days of receiving CARVYKTI, with a median onset of 10 days (range: 8 to 99 days) and all occurred in the setting of ongoing or worsening CRS. The manifestations of HLH/MAS included hyperferritinemia, hypotension, hypoxia with diffuse alveolar damage, coagulopathy and hemorrhage, cytopenia, and multi-organ dysfunction, including renal dysfunction and respiratory failure.

Patients who develop HLH/MAS have an increased risk of severe bleeding. Monitor hematologic parameters in patients with HLH/MAS and transfuse per institutional guidelines. Fatal cases of HLH/MAS occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI.

HLH is a life-threatening condition with a high mortality rate if not recognized and treated early. Treatment of HLH/MAS should be administered per institutional standards.

CARVYKTI REMS: Because of the risk of CRS and neurologic toxicities, CARVYKTI is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the CARVYKTI REMS.

Further information is available at View Source or 1-844-672-0067.

PROLONGED AND RECURRENT CYTOPENIAS: Patients may exhibit prolonged and recurrent cytopenias following lymphodepleting chemotherapy and CARVYKTI infusion. Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, Grade 3 or higher cytopenias not resolved by day 30 following CARVYKTI infusion occurred in 62% (176/285) of the patients and included thrombocytopenia 33% (94/285), neutropenia 27% (76/285), lymphopenia 24% (67/285) and anemia 2% (6/285). After Day 60 following CARVYKTI infusion 22%, 20%, 5%, and 6% of patients had a recurrence of Grade 3 or 4 lymphopenia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia respectively, after initial recovery of their Grade 3 or 4 cytopenia. Seventy-seven percent (219/285) of patients had one, two, or three or more recurrences of Grade 3 or 4 cytopenias after initial recovery of Grade 3 or 4 cytopenia. Sixteen and 25 patients had Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, respectively, at the time of death.

Monitor blood counts prior to and after CARVYKTI infusion. Manage cytopenias with growth factors and blood product transfusion support according to local institutional guidelines.

INFECTIONS: CARVYKTI should not be administered to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Severe, life-threatening, or fatal infections, occurred in patients after CARVYKTI infusion.

Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, infections occurred in 57% (163/285), including ≥Grade 3 in 24% (69/285) of patients. Grade 3 or 4 infections with an unspecified pathogen occurred in 12%, viral infections in 6%, bacterial infections in 5%, and fungal infections in 1% of patients. Overall, 5% (13/285) of patients had Grade 5 infections, 2.5% of which were due to COVID-19. Patients treated with CARVYKTI had an increased rate of fatal COVID-19 infections compared to the standard therapy arm.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection before and after CARVYKTI infusion and treat patients appropriately. Administer prophylactic, pre-emptive, and/or therapeutic antimicrobials according to the standard institutional guidelines. Febrile neutropenia was observed in 5% of patients after CARVYKTI infusion 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. Counsel patients on the importance of prevention measures. Follow institutional guidelines for the vaccination and management of immunocompromised patients with COVID-19.

Viral Reactivation: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, and death, can occur in patients with hypogammaglobulinemia. Perform screening for Cytomegalovirus (CMV), HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or any other infectious agents if clinically indicated in accordance with clinical guidelines before collection of cells for manufacturing. Consider antiviral therapy to prevent viral reactivation per local institutional guidelines/clinical practice.

HYPOGAMMAGLOBULINEMIA: can occur in patients receiving treatment with CARVYKTI. Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, hypogammaglobulinemia adverse event was reported in 36% (102/285) of patients; laboratory IgG levels fell below 500mg/dl after infusion in 93% (265/285) of patients.

Hypogammaglobulinemia either as an adverse reaction or laboratory IgG level below 500mg/dl, after infusion occurred in 94% (267/285) of patients treated. Fifty-six percent (161/285) of patients received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) post CARVYKTI for either an adverse reaction or prophylaxis.

Monitor immunoglobulin levels after treatment with CARVYKTI and administer IVIG for IgG <400 mg/dL. Manage per local institutional guidelines, including infection precautions and antibiotic or antiviral prophylaxis.

Use of Live Vaccines: The safety of immunization with live viral vaccines during or following CARVYKTI 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 CARVYKTI treatment, and until immune recovery following treatment with CARVYKTI.

HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS occurred following treatment with CARVYKTI. Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, hypersensitivity reactions occurred in 5% (13/285), all of which were ≤ Grade 2. Manifestations of hypersensitivity reactions included flushing, chest discomfort, tachycardia, wheezing, tremor, burning sensation, non-cardiac chest pain, and pyrexia.

Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, may be due to the dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in CARVYKTI. Patients should be carefully monitored for 2 hours after infusion for signs and symptoms of severe reaction. Treat promptly and manage patients appropriately according to the severity of the hypersensitivity reaction.

SECONDARY MALIGNANCIES: Patients treated with CARVYKTI may develop secondary malignancies. Among patients receiving CARVYKTI in the CARTITUDE-1 & 4 studies, myeloid neoplasms occurred in 5% (13/285) of patients (9 cases of myelodysplastic syndrome, 3 cases of acute myeloid leukemia, and 1 case of myelodysplastic syndrome followed by acute myeloid leukemia). The median time to onset of myeloid neoplasms was 447 days (range: 56 to 870 days) after treatment with CARVYKTI. Ten of these 13 patients died following the development of myeloid neoplasms; 2 of the 13 cases of myeloid neoplasm occurred after initiation of subsequent antimyeloma therapy. Cases of myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myeloid leukemia have also been reported in the post-marketing setting. T-cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T-cell immunotherapies, including CARVYKTI. Mature T-cell malignancies, including CAR-positive tumors, may present as soon as weeks following infusions and may include fatal outcomes.

Monitor life-long for secondary malignancies. In the event that a secondary malignancy occurs, contact Janssen Biotech, Inc. at 1-800-526-7736 for reporting and to obtain instructions on collection of patient samples.

EFFECTS ON ABILITY TO DRIVE AND USE MACHINES: Due to the potential for neurologic events, including altered mental status, seizures, neurocognitive decline, or neuropathy, patients receiving CARVYKTI are at risk for altered or decreased consciousness or coordination in the 8 weeks following CARVYKTI 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, and in the event of new onset of any neurologic toxicities.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

The most common nonlaboratory adverse reactions (incidence greater than 20%) are pyrexia, cytokine release syndrome, hypogammaglobulinemia, hypotension, musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, infections-pathogen unspecified, cough, chills, diarrhea, nausea, encephalopathy, decreased appetite, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, tachycardia, dizziness, dyspnea, edema, viral infections, coagulopathy, constipation, and vomiting. The most common Grade 3 or 4 laboratory adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 50%) include lymphopenia, neutropenia, white blood cell decreased, thrombocytopenia, and anemia.

Please read full Prescribing Information, including Boxed Warning, for CARVYKTI.

ABOUT CARVYKTI (CILTACABTAGENE AUTOLEUCEL; CILTA-CEL)

Ciltacabtagene autoleucel is a BCMA-directed, genetically modified autologous T-cell immunotherapy, which involves reprogramming a patient’s own T-cells with a transgene encoding a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) that identifies and eliminates cells that express BCMA. The cilta-cel CAR protein features two BCMA-targeting single domain antibodies designed to confer high avidity against human BCMA. Upon binding to BCMA-expressing cells, the CAR promotes T-cell activation, expansion, and elimination of target cells.1

In December 2017, Legend Biotech entered into an exclusive worldwide license and collaboration agreement with Janssen Biotech, Inc. (Janssen), a Johnson & Johnson company, to develop and commercialize cilta-cel. In February 2022, cilta-cel was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the brand name CARVYKTI for the treatment of adults with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. In April 2024, cilta-cel was approved for the second-line treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory myeloma who have received at least one prior line of therapy including a proteasome inhibitor, an immunomodulatory agent, and are refractory to lenalidomide.

In May 2022, the European Commission (EC) granted conditional marketing authorization of CARVYKTI for the treatment of adults with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma. In September 2022, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) approved CARVYKTI. Cilta-cel was granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation in the U.S. in December 2019 and in China in August 2020. In addition, cilta-cel received a PRIority MEdicines (PRIME) designation from the European Commission in April 2019. Cilta-cel also received Orphan Drug Designation from the U.S. FDA in February 2019, from the European Commission in February 2020, and from the Pharmaceuticals and Medicinal Devices Agency (PMDA) in Japan in June 2020. In March 2022, the European Medicines Agency’s Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products recommended by consensus that the orphan designation for cilta-cel be maintained on the basis of clinical data demonstrating improved and sustained complete response rates following treatment.

ABOUT CARTITUDE-2

CARTITUDE-2 (NCT04133636) is an ongoing Phase 2 multicohort study evaluating the safety and efficacy of cilta-cel in various clinical settings (Cohorts A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H).2

ABOUT CARTITUDE-4

CARTITUDE-4 (NCT04181827) is an ongoing, international, randomized, open-label Phase 3 study evaluating the efficacy and safety of cilta-cel versus pomalidomide, bortezomib and dexamethasone (PVd) or daratumumab, pomalidomide and dexamethasone (DPd) in adult patients with relapsed and lenalidomide-refractory multiple myeloma who received one to three prior lines of therapy, including a PI and an IMiD.3

ABOUT MULTIPLE MYELOMA

Multiple myeloma is an incurable blood cancer that starts in the bone marrow and is characterized by an excessive proliferation of plasma cells.4 In 2024, it is estimated that more than 35,000 people will be diagnosed with multiple myeloma, and more than 12,000 people will die from the disease in the U.S.5 While some patients with multiple myeloma initially have no symptoms, most patients are diagnosed due to symptoms that can include bone problems, low blood counts, calcium elevation, kidney problems or infections.

Obsidian Therapeutics Announces Positive Clinical Data from OBX-115 in Patients with Advanced Melanoma at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting

On May 23, 2024 Obsidian Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering engineered cell and gene therapies, reported positive updated safety and efficacy data from its first-in-human study of OBX-115, a novel engineered tumor-derived autologous T cell immunotherapy (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte [TIL] cell therapy) armored with pharmacologically regulatable membrane-bound IL15 (mbIL15), in patients with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-resistant advanced or metastatic melanoma (NCT05470283) (Press release, Obsidian Therapeutics, MAY 23, 2024, View Source [SID1234643661]). The data will be presented at an oral poster presentation at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, taking place in Chicago on June 3. The oral poster titled, "OBX-115, an interleukin 2 (IL2)-sparing engineered tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) cell therapy, in patients (pts) with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-resistant unresectable or metastatic melanoma," will be presented by Rodabe Amaria, M.D., professor of Melanoma Medical Oncology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and principal investigator of the study.

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

Early/Late Stage Pipeline Development - Target Scouting - Clinical Biomarkers - Indication Selection & Expansion - BD&L Contacts - Conference Reports - Combinatorial Drug Settings - Companion Diagnostics - Drug Repositioning - First-in-class Analysis - Competitive Analysis - Deals & Licensing

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

The single-center study is evaluating the safety, tolerability, dosing, and efficacy of OBX-115 in patients with ICI-resistant metastatic melanoma. As of January 2, 2024, all 9 patients had disease that was primary-resistant to anti–PD-1 therapy, with a median of 3 (range, 1–6) lines of prior therapy. Post-infusion safety results included no dose limiting toxicities and no Grade 4 or higher non-hematologic treatment emergent adverse events (TAEs), and 2 patients with Grade 3 nonhematologic TEAEs. Updated efficacy data on 9 patients with a minimum of a 12-week post-infusion follow-up will be presented by Dr. Amaria at the oral presentation on June 3 at 9:45 a.m. CT/10:45 a.m. ET.

In addition to the first-in-human study, Obsidian is actively enrolling patients with metastatic melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at multiple sites in the company’s ongoing Phase 1/2 multicenter study. Additional details may be found at clinicaltrials.gov, using identifier: NCT06060613. Obsidian is presenting a trials in progress poster at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) 2024:

Title: A phase 1/2 study to investigate the safety and efficacy of OBX-115 engineered tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) cell therapy in patients (pts) with advanced solid tumors.
Presenting Author: Adam J Schoenfeld, M.D., Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Date and Time: June 1, 1:0 p.m. CT / 2:30 p.m. ET
Abstract #: TPS9599
Poster Bd: 383a

About OBX-115
Obsidian’s lead investigational cytoTIL15 program, OBX-115, is a novel engineered tumor-derived autologous T cell immunotherapy (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte [TIL] cell therapy) armored with pharmacologically regulatable membrane-bound IL15 (mbIL15). OBX-115 has the potential to become a meaningful therapeutic option for patients with advanced or metastatic melanoma and other solid tumors by leveraging the expected benefits of mbIL15 and Obsidian’s proprietary, differentiated manufacturing process to enhance persistence, antitumor activity, and clinical safety of TIL cell therapy. OBX-115 is being investigated in two ongoing clinical trials in advanced or metastatic melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (NCT05470283 and NCT06060613).

Merck to Showcase Advances in the Science of Cancer With New Data Presented at ASCO 2024

On May 23, 2024 Merck, a leading science and technology company, reported new research from the company’s diverse oncology portfolio will be presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, May 31 to June 4, Chicago (Press release, Merck & Co, MAY 23, 2024, View Source [SID1234643660]). Data from company- and investigator-sponsored studies include 31 accepted abstracts across more than 10 tumor types, including seven oral presentations, highlighting the company’s innovative oncology pipeline encompassing potential first-in-class approaches designed to hit cancer at its core.

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

Early/Late Stage Pipeline Development - Target Scouting - Clinical Biomarkers - Indication Selection & Expansion - BD&L Contacts - Conference Reports - Combinatorial Drug Settings - Companion Diagnostics - Drug Repositioning - First-in-class Analysis - Competitive Analysis - Deals & Licensing

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

"Our research at the 2024 ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting showcases the advancement of our novel pipeline designed to exploit the major vulnerabilities of cancer, with new data from our lead investigational antibody-drug conjugate and our DNA damage response portfolio," said Victoria Zazulina, M.D., Head of Development Unit, Oncology, for the Healthcare business of Merck. "In addition, new analyses from pivotal studies and collaborations underline our determination to maximize the impact of our standard-of-care treatments as we seek to improve the lives of those living with cancer."

Highlights of the company’s data include:

First-in-human data for the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) M9140 (Abstract 3000). This Phase I trial is investigating the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and preliminary clinical activity of M9140, the company’s investigational ADC against carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 5 (CEACAM5) with a novel exatecan payload, in heavily pretreated patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Data from 40 patients treated across seven dose levels in Part 1A of the study showed encouraging clinical activity and a manageable and predictable safety profile in this population. The randomized dose-expansion part of the study is ongoing.

New findings for tuvusertib, the lead oral ATRi asset from the company’s portfolio of DNA damage response (DDR) inhibitors (Abstracts 3018, 2612, 2614). Data from the DDRiver Clinical Trials program highlight the potential of the investigational oral ataxia telangiectasia and RAD3-related inhibitor (ATRi) tuvusertib in various combinations across solid tumors.

Part B1 of the Phase I DDRiver Solid Tumors 301 study assessed safety as well as PK, pharmacodynamics, and preliminary efficacy of different dosing regimens of tuvusertib in combination with the poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor niraparib in patients with locally advanced or metastatic unresectable solid tumors refractory to standard treatment. Data show a manageable safety profile and preliminary efficacy in patients with advanced solid tumors, confirming suitability of this combination for further evaluation.
Presentations from the Phase Ib DDRiver Solid Tumors 320 study showcase further data on the combination of tuvusertib with the company’s ataxia telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) inhibitor lartesertib, building on the safety and efficacy data presented at the AACR (Free AACR Whitepaper) Annual Meeting in April 2024, and for the first time, with the company’s immune checkpoint inhibitor BAVENCIO (avelumab). The findings further support that both DDRi assets are well-positioned for combination development building on in-house expertise.
Post-hoc independent read confirmation of Phase II efficacy data for xevinapant (Abstract e18039). A previously published Phase II study of the investigational oral IAP (inhibitor of apoptosis protein) inhibitor xevinapant plus chemoradiotherapy (CRT) versus placebo plus CRT in patients with unresected locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (LA SCCHN) showed improved efficacy outcomes. This post-hoc analysis showed consistent outcomes when comparing the review of selected efficacy endpoints by blinded independent review committee (BIRC) with previously reported outcomes by investigator review. Xevinapant plus CRT demonstrated a 62% reduction in the risk of disease progression (by BIRC) or death compared with placebo plus CRT, with prolonged duration of response and increased complete response rates.

Long-term efficacy and safety analyses from JAVELIN Bladder 100 (Abstracts 4566, 4567). New analyses of this Phase III study, which has previously shown in a post-hoc exploratory analysis a median overall survival of 29.7 months in patients who received BAVENCIO plus best supportive care (BSC) as measured from the start of first-line chemotherapy, confirm the benefit of BAVENCIO first-line maintenance in key subgroups of patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma that has not progressed on platinum-based chemotherapy, including those who have low tumor burden and in those with mixed histologic subtypes. These findings further support the use of the JAVELIN Bladder regimen as a standard of care in this setting and as an important first-line treatment regimen for patients with low tumor burden in particular, where pronounced efficacy with BAVENCIO (vs BSC alone) was observed.

Health-related quality-of-life data for TEPMETKO (tepotinib) in NSCLC (Abstract 8575). This analysis reports health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes from the Phase II VISION study of TEPMETKO in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring METex14 skipping alterations with brain, liver, adrenal or bone metastases. These patients experienced stable HRQoL during treatment with TEPMETKO, with trends for improvement in cough, consistent with results for the overall population.

Additional company-sponsored activity at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper):

Medical Evening Lecture

What’s new in LA SCCHN? An evasive enemy and an evolving landscape

Faculty: Kevin Harrington (chair), Institute of Cancer Research, UK; Ari Rosenberg, University of Chicago Medicine, USA; Jonathan Schoenfeld, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, USA; Sue Yom, University of California, San Francisco, USA

June 2, 2024, 7:00PM-8:00PM CDT

W Chicago City Center hotel (172 West Adams Street), Great Room I

Select Merck-related abstracts accepted for the ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) 2024 Annual Meeting include (all times in CDT):

Title

Lead Author

Abstract

Session Information

M9140

First-in-human trial of M9140, an anti-CEACAM5 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) with exatecan payload, in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.

Kopetz, S

3000

Session Title: Developmental Therapeutics—Molecularly Targeted Agents and Tumor Biology, HALL D1

Date: Saturday June 1, 2024

Session Time: 3:00-6:00PM

Presentation Time: 3:00-3:06PM

Location: Hall D1

DDRi

A phase I study of highly potent oral ATR inhibitor tuvusertib plus oral PARP inhibitor niraparib in patients with solid tumors.

Yap, T

3018

Session Title: Developmental Therapeutics—Molecularly Targeted Agents and Tumor Biology

Date: Monday June 3, 2024

Session Time: 8:00 -9:30AM

Presentation Time: 9:00-9:12AM

Location: S406

Pharmacodynamic and immunophenotyping analyses of ATR inhibitor tuvusertib + ATM inhibitor lartesertib in a phase Ib study in patients with advanced unresectable solid tumors.

Boni, V

2612

Session Title: Developmental Therapeutics—Immunotherapy

Date: Saturday June 1, 2024

Session Time: 9:00AM-12:00PM

Location: Hall A

Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic findings from a phase 1b study of ATR inhibitor tuvusertib + anti-PD-L1 avelumab in patients with advanced unresectable solid tumors.

Tolcher, A

2614

Session Title: Developmental Therapeutics—Immunotherapy

Date: Saturday June 1, 2024

Session Time: 9:00AM-12:00PM

Location: Hall A

Xevinapant

Phase 2 study of xevinapant + chemoradiotherapy (CRT) vs placebo + CRT in patients with unresected

locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: A post hoc activity analysis by blinded independent review committee evaluation.

Bourhis, J

e18039

Accepted for e-publication

Xevinapant with radiation and concurrent carboplatin and paclitaxel in patients ineligible for cisplatin with locoregionally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (The EXtRaCT study)

Mir, NA

TPS6126

Session Title: Head and Neck Cancer

Date: Sunday June 2, 2024

Session Time: 9:00AM-12:00PM

Location: Hall A

BAVENCIO (avelumab)

Avelumab first-line maintenance for advanced urothelial carcinoma: Long-term outcomes from JAVELIN Bladder 100 in patients with low tumor burden.

Bellmunt, J

4566

Session Title: Genitourinary Cancer—Kidney and Bladder

Date: Sunday June 2, 2024

Session Time: 9:00AM-12:00PM

Location: Hall A

Avelumab first-line maintenance for advanced urothelial carcinoma: Long-term outcomes from the JAVELIN Bladder 100 trial in patients with histological subtypes.

Loriot, Y

4567

Session Title: Genitourinary Cancer—Kidney and Bladder

Date: Sunday June 2, 2024

Session Time: 9:00AM-12:00PM

Location: Hall A

Avelumab + axitinib vs sunitinib in patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma: Final overall survival (OS) analysis from the JAVELIN Renal 101 phase 3 trial.

Motzer, R

4508

Session Title: Genitourinary Cancer—Kidney and Bladder

Date: Monday June 3, 2024

Session Time: 8:00-11:00AM

Presentation Time: 10:12-10:24AM

Location: Hall B1

ERBITUX (cetuximab)

Efficacy of FOLFIRI plus bevacizumab versus FOLFIRI plus cetuximab in RAS-mutant metastatic

colorectal cancer: Final update on RAS mutant patients treated in FIRE-3.

Weiss, L

3550

Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer—Colorectal and Anal

Date: Saturday June 1, 2024

Session Time: 1:30-4:30PM

Location: Hall A

Encorafenib and cetuximab versus irinotecan/cetuximab or FOLFIRI/cetuximab in Chinese patients with BRAF V600E mutant metastatic colorectal cancer: The NAUTICAL CRC study.

Wang, X

LBA3559

Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer—Colorectal and Anal

Date: Saturday June 1, 2024

Session Time: 1:30-4:30PM

Location: Hall A

TEPMETKO (tepotinib)

Health-related quality of life with tepotinib in patients with MET exon 14 (METex14) skipping non-small cell lung cancer with brain, liver, adrenal, or bone metastases in the phase II VISION trial.

Reinmuth, N

8575

Session Title: Lung Cancer—Non-Small Cell Metastatic

Date: Monday June 3, 2024

Session Time: 1:30 -4:30PM

Location: Hall A

Advancing the Future of Cancer Care

At Merck, we strive every day to improve the futures of people living with cancer. Our research explores the full potential of promising mechanisms in cancer research, focused on synergistic approaches designed to hit cancer at its core. We are determined to maximize the impact of our standard-of-care treatments and to continue pioneering novel medicines. Our vision is to create a world where more cancer patients will become cancer survivors. Learn more at www.merckgrouponcology.com.

About M9140

M9140 is an investigational anti-CEACAM5 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). Leveraging the company’s novel linker-payload technology, M9140 is the first CEACAM5 ADC with an exatecan payload, a potent topoisomerase inhibitor (TOP1i), which has been rationally designed for stability in circulation and superior cancer cell killing activity. Beyond the direct effect on the target cell, M9140 has been shown in preclinical research to induce tumor cell death through a bystander effect permeating the cell membrane to neighboring cells, inducing apoptosis (cell death). This bystander effect within the tumor microenvironment may enhance efficacy, particularly in tumors with heterogenous CEACAM5 expression. M9140 is currently being investigated in advanced solid tumors in a first-in-human, Phase I dose-escalation clinical trial (NCT05464030).

About Tuvusertib

Tuvusertib (M1774), is the lead asset in the company’s portfolio of DNA damage response inhibitors. Tuvusertib is an investigational, potentially best-in-class small-molecule oral inhibitor of the ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) kinase, which serves as a major regulator of the replication stress response. Early clinical data for tuvusertib have shown potency, selectivity, and the potential to achieve high therapeutic doses without rate-limiting side effects. The company’s DDRiver Clinical Trial Program is exploring the potential of tuvusertib as a backbone therapy in a variety of combinations with other DDR inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, or cytotoxic agents, touching on multiple clinical hypotheses across several types of cancer.

About Xevinapant

Xevinapant (formerly known as Debio 1143) is an investigational first-in-class potent oral small-molecule IAP (inhibitor of apoptosis protein) inhibitor developed for the treatment of LA SCCHN, with a proposed dual mechanism of action: xevinapant releases the brakes on apoptosis and increases anti-tumor immunity, re-initiating the programmed cell death of tumor cells. Via this dual mechanism, xevinapant is thought to enhance the effects of chemo- and radiotherapy. Xevinapant has demonstrated improved efficacy outcomes in combination with chemoradiotherapy (CRT), including 18-month locoregional control, three-year progression-free survival and five-year survival, compared with placebo plus CRT in a Phase II study in patients with unresected LA SCCHN. Xevinapant is being studied in two Phase III studies: TrilynX, in patients with unresected LA SCCHN, and XRay Vision, in patients with resected LA SCCHN who are at a high risk of recurrence and who are deemed cisplatin-ineligible. In March 2021, Merck gained exclusive rights from Debiopharm to develop and commercialize xevinapant worldwide. Xevinapant is not approved for any use anywhere in the world.

About BAVENCIO (avelumab)

BAVENCIO is a human anti-programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibody. BAVENCIO has been shown in preclinical models to engage both the adaptive and innate immune functions. By blocking the interaction of PD-L1 with PD-1 receptors, BAVENCIO has been shown to release the suppression of the T cell-mediated antitumor immune response in preclinical models.

BAVENCIO Approved Indications

The European Commission (EC) has authorized the use of BAVENCIO as monotherapy for the first-line maintenance treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) who are progression-free following platinum-based chemotherapy. BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib is indicated for the first-line treatment of adult patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). BAVENCIO is also authorized by the EC for use as a monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

In the US, BAVENCIO is indicated for the maintenance treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) that has not progressed with first-line platinum-containing chemotherapy. BAVENCIO is also indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic UC who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy, or have disease progression within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy.

BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib is indicated in the US for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced RCC. Additionally, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved BAVENCIO for the treatment of adults and pediatric patients 12 years and older with metastatic MCC.

BAVENCIO is currently approved for at least one indication for patients in more than 50 countries.

BAVENCIO Safety Profile from the EU Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)

The special warnings and precautions for use for BAVENCIO monotherapy include infusion-related reactions, as well as immune-related adverse reactions that include pneumonitis and hepatitis (including fatal cases), colitis, pancreatitis (including fatal cases), myocarditis (including fatal cases), endocrinopathies, nephritis and renal dysfunction, and other immune-related adverse reactions. The special warnings and precautions for use for BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib include hepatotoxicity.

The SmPC list of the most common adverse reactions with BAVENCIO monotherapy in patients with solid tumors includes fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, constipation, infusion-related reactions, weight decreased and vomiting. The list of most common adverse reactions with BAVENCIO in combination with axitinib includes diarrhea, hypertension, fatigue, nausea, dysphonia, decreased appetite, hypothyroidism, cough, headache, dyspnea, and arthralgia.

About TEPMETKO (tepotinib)

TEPMETKO is a once-daily oral MET inhibitor that inhibits the oncogenic MET receptor signaling caused by MET (gene) alterations. Discovered and developed in-house at Merck, TEPMETKO has a highly selective mechanism of action, with the potential to improve outcomes in aggressive tumors that have a poor prognosis and harbor these specific alterations.

TEPMETKO is the first oral MET inhibitor to have received a regulatory approval anywhere in the world for the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring MET exon 14 skipping alterations, with its approval in Japan in March 2020. In February 2024, the US Food and Drug Administration granted full approval for TEPMETKO. The conversion from accelerated approval, which the company received in February 2021, to full FDA approval is based on additional data from the ongoing Phase II VISION study, the largest trial of its kind. The updated label includes revised data for overall response rate and duration of response, as well as safety outcomes for more than 300 patients who were treated with TEPMETKO once-daily for metastatic NSCLC with METex14 skipping alterations.

TEPMETKO is available in a number of countries. To meet an urgent clinical need, TEPMETKO is also available in a pilot zone of China in line with the government policy to drive early access for innovative medicines approved outside of China.

TEPMETKO Safety Profile from the EU Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)

The special warnings and precautions for use for TEPMETKO monotherapy include Interstitial lung disease (ILD) or ILD-like adverse reactions including pneumonitis, increase of liver enzymes (ALT and AST), QTc prolongation, and embryo-fetal toxicity.

The most common adverse reactions in ≥ 20% of exposed to tepotinib at the recommended dose in the target indication are oedema, mainly peripheral oedema, nausea, hypoalbuminemia, diarrhea and increase in creatinine. The most common serious adverse reactions in ≥ 1% of patients are peripheral oedema, generalized oedema and ILD.

About ERBITUX (cetuximab)

ERBITUX is an IgG1 monoclonal antibody targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). As a monoclonal antibody, the mode of action of ERBITUX is distinct from standard non-selective chemotherapy treatments in that it specifically targets and binds to the EGFR. This binding inhibits the activation of the receptor and the subsequent signal-transduction pathway, which results in reducing both the invasion of normal tissues by tumor cells and the spread of tumors to new sites. It is also believed to inhibit the ability of tumor cells to repair the damage caused by chemotherapy and radiotherapy and to inhibit the formation of new blood vessels inside tumors, which appears to lead to an overall suppression of tumor growth. Based on in vitro evidence, ERBITUX also targets cytotoxic immune effector cells towards EGFR-expressing tumor cells (antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity [ADCC]).

ERBITUX has already obtained market authorization in over 100 countries worldwide for the treatment of RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer and for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Merck licensed the right to market ERBITUX, a registered trademark of ImClone LLC, outside the U.S. and Canada from ImClone LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company, in 1998.