ATARA BIOTHERAPEUTICS AND MOFFITT CANCER CENTER ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC COLLABORATION TO DEVELOP NEXT-GENERATION CAR T IMMUNOTHERAPIES

On September 6, 2018 Atara Biotherapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATRA), a leading off-the-shelf, allogeneic T-cell immunotherapy company developing novel treatments for patients with cancer, autoimmune and viral diseases, reported that it has entered into a strategic collaboration with Moffitt Cancer Center to develop multi‑targeted chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR T) immunotherapies for patients with AML and B‑cell malignancies (Press release, Atara Biotherapeutics, SEPT 6, 2018, View Source [SID1234529322]). As part of the collaboration, Atara will gain access to novel CAR T targeting and co‑stimulation domains designed to improve T cell proliferation and enhance persistence. This agreement, along with Atara’s prior CAR T collaboration with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK), furthers the Company’s strategy to develop next generation engineered CAR T immunotherapies across multiple therapeutic areas and leverage the Company’s off-the-shelf, allogeneic T-cell immunotherapy platform.

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"Atara is a leader in the development of off-the-shelf, allogeneic T-cell immunotherapies based on their novel EBV-specific T-cell technology platform," said Marco Davila, M.D., Ph.D., medical oncologist in the Department of Blood and Marrow Transplantation and Medical Director of the GMP Cell Production Facility, Moffitt Cancer Center. "I look forward to rapidly advancing our CAR T engineering and multi-antigen targeting technologies with Atara to address the high unmet need in patients with advanced AML and B-cell malignancies."

Under the agreement, Atara will collaborate with Dr. Davila to develop multi-targeted CAR T immunotherapies designed to address cancers with diverse cell types that often become resistant to treatment such as AML and B-cell malignancies. In addition, the collaboration includes the use of novel CAR T intracellular co-stimulatory domains based on CD28 and 4-1BB that may improve CAR T proliferation when responding to an appropriate antigen and enhance CAR T persistence by reducing T cell exhaustion.

Dietmar Berger, M.D., Ph.D., Global Head of Research and Development of Atara Biotherapeutics said, "Our focus is to rapidly advance development of next generation off-the-shelf, allogeneic CAR T immunotherapies across multiple therapeutic areas by combining our EBV-specific T-cell platform, development, manufacturing and regulatory expertise with cutting edge T-cell engineering discoveries by our external collaborators. Our new strategic collaboration with Moffitt Cancer Center builds our novel CAR T preclinical pipeline and has the potential to benefit patients with myeloid and B cell malignancies."

James J. Mulé, Ph.D., Associate Center Director, Translational Research, and Director of Cell-Based Immunotherapies, Moffitt Cancer Center added, "Atara is a strong technology and development partner. The Company’s clinically advanced EBV-specific T-cell technology platform is complementary to Moffitt’s CAR T engineering and multi-antigen targeting technologies. I look forward to following the progress of Dr. Davila and Atara to develop the next generation of CAR T immunotherapies."

Under the terms of the agreement, Atara will contribute resources and relevant experience to the research activities at Moffitt. Further terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Data from Merck’s Leading Lung Cancer Research Program with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) to be Presented at IASLC 19th World Conference on Lung Cancer

On September 6, 2018 Merck (NYSE:MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, reported that investigational data from the company’s leading lung cancer research program with KEYTRUDA, Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, will be presented at the IASLC 19th World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC) hosted by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer in Toronto from Sept. 23-26 (Press release, Merck & Co, SEPT 6, 2018, View Source [SID1234529321]). More than 20 abstracts with KEYTRUDA in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and mesothelioma have been accepted for presentation.

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"Lung cancer is a top priority within Merck’s broad immuno-oncology development program with KEYTRUDA," said Dr. Roy Baynes, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Clinical Development, Chief Medical Officer, Merck Research Laboratories. "At the World Conference on Lung Cancer, we look forward to the presentation of KEYTRUDA data including findings across histologies, in combination with other cancer therapies, and in earlier stages of disease."

Select Oral Presentations with KEYTRUDA:

Abstract #MA10.08 Mini-Oral: Choice of Taxane and Outcomes in the KEYNOTE-407 Study of Pembrolizumab Plus Chemotherapy for Metastatic Squamous NSCLC. B. Halmos. Tuesday, Sept. 25, 11:25-11:30 a.m. ET.
Abstract #OA01.07 Oral Presentation: Updated Results of a Phase II Trial of Concurrent Chemoradiation with Consolidation Pembrolizumab in Patients with Unresectable Stage III NSCLC. G. Durm. Monday, Sept. 24, 11:35-11:45 a.m. ET.
Abstract #OA07.01 Oral Presentation: Phase II Study of Pembrolizumab for Oligometastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Following Completion of Locally Ablative Therapy (LAT). J. Bauml. Monday, Sept. 24, 3:15-3:25 p.m. ET.
Abstract #OA08.03 Oral Presentation: Phase II Trial of Pembrolizumab (NCT02399371) In Previously-Treated Malignant Mesothelioma (MM): Final Analysis. A. Desai. Monday, Sept. 24, 3:35-3:45 p.m. ET.
Select Poster Presentations with KEYTRUDA:

Abstract #P1.01-106 Poster Session: Pembrolizumab Randomized, Phase 1 Study in Chinese Patients with Advanced NSCLC: KEYNOTE-032. L. Zhang. Monday, Sept. 24, 4:45-6:00 p.m. ET.
Abstract #P1.01-81 Poster Session (Trial in Progress): Phase 3 Study of Pemetrexed-Platinum with or without Pembrolizumab for TKI-Resistant/EGFR-Mutated Advanced NSCLC: KEYNOTE-789. G. Riely. Monday, Sept. 24, 4:45-6:00 p.m. ET.
Abstract #P1.01-09 Poster Session (Trial in Progress): Pembrolizumab Plus Ipilimumab or Placebo in 1L Metastatic NSCLC with PD-L1 Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) ≥50%: KEYNOTE-598. M. Boyer. Monday, Sept. 24, 4:45-6:00 p.m. ET.
Additional meeting information and full abstracts are available on the WCLC meeting website.

About KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) Injection, 100mg

KEYTRUDA is an anti-PD-1 therapy that works by increasing the ability of the body’s immune system to help detect and fight tumor cells. KEYTRUDA is a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction between PD-1 and its ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2, thereby activating T lymphocytes which may affect both tumor cells and healthy cells.

Merck has the industry’s largest immuno-oncology clinical research program. There are currently more than 800 trials studying KEYTRUDA across a wide variety of cancers and treatment settings. The KEYTRUDA clinical program seeks to understand the role of KEYTRUDA across cancers and the factors that may predict a patient’s likelihood of benefitting from treatment with KEYTRUDA, including exploring several different biomarkers.

KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) Indications and Dosing

Melanoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Lung Cancer

KEYTRUDA, in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC, with no EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations.

KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors have high PD-L1 expression [Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) ≥50%] as determined by an FDA-approved test, with no EGFR or ALKgenomic tumor aberrations.

KEYTRUDA, as a single agent, is also indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors express PD-L1 (TPS ≥1%) as determined by an FDA-approved test, with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving KEYTRUDA.

In metastatic NSCLC, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

When administering KEYTRUDA in combination with chemotherapy, KEYTRUDA should be administered prior to chemotherapy when given on the same day. See also the Prescribing Information for pemetrexed and carboplatin or cisplatin, as appropriate.

Head and Neck Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with disease progression on or after platinum-containing chemotherapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. In HNSCC, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), or who have relapsed after three or more prior lines of therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. In adults with cHL, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression. In pediatric patients with cHL, KEYTRUDA is administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 200 mg) every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Primary Mediastinal Large B-Cell Lymphoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with refractory primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL), or who have relapsed after 2 or more prior lines of therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials. KEYTRUDA is not recommended for the treatment of patients with PMBCL who require urgent cytoreductive therapy.

In adults with PMBCL, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression. In pediatric patients with PMBCL, KEYTRUDA is administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 200 mg) every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Urothelial Carcinoma

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) who are not eligible for cisplatin-containing chemotherapy and whose tumors express PD-L1 [Combined Positive Score (CPS) ≥10] as determined by an FDA-approved test, or in patients who are not eligible for any platinum-containing chemotherapy regardless of PD-L1 status. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

KEYTRUDA is also indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (mUC) who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy or within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy.

In locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Microsatellite Instability-High (MSI-H) Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with unresectable or metastatic microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR)

solid tumors that have progressed following prior treatment and who have no satisfactory alternative treatment options, or
colorectal cancer that has progressed following treatment with fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan.
This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. The safety and effectiveness of KEYTRUDA in pediatric patients with MSI-H central nervous system cancers have not been established.

In adult patients with MSI-H cancer, KEYTRUDA is administered at a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression. In children with MSI-H cancer, KEYTRUDA is administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg (up to a maximum of 200 mg) every three weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Gastric Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent locally advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma whose tumors express PD-L1 [Combined Positive Score (CPS) ≥1] as determined by an FDA-approved test, with disease progression on or after two or more prior lines of therapy including fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy and if appropriate, HER2/neu-targeted therapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. The recommended dose of KEYTRUDA is a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Cervical Cancer

KEYTRUDA is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer with disease progression on or after chemotherapy whose tumors express PD-L1 (CPS ≥1) as determined by an FDA-approved test. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. The recommended dose of KEYTRUDA is a fixed dose of 200 mg every three weeks until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity or up to 24 months in patients without disease progression.

Selected Important Safety Information for KEYTRUDA

Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis

KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis, including fatal cases. Pneumonitis occurred in 3.4% (94/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 1 (0.8%), 2 (1.3%), 3 (0.9%), 4 (0.3%), and 5 (0.1%), and occurred more frequently in patients with a history of prior thoracic radiation (6.9%) compared to those without (2.9%). Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of pneumonitis. Evaluate suspected pneumonitis with radiographic imaging. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater pneumonitis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2; permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 or recurrent Grade 2 pneumonitis.

Immune-Mediated Colitis

KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated colitis. Colitis occurred in 1.7% (48/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.4%), 3 (1.1%), and 4 (<0.1%). Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of colitis. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater colitis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2 or 3; permanently discontinue for Grade 4 colitis.

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis

KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated hepatitis. Hepatitis occurred in 0.7% (19/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.1%), 3 (0.4%), and 4 (<0.1%). Monitor patients for changes in liver function. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater hepatitis and, based on severity of liver enzyme elevations, withhold or discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies

KEYTRUDA can cause hypophysitis, thyroid disorders, and type 1 diabetes mellitus. Hypophysitis occurred in 0.6% (17/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.2%), 3 (0.3%), and 4 (<0.1%). Hypothyroidism occurred in 8.5% (237/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (6.2%) and 3 (0.1%). The incidence of new or worsening hypothyroidism was higher in patients with HNSCC occurring in 15% (28/192) of patients. Hyperthyroidism occurred in 3.4% (96/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.8%) and 3 (0.1%), and thyroiditis occurred in 0.6% (16/2799) of patients, including Grade 2 (0.3%). Type 1 diabetes mellitus, including diabetic ketoacidosis, occurred in 0.2% (6/2799) of patients.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hypophysitis (including hypopituitarism and adrenal insufficiency), thyroid function (prior to and periodically during treatment), and hyperglycemia. For hypophysitis, administer corticosteroids and hormone replacement as clinically indicated. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2 and withhold or discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 hypophysitis. Administer hormone replacement for hypothyroidism and manage hyperthyroidism with thionamides and beta-blockers as appropriate. Withhold or discontinue KEYTRUDA for Grade 3 or 4 hyperthyroidism. Administer insulin for type 1 diabetes, and withhold KEYTRUDA and administer anti-hyperglycemics in patients with severe hyperglycemia.

Immune-Mediated Nephritis and Renal Dysfunction

KEYTRUDA can cause immune-mediated nephritis. Nephritis occurred in 0.3% (9/2799) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA, including Grade 2 (0.1%), 3 (0.1%), and 4 (<0.1%) nephritis. Nephritis occurred in 1.7% (7/405) of patients receiving KEYTRUDA in combination with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy. Monitor patients for changes in renal function. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater nephritis. Withhold KEYTRUDA for Grade 2; permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 nephritis.

Immune-Mediated Skin Reactions

Immune-mediated rashes, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) (some cases with fatal outcome), exfoliative dermatitis, and bullous pemphigoid, can occur. Monitor patients for suspected severe skin reactions and based on the severity of the adverse reaction, withhold or permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA and administer corticosteroids. For signs or symptoms of SJS or TEN, withhold KEYTRUDA and refer the patient for specialized care for assessment and treatment. If SJS or TEN is confirmed, permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions

Immune-mediated adverse reactions, which may be severe or fatal, can occur in any organ system or tissue in patients receiving KEYTRUDA and may also occur after discontinuation of treatment. For suspected immune-mediated adverse reactions, ensure adequate evaluation to confirm etiology or exclude other causes. Based on the severity of the adverse reaction, withhold KEYTRUDA and administer corticosteroids. Upon improvement to Grade 1 or less, initiate corticosteroid taper and continue to taper over at least 1 month. Based on limited data from clinical studies in patients whose immune-related adverse reactions could not be controlled with corticosteroid use, administration of other systemic immunosuppressants can be considered. Resume KEYTRUDA when the adverse reaction remains at Grade 1 or less following corticosteroid taper. Permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA for any Grade 3 immune-mediated adverse reaction that recurs and for any life-threatening immune-mediated adverse reaction.

The following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions occurred in less than 1% (unless otherwise indicated) of 2799 patients: arthritis (1.5%), uveitis, myositis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, myasthenia gravis, vasculitis, pancreatitis, hemolytic anemia, sarcoidosis, and encephalitis. In addition, myelitis and myocarditis were reported in other clinical trials and postmarketing use.

Treatment with KEYTRUDA may increase the risk of rejection in solid organ transplant recipients. Consider the benefit of treatment vs the risk of possible organ rejection in these patients.

Infusion-Related Reactions

KEYTRUDA can cause severe or life-threatening infusion-related reactions, including hypersensitivity and anaphylaxis, which have been reported in 0.2% (6/2799) of patients. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions. For Grade 3 or 4 reactions, stop infusion and permanently discontinue KEYTRUDA.

Complications of Allogenic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT)

Immune-mediated complications, including fatal events, occurred in patients who underwent allogeneic HSCT after treatment with KEYTRUDA. Of 23 patients with cHL who proceeded to allogeneic HSCT after KEYTRUDA, 6 developed graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) (one fatal case) and 2 developed severe hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) after reduced-intensity conditioning (one fatal case). Cases of fatal hyperacute GVHD after allogeneic HSCT have also been reported in patients with lymphoma who received a PD-1 receptor–blocking antibody before transplantation. Follow patients closely for early evidence of transplant-related complications such as hyperacute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), Grade 3 to 4 acute GVHD, steroid-requiring febrile syndrome, hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD), and other immune-mediated adverse reactions.

In patients with a history of allogeneic HSCT, acute GVHD (including fatal GVHD), has been reported after treatment with KEYTRUDA. Patients who experienced GVHD after their transplant procedure may be at increased risk for GVHD after KEYTRUDA. Consider the benefit of KEYTRUDA vs the risk of GVHD in these patients.

Increased Mortality in Patients with Multiple Myeloma

In clinical trials in patients with multiple myeloma, the addition of KEYTRUDA to a thalidomide analogue plus dexamethasone resulted in increased mortality. Treatment of these patients with a PD-1 or PD-L1 blocking antibody in this combination is not recommended outside of controlled clinical trials.

Embryofetal Toxicity

Based on its mechanism of action, KEYTRUDA can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. If used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant during treatment, apprise the patient of the potential hazard to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use highly effective contraception during treatment and for 4 months after the last dose of KEYTRUDA.

Adverse Reactions

In KEYNOTE-189, when KEYTRUDA was administered with pemetrexed and platinum chemotherapy in metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 20% of 405 patients. The most common adverse reactions resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA were pneumonitis (3%) and acute kidney injury (2%). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) with KEYTRUDA were nausea (56%), fatigue (56%), constipation (35%), diarrhea (31%), decreased appetite (28%), rash (25%), vomiting (24%), cough (21%), dyspnea (21%), and pyrexia (20%).

In KEYNOTE-010, KEYTRUDA monotherapy was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 682 patients with metastatic NSCLC. The most common adverse event resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA was pneumonitis (1.8%). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were decreased appetite (25%), fatigue (25%), dyspnea (23%), and nausea (20%).

In KEYNOTE-006, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 9% of 555 patients with advanced melanoma; adverse reactions leading to permanent discontinuation in more than one patient were colitis (1.4%), autoimmune hepatitis (0.7%), allergic reaction (0.4%), polyneuropathy (0.4%), and cardiac failure (0.4%). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) with KEYTRUDA were fatigue (28%), diarrhea (26%), rash (24%), and nausea (21%).

In KEYNOTE-012, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 17% of 192 patients with HNSCC. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 45% of patients. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients were pneumonia, dyspnea, confusional state, vomiting, pleural effusion, and respiratory failure. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue, decreased appetite, and dyspnea. Adverse reactions occurring in patients with HNSCC were generally similar to those occurring in patients with melanoma or NSCLC, with the exception of increased incidences of facial edema and new or worsening hypothyroidism.

In KEYNOTE-087, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 5% of 210 patients with cHL. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 16% of patients; those ≥1% included pneumonia, pneumonitis, pyrexia, dyspnea, GVHD, and herpes zoster. Two patients died from causes other than disease progression; one from GVHD after subsequent allogeneic HSCT and one from septic shock. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue (26%), pyrexia (24%), cough (24%), musculoskeletal pain (21%), diarrhea (20%), and rash (20%).

In KEYNOTE-170, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 53 patients with PMBCL. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 26% of patients and included arrhythmia (4%), cardiac tamponade (2%), myocardial infarction (2%), pericardial effusion (2%), and pericarditis (2%). Six (11%) patients died within 30 days of start of treatment. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were musculoskeletal pain (30%), upper respiratory tract infection and pyrexia (28% each), cough (26%), fatigue (23%), and dyspnea (21%).

In KEYNOTE-052, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 11% of 370 patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 42% of patients; those ≥2% were urinary tract infection, hematuria, acute kidney injury, pneumonia, and urosepsis. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue (38%), musculoskeletal pain (24%), decreased appetite (22%), constipation (21%), rash (21%), and diarrhea (20%).

In KEYNOTE-045, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 266 patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. The most common adverse reaction resulting in permanent discontinuation of KEYTRUDA was pneumonitis (1.9%). Serious adverse reactions occurred in 39% of KEYTRUDA-treated patients; those ≥2% were urinary tract infection, pneumonia, anemia, and pneumonitis. The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in patients who received KEYTRUDA were fatigue (38%), musculoskeletal pain (32%), pruritus (23%), decreased appetite (21%), nausea (21%), and rash (20%).

In KEYNOTE-158, KEYTRUDA was discontinued due to adverse reactions in 8% of 98 patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer. Serious adverse reactions occurred in 39% of patients receiving KEYTRUDA; the most frequent included anemia (7%), fistula, hemorrhage, and infections [except urinary tract infections] (4.1% each). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) were fatigue (43%), musculoskeletal pain (27%), diarrhea (23%), pain and abdominal pain (22% each), and decreased appetite (21%).

Lactation

It is not known whether KEYTRUDA is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, instruct women to discontinue nursing during treatment with KEYTRUDA and for 4 months after the final dose.

Pediatric Use

There is limited experience in pediatric patients. In a study in 40 pediatric patients with advanced melanoma, lymphoma, or PD-L1–positive advanced, relapsed, or refractory solid tumors, the safety profile was similar to that seen in adults treated with KEYTRUDA. Toxicities that occurred at a higher rate (≥15% difference) in these patients when compared to adults under 65 years of age were fatigue (45%), vomiting (38%), abdominal pain (28%), hypertransaminasemia (28%), and hyponatremia (18%).

PharmaMar Will Present the Results of the Phase I/II Study With Lurbinectedin in Combination With Doxorubicin in Relapsed Small-cell Lung Cancer During the IASLC World Conference

On September 6, 2018 PharmaMar (MCE: PHM) reported that the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) has released today the abstracts for presentation during the Conference that will take place from the 23rd to the 26th of September in Toronto (Canada) (Press release, PharmaMar, SEP 6, 2018, View Source [SID1234529320]). The abstract to be presented by PharmaMar shows Overall Survival (OS) data obtained from the Phase I/II Study of lurbinectedin in combination with doxorubicin for the treatment of relapsed small-cell lung cancer.

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In the study, PharmaMar observed Overall Survival (OS) of 10.2 months in patients treated with lurbinectedin in combination with doxorubicin, and OS of 11.5 months in platinum-sensitive patients (patients with a chemotherapy free interval (CTFI) of more than 90 days) in patients treated with lurbinectedin in combination with doxorubicin. We believe that the OS periods observed in this trial is are more favorable than those seen in historical trials of the primary treatments used for second line in small-cell lung cancer, as topotecan or the CAV combination (cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, vincristine).

This multicenter, Phase I/II Clinical Study enrolled patients with relapsed small-cell lung cancer (n=27) in cohort B, using the dose 2mg/m[2] of lurbinectedin + 40mg/m[2] of doxorubicin, the same dose that is being evaluated in the Phase III randomized ATLANTIS study in a similar population. In both cases the refractory patients are excluded, meaning those patients that have relapsed or have suffered a progression of the disease up to 30 days after first line treatment (CTFI <30 days).

Following the receipt of early data from this study in August 2016 PharmaMar initiated the pivotal Phase III ATLANTIS Study, that reached in July 2018 its recruitment objective of 600 patients. The trial recruited patients at 160 centers in 20 countries, and results are expected at the end of 2019.

The abstract with all this data is available on the Congress web page: View Source

Overall survival with lurbinectedin plus doxorubicin in relapsed SCLC. Results from an expansion cohort of a phase Ib trial.
Poster: P1.12-20. Monday, September 24th, 2018, from 16:45 to 18:00. Exhibit Hall.

Lead author: Martin Forster, MD. University College of London Hospital and UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK

About lurbinectedin

Lurbinectedin (PM1183) is a compound under clinical investigation. It is an inhibitor of RNA polymerase II. This enzyme is essential for the transcription process that is over-activated in tumors with transcription addiction.

RedHill Biopharma Announces Advancement to Second Stage of Phase IIa Study with YELIVA® for Cholangiocarcinoma

On September 6, 2018 RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (NASDAQ: RDHL) (Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange: RDHL) ("RedHill" or the "Company"), a specialty biopharmaceutical company primarily focused on proprietary drugs for gastrointestinal diseases, reported that the ongoing single-arm Phase IIa study with orally-administered YELIVA (opaganib, ABC294640)1 for the treatment of advanced cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) has achieved its pre-specified efficacy goal for the first stage of the two-stage study design, and as a result, the study will continue to its second stage, enrolling the full cohort of 39 evaluable patients (Press release, RedHill Biopharma, SEP 6, 2018, View Source;LNGID=1&TMID=178&FID=1384&PID=0&IID=9184 [SID1234529317])

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The primary efficacy endpoint of the study is defined as either partial or complete response, or stable disease at four months treatment with YELIVA. Enrollment of all subjects is expected to be completed by mid-2019.

The single-arm Phase IIa study is evaluating the activity of YELIVA as a single agent in patients suffering from advanced, unresectable intrahepatic, perihilar and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. All subjects enrolled in the study have received up to two lines of other systemic therapy for advanced disease. The study is being conducted at renowned clinical institutions in the U.S.

YELIVA was granted FDA Orphan Drug designation for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma, providing various development incentives to develop YELIVA for this indication and, if approved, a seven-year marketing exclusivity period for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma.

Complete Response Achieved in Patient treated under RedHill’s Expanded Access Program:
Additionally, a patient in the U.S. with advanced gallbladder carcinoma, a condition closely related to cholangiocarcinoma, who had progressed following standard-of-care chemotherapy, received treatment with YELIVA as part of RedHill’s Expanded Access Program, which allows compassionate use for eligible patients, and achieved a confirmed complete response, as measured by RECIST criteria (i.e. disappearance of all target lesions and all non-target lesions).

About cholangiocarcinoma:
Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) is a highly lethal malignancy for which there is an urgent need for more effective treatments. Approximately 8,000 people are diagnosed with intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile duct cancers annually in the U.S.2, with recent studies showing an increased incidence of cholangiocarcinoma, mainly attributed to recent advancements in the diagnosis of this disease3. Surgery with complete resection remains the only curative therapy for cholangiocarcinoma; however, only a minority of patients are classified as having a resectable tumor at the time of diagnosis4. Additional treatment options include radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Still, the efficacy of these treatments in cholangiocarcinoma patients is also limited and the prognosis for relapse patients who have failed initial chemotherapy is very poor with an overall median survival of approximately one year5. The 5-year relative survival rates of intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma patients range between 2% to 30%, depending on the tumor type and stage at diagnosis6.

About YELIVA (opaganib, ABC294640):
YELIVA (ABC294640), a new chemical entity, is a Phase II-stage, proprietary, first-in-class, orally-administered, sphingosine kinase-2 (SK2) selective inhibitor with anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities, targeting oncology, inflammatory and gastrointestinal indications. By inhibiting SK2, YELIVA blocks the synthesis of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a lipid-signaling molecule that promotes cancer growth and pathological inflammation. SK2 is an innovative molecular target for anticancer therapy because of its critical role in catalyzing the formation of S1P, which is known to regulate cell proliferation and activation of inflammatory pathways. YELIVA was originally developed by U.S.-based Apogee Biotechnology Corp. and completed multiple successful pre-clinical studies in oncology, inflammation, GI and radioprotection models, as well as the ABC-101 Phase I clinical study in cancer patients with advanced solid tumors. YELIVA received Orphan Drug designation from the U.S. FDA for the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma. The development of YELIVA was funded to date primarily by grants and contracts from U.S. federal and state government agencies awarded to Apogee Biotechnology Corp., including the U.S. National Cancer Institute.

The Phase IIa study in cholangiocarcinoma was initiated following an extensive pre-clinical program, and a Phase I clinical study with YELIVA in patients with advanced solid tumors which successfully met its primary and secondary endpoints, demonstrating that the drug is well tolerated and can be safely administered to cancer patients at doses that provide circulating drug levels that are predicted to have therapeutic activity. Of the three patients with cholangiocarcinoma treated in the Phase I study, all of whom had prior therapy, one subject achieved a sustained partial response (overall survival (OS) = 20.3 months) and the other two subjects had prolonged stable disease (OS = 17.6 and 16.3 months).

The ongoing studies with YELIVA (ABC294640) for cholangiocarcinoma, multiple myeloma and advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are registered on www.ClinicalTrials.gov, a web-based service by the U.S. National Institute of Health, which provides public access to information on publicly and privately supported clinical studies.

ERYTECH to Host Second Quarter 2018 Conference Call and Business Update

On September 6, 2018 ERYTECH Pharma (Euronext Paris: ERYP – Nasdaq: ERYP), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing innovative therapies by encapsulating therapeutic drug substances inside red blood cells, reported that it will host a second quarter 2018 conference call and webcast on Tuesday, September 11, 2018, at 2:30 PM CEST/8:30 AM EST to discuss operational highlights (Press release, ERYtech Pharma, SEP 6, 2018, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2366273 [SID1234529312]).

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The call is accessible via the below teleconferencing numbers, followed by the Conference ID#: 4983808#:

USA/Canada: +1 (833) 818-6807 France: +33 176748988
International Dial-In Number: +1 (409) 350-3501 United-Kingdom: +44 2031070289
The webcast can be followed live online via the link: View Source

An archived replay of the call will be available for 7 days by dialing + 1 800 585 8367, Conference ID: 4983808#. An archive of the webcast will be available on ERYTECH’s website, under the "Investors" section at View Source