Wael Harb, MD, MBA

Abstract
PURPOSE:
Additional targeted therapeutics are needed for the treatment of lymphoma. Abexinostat is an oral pan-histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) displaying potent activity in preclinical models. We conducted a multicenter phase I/II study (N = 55) with single-agent abexinostat in relapsed/refractory lymphoma.
EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN:
In phase I, 25 heavily pretreated patients with any lymphoma subtype received oral abexinostat ranging from 30 to 60 mg/m2 twice daily 5… Show more

Abstract
PURPOSE:
Additional targeted therapeutics are needed for the treatment of lymphoma. Abexinostat is an oral pan-histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) displaying potent activity in preclinical models. We conducted a multicenter phase I/II study (N = 55) with single-agent abexinostat in relapsed/refractory lymphoma.
EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN:
In phase I, 25 heavily pretreated patients with any lymphoma subtype received oral abexinostat ranging from 30 to 60 mg/m2 twice daily 5 days/week for 3 weeks or 7 days/week given every other week. Phase II evaluated abexinostat at the maximum tolerated dose in 30 patients with relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma or mantle cell lymphoma.
RESULTS:
The recommended phase II dose was 45 mg/m2 twice daily (90 mg/m2 total), 7 days/week given every other week. Of the 30 follicular lymphoma and mantle cell lymphoma patients enrolled in phase II, 25 (14 follicular lymphoma, 11 mantle cell lymphoma) were response-evaluable. Tumor size was reduced in 86% of follicular lymphoma patients with an investigator-assessed ORR of 64.3% for evaluable patients [intent-to-treat (ITT) ORR 56.3%]. Median duration of response was not reached, and median progression-free survival (PFS) was 20.5 months (1.2-22.3+). Of responding follicular lymphoma patients, 89% were on study/drug >8 months. In mantle cell lymphoma, the ORR was 27.3% for evaluable patients (ITT ORR 21.4%), and median PFS was 3.9 months (range, 0.1-11.5). Grade 3-4 treatment-related adverse events (phase II) with ≥10% incidence were thrombocytopenia (20%), fatigue (16.7%), and neutropenia (13.3%) with rare QTc prolongation and no deaths.
CONCLUSIONS:
The pan-HDACi, abexinostat, was overall well tolerated and had significant clinical activity in follicular lymphoma, including highly durable responses in this multiply relapsed patient population. Clin Cancer Res; 1-8. ©2015 AACR.
©2015 American Association for Cancer Research. Show less

Abstract
Endocrine therapy is an important treatment option for women with hormone receptor–positive (HR+) advanced breast cancer (ABC), yet many tumors are either intrinsically resistant or develop resistance to these therapies. Treatment of patients with ABC presenting with visceral metastases, which is associated with a poor prognosis, is also problematic. There is an unmet need for effective treatments for this patient population. Although chemotherapy is commonly perceived to be… Show more

Abstract
Endocrine therapy is an important treatment option for women with hormone receptor–positive (HR+) advanced breast cancer (ABC), yet many tumors are either intrinsically resistant or develop resistance to these therapies. Treatment of patients with ABC presenting with visceral metastases, which is associated with a poor prognosis, is also problematic. There is an unmet need for effective treatments for this patient population. Although chemotherapy is commonly perceived to be more effective than endocrine therapy in managing visceral metastases, patients who are not in visceral crisis might benefit from endocrine therapy, avoiding chemotherapy-associated toxicities that might affect quality of life. To improve outcomes, several targeted therapies are being investigated in combination with endocrine therapy for patients with endocrine-resistant, HR+ ABC. Although available data have considered patients with HR+ ABC as a whole, there are promising data from a prespecified analysis of a Phase III study of everolimus (Afinitor®), a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, in combination with exemestane (Aromasin®) in patients with visceral disease progressing after nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor therapy. In this review, challenges and treatment options for management of HR+ ABC with visceral disease, including consideration of therapeutic approaches undergoing clinical investigation, will be assessed.

Keywords: endocrine resistance, endocrine therapy, targeted therapy Show less

Abstract

Background: PNT2258 is a 24-base, single-stranded liposome-encapsulated DNA oligonucleotide that hybridizes to regions of the BCL2 gene, modulating its function. As previously reported, PNT2258 demonstrates antitumor activity in patients with advanced-stage NHL. The updated clinical data that are provided in this abstract (as of 07/25/14) now include anti-tumor activity in patients with DLBCL and Richter’s syndrome.

Results: Thirteen patients (median age 65; 8 males, 5… Show more

Abstract

Background: PNT2258 is a 24-base, single-stranded liposome-encapsulated DNA oligonucleotide that hybridizes to regions of the BCL2 gene, modulating its function. As previously reported, PNT2258 demonstrates antitumor activity in patients with advanced-stage NHL. The updated clinical data that are provided in this abstract (as of 07/25/14) now include anti-tumor activity in patients with DLBCL and Richter’s syndrome.

Results: Thirteen patients (median age 65; 8 males, 5 females; ECOG PS 0/1/2: 3/9/1) received all scheduled doses of PNT2258. Regardless of attribution, there were no cycle 1, grade 3/4 AEs. The most common grade 1/2 AEs in cycle 1 included chills, low-grade fever, transient nausea, and tumor or back pain (n=5 for each). There was no evidence of tumor lysis syndrome, febrile neutropenia or significant GI toxicity. Of 4 patients with DLBCL, including 1 with Richter’s syndrome and 1 with Burkitt-like histology, PFS was 9.2 months, range 5.5-12.3 months as of 7/25/14. Best response data (CR/PR/SD/PD) for the DLBCL group was 2/1/1/0. Additionally, in 5 FL patients, best response was 1/1/3/0. Five patients, including 3 DLBCL and 2 FL remain on study as of 7/25/14 receiving maintenance treatment with PNT2258.

Conclusions: PNT2258 is well tolerated and can be administered over prolonged periods of time. Durable single agent activity was previously reported in patients with FL, and has now been observed in patients with aggressive DLBCL. Studies in DLBCL and Richter’s syndrome are being implemented and updated information will be provided at the time of the meeting. Clinical trial information: NCT01733238.

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Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Effective treatments for hormone-receptor-positive (HR(+)) breast cancer (BC) following relapse/progression on nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) therapy are needed. Initial Breast Cancer Trials of OraL EveROlimus-2 (BOLERO-2) trial data demonstrated that everolimus and exemestane significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) versus placebo plus exemestane alone in this patient population.
METHODS:
BOLERO-2 is a phase 3, double-blind… Show more

Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Effective treatments for hormone-receptor-positive (HR(+)) breast cancer (BC) following relapse/progression on nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) therapy are needed. Initial Breast Cancer Trials of OraL EveROlimus-2 (BOLERO-2) trial data demonstrated that everolimus and exemestane significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) versus placebo plus exemestane alone in this patient population.
METHODS:
BOLERO-2 is a phase 3, double-blind, randomized, international trial comparing everolimus (10 mg/day) plus exemestane (25 mg/day) versus placebo plus exemestane in postmenopausal women with HR(+) advanced BC with recurrence/progression during or after NSAIs. The primary endpoint was PFS by local investigator review, and was confirmed by independent central radiology review. Overall survival, response rate, and clinical benefit rate were secondary endpoints.
RESULTS:
Final study results with median 18-month follow-up show that median PFS remained significantly longer with everolimus plus exemestane versus placebo plus exemestane [investigator review: 7.8 versus 3.2 months, respectively; hazard ratio = 0.45 (95% confidence interval 0.38-0.54); log-rank P < 0.0001; central review: 11.0 versus 4.1 months, respectively; hazard ratio = 0.38 (95% confidence interval 0.31-0.48); log-rank P < 0.0001] in the overall population and in all prospectively defined subgroups, including patients with visceral metastases, [corrected] and irrespective of age. The incidence and severity of adverse events were consistent with those reported at the interim analysis and in other everolimus trials.
CONCLUSION:
The addition of everolimus to exemestane markedly prolonged PFS in patients with HR(+) advanced BC with disease recurrence/progression following prior NSAIs. These results further support the use of everolimus plus exemestane in this patient population. ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT00863655. Show less

Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) provide a readily accessible source of tumor material from patients with cancer. Molecular profiling of these rare cells can lead to insight on disease progression and therapeutic strategies. A critical need exists to isolate CTCs with sufficient quantity and sample integrity to adapt to conventional analytical techniques. We present a microfluidic platform (IsoFlux) that uses flow control and immunomagnetic capture to enhance CTC isolation. A… Show more

Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) provide a readily accessible source of tumor material from patients with cancer. Molecular profiling of these rare cells can lead to insight on disease progression and therapeutic strategies. A critical need exists to isolate CTCs with sufficient quantity and sample integrity to adapt to conventional analytical techniques. We present a microfluidic platform (IsoFlux) that uses flow control and immunomagnetic capture to enhance CTC isolation. A novel cell retrieval mechanism ensures complete transfer of CTCs into the molecular assay. Improved sensitivity to the capture antigen was demonstrated by spike-in experiments for three cell lines of varying levels of antigen expression. We obtained spike-in recovery rates of 74%, 75%, and 85% for MDA-MB-231 (low), PC3 (middle), and SKBR3 (high) cell lines. Recovery using matched enumeration protocols and matched samples (PC3) yielded 90% and 40% recovery for the IsoFlux and CellSearch systems, respectively. In matched prostate cancer samples (N = 22), patients presenting more than four CTCs per blood draw were 95% and 36% using IsoFlux and CellSearch, respectively. An assay for detecting KRAS mutations was described along with data from patients with colorectal cancer, of which 87% presented CTCs above the assay's limit of detection (four CTCs). The CTC KRAS mutant rate was 50%, with 46% of patients displaying a CTC KRAS mutational status that differed from the previously acquired tissue biopsy data. The microfluidic system and mutation assay presented here provide a complete workflow to track oncogene mutational changes longitudinally with high success rates.
PMID: 24151533 [PubMed] PMCID: PMC3799195 Free PMC Article Show less

Background: Abexinostat (PCI-24781) is a novel oral pan-HDACi that has previously demonstrated potent preclinical activity in lymphoma cell lines and animal models (Evens et al, Clin Ca Res 2009) as well as a tolerable safety profile in phase I solid tumor clinical studies (Undevia et al, ASCO 2008). In a phase I single-agent clinical trial in patients (pts) with multiply relapsed/refractory lymphoma and leukemia, anti-tumor activity was noted in FL and MCL; 4/4 FL pts showed durable clinical… Show more

Background: Abexinostat (PCI-24781) is a novel oral pan-HDACi that has previously demonstrated potent preclinical activity in lymphoma cell lines and animal models (Evens et al, Clin Ca Res 2009) as well as a tolerable safety profile in phase I solid tumor clinical studies (Undevia et al, ASCO 2008). In a phase I single-agent clinical trial in patients (pts) with multiply relapsed/refractory lymphoma and leukemia, anti-tumor activity was noted in FL and MCL; 4/4 FL pts showed durable clinical benefit with median time on treatment of >8 months; 1 of 2 MCL pts had a complete remission (CR) and remains on treatment for >3 years. Based on these encouraging single-agent abexinostat data, a phase II extension study was completed in relapsed/refractory FL and MCL.
Conclusion: In this phase II study, the novel pan-HDACi, abexinostat, was clinically active and overall well tolerated in relapsed/refractory B-cell lymphoma. The safety profile was consistent with this class of agents with <20% of subjects experiencing grade 3/4 cytopenias (during the course of prolonged treatments). Moreover, there was significant clinical activity noted in FL with an ORR of 64%, which included several durable responses in this multiply-relapsed pt population. Further examination of single-agent abexinostat in FL is warranted. Show less

Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Poor PS is a negative prognostic factor for survival and a risk factor for treatment-related toxicity with standard platinum-doublet chemotherapy for advanced NSCLC. A phase II study combining erlotinib and bevacizumab for treatment of recurrent NSCLC showed encouraging efficacy and acceptable toxicity.
PATIENTS AND METHODS:
This single-arm phase II study evaluated erlotinib and bevacizumab as first-line therapy for newly diagnosed nonsquamous advanced NSCLC… Show more

Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Poor PS is a negative prognostic factor for survival and a risk factor for treatment-related toxicity with standard platinum-doublet chemotherapy for advanced NSCLC. A phase II study combining erlotinib and bevacizumab for treatment of recurrent NSCLC showed encouraging efficacy and acceptable toxicity.
PATIENTS AND METHODS:
This single-arm phase II study evaluated erlotinib and bevacizumab as first-line therapy for newly diagnosed nonsquamous advanced NSCLC patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group PS ≥ 2 or age 70 or older. Only patients eligible for bevacizumab per label were enrolled. Patients received erlotinib 150 mg orally daily and bevacizumab 15 mg/kg intravenously on day 1 every 21 days for up to 6 cycles. The primary end point was the rate of nonprogressive disease at 4 months (alternative hypothesis > 60%).
RESULTS:
Twenty-five patients were enrolled, with median age 77 years (range, 52-90 years), 44% female, 20% never- or remote-smokers. Ninety-two percent of patients enrolled had PS of 2 per investigator assessment. The rate of nonprogressive disease at 4 months was 28%. There were no complete responses, 1 patient achieved a partial response, and 11 patients (44%) experienced stable disease as best response. Rash, fatigue, and diarrhea were the most common toxicities.
CONCLUSION:
The combination of erlotinib and bevacizumab had insufficient activity in the absence of known activating epidermal growth factor receptor gene mutations to warrant study in newly diagnosed elderly or poor PS patients with nonsquamous NSCLC. Show less

Abstract
BACKGROUND:
EC145 is a novel folate-receptor targeted agent consisting of a folate molecule linked to a vinca alkaloid. EC20 is a technetium-labeled folate that assesses the presence of folate receptors (FR) in vivo. The objective of this study was to determine the activity of EC145 in patients with chemotherapy refractory lung adenocarcinoma, whose tumors expressed the FR as determined by EC20 imaging.
METHODS:
Patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung, Eastern… Show more

Abstract
BACKGROUND:
EC145 is a novel folate-receptor targeted agent consisting of a folate molecule linked to a vinca alkaloid. EC20 is a technetium-labeled folate that assesses the presence of folate receptors (FR) in vivo. The objective of this study was to determine the activity of EC145 in patients with chemotherapy refractory lung adenocarcinoma, whose tumors expressed the FR as determined by EC20 imaging.
METHODS:
Patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the lung, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 to 2, normal organ function, those who had progressed after at least two prior cytotoxic regimens, and with EC 20 uptake in at least one index lesion were eligible. The primary objective of the study was the ability to receive four or more cycles of therapy.
RESULTS:
Sixty patients were screened and 43 patients were enrolled. Eleven patients (26%) received more than four cycles (95% confidence interval [CI] 14%, 41%), and one patient had partial response (response rate (RR) = 2.3%, 95% CI 0%, 12%). Patients in whom all target tumor lesions expressed FR by EC 20 scans had a trend toward superior results in terms of clinical benefit response (50% versus 14.3 %; p = 0.10) and survival (47.2 weeks versus 14.9 weeks [HR = 0.539, p = 0.101]) compared with those in whom at least one but not all target lesions were positive for FR (FR+).
CONCLUSION:
EC145 demonstrated clinical activity with a good toxicity profile in this population. Uniform uptake of EC20 may predict activity of EC145 and be useful for prospective selection of patients in future trials.
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Background: Current treatment options for postmenopausal patients with estrogen-receptor–positive breast cancer (BC) who relapse or progress on a nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) are limited. The BOLERO-2 trial supports the activity of everolimus (EVE; an oral mammalian target of rapamycin [mTOR] inhibitor) added to the steroidal aromatase inhibitor exemestane (EXE) to prolong progression-free survival (PFS) in this patient population. Long-term PFS and survival data are awaited… Show more

Background: Current treatment options for postmenopausal patients with estrogen-receptor–positive breast cancer (BC) who relapse or progress on a nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) are limited. The BOLERO-2 trial supports the activity of everolimus (EVE; an oral mammalian target of rapamycin [mTOR] inhibitor) added to the steroidal aromatase inhibitor exemestane (EXE) to prolong progression-free survival (PFS) in this patient population. Long-term PFS and survival data are awaited. Methods: BOLERO-2 is a phase 3, double-blind, randomized, international trial comparing EVE (10 mg once daily) + EXE (25 mg once daily) vs. placebo (PBO) + EXE in postmenopausal women with advanced estrogen-receptor–positive BC progressing or recurring after NSAIs (letrozole or anastrozole). Patients were randomized (2:1) to EVE + EXE or PBO + EXE. The primary endpoint was PFS by local investigator assessment. Main secondary endpoints included centrally assessed PFS, overall survival (OS), safety, bone turnover, and overall response rate. Results: Baseline disease characteristics including tumor burden and prior cancer therapy were well balanced between treatment arms (N = 724). Median PFS was doubled and response rates were consistently improved with EVE + EXE (n = 485) vs PBO + EXE (n = 239) in interim analyses. Median PFS by local assessment was ~3 mo with PBO + EXE vs 6.9 mo (hazard ratio [HR], 0.43; P < .0001) and 7.4 mo (HR, 0.44; P < .0001) with EVE + EXE at 7.5 mo and 12.5 mo follow-up, respectively. Fewer deaths were reported with EVE + EXE (17.2%) vs PBO + EXE (22.7%) at 12.5 mo follow-up. Safety profiles were consistent with previous reports for mTOR inhibitors. PFS data including 528 events (protocol-specified final analysis), and updated OS and safety data will be presented. Show less

Background: Darinaparsin [Zinapar, ZIO-101(S-dimethylarsino-glutathione)], is a novel organic arsenic compound with in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity in tumor cell lines resistant to arsenic trioxide. An oral formulation is now available. Methods: This study used a 3+3 escalating design, dosing orally for 21 days followed by 7 days off (28 day cycle). Pts with AST refractory to standard therapy, ECOG performance score (PS) ≤ 2 and adequate organ function were treated. Study objectives… Show more

Background: Darinaparsin [Zinapar, ZIO-101(S-dimethylarsino-glutathione)], is a novel organic arsenic compound with in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity in tumor cell lines resistant to arsenic trioxide. An oral formulation is now available. Methods: This study used a 3+3 escalating design, dosing orally for 21 days followed by 7 days off (28 day cycle). Pts with AST refractory to standard therapy, ECOG performance score (PS) ≤ 2 and adequate organ function were treated. Study objectives were safety profile evaluation, pharmacokinetics (PK) and preliminary activity of oral darinaparsin. CTCAE v. 4.0 and RECIST 1.1 were used. Results: A total of 10 pts (8 males, 2 females), with ECOG PS 0=2, 1=8, mean age of 71 years (range: 60-81), median of prior therapies 3 (range: 1-4) were treated. A median of 2 cycles of darinaparsin was administered (range: 1-6). Dose limiting toxicities (DLT) were confusion (n=1; 400 mg), cognitive disturbance (n=1; 400 mg) and encephalopathic syndrome (n=1; 300 mg), reversible with drug discontinuation. The highest tolerable dose was 300 mg per day. Most frequent AEs were: hypokalemia, nausea (40% each), fatigue (30%), anemia, diarrhea, hypophosphatemia, pneumonia, vomiting (20% each). Most frequent grade ≥3 AEs were: hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia (20% each). Best overall response was stable disease (at 2 cycles), observed in 5 pts: adenocarcinoma of colon (2 pts), chordoma, adenocarcinoma of small bowel and carcinoma of tongue. PK analysis of 400 mg cohort (n=4) and 300 mg cohort (n=6) resulted in Tmax at 9 hr post treatment and Cmax slightly greater than dose proportional (p<0.05). Steady-state trough levels were achieved on or before Day 5. Approximately 40 % greater Cmax was observed on D15 compared to D1 for the 300 mg cohort (p<0.05) while unchanged at 400 mg. DLTs were observed when duration of exposure was more than 7 days and serum trough levels were 800 ng/ml or above. Show less

Background: PAN, a potent histone deacetylase inhibitor, significantly inhibits the growth of MM cells in vitro and enhances the cytotoxicity of standard chemotherapy. Studies with our SCID-hu MM models show an increased inhibition of MM cell growth when PAN was combined with MEL compared to treatment with either drug alone. These preclinical studies provided the rationale for evaluating the combination of oral MEL with oral PAN for the treatment of MM patients with R/R disease. Methods: This… Show more

Background: PAN, a potent histone deacetylase inhibitor, significantly inhibits the growth of MM cells in vitro and enhances the cytotoxicity of standard chemotherapy. Studies with our SCID-hu MM models show an increased inhibition of MM cell growth when PAN was combined with MEL compared to treatment with either drug alone. These preclinical studies provided the rationale for evaluating the combination of oral MEL with oral PAN for the treatment of MM patients with R/R disease. Methods: This was a Phase 1/2, open-label, dose‑escalation study to treat R/R MM patients initially using oral PAN every Monday, Wednesday and Fridayin combination with oral MEL (0.05 mg/kg) on days 1-5 of a 28‑day cycle. Results: Thirty-seven patients were enrolled into the Phase 1 portion of this study. The median number of prior regimens received were 4 (range, 1-17) with 22 patients previously treated with MEL. Following amendments to dose and schedule because of toxicity including cytopenias and fatigue, PAN and MEL were both administered only on days 1, 3 and 5 of a 28-day cycle. The maximum tolerated dose for this combination was defined as PAN at 20 mg and MEL at 0.05 mg/kg both administered on only days 1, 3 and 5. Overall, 4 patients (11%) showed objective responses to this combination with 1 complete (3%) and 3 partial (8%) responses and only occurred among patients receiving PAN throughout the cycle. An additional 18 (49%) patients had stable disease while 15 (41%) progressed while on study. Eighteen patients experienced grade 3 or 4 adverse events (AEs) with 6 of these meeting the definition of a dose-limiting toxicity. These AEs included reversible thrombocytopenia (n=11), reversible neutropenia (n=10), reversible worsening anemia (n=3), and one case each of a forearm rash, fatigue/weakness, pneumonia, hypokalemia and hyponatremia. Three more patients who are not yet evaluable have been enrolled into the Phase 2 portion to complete the planned 40 patients on the trial.
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Abstract:

Background: Btk supports activation, survival, and proliferation of malignant B cells in CLL and B-NHL. AVL-292 is an oral, potent (IC50 < 0.5nM), selective small molecule covalent inhibitor of Btk. Methods: Patients (pts) with previously treated CLL or B-NHL were administered AVL-292 in escalating cohorts of 125, 250, or 400 mg po QD using a 3+3 design in continuous 28 day cycles until progressive disease (PD) or toxicity. Key objectives were safety, DLT, MTD, PK, and Btk… Show more

Abstract:

Background: Btk supports activation, survival, and proliferation of malignant B cells in CLL and B-NHL. AVL-292 is an oral, potent (IC50 < 0.5nM), selective small molecule covalent inhibitor of Btk. Methods: Patients (pts) with previously treated CLL or B-NHL were administered AVL-292 in escalating cohorts of 125, 250, or 400 mg po QD using a 3+3 design in continuous 28 day cycles until progressive disease (PD) or toxicity. Key objectives were safety, DLT, MTD, PK, and Btk occupancy. Plasma AVL-292 levels were assessed by LC-MS-MS. Btk occupancy by AVL-292 was assessed by covalent probe assay in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Results: 12 pts have enrolled (3 each at 125 and 250 mg and 6 at 400 mg: 5M/7F; median age 68 years, range 45-79; median 2.5 prior therapies, range 1-10) including 8 CLL (2 with 17p-, 2 with 11q22-, 2 with both 17p-/11q22-; 2 mutated IGHV, 5 unmutated IGHV, 1 missing) and 4 B-NHL (1 diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL); 1 follicular (FL); 2 marginal zone (MZL)). Median time on treatment is 65 days, range 28-158. Ten of 12 pts continue on treatment: 1 pt (DLBCL) discontinued for PD after 1 cycle and 1 pt (FL) for DLT (Gr 4 plts; 400 mg QD). No other DLTs or grade 4 adverse events (AEs) have occurred and MTD has not been reached. Most frequent AEs reported include transient diarrhea, rash/skin infection, URI, nausea, and fatigue. Gr 3 AEs include 1 atrial fibrillation (not drug related) and 1 ANC low (probably drug related). To date, 8 of 8 CLL patients have stable disease (SD) with median 28% decrease from baseline lymph node measurement (range 3-40% decrease). Six of 8 pts with CLL experienced increased ALC in cycle 1: median increase 89.5% (range 50-212%). Two of 4 NHL pts have SD (both MZL), 1 PD (DLBCL), and 1 not evaluable due to DLT (FL). Full Btk occupancy was achieved with dose levels ≥ 250 mg. Multiple dose PK exposure (AUClast) was linear with no accumulation from Day 1 to 15. Show less

Background: Erlotinib is effective in NSCLCs with wild-type EGFR and shows enhanced benefit in EGFR mutation-positive cancers. However, resistance invariably develops, often involving persistent ErbB3 signaling and activation of the PI3K/AKT survival pathway. We present the full results of the Phase 1 study evaluating the safety and tolerability of erlotinib plus MM-121 a fully human IgG2 monoclonal antibody (mAb) to ErbB3. Methods: Eligible patients had advanced stage NSCLC, and ECOG 0-2… Show more

Background: Erlotinib is effective in NSCLCs with wild-type EGFR and shows enhanced benefit in EGFR mutation-positive cancers. However, resistance invariably develops, often involving persistent ErbB3 signaling and activation of the PI3K/AKT survival pathway. We present the full results of the Phase 1 study evaluating the safety and tolerability of erlotinib plus MM-121 a fully human IgG2 monoclonal antibody (mAb) to ErbB3. Methods: Eligible patients had advanced stage NSCLC, and ECOG 0-2. Seven cohorts were enrolled, evaluating varying levels of the MM-121 and erlotinib, as well as alternate MM-121 infusion schedules. Tumor response was assessed every 8 weeks. Dose levels were determined by safety and pharmacokinetic (PK) data, and immunogenicity, efficacy endpoints and exploratory biomarker evaluations were performed. Results: From February 2010 – July 2011 32pts entered the study (median age 63y; 45% male; 18% ECOG 0, 82% ECOG 1. 56% had adenocarcinoma and 30% pts received 3 or more lines of prior therapies (range 0-7) with 91% having had prior platinum. 65% had wild-type EGFR status and were never treated or never responded to EGFR-TKIs (EGFRwt) and 28% had acquired resistance to erlotinib treatment (EGFRresist). The most common toxicities (any grade) observed were diarrhea (82%), rash (64%), and fatigue (64%). DLTs observed in different cohorts were diarrhea, mucositis, rash and failure to thrive. Clinical activity was observed including 1 PR (an EGFR TKI naïve EGFR mutant) and 14 SD. Average duration of disease stabilization was 21.6 wks (range 7.1 -89.3 wks). Median PFS is 8.1 weeks and the 16 week PFS rate was 41% in the overall population. For EGFRwt and EGFRresist pts the median PFS were 7.7 weeks and 15.1 weeks, and the 16 week PFS rates were 32% and 44%, respectively. 7/20 EGFRwt pts and 5/9 EGFRresist pts achieved SD. Show less

Background: Neratinib (HKI-272) is an irreversible pan-ErbB receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has shown antitumor activity in patients with ErbB2+ breast cancer. Capecitabine has demonstrated efficacy and tolerability in combination with lapatinib, a reversible dual ErbB1/ErbB2 kinase inhibitor, in patients with ErbB2+ advanced breast cancer. The current study evaluated the safety and clinical activity of neratinib in combination with capecitabine.Results: In part 1 (n = 33), the MTD was… Show more

Background: Neratinib (HKI-272) is an irreversible pan-ErbB receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has shown antitumor activity in patients with ErbB2+ breast cancer. Capecitabine has demonstrated efficacy and tolerability in combination with lapatinib, a reversible dual ErbB1/ErbB2 kinase inhibitor, in patients with ErbB2+ advanced breast cancer. The current study evaluated the safety and clinical activity of neratinib in combination with capecitabine.Results: In part 1 (n = 33), the MTD was determined to be neratinib 240 mg/day plus capecitabine 750 mg/m2 twice daily on Days 1 to 14 of each 21-day cycle. In part 2, as of April 2011, 72 female patients (median age of 52 years [range, 33-79 years]) with ErbB2+ breast cancer were enrolled and treated at the MTD; 7 patients had prior lapatinib exposure and all had prior trastuzumab and taxane exposure. As of the snapshot date, 56% of patients at the MTD were still participating in the study. The most common drug-related adverse events (AEs) in part 2 were diarrhea (89%), palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (57%), nausea (33%), vomiting (26%), and decreased appetite (22%). Grade 3/4 drug-related AEs in ≥5% of patients were diarrhea (25%) and palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (13%). Eight patients withdrew from part 2 due to AEs, including 4 who withdrew due to diarrhea. Dose interruptions of neratinib and capecitabine, respectively, due to AEs were required by 19 and 29 patients; dose reductions due to AEs were required by 8 and 22 patients. As of June 2010 (interim analysis), 22 patients were evaluable for efficacy in part 2 of the study. Of these 22 patients, 11 achieved a partial response for an ORR of 50%. An additional 2 patients maintained stable disease for ≥24 weeks, resulting in a clinical benefit rate of 59%, and 8 patients had stable disease for <24 weeks. One patient had progressive disease without achieving a response or stable disease. Updated efficacy data will be presented.
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Background: OSI-906 is an oral inhibitor of IGF-1R and IR. Increased IGF-1R and IR activity is observed in human cancers and implicated in resistance to chemotherapy. In preclinical studies, OSI-906 blocked IGF-1R/IR-AKT pathway activity evoked by PAC treatment. This is the first study that combines OSI-906 with a cytotoxic agent. Methods: Patients (pts) with advanced solid tumors received weekly (qw) IV PAC (80 mg/m2) with intermittent OSI-906 (Arm A, d1-3q7d) or continuous OSI-906 (Arm B, BID… Show more

Background: OSI-906 is an oral inhibitor of IGF-1R and IR. Increased IGF-1R and IR activity is observed in human cancers and implicated in resistance to chemotherapy. In preclinical studies, OSI-906 blocked IGF-1R/IR-AKT pathway activity evoked by PAC treatment. This is the first study that combines OSI-906 with a cytotoxic agent. Methods: Patients (pts) with advanced solid tumors received weekly (qw) IV PAC (80 mg/m2) with intermittent OSI-906 (Arm A, d1-3q7d) or continuous OSI-906 (Arm B, BID d1-21). The primary objective was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of OSI-906 + PAC using a standard 3x3 phase I design. Results: 55 pts were treated (46F:9M, median age 57 yrs). OSI-906 doses of 300 mg to 600 mg QD d1-3q7d in Arm A and 75mg to 150 mg BID in Arm B were explored. Dose-limiting toxicities in Arm A (450mg QD, n=9) were grade G3 neutropenia, G2 neuropathy and G3 deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and in Arm B (150mg BID, n=11) were G3 hyperglycemia, G3 fatigue and G4 pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT and PE were reported as unrelated to OSI-906. Complete adverse event data are available on 46 pts. Most common drug-related toxicities were (any grade; grade 3): fatigue (54%; 15%), nausea (48%; 0%), alopecia (41%; 0%), diarrhea (35%; 7%), rash (30%; 2%), neuropathy (26%; 2%) and dysgeusia (24%; 0%). Median treatment duration was 11 weeks (range 1-68 wks); 11 pts (21%) were on study for ≥24 wks, and 11 pts are ongoing. In pts with ovarian cancer (n=29), 5 had partial response and 11 had stable disease. Preliminary PK results suggest no relevant PK interaction when OSI-906 administered 2 hours prior to PAC. Conclusions: OSI-906 + PAC was well tolerated at doses up to the single agent MTDs. A phase II study of OSI-906 + PAC in pts with ovarian cancer is planned. Show less

Background: Although EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are very effective at treating EGFR-addicted cancers, resistance almost invariably occurs. It has been suggested that tumor cells may become resistant to EGFR TKIs by upregulating survival signaling via ErbB3 dependent activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. In NSCLC tumors that harbor wildtype EGFR, simultaneous inhibition of EGFR and ErbB3 produces an additive effect on tumor growth inhibition preclinically. MM-121 is a monoclonal… Show more

Background: Although EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are very effective at treating EGFR-addicted cancers, resistance almost invariably occurs. It has been suggested that tumor cells may become resistant to EGFR TKIs by upregulating survival signaling via ErbB3 dependent activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. In NSCLC tumors that harbor wildtype EGFR, simultaneous inhibition of EGFR and ErbB3 produces an additive effect on tumor growth inhibition preclinically. MM-121 is a monoclonal antibody (MAb) to ErbB3 that has pre-clinical activity in NSCLC, particularly in cancers with ligand-dependent activation of ErbB3. The current study will evaluate three distinct groups of NSCLC pts when treated with MM-121 and erlotinib. Methods: The following 3 pt groups will be studied:(Group A) EGFR wild type, EGFR-TKI naïve pts, who have received at least 1 line of prior chemotherapy to assess whether MM-121 enhances intrinsic sensitivity of tumors to erlotinib; (Group B) EGFR mutated and EGFR TKI naïve to assess whether MM-121 delays or prevents acquired resistance or enhances intrinsic sensitivity to erlotinib; (Group C) EGFR mutated pts previously responding to single agent EGFR TKI but subsequently developing acquired resistance, to assess whether MM-121 can reverse acquired resistance. This is a phase I/II study, in which the phase I portion is evaluating safety at escalating doses of the combination, as well as varying dosing schedules of the combination. The primary endpoint in phase II is PFS in each group. Secondary endpoints include overall survival and objective response rates of the MM-121 + erlotinib combination. In addition, adverse event, pharmacokinetic and immunogenicity and biomarker profiles will be evaluated in all pts. The phase I portion is ongoing.
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Background: Preclinically, mTOR and EGFR inhibitors are synergistic. We hypothesize that the mTOR inhibitor RAD001 would enhance clinical efficacy when added to C. The main purpose of this study was to determine the safety, and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of daily RAD001 combined with Iri and C in mCRC. Methods: Pts were treated with Iri 125 mg/m2 weekly (qw) x 2 every 3 wks, C 400 mg/m2 loading, then 250 mg/m2 qw, and escalating doses of RAD001 orally: 5 mg qod, 5 mg qd and 10 mg qd during… Show more

Background: Preclinically, mTOR and EGFR inhibitors are synergistic. We hypothesize that the mTOR inhibitor RAD001 would enhance clinical efficacy when added to C. The main purpose of this study was to determine the safety, and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of daily RAD001 combined with Iri and C in mCRC. Methods: Pts were treated with Iri 125 mg/m2 weekly (qw) x 2 every 3 wks, C 400 mg/m2 loading, then 250 mg/m2 qw, and escalating doses of RAD001 orally: 5 mg qod, 5 mg qd and 10 mg qd during 21-day cycles, with a “3+3” design. Eligibility allowed KRAS mutated (MUT) mCRC. The study was amended after the first 9 pts*, to include stopping rules for excessive toxicity beyond expected rates for diarrhea, nausea/vomiting and febrile neutropenia due to Iri, and skin rash due to C. PK (Cmin) for RAD001 was done on C2D1, and archival tumors were analyzed for pharmacodynamic (PD) markers of EGFR and mTOR pathway activation. Results: 30 pts were enrolled (KRAS WT 12; MUT 15; unknown 3), median age 60.5 y (25-77), 16 male, ECOG PS 0/1 (20/10). Reasons for treatment discontinuation were: PD (13), adverse events (AEs) (8), pt withdrawal (2), symptomatic deterioration and non-compliance (1 each). Prior to study’s amendment*, 3 pts were not evaluable for DLT due to: gr 3 Iri and C infusion reactions with 1st infusion (1 each), non-compliance (1). DLTs and number of cycles are listed in Table. The most common gr 3/4 AEs were diarrhea (9), rash (6), mucositis, ANC, fatigue (4 each), nausea (3), vomiting, anorexia, febrile neutropenia (2 each). RAD001 mean Cmin at MTD was 8.5 ng/mL, similar to that seen with RAD001 alone. Among pts evaluable for response (n=24), there were 1 CR, 4 PR (21%, including 1PR in KRAS MUT pt for 26 mos), 9 SD (37%). Median PFS and OS were 6 and 28 mos for KRAS WT, and 3.3 and 12 mos for KRAS MUT pts, respectively. PD markers will be presented. Conclusions: The MTD of RAD001 of 5 mg QD with Iri/C qw is safe and clinically active. A phase II study is ongoing. Show less

Background: EC145, a folic acid/desacetylvinblastine hydrazide conjugate binds with high affinity to the folate receptor (FR), expressed on the majority of epithelial ovarian cancers. This abstract reports final data on an international, randomized, open-label phase II study of EC145 + PLD compared with PLD alone, in women with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, along with data on the use of EC20, a folate receptor targeted imaging agent. Methods: Women ≥ 18 with ECOG PS of 0-2 and exposure to… Show more

Background: EC145, a folic acid/desacetylvinblastine hydrazide conjugate binds with high affinity to the folate receptor (FR), expressed on the majority of epithelial ovarian cancers. This abstract reports final data on an international, randomized, open-label phase II study of EC145 + PLD compared with PLD alone, in women with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, along with data on the use of EC20, a folate receptor targeted imaging agent. Methods: Women ≥ 18 with ECOG PS of 0-2 and exposure to < 2 prior systemic cytotoxic regimens were randomized 2:1 to receive EC145 (2.5 mg IV t.i.w. weeks 1 and 3) + PLD (50 mg/m2 IBW IV q 28 days) or PLD (50 mg/m2 IBW IV q 28 days). Prior to randomization, patients were scanned with technetium labeled EC20 to determine FR status. The primary endpoint of the study was progression free survival (PFS) in the ITT population of patients with measurable disease. Results: The pre-specified final analysis occurred after 95 events. Demographic characteristics at screening such as tumor volume, CA-125 levels, performance status, etc. were relatively balanced between arms. There was no statistical difference between study arms with regard to drug-related serious adverse events or the number of subjects reporting at least one treatment-emergent drug-related serious adverse event resulting in discontinuation. Eighty percent of patients scanned with EC20 were folate receptor positive. The table displays the results of the final analysis of PFS. Conclusions: EC145 + PLD is the first combination to show a statistically significant delay in PFS over standard therapy in women with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. Data also indicate that EC20 may have utility for selecting patients most likely to benefit from therapy with EC145. Show less

Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
: Bevacizumab is approved in combination with chemotherapy as first-line treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Preclinical data suggest that enzastaurin and bevacizumab may have complementary effects in inhibiting angiogenesis.
METHODS:
: Eligibility criteria: ≥18 years of age, chemonaïve, stage IIIB/IV nonsquamous NSCLC, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 to 1. Patients were randomized to placebo or enzastaurin 500 mg… Show more

Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
: Bevacizumab is approved in combination with chemotherapy as first-line treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Preclinical data suggest that enzastaurin and bevacizumab may have complementary effects in inhibiting angiogenesis.
METHODS:
: Eligibility criteria: ≥18 years of age, chemonaïve, stage IIIB/IV nonsquamous NSCLC, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0 to 1. Patients were randomized to placebo or enzastaurin 500 mg orally daily (after a loading dose), plus pemetrexed 500 mg/m, carboplatin area under the curve 6, and bevacizumab 15 mg/kg, intravenously, every 21 days for four cycles. Patients without progression received maintenance therapy with bevacizumab and placebo or enzastaurin. The primary objective was progression-free survival (PFS). Planned sample size was 90 patients, one-sided alpha of 0.20, with two interim analyses: one for safety and the second for futility, with a PFS hazard ratio of 0.8857.
RESULTS:
: Forty patients were randomized. No unique safety concerns were noted at the first interim analysis. The early stopping rule for futility was met at the second interim analysis. Median PFS was 3.5 months and 4.3 months (hazard ratio: 1.04, 95% confidence interval: 0.49-2.21), and response rates were 20% and 30% (p = 0.462) for enzastaurin and placebo, respectively. Grade 3 or 4 toxicity was similar between the two arms. Two patients died on study because of respiratory arrest and pulmonary embolism. An additional patient died of sepsis secondary to a gastrointestinal perforation >30 days after study treatment discontinuation.
CONCLUSIONS:
: Enzastaurin does not improve efficacy when combined with pemetrexed, carboplatin, and bevacizumab. This combination does not warrant further study in NSCLC. Show less

Background: The folate receptor (FR) is expressed on many human tumors (e.g., ovarian, NSCLC, etc.) where it functions as a high-affinity receptor for folic acid. The FR is minimally expressed in normal tissue, making it a logical target for anti-cancer therapy. Indeed, the relevance of FR as a molecular target for anti-tumor agents was discussed in detail at the 2008 ASCO Annual Meeting. Folic acid can be used as a carrier molecule to deliver covalently-linked therapeutic and diagnostic… Show more

Background: The folate receptor (FR) is expressed on many human tumors (e.g., ovarian, NSCLC, etc.) where it functions as a high-affinity receptor for folic acid. The FR is minimally expressed in normal tissue, making it a logical target for anti-cancer therapy. Indeed, the relevance of FR as a molecular target for anti-tumor agents was discussed in detail at the 2008 ASCO Annual Meeting. Folic acid can be used as a carrier molecule to deliver covalently-linked therapeutic and diagnostic moieties to the FR. EC0489, a conjugate of folic acid and desacetyl vinblastine hydrazide (DAVLBH), is a high-affinity ligand for the FR. This phase I study assessed the safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) of escalating intravenous bolus doses of EC0489. Methods: Eligible patients with adequate performance status and organ function that had previously failed standard therapy were treated with EC0489 on days 1, 3, 5 and 15, 17, 19 of a 28-day cycle. Endpoints included determination of a safe and tolerable EC0489 dose and the development of a PK model. Results: As of DEC 2009, 14 patients had received EC0489 at 1, 2.5 or 5 mg/m2; (n=3, 10 and 1, respectively). EC0489 was well tolerated at dose levels ≤ 2.5 mg/m2 with reversible CTCAE Grade 2 peripheral sensory neuropathy occurring during the second cycle of therapy, after exposure to approximately 27-30 mg/month of EC0489. A single patient in cohort 3 (5.0 mg/m2) manifested 3 (reversible) DLTs: grade 3 fatigue, muscle pain and constipation following week 1 of cycle 1, defining the MTD for this schedule at 2.5 mg/m2. Preliminary PK analysis shows a biphasic elimination of EC0489 from circulation with t1/2 of ≈21 minutes. The Cmax and AUC increased linearly with dose. Conclusions: EC0489 may be administered safely as a 2.5 mg/m2 intravenous bolus dose on days 1, 3, 5 and 15, 17, 19 of a 28-day schedule. We are currently exploring the feasibility of a single weekly dose of EC0489 administered on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 of a 4-week cycle.
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Background: Poor performance status is a negative prognostic variable for survival and a risk for increased toxicities with standard chemotherapy. A phase 2 study combining erlotinib (E) and bevacizumab (B) demonstrated encouraging efficacy in the treatment of recurrent NSCLC with acceptable toxicity. We, therefore, tested this regimen in untreated PS 2 patients with advanced NSCLC. Methods: Single-arm phase 2 trial in treatment-naïve patients with advanced non-squamous NSCLC and either a PS of… Show more

Background: Poor performance status is a negative prognostic variable for survival and a risk for increased toxicities with standard chemotherapy. A phase 2 study combining erlotinib (E) and bevacizumab (B) demonstrated encouraging efficacy in the treatment of recurrent NSCLC with acceptable toxicity. We, therefore, tested this regimen in untreated PS 2 patients with advanced NSCLC. Methods: Single-arm phase 2 trial in treatment-naïve patients with advanced non-squamous NSCLC and either a PS of 2 or age >75. Only patients eligible for bevacizumab per label were allowed onto study. Patients received E 150 mg orally daily and B 15 mg/kg IV on day 1 every 21 days for up to 6 cycles. The primary end-point was the rate of non progressive disease at 4 months (alternative hypothesis P>60%). Other end-points included overall survival, progression free survival (PFS), toxicity evaluations and patient-reported PS (PRPS) measures. Results: 25 patients were enrolled. Patient characteristics: 56% female, median age 77 years (range: 52-90); 88% stage IV; 92% were PS 2; 20% were never or remote smokers (> 30 years) The PRPS was 1, 2, 3 in 32%, 52%, 8% respectively with data on 2 patients missing. The rate of non-progression at 4 months was 40%; overall best response: 5% PR, 40% SD, 50% PD and 5% unevaluable; median PFS 2.6 months, 95% CI (1.3-5.1); MST 5.8 months, 95% CI (3.8- 8.7). 2 patients had G3 rash. G3 diarrhea, G3 hemorrhage, G3 proteinuria, G3 duodenal ulcer and G3 pneumonitis each developed in one patient. Conclusions: E + B is an active regimen with an acceptable toxicity profile; however, this study did not meet its' primary endpoint. Further study of this combination will not be pursued in the Hoosier Oncology Group for this patient population. Show less

Background: Pre-clinical data suggests that ENZ and BEV may have complementary effects in inhibiting angiogenesis. This study compared ENZ vs PBO in combination with PEM+CARBO+ BEV. Methods: Pts ≥18 years of age, non-squamous NSCLC, no prior systemic therapy, disease measurable by RECIST, and ECOG PS 0-1 were randomized. Pts received either PBO or 500 mg ENZ daily after loading dose of 375 mg orally, TID, on day 1, cycle 1. Starting on day 8, cycle 1, patients received PEM 500mg/m2, CARBO AUC 6… Show more

Background: Pre-clinical data suggests that ENZ and BEV may have complementary effects in inhibiting angiogenesis. This study compared ENZ vs PBO in combination with PEM+CARBO+ BEV. Methods: Pts ≥18 years of age, non-squamous NSCLC, no prior systemic therapy, disease measurable by RECIST, and ECOG PS 0-1 were randomized. Pts received either PBO or 500 mg ENZ daily after loading dose of 375 mg orally, TID, on day 1, cycle 1. Starting on day 8, cycle 1, patients received PEM 500mg/m2, CARBO AUC 6 and BEV 15mg/kg, intravenously, every 21 days. After 4 cycles, pts continued on BEV+ENZ or BEV+PBO. Pts were stratified by ECOG status, disease stage and site with a planned sample size of 90 pts. Primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary end points included objective response rate (ORR) and toxicity. Results: Study was terminated after a planned interim analysis for safety and efficacy. From October 2007 to July 2008, 40 pts were enrolled: 20 in each arm. Median age was 60.5 years (range: 44 to 78); M 52.5%, F 47.5%; ECOG PS 0/1 52.5% and 47.5%; stage IIIB/IV 15% and 85%. Baseline characteristics were well matched. The PEM+CARBO+BEV+ENZ arm received a median of 3 cycles of therapy and the PEM+CARBO+ BEV+PBO arm 4 cycles. Median PFS was 4.3 mo and 4.2 mo for ENZ and PBO, respectively (unadjusted HR: 0.94, 95% CI [0.39, 2.33]). ORR for ENZ and PBO was 20% and 25%, respectively. Overall, grade 3/4 toxicities were similar in both arms. One patient in ENZ arm experienced a grade 3/4 hemorrhage (vs. none in the PBO arm). Two patients experienced a GI perforation (1 on each arm): 1 resulted in death on the PBO arm. Both patients had a history of diverticulosis. Conclusions: Based upon the results of this interim efficacy analysis, addition of ENZ to PEM+CARBO+BEV will not significantly prolong PFS in patients with stage IIIB/IV NSCLC. This combination does not warrant further study in NSCLC. Show less

Abstract
A novel radiation targeted therapy is investigated for HER-2 positive breast cancers. The proposed concept combines two known approaches, but never used together for the treatment of advanced, relapsed or metastasized HER-2 positive breast cancers. The proposed radiation binary targeted concept is based on the anti HER-2 monoclonal antibodies (MABs) that would be used as vehicles to transport the nontoxic agent to cancer cells. The anti HER-2 MABs have been successful in targeting… Show more

Abstract
A novel radiation targeted therapy is investigated for HER-2 positive breast cancers. The proposed concept combines two known approaches, but never used together for the treatment of advanced, relapsed or metastasized HER-2 positive breast cancers. The proposed radiation binary targeted concept is based on the anti HER-2 monoclonal antibodies (MABs) that would be used as vehicles to transport the nontoxic agent to cancer cells. The anti HER-2 MABs have been successful in targeting HER-2 positive breast cancers with high affinity. The proposed concept would utilize a neutral nontoxic boron-10 predicting that anti HER-2 MABs would assure its selective delivery to cancer cells. MABs against HER-2 have been a widely researched strategy in the clinical setting. The most promising antibody is Trastuzumab (Herceptin). Targeting HER-2 with the MAB Trastuzumab has been proven to be a successful strategy in inducing tumour regression and improving patient survival. Unfortunately, these tumours become resistant and afflicted women succumb to breast cancer. In the proposed concept, when the tumour region is loaded with boron-10 it is irradiated with neutrons (treatment used for head and neck cancers, melanoma and glioblastoma for over 40 years in Japan and Europe). The irradiation process takes less than an hour producing minimal side effects. This paper summarizes our recent theoretical assessments of radiation binary targeted therapy for HER-2 positive breast cancers on: the effective drug delivery mechanism, the numerical model to evaluate the targeted radiation delivery and the survey study to find the neutron facility in the world that might be capable of producing the radiation effect as needed. A novel method of drug delivery utilizing Trastuzumab is described, followed by the description of a computational Monte Carlo based breast model used to determine radiation dose distributions. Show less

Abstract
The progressive deterioration in nutrition status frequently seen in cancer patients is often referred to as cancer cachexia. Unlike starvation, in which fat stores from adipose are depleted and protein is spared from skeletal muscle, neither fat nor protein is spared in cachexia. Cachexia affects nearly half of cancer patients, causing the clinical manifestations of anorexia, muscle wasting, weight loss, early satiety, fatigue, and impaired immune response. Cachexia does not only… Show more

Abstract
The progressive deterioration in nutrition status frequently seen in cancer patients is often referred to as cancer cachexia. Unlike starvation, in which fat stores from adipose are depleted and protein is spared from skeletal muscle, neither fat nor protein is spared in cachexia. Cachexia affects nearly half of cancer patients, causing the clinical manifestations of anorexia, muscle wasting, weight loss, early satiety, fatigue, and impaired immune response. Cachexia does not only impede the response to chemotherapy but also is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. According to clinical studies, increasing caloric intake does not necessarily reverse cachexia. The pathophysiology of cachexia involves more complex mechanisms than simply caloric deficiency. The process appears to be mediated by circulating catabolic factors, either secreted by the tumor alone or in concert with host-derived factors, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukins (IL-1 and IL-6), interferon (IFN-y), and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). The successful reversal of this process will require in-depth knowledge of the mechanisms involved, which will then enable the development of effective pharmacologic interventions that may not only improve quality of life, but more importantly, improve survival among cancer patients.
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