Calithera Announces Multiple Abstracts Selected for Presentation at the 57th American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting

On November 05, 2015 Calithera Biosciences, Inc. (Nasdaq:CALA), reported that four abstracts highlighting the potential of CB-839, the Company’s novel, orally bioavailable glutaminase inhibitor for the treatment of hematological malignancies, have been selected for presentation at the 57th American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) annual meeting and exposition, taking place December 5-8, 2015, in Orlando, Florida (Press release, Calithera Biosciences, NOV 5, 2015, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2107378 [SID:1234508338]). Details for the presentations are as follows:

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Metabolomic, Proteomic and Genomic Profiling Identifies Biomarkers of Sensitivity to Glutaminase
Abstract #1802
Andrew L. MacKinnon, Ph.D., Calithera Biosciences
Session Name: 652. Myeloma: Pathophysiology and Pre-Clinical Studies, excluding Therapy: Poster I
Saturday, December 5, 2015 at 5:30-7:30 PM ET
Orange County Convention Center, Hall A

Role of Glutamine in Metabolic and Epigenetic Reprogramming in AML
Abstract #2559
Juliana Velez Lujan, Ph.D., University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Session Name: 616. Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Novel Therapy, excluding Transplantation: Poster II
Sunday, December 6, 2015 at 6:00-8:00 PM ET
Orange County Convention Center, Hall A

Phase I Study of CB-839, a First-in-class, Orally Administered Small Molecule Inhibitor of Glutaminase in Patients With Relapsed/ Refractory Leukemia
Abstract #2566
Eunice S. Wang, M.D., Roswell Park Cancer Institute
Session Name: 616. Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Novel Therapy, excluding Transplantation: Poster II
Sunday, December 6, 2015 at 6:00-8:00 PM ET
Orange County Convention Center, Hall A

Phase I Study of CB-839, a First-in-class, Glutaminase Inhibitor in Patients With Multiple Myeloma and Lymphoma
Abstract #3059
Dan Vogl, M.D., University of Pennsylvania
Session Name: 653. Myeloma: Therapy, excluding Transplantation: Poster II
Sunday, December 6, 2015 at 6:00-8:00 PM ET
Orange County Convention Center, Hall A

The meeting abstracts can be viewed online through the ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) website at www.hematology.org.

TCGA findings on papillary renal cell carcinoma and prostate cancer

On November 5, 2015 National Cancer Institute reported two findings from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Research Network were recently published on papillary renal cell carcinoma and prostate cancer (Press release, National Cancer Institute, NOV 5, 2015, View Source [SID:1234508089]). See below for specifics:

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Improved Understanding of the Genetic Drivers of Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma

A comprehensive genomic analysis of 161 tumors from people with papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC) – the second most common form of kidney cancer –provided insights into the molecular basis of this cancer and may inform its classification and treatment. PRCCs are divided into two main subtypes, Type 1 and Type 2, which are traditionally defined by how the tumor tissue appears under a microscope. Findings from this genomic analysis, carried out by investigators from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Research Network, have confirmed that these subtypes are distinct diseases distinguished by certain genomic characteristics. This molecular information could be important in managing patients clinically, identifying new therapies, and designing clinical trials.

The researchers found that Type 1 PRCC is characterized by alterations in cell signaling involving the MET gene that are known to drive cancer cell growth, the growth of tumor blood vessels, and cancer metastasis or spread. MET gene mutations or other alterations that affect its activity were identified in 81 percent of Type 1 PRCCs examined. This finding suggests that it may be possible to treat Type 1 PRCCs with specific inhibitors of the MET cell signaling pathway, including the MET/VEGFR inhibitor foretinib, which is currently being tested in phase II clinical trials in PRCC and other cancer types. Type 2 PRCC was found to be more genomically heterogeneous. A specific characteristic, referred to as the CpG island methylation phenotype (CIMP), was found almost exclusively in Type 2 PRCC and defined a distinct Type 2 subgroup that was associated with the least favorable outcome. CIMP is marked by increased DNA methylation, which is a chemical modification of DNA that inhibits gene expression. Across all Type 2 PRCCs examined, 25 percent demonstrated decreased expression of CDKN2A, a tumor suppressor gene that helps regulate the cell cycle. Loss of CDKN2A expression was also associated with a less favorable outcome. The TCGA researchers were led by Paul Spellman, Ph.D., Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, and Marston Linehan, M.D., NCI. Their findings were published online first November 4, 2015, in the New England Journal of Medicine.

TCGA Study Identifies Seven Distinct Subtypes of Prostate Cancer

A comprehensive analysis of 333 prostate cancers identified key genetic alterations that may help improve classification and treatment of the disease. While 90 percent of prostate cancers are now identified as clinically localized tumors, once diagnosed, these cancers tend to have a heterogeneous and unpredictable course of progression, ranging from slow-growing to fatal disease. The new analysis, by investigators from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Research Network, revealed seven new molecular subtypes of prostate cancer based on known and novel genetic drivers of the disease. These subtypes may therefore have prognostic and therapeutic implications. Of the seven subtypes, four are characterized by gene fusions (in which parts of two separate genes are linked to form a hybrid gene) involving members of the ETS family of transcription factors (ERG, ETV1, ETV4, and FLI1), and the other three are defined by mutations of the SPOP, FOXA1, and IDH1 genes. Notably, the IDH1 mutation was identified as a driver of prostate cancers that occur at younger ages. Although most (74 percent) of the analyzed tumors could be categorized into one of the seven molecular subtypes, the remaining 26 percent of prostate tumors in this analysis could not be categorized because molecular alterations driving their growth were not identified. Prostate cancer is expected to be diagnosed in over 220,000 men in the U.S. this year and is the fourth most common tumor type worldwide.

Another finding from this analysis was that gene expression profiles differed based on whether the tumors were driven by gene fusions or by mutations. Within the mutation-driven tumors, the SPOP and FOXA1 gene subtypes shared similar patterns of DNA methylation, a chemical modification of DNA that inhibits gene expression; somatic copy-number alteration, or change in the number of copies of a gene in a cell; and messenger RNA expression, which is a measure of gene activity. These genomic commonalities suggest that mutations in SPOP and FOXA1 genes cause similar disruptions in the cell to bring about cancer. Additionally, the SPOP and FOXA1 subtypes showed the highest levels of androgen receptor-mediated gene expression, suggesting potential preventive and therapeutic possibilities targeting androgens, which are male sex hormones that can stimulate the growth of prostate cancer. The researchers, led by Chris Sander, Ph.D., Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, published their results online November 5, 2015, in Cell. TCGA is a collaboration jointly supported and managed by the National Cancer Institute and the National Human Genome Research Institute, both parts of the National Institutes of Health.

Takeda to Present Data from Ixazomib’s Phase 3 Study in Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma at Upcoming American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting

On November 5, 2015 Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (TSE: 4502) reported that it will present Phase 3 data from the TOURMALINE-MM1 ixazomib clinical trial at the 57th American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting to be held in Orlando, Florida from December 5 to 8, 2015 (Press release, Takeda, NOV 5, 2015, View Source [SID:1234508063]). A total of 19 company-sponsored abstracts representing the breadth and depth of Takeda’s hematology-oncology portfolio were accepted for presentation at this year’s meeting.

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"We are particularly looking forward to this year’s ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) annual meeting. We will be presenting pivotal data on the ixazomib program, as well as the five year overall survival data for ADCETRIS in relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma," said Dixie-Lee Esseltine, MD, FRCPC, Vice President, Oncology Therapeutic Area Unit, Takeda. "The success of these two programs, in addition to data we will be presenting on VELCADE and our pipeline, is the realization of decades of commitment to patients with hematological malignancies."

"This is the first time Phase 3 data will be presented for ixazomib, an oral, once-weekly proteasome inhibitor which, if approved, would enable the first all-oral triplet regimen containing a proteasome inhibitor for the treatment of relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma," said TOURMALINE-MM1 Principal Investigator Philippe Moreau, M.D., University of Nantes, France. "In working with Takeda Oncology on the evolution of proteasome inhibition, we continue to strive towards providing new options to address the unmet needs of patients with multiple myeloma."

Ixazomib is the first oral proteasome inhibitor in late stage clinical development. The TOURMALINE-MM1 study is an international, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 3 clinical trial which was designed to evaluate the superiority of once-a-week oral ixazomib plus lenalidomide and dexamethasone vs. placebo plus lenalidomide and dexamethasone in adult patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma.

Ixazomib has been granted Priority Review from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Accelerated Assessment by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use of the European Medicines Agency , respectively, validating the profound and continuing unmet need for new multiple myeloma treatments. These submissions for the treatment of patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma were based on the TOURMALINE-MM1 data.

Takeda’s presentations at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2015 include the following:

Ixazomib

Ixazomib, an Investigational Oral Proteasome Inhibitor (PI), in Combination with Lenalidomide and Dexamethasone (IRd), Significantly Extends Progression-Free Survival (PFS) for Patients (Pts) with Relapsed and/or Refractory Multiple Myeloma (RRMM): The Phase 3 Tourmaline-MM1 Study (NCT01564537)
Presenter: Philippe Moreau, M.D., University of Nantes, France
Abstract 727, Oral Presentation, Monday, December 7, 2015, 2:45 PM, Orange County Convention Center, Tangerine 2 (WF2)
Randomized Phase 2 Study of the All-Oral Combination of Investigational Proteasome Inhibitor (PI) Ixazomib Plus Cyclophosphamide and Low-Dose Dexamethasone (ICd) in Patients (Pts) with Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma (NDMM) Who Are Transplant-Ineligible (NCT02046070)
Presenter: Meletios A. Dimopoulos, MD, University Athens School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
Abstract 26, Oral Presentation, Saturday, December 5, 2015, 7:45 AM, Orange County Convention Center, Tangerine (WF2)

ADCETRIS (Brentuximab vedotin)

Five-year Survival Data Demonstrating Durable Responses from a Pivotal Phase 2 Study of Brentuximab Vedotin in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma
Presenter: Robert Chen, MD, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA
Abstract 2736, Poster, Sunday, December 6, 2015, 6:00 PM, Orange County Convention Center, Hall A, Level 2
Updated Efficacy and Safety Data from the AETHERA Trial of Consolidation with Brentuximab Vedotin after Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) in Hodgkin Lymphoma Patients at High Risk of Relapse
Presenter: John Sweetenham, MD, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
Abstract 2736, Poster, Sunday, December 6, 2015, 6:00 PM, Orange County Convention Center, Hall A, Level 2

VELCADE (Bortezomib)

Randomized Phase 2 Open-Label Study of R-CHOP ± Bortezomib in Patients (Pts) with Untreated Non-Germinal Center B-Cell-like (Non-GCB) Subtype Diffuse Large Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL): Results from the Pyramid Trial (NCT00931918)
Presenter: John P. Leonard, MD, New York Presbyterian Hospital
Abstract 811, Oral Presentation, Monday, December 7, 2015, 4:30 PM, Orange County Convention Center, Tangerine 3 (WF3-4)

Alisertib

First Multicenter, Randomized Phase 3 Study in Patients (Pts) With Relapsed/Refractory (Rel/Ref) Peripheral T-cell Lymphoma (PTCL): Alisertib (MLN8237) Versus Investigator’s Choice (Lumiere trial; NCT01482962)
Presenter: Owen O’Connor, MD, Center for Lymphoid Malignancies, Columbia University Medical Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY
Abstract 341, Oral Presentation, Sunday, December 6, 2015, 5:30 PM, Orange County Convention Center, Hall E2

About Ixazomib
Ixazomib is an investigational oral proteasome inhibitor which is being studied in multiple myeloma, systemic light-chain (AL) amyloidosis, and other malignancies. Ixazomib was granted orphan drug designation in multiple myeloma in both the United States and Europe in 2011 and for AL amyloidosis in both the U.S. and Europe in 2012. Ixazomib received Breakthrough Therapy status by the U.S. FDA for relapsed or refractory AL amyloidosis in 2014. It is also the first oral proteasome inhibitor to enter Phase 3 clinical trials.

Ixazomib’s clinical development program further reinforces Takeda’s ongoing commitment to developing innovative therapies for people living with multiple myeloma worldwide and the healthcare professionals who treat them. Five global Phase 3 trials are ongoing:

TOURMALINE-MM1, investigating ixazomib vs. placebo, in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma

TOURMALINE-MM2, investigating ixazomib vs. placebo, in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma

TOURMALINE-MM3, investigating ixazomib vs. placebo as maintenance therapy in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma following induction therapy and autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT)

TOURMALINE-MM4, investigating ixazomib vs. placebo as maintenance therapy in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma who have not undergone ASCT

TOURMALINE-AL1, investigating ixazomib plus dexamethasone vs. physician choice of selected regimens in patients with relapsed or refractory AL amyloidosis

For additional information on the ongoing Phase 3 studies please visit www.clinicaltrials.gov.

About ADCETRIS

ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin) is an antibody drug conjugate (ADC) which received conditional marketing authorization by the European Commission in October 2012 for two indications: (1) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD30-positive Hodgkin lymphoma following ASCT, or following at least two prior therapies when ASCT or multi-agent chemotherapy is not a treatment option, and (2) the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory sALCL. ADCETRIS has received marketing authorization by regulatory authorities in 55 countries.

ADCETRIS U.S. Important Safety Information

BOXED WARNING

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): JC virus infection resulting in PML and death can occur in patients receiving ADCETRIS.

Contraindication:

Concomitant use of ADCETRIS and bleomycin is contraindicated due to pulmonary toxicity.

Warnings and Precautions:

Peripheral neuropathy: ADCETRIS treatment causes a peripheral neuropathy that is predominantly sensory. Cases of peripheral motor neuropathy have also been reported. ADCETRIS-induced peripheral neuropathy is cumulative. Monitor patients for symptoms of neuropathy, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain or weakness and institute dose modifications accordingly.

Infusion reactions: Infusion-related reactions, including anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Monitor patients during infusion. If an infusion reaction occurs, interrupt the infusion and institute appropriate medical management. If anaphylaxis occurs, immediately and permanently discontinue the infusion and administer appropriate medical therapy.

Hematologic toxicities: Grade 3 or 4 anemia, thrombocytopenia and prolonged (≥1 week) severe neutropenia can occur with ADCETRIS. Febrile neutropenia has been reported with ADCETRIS. Monitor complete blood counts prior to each dose of ADCETRIS and consider more frequent monitoring for patients with Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Closely monitor patients for fever. If Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia develops, manage by G-CSF support, dose delays, reductions or discontinuation.

Serious infections and opportunistic infections: Infections such as pneumonia, bacteremia and sepsis/septic shock (including fatal outcomes) have been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Closely monitor patients during treatment for the emergence of possible bacterial, fungal or viral infections.

Tumor lysis syndrome: Closely monitor patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden.

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): JC virus infection resulting in PML and death has been reported in ADCETRIS-treated patients. In addition to ADCETRIS therapy, other possible contributory factors include prior therapies and underlying disease that may cause immunosuppression. Consider the diagnosis of PML in any patient presenting with new-onset signs and symptoms of central nervous system abnormalities. Evaluation of PML includes, but is not limited to, consultation with a neurologist, brain MRI, and lumbar puncture or brain biopsy. Hold ADCETRIS if PML is suspected and discontinue ADCETRIS if PML is confirmed.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS): SJS has been reported with ADCETRIS. If SJS occurs, discontinue ADCETRIS and administer appropriate medical therapy.

Embryo-fetal toxicity: Fetal harm can occur. Advise pregnant women of the potential hazard to the fetus.

Adverse Reactions

ADCETRIS was studied as monotherapy in 160 patients in two Phase 2 trials. Across both trials, the most common adverse reactions (≥20%), regardless of causality, were neutropenia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, anemia, upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, pyrexia, rash, thrombocytopenia, cough and vomiting.

Drug Interactions

Concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, or P-gp inhibitors, has the potential to affect the exposure to MMAE.

Use in Specific Populations

MMAE exposure is increased in patients with hepatic impairment and severe renal impairment. Closely monitor these patients for adverse reactions.

For additional important safety information, including Boxed WARNING, please see the full U.S. prescribing information for ADCETRIS at www.seattlegenetics.com or www.ADCETRIS.com.

ADCETRIS Global Important Safety Information

ADCETRIS is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory (r/r) CD30+ Hodgkin lymphoma (HL):

1. Following autologous stem cell transplant or
2. Following at least 2 prior therapies when autologous stem cell transplantation is not a treatment option

ADCETRIS is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL).

ADCETRIS is contraindicated for patients who are hypersensitive to ADCETRIS. In addition, combined use of bleomycin and ADCETRIS causes pulmonary toxicity, and is contraindicated.

ADCETRIS can cause serious side effects, including:

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML): John Cunningham virus (JCV) reactivation resulting in PML and death has been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Patients should be closely monitored for new or worsening neurological, cognitive, or behavioral signs or symptoms, which may be suggestive of PML.

Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis has been observed in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Fatal outcomes have been reported. Patients should be closely monitored for new or worsening abdominal pain.

Pulmonary Toxicity: Cases of pulmonary toxicity have been reported in patients receiving ADCETRIS. In the event of new or worsening pulmonary symptoms (e.g., cough, dyspnoea), a prompt diagnostic evaluation should be performed.

Serious infections and opportunistic infections: Serious infections such as pneumonia, staphylococcal bacteraemia, sepsis/septic shock (including fatal outcomes), and herpes zoster, and opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and oral candidiasis have been reported in patients treated with ADCETRIS. Patients should be carefully monitored during treatment for emergence of possible serious and opportunistic infections.

Infusion-related reactions: Immediate and delayed infusion-related reactions, as well as anaphylaxis, have occurred with ADCETRIS. Patients should be carefully monitored during and after an infusion.

Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS): TLS has been reported with ADCETRIS. Patients with rapidly proliferating tumor and high tumor burden are at risk of TLS and should be monitored closely and managed according to best medical practice.

Peripheral neuropathy (PN): ADCETRIS treatment may cause PN that is predominantly sensory. Cases of peripheral motor neuropathy have also been reported. Patients should be monitored for symptoms of PN, such as hypoesthesia, hyperesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, a burning sensation, neuropathic pain, or weakness.

Hematological toxicities: Grade 3 or Grade 4 anemia, thrombocytopenia, and prolonged (equal to or greater than one week) Grade 3 or Grade 4 neutropenia can occur with ADCETRIS. Complete blood counts should be monitored prior to administration of each dose.

Febrile neutropenia: Febrile neutropenia has been reported. Patients should be monitored closely for fever and managed according to best medical practice.

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN): SJS and TEN have been reported. Fatal outcomes have been reported.

Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia has been reported during trials in patients with an elevated body mass index (BMI) with or without a history of diabetes mellitus. Any patient who experiences an event of hyperglycemia should have their serum glucose closely monitored.

Renal and hepatic impairment: There is limited experience in patients with renal and hepatic impairment. Population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that MMAE clearance might be affected by moderate and severe renal impairment, and by low serum albumin concentrations. Elevations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) have been reported. Liver function should be routinely monitored in patients receiving brentuximab vedotin.

Sodium content in excipients: This medicinal product contains a maximum of 2.1 mmol (or 47mg) of sodium per dose. To be taken into consideration for patients on a controlled sodium diet.

Serious adverse drug reactions were: neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, pyrexia, peripheral motor neuropathy and peripheral sensory neuropathy, hyperglycemia, demyelinating polyneuropathy, tumor lysis syndrome, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

ADCETRIS was studied as monotherapy in 160 patients in two Phase 2 studies. Across both studies, adverse reactions defined as very common (≥1/10) were: infections, neutropenia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, alopecia, pruritis, myalgia, fatigue, pyrexia, and infusion-related reactions. Adverse reactions defined as common (≥1/100 to <1/10) were: upper respiratory tract infection, herpes zoster, pneumonia, anemia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglycemia, peripheral motor neuropathy, dizziness, demyelinating polyneuropathy, cough, dyspnea, constipation, rash, arthralgia, back pain, and chills.

These are not all of the possible side effects with ADCETRIS. Please refer to Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) before prescribing.

About VELCADE

VELCADE (bortezomib) is a proteasome inhibitor approved for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma. VELCADE is also approved for the treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma who have already received at least one prior treatment. VELCADE (bortezomib) is co-developed by Millennium/Takeda and Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies. VELCADE is approved in more than 90 countries and has been used to treat more than 550,000 patients worldwide.

VELCADE: Important Safety Information

Patients should not receive VELCADE if they are allergic to bortezomib, boron or mannitol. VELCADE should not be administered intrathecally. Women should avoid becoming pregnant or breastfeeding while taking VELCADE. Patients with diabetes may require close monitoring and adjustment of their medication. VELCADE can cause serious side effects, including:

Peripheral neuropathy. Nerve problems, which can be severe including muscle weakness, tingling, burning, pain, or loss of feeling in the hands and feet.

Low blood pressure. A drop in blood pressure resulting in dizziness, light headedness or fainting.

Heart problems. Heart rhythm problems and heart failure including worsening of existing conditions. Symptoms may include chest pressure or pain, palpitations, swelling of the ankles or feet, or shortness of breath.

Lung problems, some of which have been fatal. Symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, wheezing or difficulty breathing.
Liver problems. Liver failure including a yellow discoloration of the eyes and skin.

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). A rare, reversible condition involving the brain. Symptoms may include seizures, high blood pressure, headaches, tiredness, confusion, blindness, or other vision problems
Gastrointestinal problems. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation.

Thrombocytopenia and neutropenia. Lowering the levels of blood cells, which could result in a higher risk for infections or bleeding.
Tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). TLS is a syndrome that causes a chemical imbalance in the blood that could lead to heart and/or kidney problems.

Common side effects seen in patients receiving VELCADE include: fever, decreased appetite, fatigue, rash
.
These are not all of the possible side effects with VELCADE. Please see the full Prescribing Information for VELCADE for a complete list available at VELCADE.com.

About Alisertib

Alisertib (MLN8237) is an oral, selective, inhibitor of Aurora A kinase being investigated by Takeda for the treatment of small cell lung cancer. Aurora A kinase is required for cells to divide properly and has been shown to be over-expressed in a variety of cancers, and inhibition of Aurora A kinase represents a novel approach in cancer research.

Synta Reports Third Quarter 2015 Financial Results

On November 5, 2015 Synta Pharmaceuticals Corp. (NASDAQ: SNTA) reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2015 and provided an update on its business strategy (Press release, Synta Pharmaceuticals, NOV 5, 2015, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2107774 [SID:1234508061]).

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To align its resources with the Company’s operational needs going forward, Synta announced today that it is reducing its workforce by approximately 60% to 33 full time employees. The Company estimates annual savings of at least $8 million in compensation-related costs as a result of the restructuring. Cash payments in connection with the workforce reduction, comprised principally of severance, unused vacation payments, benefits continuation costs and outplacement services, will range from $2.5 million to $2.6 million. The Company expects the restructuring to be substantially completed, and the majority of the related cash payments to be paid, during the fourth quarter of 2015.

The Company also announced today the appointment of Scott Morenstein to its Board of Directors. Mr. Morenstein is a Managing Director at CAM Capital, a private investment company established by Bruce Kovner, a Director of Synta Pharmaceuticals, focused on investment, trading and business activities. Prior to joining CAM Capital, Mr. Morenstein was a Managing Director of Valence Life Sciences and Caxton Advantage Venture Partners, venture capital firms focused on late-stage investing in private and small cap public drug development companies. He was previously a healthcare investment banker and research analyst at Lehman Brothers and Seaview Securities. Mr. Morenstein received a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.

"We continue to evaluate our strategic options following the outcome of our Phase 3 GALAXY-2 trial of ganetespib in lung cancer," said Chen Schor, President and Chief Executive Officer of Synta. "The difficult, but necessary decision to reduce our workforce is an important part of extending our cash runway as we evaluate these options, and we thank the many talented employees that will be leaving the Company for their service. We plan to continue to support key ongoing investigator-sponsored studies while we determine the appropriate path forward for ganetespib. We also look forward to continuing to develop our HDC pipeline."

Third Quarter 2015 Financial Results

There were no revenues recognized in the third quarters of 2015 and 2014.

Research and development expenses were $14.4 million for the third quarter in 2015, compared to $16.2 million for the same period in 2014. General and administrative expenses were $3.0 million for the third quarter in 2015, compared to $3.2 million for the same period in 2014. The Company anticipates that costs under its ganetespib program will decrease significantly in 2016 following the termination of the GALAXY-2 trial and the subsequent restructuring in the fourth quarter of 2015.

The Company reported a net loss of $17.6 million, or $0.13 per basic and diluted share, in the third quarter of 2015, compared to a net loss of $20.0 million, or $0.19 per basic and diluted share, for the same period in 2014.

As of September 30, 2015, the Company had $88.3 million in cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, compared to $97.7 million in cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities as of December 31, 2014.

More detailed financial information and analysis may be found in the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on November 5, 2015.

Guidance

The Company expects its cash resources of approximately $88.3 million as of September 30, 2015, along with lower operating expenses following the termination of the GALAXY-2 trial and the subsequent restructuring in the fourth quarter of 2015, will be sufficient to fund operations at least through the first half of 2017. This estimate assumes no additional funding from new partnership agreements, equity financings or further sales under the Company’s ATM facility. The timing and nature of certain activities contemplated for the remainder of 2015 and 2016 will be conducted subject to the availability of sufficient financial resources.

Seattle Genetics Announces More Than 20 Presentations at ASH 2015 Highlighting Progress with Broad ADCETRIS® (Brentuximab Vedotin) Development Plan and Multiple Antibody-Drug Conjugate (ADC) Pipeline Programs

On November 5, 2015 Seattle Genetics, Inc. (Nasdaq:SGEN) reported that a record number of abstracts were accepted for presentation at the 57th American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting and Exposition taking place in Orlando, Florida, December 5-8, 2015, including the following:

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Several oral and poster data presentations on ADCETRIS (brentuximab vedotin) as both monotherapy and combination therapy in multiple Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) disease settings, supporting the company’s goal to establish ADCETRIS as the foundation of care for HL;

Data presentations on ADCETRIS in frontline non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL), to be presented in oral and poster sessions;

Phase 1 clinical data for SGN-CD33A (vadastuximab talirine) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) as monotherapy and in combination with hypomethylating agents (HMAs) to be presented in two oral sessions; preclinical data supporting HMA combination strategy to be presented in poster session;

Updated phase 1 clinical data to be presented for SGN-CD19A (denintuzumab mafodotin) in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and NHL in oral and poster sessions; and

Preclinical data from two new ADCs for hematologic malignancies, SGN-CD19B and SGN-CD123A, using the company’s proprietary pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD) technology to be presented in oral sessions (Press release, Seattle Genetics, NOV 5, 2015, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2107576 [SID:1234508059]).

"There will be more than 20 data presentations, including 13 orals, from corporate and investigator studies, representing the largest presence Seattle Genetics has ever had at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper)," said Jonathan Drachman, M.D., Chief Medical Officer and Executive Vice President, Research and Development at Seattle Genetics. "Our broad ADCETRIS development program continues to generate data that support its potential as the foundation of care for Hodgkin lymphoma and other CD30-expressing lymphomas. We are also excited to share updates from our ongoing SGN-CD33A and SGN-CD19A programs and to present preclinical data from two new programs, SGN-CD19B and SGN-CD123A, which will advance into the clinic in 2016."

With more than 15 years of experience and innovation, Seattle Genetics is the leader in developing ADCs, a technology designed to harness the targeting ability of antibodies to deliver cell-killing agents directly to cancer cells. More than 25 ADCs in clinical development utilize Seattle Genetics’ proprietary ADC technology. ADCETRIS is the first drug approved utilizing this technology.

ADCETRIS is currently not approved for the treatment of frontline HL, frontline NHL, salvage HL in patients eligible for autologous transplant, GVHD or as a combination therapy for HL or NHL.

Multiple corporate and investigator presentations will be featured at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper). Abstracts can be found at www.hematology.org and include the following:

Saturday, December 5, 2015

Frontline Treatment of CD30+ Peripheral T-Cell Lymphomas with Brentuximab Vedotin in Combination with CHP: 3-Year Durability and Survival Follow-up (Abstract #1537, poster presentation)

A Phase 1 Study of Denintuzumab Mafodotin (SGN-CD19A) in Adults with Relapsed or Refractory B-Lineage Acute Leukemia (B-ALL) and Highly Aggressive Lymphoma (Abstract #1328, poster presentation)

AMC-085: A Pilot Trial of AVD and Brentuximab Vedotin in the Upfront Treatment of Stage II-IV HIV-Associated Hodgkin Lymphoma. A Trial of the AIDS Malignancy Consortium (Abstract #1526, poster presentation)

Risk Factors and a Prognostic Score in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma (rrHL) after Treatment with Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation (ASCT) (Abstract #1978, poster presentation)

Multicenter Phase I Trial of Brentuximab Vedotin for Steroid Refractory Acute Graft-vs.-Host Disease (GVHD) (Abstract #1930, poster presentation)

Sunday, December 6, 2015

A Phase 1 Study of Denintuzumab Mafodotin (SGN-CD19A) in Relapsed/Refractory B-Lineage Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (Abstract #182, oral presentation at 7:45 a.m. ET)

TARC Predicts PET-Normalization and Event Free Survival in Relapsed/Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma Patients Treated with Brentuximab Vedotin (Abstract #180, oral presentation at 8:45 a.m. ET)

A Phase 1 Trial of SGN-CD33A as Monotherapy in Patients with CD33-Positive Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) (Abstract #324, oral presentation at 5:45 p.m. ET)

SGN-CD123A, a Pyrrolobenzodiazepine Dimer Linked Anti-CD123 Antibody Drug Conjugate, Demonstrates Effective Anti-Leukemic Activity in Multiple Preclinical Models of AML (Abstract #330, oral presentation at 5:45 p.m. ET)

Five-Year Survival Data Demonstrating Durable Responses from a Pivotal Phase 2 Study of Brentuximab Vedotin in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma (Abstract #2736, poster presentation)

Updated Efficacy and Safety Data from the AETHERA Trial of Consolidation with Brentuximab Vedotin after Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) in Hodgkin Lymphoma Patients at High Risk of Relapse (Abstract #3172, poster presentation)

Brentuximab Vedotin in Combination with Multi-Agent Chemotherapy is Well Tolerated and Effective as Frontline Treatment for Primary Mediastinal B-Cell Lymphoma (Abstract #2694, poster presentation)

Monday, December 7, 2015

Post Transplant Outcome of a Multicenter Phase II Study of Brentuximab Vedotin As First Line Salvage in Relapsed/Refractory HL Prior to AHCT (Abstract #519, oral presentation at 7:30 a.m. ET)

SGN-CD33A Plus Hypomethylating Agents: A Novel, Well-Tolerated Regimen with High Remission Rate in Frontline Unfit AML (Abstract #454, oral presentation at 7:45 a.m. ET)

Preliminary Safety and Efficacy of the Combination of Brentuximab Vedotin and Ipilimumab in Relapsed/Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Trial of the ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group (E4412) (Abstract #585, oral presentation at 11:00 a.m. ET)
Targeted BEACOPP Variants in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Advanced Stage Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma: Final Analysis of a Randomized Phase II Study (Abstract #580, oral presentation at 11:15 a.m. ET)

The Combination of Brentuximab Vedotin (Bv) and Bendamustine (B) Demonstrates Marked Activity in Heavily Treated Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL) and Anaplastic Large T-Cell Lymphoma (ALCL): Results of an International Multicenter Phase I/II Experience (Abstract #586, oral presentation at 11:15 a.m. ET)

Brentuximab Vedotin in Combination with Dacarbazine or Bendamustine for Frontline Treatment of Hodgkin Lymphoma in Patients Aged 60 Years and Above: Interim Results of a Multi-Cohort Phase 2 Study (Abstract #587, oral presentation at 11:30 a.m. ET)
Evaluation of the Regimen Brentuximab Vedotin Plus ESHAP (BRESHAP) in Refractory or Relapsed Hodgkin Lymphoma Patients: Preliminary Results of a Phase I-II Trial from the Spanish Group of Lymphoma and Bone Marrow Transplantation (GELTAMO) (Abstract #582, oral presentation at 11:45 a.m. ET)

SGN-CD19B, a Pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD)-Based Anti-CD19 Drug Conjugate, Demonstrates Potent Preclinical Activity Against B-Cell Malignancies (Abstract #594, oral presentation at 11:45 a.m. ET)

Brentuximab Vedotin with RCHOP As Frontline Therapy in Patients with High-Intermediate/High-Risk Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL): Results from an Ongoing Phase 2 Study (Abstract #814, oral presentation at 5:15 p.m. ET)

SGN-CD33A in Combination with Hypomethylating Agents Is Highly Efficacious in Preclinical Models of AML (Abstract #3785, poster presentation)

Brentuximab Vedotin Plus Bendamustine: A Highly Active Salvage Treatment Regimen for Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Hodgkin Lymphoma (Abstract #3982, poster presentation)

A Phase I Trial of Brentuximab Vedotin in Combination with Lenalidomide in Relapsed or Refractory Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (Abstract #3988, poster presentation)

About ADCETRIS

ADCETRIS is being evaluated broadly in more than 30 ongoing clinical trials, including the phase 3 ALCANZA trial and two additional phase 3 studies, ECHELON-1 in frontline classical HL and ECHELON-2 in frontline mature T-cell lymphomas, as well as trials in many additional types of CD30-expressing malignancies, including B-cell lymphomas.

ADCETRIS is an ADC comprising an anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody attached by a protease-cleavable linker to a microtubule disrupting agent, monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE), utilizing Seattle Genetics’ proprietary technology. The ADC employs a linker system that is designed to be stable in the bloodstream but to release MMAE upon internalization into CD30-expressing tumor cells.

ADCETRIS for intravenous injection has received approval from the FDA for three indications: (1) regular approval for the treatment of patients with classical HL after failure of autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (auto-HSCT) or after failure of at least two prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimens in patients who are not auto-HSCT candidates, (2) regular approval for the treatment of classical HL patients at high risk of relapse or progression as post-auto-HSCT consolidation, and (3) accelerated approval for the treatment of patients with systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL) after failure of at least one prior multi-agent chemotherapy regimen. The sALCL indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate. Continued approval for the sALCL indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials. Health Canada granted ADCETRIS approval with conditions for relapsed or refractory HL and sALCL.

ADCETRIS was granted conditional marketing authorization by the European Commission in October 2012 for two indications: (1) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD30-positive HL following autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), or following at least two prior therapies when ASCT or multi-agent chemotherapy is not a treatment option, and (2) the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory sALCL. ADCETRIS has received marketing authorization by regulatory authorities in more than 55 countries. See important safety information below.

Seattle Genetics and Takeda are jointly developing ADCETRIS. Under the terms of the collaboration agreement, Seattle Genetics has U.S. and Canadian commercialization rights and Takeda has rights to commercialize ADCETRIS in the rest of the world. Seattle Genetics and Takeda are funding joint development costs for ADCETRIS on a 50:50 basis, except in Japan where Takeda is solely responsible for development costs.

About SGN-CD33A (Vadastuximab Talirine)

SGN-CD33A (vadastuximab talirine) is a novel ADC targeted to CD33 utilizing Seattle Genetics’ newest ADC technology. CD33 is expressed on most AML cells. The CD33 antibody is attached to a highly potent DNA binding agent, a pyrrolobenzodiazepine (PBD) dimer, via a proprietary site-specific conjugation technology to a monoclonal antibody with engineered cysteines (EC-mAb). PBD dimers are significantly more potent than systemic chemotherapeutic drugs and the site-specific conjugation technology (EC-mAb) allows uniform drug-loading of the cell-killing PBD agent to the anti-CD33 antibody. The ADC is designed to be stable in the bloodstream and to release its potent DNA binding agent upon internalization into CD33-expressing cells. SGN-CD33A is being evaluated in ongoing phase 1 clinical trials for patients with AML.

About SGN-CD19A (Denintuzumab Mafodotin)

SGN-CD19A (denintuzumab mafodotin) is an ADC targeting CD19, a protein expressed broadly on B-cell malignancies. Denintuzumab mafodotin is comprised of an anti-CD19 monoclonal antibody linked to a synthetic cytotoxic cell-killing agent, monomethyl auristatin F (MMAF). The ADC is designed to be stable in the bloodstream, and to release its cytotoxic agent upon internalization into CD19-expressing tumor cells. This approach is intended to spare non-targeted cells and thus reduce many of the toxic effects of traditional chemotherapy while enhancing the antitumor activity. SGN-CD19A is being evaluated in two ongoing phase 1 clinical trials for patients with B-cell ALL and aggressive NHL as well as a phase 2 clinical trial in relapsed or refractory DLBCL.