Pfizer Declares Second-Quarter 2022 Dividend

On April 28, 2022 Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) reported that its board of directors declared a $0.40 second-quarter 2022 dividend on the company’s common stock, payable June 10, 2022, to holders of the Common Stock of record at the close of business on May 13, 2022 (Press release, Pfizer, APR 28, 2022, View Source [SID1234613113]). The second-quarter 2022 cash dividend will be the 334th consecutive quarterly dividend paid by Pfizer.

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

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

Clovis Oncology Highlights Rubraca® (Rucaparib) and FAP-2286 Data to be Presented at 2022 ASCO Annual Meeting

On April 28, 2022 Clovis Oncology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CLVS), reported that seven abstracts from the company’s pipeline, including late-breaking data from the ATHENA-MONO Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating Rubraca monotherapy versus placebo and imaging of solid tumors using FAP-2286, will be presented in oral and poster sessions during the 2022 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting held June 3-7, 2022, in Chicago (Press release, Clovis Oncology, APR 28, 2022, View Source [SID1234613112]). Three additional retrospective analyses evaluating Rubraca and PARP inhibitors will be published online during the meeting.

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

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

"The wealth of data being presented during ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper), including more detailed analyses of the positive results from the ATHENA-MONO study of Rubraca monotherapy versus placebo in first-line maintenance treatment for ovarian cancer, adds to the breadth of knowledge demonstrating that Rubraca is an important part of treatment for patients regardless of biomarker status," said Patrick J. Mahaffy, President and CEO of Clovis Oncology. "Additionally, we look forward to new imaging data of FAP-2286 in solid tumors, an important component in understanding the solid tumor types where FAP-2286 may offer clinical benefit for patients."

The following non late breaker Clovis-sponsored and Clovis-supported abstracts will be available as of May 26 at 5:00 pm EDT on ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper)’s Meeting Library. The Clovis-sponsored late breaker abstract will be available as of June 6 at 8:00 a.m. EDT, and the posters and supplemental materials for all abstracts will be available on the day and at the time of presentation in the ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Program. In addition, Clovis-sponsored posters and supplemental materials can be found at View Source on the day and time of presentation.

Rubraca

Company-Sponsored Abstracts:

Abstract #LBA5500: ATHENA–MONO (GOG-3020/ENGOT-ov45): A randomized, double-blind, phase 3 trial evaluating rucaparib monotherapy versus placebo as maintenance treatment following response to first-line platinum-based chemotherapy in ovarian cancer

Lead Author: Bradley J. Monk., M.D., GOG Foundation, HonorHealth Research Institute, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Creighton University School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA
Oral Abstract Session: Gynecologic Cancer
Date/Time: June 6, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EDT, presentation 9:00 – 9:12 a.m. EDT
Abstract #5544: Efficacy and safety of rucaparib maintenance treatment in patients from ARIEL3 with platinum-sensitive, recurrent ovarian carcinoma not associated with homologous recombination deficiency

Lead Author: Robert L. Coleman, FACS, M.D., FACOG, FASCO, Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
Poster Session: Gynecologic Cancer
Date/Time: June 4, 2:15 – 5:15 p.m. EDT
Company-Supported Abstracts:

Abstract #TPS9138: A Phase I/II multisite study of rucaparib and pembrolizumab maintenance therapy in stage IV non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer after initial therapy with carboplatin, pemetrexed, and pembrolizumab

Lead Author: Angel Qin, BS, M.D., University of Michigan, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Poster Session: Lung Cancer—Non-Small Cell Metastatic
Date/Time: June 6, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EDT
Abstract #TPS5107: Alliance A031902 (CASPAR): A randomized, phase (ph) 3 trial of enzalutamide with rucaparib/placebo in first-line metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC)

Lead Author: Arpit Rao, M.D., Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
Poster Session: Genitourinary Cancer—Prostate, Testicular, and Penile
Date/Time: June 6, 2:15 – 5:15 p.m. EDT
Abstract #5510: An open label, nonrandomized, multisite phase II trial combining bevacizumab, atezolizumab, and rucaparib for the treatment of previously treated recurrent and progressive endometrial cancer

Lead Author: William Hampton Bradley, M.D., Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, WI, USA
Clinical Science Symposium: Molecular-Based Treatment for Endometrial Cancer
Date/Time: June 7, 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. EDT
ASCO Publication-Only Abstracts:

Abstract #e17562: Clinical experience with rucaparib after prior PARPi treatment: a subanalysis from the rucaparib access program in Spain by GEICO

Lead Author: Alfonso Yubero, M.D., Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
Abstract #e17598: Clinical insights from the rucaparib access program in Spain: a sub-analysis of long-term responders by GEICO

Lead Author: Alfonso Yubero, M.D., Hospital Clínico Universitario Lozano Blesa, Zaragoza, Spain
Abstract #e18812: Real-world progression-free and overall survival for patients with advanced ovarian cancer utilizing PARP inhibitor second-line maintenance therapy vs active surveillance

Lead Author: Robert Reid, M.D., US Oncology, Medical Oncology, Virginia Cancer Specialists, Fairfax, VA, USA
FAP-2286

Company-Supported Abstract:

Abstract #3059: Imaging of solid tumors using 68Ga-FAP-2286

Lead Author: Thomas A. Hope, M.D., Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
Poster Session: Developmental Therapeutics—Molecularly Targeted Agents and Tumor Biology
Date/Time: June 5, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EDT
For more information about FAP-2286, Targeted Radionuclide Therapy (TRT), or Clovis’ TRT development program, click here.

Lucitanib

Company-Sponsored Abstract:

Abstract #5517: Efficacy and safety of lucitanib + nivolumab in patients with advanced gynecologic malignancies: Phase 2 results from the LIO-1 study (NCT04042116; ENGOT-GYN3/AGO/LIO)

Lead Author: Manish R. Patel, M.D., Drug Development Unit, Florida Cancer Specialists/Sarah Cannon Research Institute, Sarasota, FL, USA
Poster Discussion Session: Gynecologic Cancer
Date/Time: June 4, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. EDT
Panel Q&A featuring Dr. Patel: 6:04 – 6:14 p.m. EDT
About Rubraca (rucaparib)

Rucaparib is an oral, small molecule inhibitor of PARP1, PARP2 and PARP3 being developed in multiple tumor types, including ovarian and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancers, as monotherapy, and in combination with other anti-cancer agents. Exploratory studies in other tumor types are also underway.

Rubraca is an unlicensed medical product outside of the US and Europe.

Rubraca Ovarian Cancer US FDA Approved Indications

Rubraca is indicated for the maintenance treatment of adult women with recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in a complete or partial response to platinum-based chemotherapy.

Rubraca is indicated for the treatment of adult women with a deleterious BRCA mutation (germline and/or somatic)-associated epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who have been treated with two or more chemotherapies. Select patients for therapy based on an FDA-approved companion diagnostic for Rubraca.

Select Important Safety Information

Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)/Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) have occurred in patients treated with Rubraca, and are potentially fatal adverse reactions. In 1146 treated patients, MDS/AML occurred in 20 patients (1.7%), including those in long term follow-up. Of these, 8 occurred during treatment or during the 28 day safety follow-up (0.7%). The duration of Rubraca treatment prior to the diagnosis of MDS/AML ranged from 1 month to approximately 53 months. The cases were typical of secondary MDS/cancer therapy-related AML; in all cases, patients had received previous platinum-containing regimens and/or other DNA damaging agents.

Do not start Rubraca until patients have recovered from hematological toxicity caused by previous chemotherapy (≤ Grade 1). Monitor complete blood counts for cytopenia at baseline and monthly thereafter for clinically significant changes during treatment. For prolonged hematological toxicities (> 4 weeks), interrupt Rubraca or reduce dose and monitor blood counts weekly until recovery. If the levels have not recovered to Grade 1 or less after 4 weeks or if MDS/AML is suspected, refer the patient to a hematologist for further investigations, including bone marrow analysis and blood sample for cytogenetics. If MDS/AML is confirmed, discontinue Rubraca.

Based on its mechanism of action and findings from animal studies, Rubraca can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Apprise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months following the last dose of Rubraca.

Most common adverse reactions in ARIEL3 (≥ 20%; Grade 1-4) were nausea (76%), fatigue/asthenia (73%), abdominal pain/distention (46%), rash (43%), dysgeusia (40%), anemia (39%), AST/ALT elevation (38%), constipation (37%), vomiting (37%), diarrhea (32%), thrombocytopenia (29%), nasopharyngitis/upper respiratory tract infection (29%), stomatitis (28%), decreased appetite (23%), and neutropenia (20%).

Most common adverse reactions in Study 10 and ARIEL2 (≥ 20%; Grade 1-4) were nausea (77%), asthenia/fatigue (77%), vomiting (46%), anemia (44%), constipation (40%), dysgeusia (39%), decreased appetite (39%), diarrhea (34%), abdominal pain (32%), dyspnea (21%), and thrombocytopenia (21%).

Co-administration of rucaparib can increase the systemic exposure of CYP1A2, CYP3A, CYP2C9, or CYP2C19 substrates, which may increase the risk of toxicities of these drugs. Adjust dosage of CYP1A2, CYP3A, CYP2C9, or CYP2C19 substrates, if clinically indicated. If co-administration with warfarin (a CYP2C9 substrate) cannot be avoided, consider increasing frequency of international normalized ratio (INR) monitoring.

Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breast-fed children from Rubraca, advise lactating women not to breastfeed during treatment with Rubraca and for 2 weeks after the last dose.

Please Click here for full Prescribing Information for Rubraca.

You may also report side effects to Clovis Oncology, Inc. at 1-415-409-7220 (US toll) or 1-844-CLVS-ONC (1-844-258-7662; US toll-free).

Rubraca (rucaparib) European Union (EU) including Northern Ireland, and Great Britain (GB) authorized use and Important Safety Information

Rubraca is indicated as monotherapy for the maintenance treatment of adult patients with platinum-sensitive relapsed high-grade epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who are in response (complete or partial) to platinum-based chemotherapy.

Rubraca is indicated as monotherapy treatment of adult patients with platinum sensitive, relapsed or progressive, BRCA mutated (germline and/or somatic), high-grade epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer, who have been treated with ≥2 prior lines of platinum-based chemotherapy, and who are unable to tolerate further platinum-based chemotherapy.

Efficacy of Rubraca as treatment for relapsed or progressive epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), fallopian tube cancer (FTC), or primary peritoneal cancer (PPC) has not been investigated in patients who have received prior treatment with a PARP inhibitor. Therefore, use in this patient population is not recommended.

Summary warnings and precautions:

Hematological toxicity

During treatment with Rubraca, events of myelosuppression (anemia, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia) may be observed and are typically first observed after 8–10 weeks of treatment with Rubraca. These reactions are manageable with routine medical treatment and/or dose adjustment for more severe cases. Complete blood count testing prior to starting treatment with Rubraca, and monthly thereafter, is advised. Patients should not start Rubraca treatment until they have recovered from hematological toxicities caused by previous chemotherapy (CTCAE grade ≥1).

Supportive care and institutional guidelines should be implemented for the management of low blood counts for the treatment of anemia and neutropenia. Rubraca should be interrupted or dose reduced according to Table 1 (see Posology and Method of Administration [4.2] of the Summary of Product Characteristics [SPC]) and blood counts monitored weekly until recovery. If the levels have not recovered to CTCAE grade 1 or better after 4 weeks, the patient should be referred to a hematologist for further investigations.

MDS/AML

MDS/AML, including cases with fatal outcome, have been reported in patients who received Rubraca. The duration of therapy with Rubraca in patients who developed MDS/AML varied from less than 1 month to approximately 28 months.

If MDS/AML is suspected, the patient should be referred to a hematologist for further investigations, including bone marrow analysis and blood sampling for cytogenetics. If, following investigation for prolonged hematological toxicity, MDS/AML is confirmed, Rubraca should be discontinued.

Photosensitivity

Photosensitivity has been observed in patients treated with Rubraca. Patients should avoid spending time in direct sunlight because they may burn more easily during Rubraca treatment; when outdoors, patients should wear a hat and protective clothing, and use sunscreen and lip balm with sun protection factor of 50 or greater.

Gastrointestinal toxicities

Gastrointestinal toxicities (nausea and vomiting) are frequently reported with Rubraca and are generally low grade (CTCAE grade 1 or 2) and may be managed with dose reduction (refer to Posology and Method of Administration [4.2], Table 1 of the SPC) or interruption. Antiemetics, such as 5-HT3 antagonists, dexamethasone, aprepitant and fosaprepitant, can be used as treatment for nausea/vomiting and may also be considered for prophylactic (i.e. preventative) use prior to starting Rubraca. It is important to proactively manage these events to avoid prolonged or more severe events of nausea/vomiting which have the potential to lead to complications such as dehydration or hospitalization.

Embryofetal toxicity

Rubraca can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman based on its mechanism of action and findings from animal studies. In an animal reproduction study, administration of Rubraca to pregnant rats during the period of organogenesis resulted in embryo-fetal toxicity at exposures below those in patients receiving the recommended human dose of 600 mg twice daily (see Preclinical Safety Data [5.3] of the SPC).

Pregnancy/contraception

Pregnant women should be informed of the potential risk to a fetus. Women of reproductive potential should be advised to use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months following the last dose of Rubraca (see section 4.6 of the SPC). A pregnancy test before initiating treatment is recommended in women of reproductive potential.

Click here to access the current EU SmPC (including for Northern Ireland). Click here to access the current GB SmPC.

Healthcare professionals should report any suspected adverse reactions via their national reporting systems.

About the ATHENA Clinical Trial

ATHENA (GOG 3020/ENGOT-ov45) (NCT03522246) is an international, randomized, double-blind, phase III trial consisting of two separate and fully independently powered study comparisons evaluating Rubraca monotherapy (ATHENA-MONO) and Rubraca in combination with nivolumab (ATHENA-COMBO) as maintenance treatment for patients with newly diagnosed advanced epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer. ATHENA enrolled approximately 1000 patients across 24 countries, all women with newly diagnosed ovarian cancer who responded to their first-line chemotherapy. The trial completed accrual in 2020 and was conducted in association with the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) in the US and the European Network of Gynaecological Oncological Trial groups (ENGOT) in Europe. GOG and ENGOT are the two largest cooperative groups in the US and Europe dedicated to the treatment of gynecological cancers.

ATHENA-MONO is evaluating the benefit of Rubraca monotherapy versus placebo in 538 women in this patient population. The primary efficacy analysis evaluated two prospectively defined molecular sub-groups in a step-down manner: 1) HRD-positive (inclusive of BRCA mutant) tumors, and 2) the intent-to-treat population, or all patients treated in ATHENA-MONO.

The ATHENA-COMBO portion of the trial, anticipated to readout in Q1 2023, is evaluating the magnitude of benefit of adding Opdivo (nivolumab) to Rubraca monotherapy in the ovarian cancer first-line maintenance treatment setting. ATHENA-COMBO is anticipated to be the first Phase 3 dataset to readout evaluating the combination of a PARP inhibitor and an immune checkpoint inhibitor as maintenance treatment following completion and response to front-line chemotherapy.

About FAP-2286

FAP-2286 is a clinical candidate under investigation as a peptide-targeted radionuclide therapy (PTRT) and imaging agent targeting fibroblast activation protein (FAP). FAP-2286 consists of two functional elements; a targeting peptide that binds to FAP and a site that can be used to attach radioactive isotopes for imaging and therapeutic use. High FAP expression has been shown in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, cancer of unknown primary, salivary gland, mesothelioma, colon, bladder, sarcoma, squamous non–small cell lung, and squamous head and neck cancers. High FAP expression was detected in both primary and metastatic tumor samples and was independent of tumor stage or grade. Clovis holds US and global rights for FAP-2286 excluding Europe, Russia, Turkey, and Israel.

FAP-2286 is an unlicensed medical product.

About Targeted Radionuclide Therapy

Targeted radionuclide therapy is an emerging class of cancer therapeutics, which seeks to deliver radiation directly to the tumor while minimizing delivery of radiation to normal tissue. Targeted radionuclides are created by linking radioactive isotopes, also known as radionuclides, to targeting molecules (e.g., peptides, antibodies, small molecules) that can bind specifically to tumor cells or other cells in the tumor environment. Based on the radioactive isotope selected, the resulting agent can be used to image and/or treat certain types of cancer. Agents that can be adapted for both therapeutic and imaging use are known as "theranostics." Clovis, together with licensing partner 3B Pharmaceuticals, is developing a pipeline of novel, targeted radiotherapies for cancer treatment and imaging, including its lead candidate, FAP-2286, an investigational peptide-targeted radionuclide therapeutic (PTRT) and imaging agent, as well as three additional discovery-stage compounds.

About the LuMIERE Clinical Study

LuMIERE is a Phase 1/2 study evaluating FAP-2286 as a peptide-targeted radionuclide therapy (PTRT) targeting fibroblast activation protein, or FAP, in patients with advanced solid tumors. The Phase 1 portion of the LuMIERE study is evaluating the safety of the investigational therapeutic agent and will identify the recommended Phase 2 dose and schedule of lutetium-177 labeled FAP-2286 (177Lu-FAP-2286). FAP-2286 labeled with gallium-68 (68Ga-FAP-2286) will be utilized as an investigational imaging agent to identify patients with FAP-positive tumors appropriate for treatment with the therapeutic agent. Once the Phase 2 dose is determined, Phase 2 expansion cohorts are planned in multiple tumor types.

About Lucitanib

Lucitanib is an investigational angiogenesis inhibitor, which inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor receptors 1 through 3 (VEGFR1-3), platelet-derived growth factor receptors alpha and beta (PDGFRα/β) and fibroblast growth factor receptors 1 through 3 (FGFR1-3). Emerging clinical data support the combination of angiogenesis inhibitors and immunotherapy to increase effectiveness in multiple cancer indications. Angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), are frequently up-regulated in tumors and create an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Use of antiangiogenic drugs may reverse this immunosuppression and augment response to immunotherapy. Clovis holds global rights for lucitanib excluding China.

Lucitanib is an unlicensed medical product.

CytomX Therapeutics to Report First Quarter 2022 Financial Results on May 5, 2022

On April 28, 2022 CytomX Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: CTMX), a leader in the field of conditionally activated oncology therapeutics, reported that it will report first quarter 2022 financial results on Thursday, May 5, 2022, after the close of U.S. markets (Press release, CytomX Therapeutics, APR 28, 2022, View Source [SID1234613111]). Following the announcement, the Company will host a conference call and webcast at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT to discuss the results and provide a corporate update.

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

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

Participants may access the live webcast of the conference call from the Events and Presentations page of CytomX’s website at View Source An archived replay of the webcast will be available on the Company’s website until May 12, 2022.

Cellectis Publishes Two Articles in Nature Communications Providing Strong Preclinical Validation of UCART123 to Treat AML and BPDCN

On April 28, 2022 Cellectis (the "Company") (Euronext Growth: ALCLS – NASDAQ: CLLS), a clinical-stage biotechnology company using its pioneering gene-editing platform to develop life-saving cell and gene therapies, reported the publication of two manuscripts in Nature Communications on its product candidate UCART123, currently being evaluated in the Phase 1 dose-escalation trial AMELI-01 in patients with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (r/r AML) (Press release, Cellectis, APR 28, 2022, View Source [SID1234613110]). These preclinical data demonstrate the robust in vitro and in vivo activity of UCART123 and provide pre-clinical proof of concept for an allogenic CART cell approach to tackle AML.

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

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

Allogeneic TCRαβ Deficient CAR T-cells Targeting CD123 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

This preclinical study, led by Dr Monica Guzman, Ph.D., Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine Weill Cornell Medical College, demonstrated that Cellectis’ product candidate UCART123 effectively eliminates AML cells in vitro and in vivo with improvements in overall survival and minimal impact against normal hematopoietic progenitors.

AML is a disease originated and maintained from leukemia stem cells (LSCs). CD123 is a cell surface antigen expressed on AML blasts as well as LSCs. In this study, the potential of allogeneic gene-edited CAR T cells targeting CD123 to eliminate LSCs (UCART123) was evaluated.

"While the majority of the few CD123 T-cell therapies evaluated to date rely on autologous approaches with complex clinical and logistical barriers, this set of preclinical results strongly supports the potential benefits of the allogeneic CAR T approach in AML. UCART123 exhibits unprecedented primary AML-selective cytotoxic activity and minimal effects against normal cells, which was a major drawback reported in previous preclinical studies performed with other CD123 targeted CARs" said Mark Frattini, MD, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Head of Clinical Sciences at Cellectis.

Preclinical results showed that:

UCART123 demonstrates cytotoxic activity against primary AML samples with minimum toxicity against normal hematopoietic progenitor cells

UCART123 targets AML cells in vivo and results in improved overall survival in patient-derived xenografts (PDX) models

UCART123 selectively clears primary AML cells, without affecting hematopoiesis, in a competitive humanized mouse model harboring primary AML and normal bone marrow cells

Targeting CD123 in Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm using Allogeneic Anti-CD123 CAR T Cells

This preclinical study, led by Professor Marina Konopleva, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Leukemia, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, demonstrated the antitumor activity of UCART123 in preclinical models of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN).

BPDCN is a rare hematologic malignancy with poor outcomes with conventional therapy. Given that CD123 is differentially expressed on the surface of BPDCN cells, it has emerged as an attractive therapeutic target.

In this study, the antitumor activity of allogeneic CD123 CAR T cells (UCART123) was demonstrated by in vitro and in vivo assays using primary BPDCN samples.

Preclinical results showed that:

UCART123 cells result in specific killing of BPDCN primary samples in vitro and in xenograft (PDX) experiments in vivo

Cytokine production levels in mice correlate with tumor burden at the time of UCART123 administration

Tumor relapse was observed upon loss of CD123, through diverse genetic mechanism, in one of the PDX models

"These preclinical results support our rationale of using allogeneic CD123 CAR T cells to treat AML. Cellectis’ UCART123 is the first allogeneic product candidate to demonstrate elimination of AML and BPDCN cells in PDX mouse experiments, with significant benefits in overall survival and low impact on hematopoietic progenitor cells. This brings us one step closer to delivering these innovative therapies to patients with unmet medical needs" said Roman Galetto, Sr. Director Preclinical & Program Management at Cellectis.

Cellectis’ AMELI-01 clinical study is currently enrolling patients at Dose Level 2 (6.25 × 105 cells/kg) with Fludarabine Cyclophosphamide and Alemtuzumab (FCA) preconditioning regimen.

Articles are available on the Nature Communications website, by clicking on the links below:

Allogeneic TCRαβ Deficient CAR T-cells Targeting CD123 in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Labcorp Announces 2022 First Quarter Results Company Raises Full-Year Revenue and EPS Guidance

On April 28, 2022 Labcorp (NYSE: LH), a leading global life sciences company, reported results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2022, and updated full-year guidance (Press release, LabCorp, APR 28, 2022, View Source [SID1234613109]).

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

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

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

"Labcorp continues to advance our strategy through science, innovation and technology," said Adam Schechter, chairman and CEO of Labcorp. "We delivered a solid first quarter despite the impact of Omicron. We remain focused on growth opportunities while continuing to take actions to mitigate inflation. Our base business performance coming out of the quarter positions us well for continued success throughout the year."

During the quarter, Labcorp launched the Labcorp OnDemand digital health platform, intensifying its consumer focus and enhancing the user experience. The company made strides in oncology, including through key collaborations and closing its acquisition of Personal Genome Diagnostics (PGDx). Labcorp also entered into and expanded several strategic relationships with hospitals and health systems, including agreements to purchase select outreach laboratory business assets.

The company announced a quarterly dividend of $0.72 per share of common stock, which will be payable June 9, 2022, to stockholders of record at the close of business on May 19, 2022. In addition, Labcorp published its 2021 Corporate Responsibility Report which underscores its commitment to pursuing responsible, ethical and sustainable operations.

Consolidated Results

First Quarter Results

Revenue for the quarter was $3.90 billion, a decrease of (6.3%) from $4.16 billion in the first quarter of 2021. The decrease was due to organic revenue of (6.3%) and foreign currency translation of (0.4%), partially offset by acquisitions net of divestitures of 0.4%. The (6.3%) decline in organic revenue was driven by a (9.8%) decrease in COVID-19 PCR and antibody testing (COVID-19 Testing), partially offset by a 3.5% increase in the company’s organic Base Business. Base Business includes Labcorp’s operations except for COVID-19 Testing.

Operating income for the quarter was $687.9 million, or 17.6% of revenue, compared to $1,057.9 million, or 25.4%, in the first quarter of 2021. The company recorded amortization, restructuring charges, and special items, which together totaled $106.1 million in the quarter, compared to $124.0 million during the same period in 2021. Adjusted operating income (excluding amortization, restructuring charges, and special items) for the quarter was $794.0 million, or 20.4% of revenue, compared to $1,181.9 million, or 28.4%, in the first quarter of 2021. The decrease in operating income and margin was primarily due to a reduction in COVID-19 Testing, higher personnel expense, and other inflationary costs, partially offset by organic Base Business growth and LaunchPad savings.

Net earnings for the quarter were $491.6 million compared to $769.6 million in the first quarter of 2021. Diluted EPS were $5.23 in the quarter compared to $7.82 during the same period in 2021. Adjusted EPS (excluding amortization, restructuring charges, and special items) were $6.11 in the quarter compared to $8.79 in the first quarter of 2021.

Operating cash flow for the quarter was $356.0 million compared to $1,157.6 million in the first quarter of 2021. The decrease in operating cash flow was due to lower cash earnings and higher working capital requirements. Capital expenditures totaled $117.2 million compared to $95.4 million a year ago. As a result, free cash flow (operating cash flow less capital expenditures) was $238.8 million compared to $1,062.2 million in the first quarter of 2021.

At the end of the quarter, the company’s cash balance and total debt were $1.2 billion and $5.4 billion, respectively. During the quarter, the company invested $455.1 million on acquisitions. As part of the company’s accelerated stock repurchase program initiated in December 2021, 0.6 million shares were retired during the quarter.

First Quarter Segment Results

The following segment results exclude amortization, restructuring charges, special items, and unallocated corporate expenses.

Diagnostics

Revenue for the quarter was $2.45 billion, a decrease of (11.0%) from $2.76 billion in the first quarter of 2021. The decrease was due to organic revenue of (11.5%), partially offset by acquisitions of 0.5%. The (11.5%) decrease in organic revenue was due to a (14.7%) reduction from COVID-19 Testing, partially offset by a 3.2% increase in the Base Business. Total Base Business growth compared to the Base Business in the prior year was 5.6%.

Total volume (measured by requisitions) decreased by (5.0%) as organic volume decreased by (5.3%) and acquisition volume contributed 0.3%. Organic volume was impacted by a (8.5%) decrease in COVID-19 Testing, partially offset by a 3.1% increase in Base Business. Price/mix decreased by (6.0%) due to a decrease in COVID-19 Testing of (6.3%), partially offset by acquisitions of 0.2% and organic Base Business growth of 0.1%. Base Business volume was up 4.4% compared to the Base Business last year, while price/mix was up 1.2%.

Adjusted operating income for the quarter was $683.1 million, or 27.8% of revenue, compared to $991.6 million, or 36.0%, in the first quarter of 2021. The decrease in adjusted operating income and adjusted operating margin was primarily due to a reduction in COVID-19 Testing, higher personnel expense, and other inflationary costs, partially offset by organic Base Business growth and LaunchPad savings.

Drug Development

Revenue for the quarter was $1.46 billion, an increase of 1.5% from $1.44 billion in the first quarter of 2021. The increase was due to organic Base Business growth of 4.3% and acquisitions net of divestitures of 0.1%, partially offset by lower COVID-19 Testing of (1.7%) and foreign currency translation of (1.2%).

Adjusted operating income for the quarter was $168.6 million, or 11.6% of revenue, compared to $234.1 million, or 16.3%, in the first quarter of 2021. Adjusted operating income and margin declined primarily due to COVID-19 Testing, a reduction in COVID-19 vaccine and therapeutic work, the interruption of some clinical trial activity due to the conflict in Ukraine, higher personnel expense, and other inflationary costs. These impacts were partially offset by organic Base Business growth and LaunchPad savings.

Net orders and net book-to-bill during the trailing twelve months were $7.20 billion and 1.23, respectively. Backlog at the end of the quarter was $15.19 billion, an increase of 8.7% compared to last year. The company expects approximately $4.95 billion of its backlog to convert into revenue in the next twelve months.

Outlook for 2022

Labcorp is updating 2022 full year guidance to reflect its first quarter performance and full-year outlook. The following guidance assumes foreign exchange rates effective as of March 31, 2022, for the remainder of the year. Enterprise level guidance includes the estimated impact from currently anticipated capital allocation, including acquisitions, share repurchases and dividends.

(Dollars in billions, except per share data)

(1) 2022 Updated Guidance includes an impact from foreign currency translation of (0.4%), previous 2022 Guidance was (0.2%)

(2) Enterprise level revenue is presented net of intersegment transaction eliminations, including Drug Development COVID-19 Testing revenue

(3) 2022 Updated Guidance includes an impact from foreign currency translation of 0.0%, previous 2022 Guidance was (0.1%)

(4) 2022 Updated Guidance includes an impact from foreign currency translation of (1.1%), previous 2022 Guidance was (0.4%)

(5) Free Cash Flow consists of operating cash flow less capital expenditures

Use of Adjusted Measures

The company has provided in this press release and accompanying tables "adjusted" financial information that has not been prepared in accordance with GAAP, including adjusted net income, adjusted EPS (or adjusted net income per share), adjusted operating income, adjusted operating margin, free cash flow, and certain segment information. The company believes these adjusted measures are useful to investors as a supplement to, but not as a substitute for, GAAP measures, in evaluating the company’s operational performance. The company further believes that the use of these non-GAAP financial measures provides an additional tool for investors in evaluating operating results and trends, and growth and shareholder returns, as well as in comparing the company’s financial results with the financial results of other companies. However, the company notes that these adjusted measures may be different from and not directly comparable to the measures presented by other companies. Reconciliations of these non-GAAP measures to the most comparable GAAP measures and an identification of the components that comprise "special items" used for certain adjusted financial information are included in the tables accompanying this press release.

The company today is providing an investor relations presentation with additional information on its business and operations, which is available in the investor relations section of the company’s website at View Source Analysts and investors are directed to the website to review this supplemental information.

A conference call discussing Labcorp’s quarterly results will be held today at 9:00 a.m. ET and is available by dialing 877-825-4844 (631-813-4900 for international callers). The conference ID is 2386657. A telephone replay of the call will be available through May 12, 2022, and can be heard by dialing 855-859-2056 (404-537-3406 for international callers). The conference ID for the replay is 2386657. A live online broadcast of Labcorp’s quarterly conference call on April 28, 2022, will be available at Labcorp Investor Relations website beginning at 9:00 a.m. ET. This online broadcast will be archived and accessible through April 14, 2023.