QIAGEN expands digital PCR oncology research portfolio through partnership with ID Solutions

On May 22, 2025 QIAGEN (NYSE: QGEN; Frankfurt Prime Standard: QIA) reported a new commercial partnership and co-marketing agreement with ID Solutions, a French provider of high-quality digital PCR (dPCR) assays and customized molecular testing solutions for oncology and other disease areas, to expand the availability of dPCR assays for oncology research applications (Press release, Qiagen, MAY 22, 2025, View Source [SID1234653314]).

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The combination of QIAGEN’s global reach and automation expertise with the assay development and manufacturing capabilities of ID Solutions will strengthen QIAGEN’s position in oncology research.

Under the agreement, ID Solutions will manufacture and supply dPCR assays for non-clinical research use on QIAGEN’s QIAcuity platforms. These assays are optimized to simultaneously detect multiple mutations in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from plasma and genomic DNA (gDNA) from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue. QIAGEN will commercialize these kits starting in Europe as the first region, with the potential for future expansion into other regions.

This agreement supports QIAGEN’s strategic focus on accelerating the adoption of the QIAcuity dPCR platform in oncology research. The new assays expand QIAGEN’s portfolio, complementing the existing PanCancer Kits for detecting multiple hallmark mutations in DNA from diverse sample types and over 200 LNA (locked nucleic acid) Mutation Assays available via its GeneGlobe platform. This unique platform integrates pre-designed assays with a database of more than 10,000 biological entities, including genes, miRNAs, pathogens and pathways.

"Through our collaboration with ID Solutions, we are reinforcing our commitment at QIAGEN to providing comprehensive dPCR solutions on QIAcuity that address critical needs in oncology research," said Simona Grandits, Vice President, Head of Commercial Operations for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Region at QIAGEN. "This agreement expands our assay portfolio, strengthens our position in oncology research, and supports faster, more reproducible results on the QIAcuity platform for our customers."

The partnership aligns with ID Solutions mission to develop its assays for research use only on fully integrated platforms. "Partnering with QIAGEN enables us to extend the reach of our high-quality dPCR assays to more laboratories," said Lise Grewis, CEO, ID Solutions. "Together, we’re enabling faster adoption of dPCR in oncology research with robust, reliable results."

For customers, this partnership translates into streamlined access to ready-to-use assays optimized for QIAcuity in non-clinical oncology research, expanding beyond the current menu, enabling results in less than a day and meeting the growing demand for deeper molecular insights.

To learn more about QIAGEN’s dPCR solutions and the new assays available through this partnership, visit View Source

CARsgen’s Satri-cel Abstract Available on ASCO Website

On May 22, 2025 CARsgen Therapeutics Holdings Limited (Stock Code: 2171.HK), a company focused on developing innovative CAR T-cell therapies, reported that an abstract of the research results of the confirmatory Phase II clinical trial of satricabtagene autoleucel ("satri-cel", CT041) (an autologous CAR T-cell product candidate against protein Claudin18.2) for advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction cancer (G/GEJC) in China (CT041-ST-01, NCT04581473) is available on the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) ("ASCO") website (Press release, Carsgen Therapeutics, MAY 22, 2025, View Source [SID1234653329]).

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Title

Claudin18.2-specific CAR T cells (Satri-cel) versus treatment of physician’s choice (TPC) for previously treated advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer (G/GEJC): Primary results from a randomized, open-label, phase II trial (CT041-ST-01)

Abstract Number

4003

Session Type and Title

Oral Abstract Session – Gastrointestinal Cancer— Gastroesophageal, Pancreatic, and Hepatobiliary

Session Date and Time

May 31, 2025, 3:00–6:00 PM CDT

This open-label, multicenter, randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted in China to compare the efficacy and safety of satri-cel versus standard of care (SOC) in CLDN18.2 positive, advanced G/GEJC patients with failure to at least 2 prior lines of treatment. The primary endpoint was PFS assessed by the Independent Review Committee (IRC). Key secondary endpoint was OS. Data cutoff date was Oct 18, 2024.

Patients were randomized (2:1) to satri-cel arm or TPC arm. For satri-cel arm, satri-cel dose of 250×106 cells were infused up to 3 times. For TPC arm, one of the standard of care (SOC) drugs (apatinib, paclitaxel, docetaxel, irinotecan or nivolumab) was given per physician’s decision. Those who experienced disease progression or drug intolerance in TPC arm could receive subsequent satri-cel, if eligible.

From Mar 29, 2022 to Aug 16, 2024, a total of 156 patients were randomized to satri-cel arm (n = 104) or TPC arm (n = 52). Twenty patients in TPC arm received subsequent satri-cel. Median number of prior systemic therapies was 2 in both arms, and 26.9% vs 19.2% had received ≥3 lines. 71.2% vs 65.4% were Lauren diffuse/mixed type. 69.2% vs 59.6% had peritoneal metastasis.

In ITT population (i.e., all randomized patients), satri-cel arm showed significant improvement in mPFS by IRC (3.25m vs 1.77m; HR 0.366, 95% CI:0.241, 0.557; p < 0.0001) meeting the primary endpoint with a 63% reduction in risk of disease progression or death. Even with 15.4% (n=16) patients in satri-cel arm failing to receive infusion and nearly 40% (n=20) patients in TPC arm receiving subsequent satri-cel, satri-cel arm still demonstrated a clear trend toward OS benefit (mOS 7.92m vs 5.49m; HR 0.693, 95% CI: 0.457, 1.051; one-sided p = 0.0416) , showing over 30% reduction in mortality risk.

More importantly, in mITT population (i.e. patients who were actually treated), 136 patients received study drug (satri-cel 88 patients vs TPC 48 patients), mPFS by IRC was 4.37m vs 1.84m, HR 0.304 (95% CI: 0.195, 0.474), representing a 70% reduction in risk of disease progression or death. The mOS was 8.61m vs 5.49m, HR 0.601 (95%CI: 0.385, 0.939), corresponding to 40% reduction in mortality risk. These results demonstrate that satri-cel treatment benefits were pronounced in patients who actually received CAR-T infusion.

Of particular note, 20 TPC patients with subsequent satri-cel infusion achieved an mOS of 9.20 months. When analyzing all 108 patients who received satri-cel infusion (88 patients in satri-cel arm and 20 patients in TPC arm), the mOS reached 9.17 months, while the mOS of 28 patients in TPC arm who did not receive satri-cel treatment was only 3.98 months (HR 0.288; 95% CI: 0.169-0.492). These findings provide further evidence that satri-cel infusion can deliver substantial survival benefits for patients.

Furthermore, satri-cel demonstrated a favorable overall safety profile. Only 4 cases of Grade 3 cytokine release syndrome (CRS) were reported, and no Grade 4-5 CRS events were observed. No immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) was reported.

This is the first confirmatory RCT of CAR-T therapy in solid tumors. Satri-cel demonstrated significant PFS improvement and a clinically meaningful OS benefit with a manageable safety profile in CLDN18.2 positive G/GEJC patients with failure to at least 2 prior lines of treatment, compared to standard therapy. These results support satri-cel as a potential new SOC for advanced G/GEJC.

About Satri-cel

Satri-cel is an autologous CAR T-cell product candidate against the protein Claudin18.2 that has the potential to be the first-in-class globally. Satri-cel targets the treatment of Claudin18.2 positive solid tumors with a primary focus on G/GEJA and pancreatic cancer (PC). Initiated trials include investigator-initiated trials (CT041-CG4006, NCT03874897), a confirmatory Phase II clinical trial for advanced G/GEJA in China (CT041-ST-01, NCT04581473), a Phase I clinical trial for PC adjuvant therapy in China (CT041-ST-05, NCT05911217), an investigator-initiated trial for satri-cel be used as consolidation treatment following adjuvant therapy in patients with resected G/GEJA (CT041-CG4010, NCT06857786), and a Phase 1b/2 clinical trial for advanced gastric or pancreatic adenocarcinoma in North America (CT041-ST-02, NCT04404595). Satri-cel has been granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation by the Center for Drug Evaluation of China’s National Medical Products Administration for the treatment of Claudin18.2-positive advanced G/GEJA in patients who have failed at least two prior lines of therapy in March 2025. Satri-cel was granted Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy designation by U.S. FDA for the treatment of advanced G/GEJA with Claudin18.2-positive tumors in January 2022. Satri-cel received Orphan Drug designation from the U.S. FDA in September 2020 for the treatment of G/GEJA.

Foundation Medicine to Present Over 15 Abstracts at the 2025 ASCO® Annual Meeting

On May 22, 2025 Foundation Medicine, Inc., a genomic company committed to transforming cancer care, reported that the company and its collaborators will present more than 15 abstracts demonstrating the value of high-quality biomarker tests to inform cancer care at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting from May 30 to June 3 in Chicago (Press release, Foundation Medicine, MAY 22, 2025, View Source [SID1234653345]).

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Foundation Medicine’s research presented at the meeting will include new insights across breast cancer, lung cancer and prostate cancer, including an oral presentation highlighting the findings from the COMRADE phase 2 clinical trial in castration resistant prostate cancer, which leveraged the research use version of FoundationOneMonitor, the company’s tissue-free treatment response monitoring assay, for serial ctDNA analysis. (Abstract 5007, Tuesday, June 3, at 11:57 am – 12:09 pm CT, Hall D1)

"In partnership with over 30 clinical collaborators, Foundation Medicine’s new research at the ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting further reinforces the important role high-quality biomarker testing plays in delivering personalized cancer care," said Mia Levy, M.D., Ph.D., chief medical officer at Foundation Medicine. "From exploring the role of innovative and complex biomarkers to expanding the clinical utility of genomic profiling, we are excited to demonstrate how our testing portfolio, including our new treatment response monitoring assay, can help providers make more informed treatment decisions for their patients."

To access the abstracts being presented at the 2025 ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, please visit ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper).org/abstracts.

Follow Foundation Medicine on LinkedIn, X and Instagram for more updates from #ASCO25 and visit us in person at booth #27021.

Complete list of Foundation Medicine’s abstracts at the 2025 ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting

Abstract Number

Title

Product

Saturday, May 31

3570

Comparison of MET genomic alterations (GA) identified in colorectal cancer (CRC) vs gastric cancer (GCA)

FoundationOneCDx

4153

Pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma (PASC): A comparative genomic landscape study

FoundationOneCDx

4183

BRCA1/2 and PALB2 short variants (SVs) contributed by clonal hematopoiesis (CH) in liquid biopsies (LBx) from patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (PC)

FoundationOneCDx / FoundationOneLiquid CDx

8036

Tumor type prediction via tissue- and liquid-based comprehensive genomic profiling: High-specificity tobacco signature detection to support lung cancer diagnosis

FoundationOneCDx / FoundationOneLiquid CDx

8039

Clinical utility of pathologist-directed comprehensive comparative molecular profiling for the classification of separate primary lung cancers vs. intrapulmonary metastasis

FoundationOneCDx

8628

Association of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) variant allelic frequency (VAF) with outcomes on matched targeted therapies (TT) in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC)

FoundationOneLiquid CDx

11161

Real-world analysis of factors influencing turnaround time (TAT) for tissue comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

FoundationOneCDx

Sunday, June 1

5592

Distinguishing tumor vs. clonal hematopoiesis (CH)–derived TP53 and BRCA1/2 alterations in ovarian cancer liquid biopsies with a predictive algorithm to inform clinical decision-making

FoundationOneCDx / FoundationOneLiquid CDx

6528

Nucleophosmin (NPM1) genomic alterations (GA) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML): A genomic landscape study

FoundationOneHeme

9520

Homologous recombination deficiency signature (HRDsig) in advanced cutaneous melanoma (ACM): A genomic landscape study

FoundationOneCDx

Monday, June 2

1043

TP53 genomic alterations including targetable TP53 Y220C mutation in clinically advanced breast cancer

FoundationOneCDx

1048

Genomic alterations (GAs) associated with durability of benefit from trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd), trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) and sacituzumab govitecan (SG) in metastatic breast cancer (MBC)

FoundationOneCDx / FoundationOneLiquid CDx

1065

Quantifying the clinical impact of tissue reflex testing for liquid biopsy ESR1 mutation-negative cases with low ctDNA tumor fraction (TF) in HR(+)HER2(-) breast cancer

FoundationOneCDx / FoundationOneLiquid CDx

3081

Genomic landscape of 5’methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP) deleted (MTAP loss) non-squamous carcinoma of unknown primary site (nsCUP)

FoundationOneCDx

5064

Additive clinical utility of tissue biomarkers of microsatellite instability (MSI) status and tumor mutational burden (TMB) to predict immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) effectiveness for real-world patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)

FoundationOneCDx

4564

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) alteration status and outcomes with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICPI) in patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma

FoundationOneCDx

Tuesday, June 3

5007

A multicenter, randomized, phase 2, investigator-initiated ETCTN trial of olaparib + radium-223 vs. radium-223 in men with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) with bone metastases (BM) (COMRADE): Initial efficacy and biomarker analysis

Research use version of FoundationOneMonitor*

Lilly announces details of presentations at 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting

On May 22, 2025 Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) reported that data from studies of imlunestrant, an investigational oral selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD), olomorasib, an investigational KRAS G12C inhibitor, LY4170156, an investigational antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting folate receptor alpha (FRα) and Verzenio (abemaciclib; a CDK4/6 inhibitor) will be presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, taking place May 30 – June 3 in Chicago (Press release, Eli Lilly, MAY 22, 2025, View Source [SID1234653299]).

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Presentation Highlights
Imlunestrant (investigational oral SERD)
In an oral presentation, Lilly will share patient-reported outcomes (PROs) from the Phase 3 EMBER-3 trial in patients with estrogen receptor positive (ER+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer (ABC), and a poster presentation will feature expanded EMBER-3 safety analyses.

Olomorasib (investigational KRAS G12C inhibitor):
In two oral presentations, Lilly will report updated results from a Phase 1/2 study of olomorasib, a potent and highly selective second-generation inhibitor of KRAS G12C with preliminary evidence of CNS activity, in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with KRAS G12C-mutant advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and in combination with cetuximab in patients with KRAS G12C-mutant colorectal cancer (CRC). The submitted abstracts utilized a November 13, 2024 data cut-off date, and the presentations will utilize a January 15, 2025 data cut-off date.

LY4170156 (investigational ADC targeting FRα):
In a poster presentation, Lilly will report initial results from the multicenter, open-label, first-in-human Phase 1a/1b study of LY4170156 in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). LY4170156 is an Fc-silent, FRα specific humanized monoclonal antibody linked to exatecan, a topoisomerase I inhibitor, via a proprietary cleavable polysarcosine linker. The submitted abstract utilized a November 27, 2024 data cut-off date, and the poster will utilize a March 9, 2025 data cut-off date.

A full list of abstract titles and viewing details are listed below:

Imlunestrant (investigational oral SERD):
Presentation Title: Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in patients with ER+, HER2- advanced breast cancer (ABC) treated with imlunestrant, investigator’s choice standard endocrine therapy, or imlunestrant + abemaciclib: Results from the phase III EMBER-3 trial
Abstract Number: 1001
Session Date & Time: Saturday, May 31, 1:15-4:15 p.m. CDT
Session Title: Breast Cancer – Metastatic
Location: Hall B1 | Live Stream
Presenter: Giuseppe Curigliano

Presentation Title: Imlunestrant with or without abemaciclib in advanced breast cancer (ABC): Safety analyses from the phase III EMBER-3 trial
Abstract Number: 1060
Session Date & Time: Monday, June 2, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. CDT
Session Title: Breast Cancer – Metastatic
Location: Hall A – Posters and Exhibits | On Demand
Presenter: Joyce O’Shaughnessy

Olomorasib (investigational KRAS G12C inhibitor):
Presentation Title: Efficacy and safety of olomorasib, a second-generation KRAS G12C inhibitor, plus cetuximab in KRAS G12C-mutant advanced colorectal cancer
Abstract Number: 3507
Session Date & Time: Friday, May 30, 2:45-5:45 p.m. CDT
Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer – Colorectal and Anal
Location: Arie Crown Theater | Live Stream
Presenter: Antoine Hollebecque

Presentation Title: Safety and efficacy of olomorasib + immunotherapy in first-line treatment of patients with KRAS G12C-mutant advanced NSCLC: Update from the LOXO-RAS-20001 trial
Abstract Number: 8519
Session Date & Time: Monday, June 2, 8-9:40 a.m. CDT
Session Title: Lung Cancer – Non-Small Cell Metastatic
Location: Arie Crown Theater | Live Stream
Presenter: Alexander I. Spira

LY4170156 (investigational ADC targeting FRα):
Presentation Title: Initial results from a first-in-human phase 1 study of LY4170156, an ADC targeting folate receptor alpha (FRα), in advanced ovarian cancer and other solid tumors
Abstract Number: 3023
Session Date & Time: Monday, June 2, 1:30-4:30 p.m. CDT
Session Title: Developmental Therapeutics – Molecularly Targeted Agents and Tumor Biology
Location: Hall A – Posters and Exhibits | On Demand
Presenter: Isabelle Ray-Coquard

Verzenio (abemaciclib):
Presentation Title: Impact of body mass index (BMI) on efficacy and safety of abemaciclib in breast cancer patients (pts) treated in the monarchE trial
Abstract Number: 520
Session Date & Time: Monday, June 2, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. CDT
Session Title: Breast Cancer – Local/Regional/Adjuvant
Location: Hall A – Posters and Exhibits | On Demand
Presenter: Christine Desmedt

For more information on Lilly’s Oncology pipeline click here.

About Imlunestrant
Imlunestrant is an investigational, brain-penetrant, oral selective estrogen receptor degrader (SERD), that delivers continuous ER inhibition, including in ESR1-mutant cancers. The estrogen receptor (ER) is the key therapeutic target for patients with estrogen receptor positive (ER+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (HER2-) breast cancer. Novel degraders of ER may overcome endocrine therapy resistance while providing consistent oral pharmacology and convenience of administration. Imlunestrant is currently being studied as a treatment for advanced breast cancer and as an adjuvant treatment in early breast cancer, including: NCT04975308, NCT05514054, NCT04188548, NCT05307705.

About Olomorasib
Olomorasib (LY3537982) is an investigational, oral, potent, and highly selective second-generation inhibitor of the KRAS G12C protein. KRAS is the most common oncogene across all tumor types, and KRAS G12C mutations occur in 13% of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and 1-3% of patients with other solid tumors.1 Olomorasib is a highly potent covalent inhibitor with potential for greater than 90% target occupancy, which may allow for safer combinations with less toxicity.2

Olomorasib is currently being studied in KRAS G12C-mutated cancers in combination with pembrolizumab with or without chemotherapy for first-line treatment of advanced NSCLC, in combination with immunotherapy for the treatment of resected and unresectable NSCLC, and as monotherapy and in combinations in other advanced solid tumors, including: NCT06119581, NCT06890598, and NCT04956640.

About LY4170156
LY4170156 is an investigational, next-generation antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting folate receptor alpha (FRα). FRα is a cell-surface glycoprotein encoded by the gene FOLR1 that binds to the essential nutrients folic acid and reduced folates, bringing them into cells to facilitate cell division and growth.3,4 FRα is overexpressed in many solid tumors such as ovarian, non-small cell lung, and colorectal cancers.3,5,6

LY4170156 was designed to target FRα across expression levels with an improved therapeutic index. LY4170156 is composed of a Fc-silent, FRα specific humanized monoclonal antibody, linked to exatecan, a topoisomerase-I inhibitor, via a proprietary cleavable polysarcosine linker. LY4170156 is currently being studied in patients with ovarian cancer as well as other FRα-expressing solid tumors, NCT06400472.

About Verzenio (abemaciclib)
Verzenio (abemaciclib) is approved to treat people with certain HR+, HER2- breast cancers in the adjuvant and advanced or metastatic settings.

Verzenio is an oral tablet taken twice daily and available in strengths of 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg. Discovered and developed by Lilly researchers, Verzenio was first approved in 2017 and is currently authorized for use in more than 90 counties around the world. For full details on indicated uses of Verzenio in HR+, HER2- breast cancer, please see full Prescribing Information, available at www.Verzenio.com.

INDICATIONS FOR VERZENIO

VERZENIO is a kinase inhibitor indicated:

in combination with endocrine therapy (tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor) for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative, node-positive, early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence.
in combination with an aromatase inhibitor as initial endocrine-based therapy for the treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
in combination with fulvestrant for the treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor (HR)-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer with disease progression following endocrine therapy.
as monotherapy for the treatment of adult patients with HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced or metastatic breast cancer with disease progression following endocrine therapy and prior chemotherapy in the metastatic setting.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION FOR VERZENIO (abemaciclib)

Severe diarrhea associated with dehydration and infection occurred in patients treated with Verzenio. Across four clinical trials in 3691 patients, diarrhea occurred in 81 to 90% of patients who received Verzenio. Grade 3 diarrhea occurred in 8 to 20% of patients receiving Verzenio. Most patients experienced diarrhea during the first month of Verzenio treatment. The median time to onset of the first diarrhea event ranged from 6 to 8 days; and the median duration of Grade 2 and Grade 3 diarrhea ranged from 6 to 11 days and 5 to 8 days, respectively. Across trials, 19 to 26% of patients with diarrhea required a Verzenio dose interruption and 13 to 23% required a dose reduction.

Instruct patients to start antidiarrheal therapy, such as loperamide, at the first sign of loose stools, increase oral fluids, and notify their healthcare provider for further instructions and appropriate follow-up. For Grade 3 or 4 diarrhea, or diarrhea that requires hospitalization, discontinue Verzenio until toxicity resolves to ≤Grade 1, and then resume Verzenio at the next lower dose.

Neutropenia, including febrile neutropenia and fatal neutropenic sepsis, occurred in patients treated with Verzenio. Across four clinical trials in 3691 patients, neutropenia occurred in 37 to 46% of patients receiving Verzenio. A Grade ≥3 decrease in neutrophil count (based on laboratory findings) occurred in 19 to 32% of patients receiving Verzenio. Across trials, the median time to first episode of Grade ≥3 neutropenia ranged from 29 to 33 days, and the median duration of Grade ≥3 neutropenia ranged from 11 to 16 days. Febrile neutropenia has been reported in <1% of patients exposed to Verzenio across trials. Two deaths due to neutropenic sepsis were observed in MONARCH 2. Inform patients to promptly report any episodes of fever to their healthcare provider.

Monitor complete blood counts prior to the start of Verzenio therapy, every 2 weeks for the first 2 months, monthly for the next 2 months, and as clinically indicated. Dose interruption, dose reduction, or delay in starting treatment cycles is recommended for patients who develop Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia.

Severe, life-threatening, or fatal interstitial lung disease (ILD) or pneumonitis can occur in patients treated with Verzenio and other CDK4/6 inhibitors. In Verzenio-treated patients in EBC (monarchE), 3% of patients experienced ILD or pneumonitis of any grade: 0.4% were Grade 3 or 4 and there was one fatality (0.1%). In Verzenio-treated patients in MBC (MONARCH 1, MONARCH 2, MONARCH 3), 3.3% of Verzenio-treated patients had ILD or pneumonitis of any grade: 0.6% had Grade 3 or 4, and 0.4% had fatal outcomes. Additional cases of ILD or pneumonitis have been observed in the postmarketing setting, with fatalities reported.

Monitor patients for pulmonary symptoms indicative of ILD or pneumonitis. Symptoms may include hypoxia, cough, dyspnea, or interstitial infiltrates on radiologic exams. Infectious, neoplastic, and other causes for such symptoms should be excluded by means of appropriate investigations. Dose interruption or dose reduction is recommended in patients who develop persistent or recurrent Grade 2 ILD or pneumonitis. Permanently discontinue Verzenio in all patients with Grade 3 or 4 ILD or pneumonitis.

Grade ≥3 increases in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (2 to 6%) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (2 to 3%) were reported in patients receiving Verzenio. Across three clinical trials in 3559 patients (monarchE, MONARCH 2, MONARCH 3), the median time to onset of Grade ≥3 ALT increases ranged from 57 to 87 days and the median time to resolution to Grade <3 was 13 to 14 days. The median time to onset of Grade ≥3 AST increases ranged from 71 to 185 days and the median time to resolution to Grade <3 ranged from 11 to 15 days.

Monitor liver function tests (LFTs) prior to the start of Verzenio therapy, every 2 weeks for the first 2 months, monthly for the next 2 months, and as clinically indicated. Dose interruption, dose reduction, dose discontinuation, or delay in starting treatment cycles is recommended for patients who develop persistent or recurrent Grade 2, or any Grade 3 or 4 hepatic transaminase elevation.

Venous thromboembolic events (VTE) were reported in 2 to 5% of patients across three clinical trials in 3559 patients treated with Verzenio (monarchE, MONARCH 2, MONARCH 3). VTE included deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, pelvic venous thrombosis, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, subclavian and axillary vein thrombosis, and inferior vena cava thrombosis. In clinical trials, deaths due to VTE have been reported in patients treated with Verzenio.

Verzenio has not been studied in patients with early breast cancer who had a history of VTE. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism and treat as medically appropriate. Dose interruption is recommended for EBC patients with any grade VTE and for MBC patients with a Grade 3 or 4 VTE.

Verzenio can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman, based on findings from animal studies and the mechanism of action. In animal reproduction studies, administration of abemaciclib to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis caused teratogenicity and decreased fetal weight at maternal exposures that were similar to the human clinical exposure based on area under the curve (AUC) at the maximum recommended human dose. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with Verzenio and for 3 weeks after the last dose. Based on findings in animals, Verzenio may impair fertility in males of reproductive potential. There are no data on the presence of Verzenio in human milk or its effects on the breastfed child or on milk production. Advise lactating women not to breastfeed during Verzenio treatment and for at least 3 weeks after the last dose because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants.

The most common adverse reactions (all grades, ≥10%) observed in monarchE for Verzenio plus tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor vs tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor, with a difference between arms of ≥2%, were diarrhea (84% vs 9%), infections (51% vs 39%), neutropenia (46% vs 6%), fatigue (41% vs 18%), leukopenia (38% vs 7%), nausea (30% vs 9%), anemia (24% vs 4%), headache (20% vs 15%), vomiting (18% vs 4.6%), stomatitis (14% vs 5%), lymphopenia (14% vs 3%), thrombocytopenia (13% vs 2%), decreased appetite (12% vs 2.4%), ALT increased (12% vs 6%), AST increased (12% vs 5%), dizziness (11% vs 7%), rash (11% vs 4.5%), and alopecia (11% vs 2.7 %).

The most frequently reported ≥5% Grade 3 or 4 adverse reaction that occurred in the Verzenio arm vs the tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor arm of monarchE were neutropenia (19.6% vs 1%), leukopenia (11% vs <1%), diarrhea (8% vs 0.2%), and lymphopenia (5% vs <1%).

Lab abnormalities (all grades; Grade 3 or 4) for monarchE in ≥10% for Verzenio plus tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor with a difference between arms of ≥2% were increased serum creatinine (99% vs 91%; .5% vs <.1%), decreased white blood cells (89% vs 28%; 19.1% vs 1.1%), decreased neutrophil count (84% vs 23%; 18.7% vs 1.9%), anemia (68% vs 17%; 1% vs .1%), decreased lymphocyte count (59% vs 24%; 13.2 % vs 2.5%), decreased platelet count (37% vs 10%; .9% vs .2%), increased ALT (37% vs 24%; 2.6% vs 1.2%), increased AST (31% vs 18%; 1.6% vs .9%), and hypokalemia (11% vs 3.8%; 1.3% vs 0.2%).

The most common adverse reactions (all grades, ≥10%) observed in MONARCH 3 for Verzenio plus anastrozole or letrozole vs anastrozole or letrozole, with a difference between arms of ≥2%, were diarrhea (81% vs 30%), fatigue (40% vs 32%), neutropenia (41% vs 2%), infections (39% vs 29%), nausea (39% vs 20%), abdominal pain (29% vs 12%), vomiting (28% vs 12%), anemia (28% vs 5%), alopecia (27% vs 11%), decreased appetite (24% vs 9%), leukopenia (21% vs 2%), creatinine increased (19% vs 4%), constipation (16% vs 12%), ALT increased (16% vs 7%), AST increased (15% vs 7%), rash (14% vs 5%), pruritus (13% vs 9%), cough (13% vs 9%), dyspnea (12% vs 6%), dizziness (11% vs 9%), weight decreased (10% vs 3.1%), influenza-like illness (10% vs 8%), and thrombocytopenia (10% vs 2%).

The most frequently reported ≥5% Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions that occurred in the Verzenio arm vs the placebo arm of MONARCH 3 were neutropenia (22% vs 1%), diarrhea (9% vs 1.2%), leukopenia (7% vs <1%)), increased ALT (6% vs 2%), and anemia (6% vs 1%).

Lab abnormalities (all grades; Grade 3 or 4) for MONARCH 3 in ≥10% for Verzenio plus anastrozole or letrozole with a difference between arms of ≥2% were increased serum creatinine (98% vs 84%; 2.2% vs 0%), decreased white blood cells (82% vs 27%; 13% vs 0.6%), anemia (82% vs 28%; 1.6% vs 0%), decreased neutrophil count (80% vs 21%; 21.9% vs 2.6%), decreased lymphocyte count (53% vs 26%; 7.6% vs 1.9%), decreased platelet count (36% vs 12%; 1.9% vs 0.6%), increased ALT (48% vs 25%; 6.6% vs 1.9%), and increased AST (37% vs 23%; 3.8% vs 0.6%).

The most common adverse reactions (all grades, ≥10%) observed in MONARCH 2 for Verzenio plus fulvestrant vs fulvestrant, with a difference between arms of ≥2%, were diarrhea (86% vs 25%), neutropenia (46% vs 4%), fatigue (46% vs 32%), nausea (45% vs 23%), infections (43% vs 25%), abdominal pain (35% vs 16%), anemia (29% vs 4%), leukopenia (28% vs 2%), decreased appetite (27% vs 12%), vomiting (26% vs 10%), headache (20% vs 15%), dysgeusia (18% vs 2.7%), thrombocytopenia (16% vs 3%), alopecia (16% vs 1.8%), stomatitis (15% vs 10%), ALT increased (13% vs 5%), pruritus (13% vs 6%), cough (13% vs 11%), dizziness (12% vs 6%), AST increased (12% vs 7%), peripheral edema (12% vs 7%), creatinine increased (12% vs <1%), rash (11% vs 4.5%), pyrexia (11% vs 6%), and weight decreased (10% vs 2.2%).

The most frequently reported ≥5% Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions that occurred in the Verzenio arm vs the placebo arm of MONARCH 2 were neutropenia (25% vs 1%), diarrhea (13% vs 0.4%), leukopenia (9% vs 0%), anemia (7% vs 1%), and infections (5.7% vs 3.5%).

Lab abnormalities (all grades; Grade 3 or 4) for MONARCH 2 in ≥10% for Verzenio plus fulvestrant with a difference between arms of ≥2% were increased serum creatinine (98% vs 74%; 1.2% vs 0%), decreased white blood cells (90% vs 33%; 23.7% vs .9%), decreased neutrophil count (87% vs 30%; 32.5% vs 4.2%), anemia (84% vs 34%; 2.6% vs .5%), decreased lymphocyte count (63% vs 32%; 12.2% vs 1.8%), decreased platelet count (53% vs 15%; 2.1% vs 0%), increased ALT (41% vs 32%; 4.6% vs 1.4%), and increased AST (37% vs 25%; 3.9% vs 4.2%).

The most common adverse reactions (all grades, ≥10%) observed in MONARCH 1 with Verzenio were diarrhea (90%), fatigue (65%), nausea (64%), decreased appetite (45%), abdominal pain (39%), neutropenia (37%), vomiting (35%), infections (31%), anemia (25%), thrombocytopenia (20%), headache (20%), cough (19%), constipation (17%), leukopenia (17%), arthralgia (15%), dry mouth (14%), weight decreased (14%), stomatitis (14%), creatinine increased (13%), alopecia (12%), dysgeusia (12%), pyrexia (11%), dizziness (11%), and dehydration (10%).

The most frequently reported ≥5% Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions from MONARCH 1 with Verzenio were diarrhea (20%), neutropenia (24%), fatigue (13%), and leukopenia (5%).

Lab abnormalities (all grades; Grade 3 or 4) for MONARCH 1 with Verzenio were increased serum creatinine (99%; .8%), decreased white blood cells (91%; 28%), decreased neutrophil count (88%; 26.6%), anemia (69%; 0%), decreased lymphocyte count (42%; 13.8%), decreased platelet count (41%; 2.3%), increased ALT (31%; 3.1%), and increased AST (30%; 3.8%).

Strong and moderate CYP3A inhibitors increased the exposure of abemaciclib plus its active metabolites to a clinically meaningful extent and may lead to increased toxicity. Avoid concomitant use of ketoconazole. Ketoconazole is predicted to increase the AUC of abemaciclib by up to 16-fold. In patients with recommended starting doses of 200 mg twice daily or 150 mg twice daily, reduce the Verzenio dose to 100 mg twice daily with concomitant use of strong CYP3A inhibitors other than ketoconazole. In patients who have had a dose reduction to 100 mg twice daily due to adverse reactions, further reduce the Verzenio dose to 50 mg twice daily with concomitant use of strong CYP3A inhibitors. If a patient taking Verzenio discontinues a strong CYP3A inhibitor, increase the Verzenio dose (after 3 to 5 half-lives of the inhibitor) to the dose that was used before starting the inhibitor. With concomitant use of moderate CYP3A inhibitors, monitor for adverse reactions and consider reducing the Verzenio dose in 50 mg decrements. Patients should avoid grapefruit products.

Avoid concomitant use of strong or moderate CYP3A inducers and consider alternative agents. Coadministration of strong or moderate CYP3A inducers decreased the plasma concentrations of abemaciclib plus its active metabolites and may lead to reduced activity.

With severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C), reduce the Verzenio dosing frequency to once daily. The pharmacokinetics of Verzenio in patients with severe renal impairment (CLcr <30 mL/min), end stage renal disease, or in patients on dialysis is unknown. No dosage adjustments are necessary in patients with mild or moderate hepatic (Child-Pugh A or B) and/or renal impairment (CLcr ≥30-89 mL/min).

Please see full Prescribing Information and Patient Information for Verzenio.

Linvoseltamab in Combination with Carfilzomib or Bortezomib Shows Promising Initial Results in Earlier Lines of Treatment for Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma

On May 22, 2025 Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: REGN) reported initial results from two cohorts of the Phase 1b LINKER-MM2 trial evaluating linvoseltamab in combination with two different proteasome inhibitors (PI) – carfilzomib or bortezomib – in patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) multiple myeloma (MM) (Press release, Regeneron, MAY 22, 2025, View Source [SID1234653315]). The trial included patients who had progressed after at least two lines of therapy and were either double-class refractory (immunomodulatory drug [IMiD] and PI) or triple-class exposed (IMiD, PI and anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody). The data will be featured in two oral presentations at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) 2025 Annual Meeting on Monday, June 2 at 8:00 AM CDT.

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"In clinical trials, treatment with linvoseltamab monotherapy in later-line settings generated impressive response rates, warranting investigation in earlier lines as well as in combination with other cancer therapies," said Salomon Manier, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Hematology at Lille University Hospital in France. "While early, these compelling results for linvoseltamab combination therapy demonstrated high rates of clinical activity, even amongst those with previous exposure to the proteasome inhibitors evaluated in the cohorts. We look forward to seeing these results mature to see if these benefits can be maintained."

Linvoseltamab combined with carfilzomib showed strong responses in R/R MM
All treated patients (n=23) had previous exposure to PIs and more than half (n=12) were refractory to at least one PI. Moreover, 48% had baseline soft tissue plasmacytomas, and 39% were over 75 years old, representing a patient population with high-risk features. Of the 21 patients evaluable for efficacy, 11 patients received linvoseltamab 100 mg, and five patients each received linvoseltamab 150 mg or 200 mg prior to initiation of carfilzomib.

With a median follow-up of 15 months, efficacy results across all dose levels showed a 90% objective response rate (ORR; 19 of 21 patients), with 76% (16 of 21 patients) achieving a complete response (CR). At 12 months, the estimated probability of maintaining a response was 87% (n=19; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 56% to 97%) and being progression-free was 83% (n=21; 95% CI: 55% to 94%). A registrational, randomized Phase 3 trial investigating this combination against standard-of-care in the same setting is planned.

Among the 23 patients evaluable for safety, the most common treatment emergent adverse events (TEAEs; >50%) of any grade and Grade ≥3 were neutropenia (65% and 56.5%), cytokine release syndrome (CRS; 61% and 0%), diarrhea (52% and 4%) and thrombocytopenia (52% and 30%). Infections occurred in 91% of patients (Grade ≥3: 43.5%, including one fatality). Serious adverse events (SAEs) occurred in 83% of patients. One dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of Grade 4 thrombocytopenia during tumor lysis syndrome was observed in the 100 mg dose level, and one Grade 1 immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) was observed in the 150 mg dose level.

Additional linvoseltamab combination with bortezomib showed promising clinical activity in R/R MM
Among enrolled patients (n=24), 6 received linvoseltamab at 100 mg and 18 at 200 mg before initiating bortezomib. More than half were refractory to PIs, including 58% to carfilzomib and 13% to bortezomib. Of the 20 patients evaluable for efficacy and with a median duration of follow-up of 9 months, results across dose levels showed an 85% ORR (17 of 20 patients), with 50% (10 of 20 patients) achieving a CR.

The most common TEAEs (>50%) of any grade and Grade ≥3 were CRS (58% and 0%), neutropenia (54% and 50%) and thrombocytopenia (54% and 37.5%). Four patients experienced ICANS (one Grade 1 and three Grade 2). Infections occurred in 75% of patients (Grade ≥3: 38%). SAEs occurred in 83% of patients. Two patients died due to adverse events: one due to pneumonia deemed related to treatment and occurring prior to initiation of bortezomib, and another due to COVID-19 deemed unrelated to treatment. One DLT of Grade 3 cytomegalovirus reactivation was observed in the 200 mg dose level.

The uses of linvoseltamab in combination with either carfilzomib or bortezomib in patients with R/R MM are investigational and have not been approved by any regulatory authority.

Linvoseltamab is approved in the European Union as Lynozyfic for adults to treat R/R MM that has progressed after at least three prior therapies (including a PI, an IMiD and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody) and that has demonstrated progression on the last therapy. For complete product information, please see the Summary of Product Characteristics that can be found on www.ema.europa.eu. In the U.S., the FDA accepted for review the Biologics License Application for linvoseltamab in adults with R/R MM with a target action date of July 10, 2025.

About Multiple Myeloma
As the second most common blood cancer, there are over 187,000 new cases of MM diagnosed globally every year, with more than 36,000 diagnosed and 12,000 deaths anticipated in the U.S. in 2025. In the U.S., there are approximately 8,000 people who have MM that has progressed after three lines of therapy. The disease is characterized by the proliferation of cancerous plasma cells (MM cells) that crowd out healthy blood cells in the bone marrow, infiltrate other tissues and cause potentially life-threatening organ injury. Despite treatment advances, MM is not curable and while current treatments are able to slow progression of the cancer, most patients will ultimately experience cancer progression and require additional therapies.

About LINKER-MM2
LINKER-MM2 is a Phase 1b, open-label clinical trial evaluating linvoseltamab in combination with other cancer treatments in patients with R/R MM. Combination treatments include standard-of-care and novel therapies such as IMiD, PIs, anti-CD38 antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, and a gamma secretase inhibitor. The primary endpoints are incidence of DLTs (dose-finding portion only) and incidence and severity of TEAEs. Secondary endpoints include ORR, DoR and progression-free survival.

In the carfilzomib cohort, linvoseltamab is administered first with an initial step-up dosing regimen followed by at least two full doses (100, 150 or 200 mg) before initiation of carfilzomib (56 mg/m²). In the bortezomib cohort, the same initial step-up process is followed but linvoseltamab is administered with at least one full dose (100 or 200 mg) before initiation of bortezomib (1.3 mg/m²).

About the Linvoseltamab Clinical Development Program
Linvoseltamab is an investigational bispecific antibody designed to bridge B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) on multiple myeloma cells with CD3-expressing T cells to facilitate T-cell activation and cancer-cell killing.

Linvoseltamab is being investigated in a broad clinical development program exploring its use as a monotherapy as well as in combination regimens across different lines of therapy in MM, including earlier lines of treatment, as well as plasma cell precursor disorders.

In addition to LINKER-MM2, trials include:

LINKER-MM1: Phase 1/2 dose-escalation and dose-expansion trial evaluating the safety, tolerability, dose-limiting toxicities and anti-tumor activity of linvoseltamab monotherapy in R/R MM
LINKER-MM3: Phase 3 confirmatory trial evaluating linvoseltamab monotherapy compared to the combination of elotuzumab, pomalidomide and dexamethasone in R/R MM
Phase 1 trial evaluating linvoseltamab in combination with a Regeneron CD38xCD28 costimulatory bispecific in R/R MM
LINKER-MM4: Phase 1/2 trial evaluating linvoseltamab monotherapy in newly diagnosed MM
LINKER-SMM1: Phase 2 trial evaluating linvoseltamab monotherapy in high-risk smoldering MM
LINKER-MGUS1: Phase 2 dose-ranging trial evaluating linvoseltamab monotherapy in high-risk monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance and non-high-risk SMM
LINKER-AL2: Phase 1/2 trial evaluating linvoseltamab monotherapy in R/R systemic light chain amyloidosis
For more information on Regeneron’s clinical trials in blood cancer, visit the clinical trials website, or contact via [email protected] or 844-734-6643.

About Regeneron in Hematology
At Regeneron, we’re applying more than three decades of biology expertise with our proprietary VelociSuite technologies to develop medicines for patients with diverse blood cancers and rare blood disorders.

Our blood cancer research is focused on bispecific antibodies that are being investigated both as monotherapies and in various combinations and emerging therapeutic modalities. Together, they provide us with unique combinatorial flexibility to develop customized and potentially synergistic cancer treatments.

Our research and collaborations to develop potential treatments for rare blood disorders include explorations in antibody medicine, gene editing and gene-knockout technologies, and investigational RNA-approaches focused on depleting abnormal proteins or blocking disease-causing cellular signaling.