Akoya Biosciences Showcases Spatial Biology 2.0 Solutions at AACR Annual Meeting with Case Studies Demonstrating Unprecedented Speed and Scale

On April 05, 2024 Akoya Biosciences, Inc., (Nasdaq: AKYA), The Spatial Biology Company, reported it will highlight case studies featuring its Spatial Biology 2.0 Solutions that enable unprecedented speed and scale for spatial biology studies at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) (Free AACR Whitepaper) 2024 Annual Meeting in San Diego, April 5 to 10 (Press release, Akoya Biosciences, APR 5, 2024, View Source [SID1234641811]). In addition, the company will showcase new applications of its PhenoCode Signature Panels and preliminary data from the Thermo Fisher ViewRNA assays on Akoya’s platforms.

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Presentations Showcase the Power of Spatial Biology 2.0

Industry-leading capabilities of the company’s spatial biology platforms will be presented during Akoya’s Spotlight Theater, titled "Spatial Biology 2.0: Spatial Insights and Precision Medicine at Unprecedented Scale" on Monday, April 8 at 3 PM (PST). The event will describe how researchers are revealing new insights into the tumor microenvironment, elucidating the mechanisms of cancer treatment response, and paving the way for spatial biology to impact patient outcomes. Deployment of Akoya’s PhenoCycler-Fusion 2.0, PhenoImager HT 2.0, and PhenoCode Panels across the research continuum, from ultrahigh-plex discoveries to actionable signatures, will be described by the presenters:

Suzanne K. Coberly, MS MD, FCAP, Scientific Senior Director, Discovery & Translational Pathology, Oncogenesis TRC, Bristol Myers Squibb
Arutha Kulasinghe PhD, Scientific Director of the Queensland Spatial Biology Center in Brisbane, Group Leader at The University of Queensland
Pascal Bamford, PhD, Senior Vice President, R&D and Laboratory Operations, Akoya Biosciences
Dr. Kulasinghe will also present a talk entitled "Ultra high-plex profiling of the tumor microenvironment" on April 6 from 12:36 PM – 12:54 PM PT in Session MW14 – Choosing and Using Antibodies for Spatial Informed Protein Expression. He will discuss the development of ultrahigh-plex antibody panels for the comprehensive characterization of the tumor microenvironment.

Spatial Biology 2.0 Solutions Displayed at Booth #247

Akoya Biosciences will demonstrate new uses of its PhenoCode Signature Panels for accelerating discovery and validation of spatial biomarkers using the PhenoImager HT 2.0 platform. The company will also present initial findings from the Thermo Fisher Scientific ViewRNA assays on the PhenoCycler-Fusion 2.0.

PhenoCycler-Fusion 2.0: Offers automated multi-slide capabilities, allowing researchers to efficiently generate ultrahigh-plex, multiomic spatial phenotyping data for larger samples at exceptional speeds.
PhenoImager HT 2.0: Features targeted PhenoCode Signature Panels and onboard spectral unmixing, simplifying biomarker development and validation workflows for large scale studies.
Poster Presentations

Several studies featuring Akoya’s Spatial Biology platforms will be described in the following posters:

Monday, April 8: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Poster 1525: Integration of high-plex tumor-Immune phenotyping and checkpoint interactions for deeper spatial characterization of human cancer tissues. S. Bodbin, Navinci Diagnostics et al.

Monday, April 8: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Poster 3623: Quantifying pharmacodynamic markers of radioligand therapies in tumor by multiplex immunofluorescence and automated quantitative analysis (AQUA) algorithms. J. Santos, Navigate BioPharma Services, Inc. et al.

Poster 3651: Mutational analysis and spatial phenotyping to decipher racial disparities in pancreatic adenocarcinoma; D. J. Salas-Escabillas, University of Michigan et al.

Poster 3763: Comparative spatial analyses of the tumor immune landscape in different mouse models of glioblastoma; D. Klymyshyn, Akoya Biosciences et al.

Tuesday, April 9: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Poster 3988: Deep spatial immunophenotyping of lymphoid aggregates in pancreatic cancer using multi-omic integration of ultra high-plex proteomics and transcriptomics; D. Gong, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) et al.

Poster 5503: Ultrahigh-plex spatial phenotyping of head and neck cancer tissue uncovers multiomic signatures of immunotherapy response; A. Pratapa, Akoya Biosciences et al.

Poster 5504: Integrating ultrahigh-plex spatial phenotyping: From discovery to clinical applications, A. Pratapa; Akoya Biosciences et al.

Tuesday, April 9: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Poster 5507: High-resolution spatial atlas reveals insight into spatial landscape of lung cancer and chronic lung diseases; R. Nandigama, Justus Liebig University et al.

Poster 5508: Single-cell spatial landscape of the mutation-specific human lung tumor immune microenvironment; R. Nandigama, Justus Liebig University et al.

Wednesday, April 10: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Poster 6738: Overlapping and distinct mechanisms of effective neoantigen cancer vaccines and immune checkpoint therapy; S. Keshari, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center et al.

Poster 6872: A spatio-temporal approach to mapping the dynamics of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma progression and immunotherapy response: A journey through TiME; N. Jhaveri, Akoya Biosciences et al.

Network of CROs Providing Spatial Biology Services Continues to Grow

Thirteen of Akoya’s twenty qualified CRO service providers will also be exhibiting at AACR (Free AACR Whitepaper). Akoya’s CRO network continues to grow rapidly, reflecting the demand for spatial phenotyping solutions across the biopharmaceutical industry. Offering biomarker testing services, these CROs enable drug developers and academic research institutions to accelerate the discovery and development of new immuno-therapies.

Full details about Akoya’s AACR (Free AACR Whitepaper) activities and poster presentations can be found here.

U.S. FDA Approves Bristol Myers Squibb and 2seventy bio’s Abecma for Triple-Class Exposed Relapsed or Refractory Multiple Myeloma After Two Prior Lines of Therapy

On April 5, 2024 Bristol Myers Squibb and 2seventy bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: TSVT) reported that on April 4, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Abecma (idecabtagene vicleucel; ide-cel) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma after two or more prior lines of therapy including an immunomodulatory agent (IMiD), a proteasome inhibitor (PI), and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, based on results from the KarMMa-3 trial (Press release, 2seventy bio, APR 5, 2024, View Source [SID1234641810]). This approval expands Abecma’s indication, making it available in earlier lines to patients who have relapsed or become refractory after exposure to these three main classes of treatment (triple-class exposed), after two prior lines of therapy. Abecma is administered as a one-time infusion, with a new recommended dose range of 300 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells. Please see the Important Safety Information section below, including Boxed WARNINGS for Abecma regarding Cytokine Release Syndrome, Neurologic Toxicities, Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome, Prolonged Cytopenia, and Secondary Hematological Malignancies.

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This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: View Source

"Abecma has demonstrated a progression-free survival benefit three times that of standard regimens in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, and we are now bringing the promise of cell therapy to patients earlier in their treatment journey," said Bryan Campbell, senior vice president, Head of Commercial, Cell Therapy, Bristol Myers Squibb. "This approval underpins our commitment to addressing the unmet needs of more patients living with multiple myeloma by improving upon the current treatment paradigm, and we remain steadfast in our pursuit of innovation and advancing cell therapy research to deliver potentially transformative therapies."

"We are extremely pleased that Abecma will be available to many more patients in the U.S.," said Chip Baird, chief executive officer, 2seventy bio. "This approval represents another important milestone for patients, for Abecma, and for 2seventy bio as we remain committed to increasing treatment options and working to improve outcomes for patients living with multiple myeloma."

Despite advances in treatment, multiple myeloma remains an incurable disease characterized by periods of remission and relapse. In early lines of treatment, regimens consisting of combinations of IMiDs, PIs, and anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies are often used to help manage the disease. Unfortunately, as many patients go on to relapse and/or become refractory to these classes of therapy, more patients are becoming triple-class exposed earlier in their treatment journey. There are limited options for these patients, and triple-class exposed relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma is associated with poor outcomes and a median progression-free survival (PFS) of three to five months. In this patient population with high unmet need, Abecma has demonstrated clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements in PFS (95% CI: 13.3 months vs. 4.4 months [HR: 0.49; p<0.0001]). In addition, Abecma exhibited a well-established safety profile with mostly low-grade cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity. No cases of Parkinsonism were reported in the study.

"The results of the KarMMa-3 study are remarkable, especially given the historic outcomes with standard regimens for these patients with relapsed or refractory disease," said Al-Ola A. Abdallah, M.D., University of Kansas, Clinical Associate Professor, Clinical Director, Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapeutics and chair of U.S. Myeloma Innovations Research Collaborative. "With this approval, these patients now have an opportunity to be treated at an earlier line of therapy with a potentially transformative therapy that offers significantly improved progression-free survival for this difficult-to-treat disease that has had no established treatment approach."

To support this approval and future expansions, Bristol Myers Squibb has made continuous investments to increase manufacturing capacity and has shown a consistently high manufacturing success rate of 94% for Abecma in the commercial setting.

Abecma was recently approved in Japan, Switzerland and the European Union for adult patients with triple-class exposed relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma after two prior lines of therapy, making it the only CAR T cell therapy available globally for earlier lines of therapy for patients with triple-class exposed relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma. Abecma is also currently approved in Great Britain and Israel for adult patients with triple-class exposed relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma after three or more prior lines of therapy.

KarMMa-3 Pivotal Trial Results

The KarMMa-3 trial is a pivotal, Phase 3, open-label, global, randomized, controlled trial evaluating Abecma compared to standard regimens in patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma who have received two to four prior lines of treatment, including an immunomodulatory agent, a proteasome inhibitor, and an anti-CD38 antibody, and were refractory to the last treatment regimen, with 94% of patients with disease refractory to prior treatment with daratumumab. KarMMa-3 is the only Phase 3 trial to evaluate a CAR T cell therapy in a patient population consisting entirely of triple-class exposed relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma patients. The trial’s patient-centric design allowed for crossover from standard regimens to Abecma upon confirmed disease progression. At the time of the final progression-free survival (PFS) analysis, more than half (56%) of patients in the standard regimens arm crossed over to receive Abecma as a subsequent therapy.

In the study, 254 patients were randomized to receive Abecma and 132 were randomized to receive standard regimens that consisted of combinations that included daratumumab, pomalidomide, and dexamethasone (DPd), daratumumab, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (DVd), ixazomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (IRd), carfilzomib and dexamethasone (Kd) or elotuzumab, pomalidomide and dexamethasone (EPd) chosen based on their most recent treatment regimen and investigator discretion. In the Abecma arm, pretreatment consisted of leukapheresis and optional bridging therapy. The choice to use bridging therapy was at the discretion of the investigator.

At an estimated median duration of follow-up of 15.9 months at the primary PFS analysis, Abecma more than tripled the primary endpoint of PFS compared with standard regimens, with a median PFS of 13.3 months (95% CI: 11.8-16.1) vs. 4.4 months (95% CI: 3.4-5.9), respectively (HR:0.49; 95% CI: 0.38-0.64; p<0.0001), representing a 51% reduction in the risk of disease progression or death with Abecma. Abecma also showed a significant improvement in overall response rates (p<0.0001) with the majority (71%) of patients treated with Abecma achieving a response, and 39% achieving a complete or stringent complete response. In comparison, less than half of patients (42%) who received standard regimens achieved a response, with 5% experiencing a complete response or stringent complete response. Responses were durable with Abecma, with a median duration of response of 14.8 months (95% CI: 12.0-18.6). In those patients who derived a complete response or better, median duration of response was 20 months (95% CI: 15.8-24.3).

Abecma has exhibited a well-established and consistent safety profile with mostly low-grade cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurotoxicity. Among patients who received Abecma in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies (n=349), any grade CRS occurred in 89% of patients, including Grade >3 CRS in 7% of patients, and three cases (0.9%) of Grade 5 CRS reported. The median time to onset of CRS was 1 day (range: 1-27 days), and the median duration of CRS was 5 days (range: 1-63 days). Any grade neurotoxicity occurred in 40% of patients treated with Abecma in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, including Grade 3 neurotoxicity in 4% of patients, and two cases (0.6%) of Grade 4 neurotoxicity reported. At the safety update for KarMMa-3, one case of Grade 5 neurotoxicity was reported. The median time to onset of neurotoxicity was 2 days (range: 1-148 days), and the median duration of neurotoxicity was 8 days (range: 1-720 days).

About Abecma

Abecma is a CAR T cell therapy that recognizes and binds to BCMA on the surface of multiple myeloma cells leading to CAR T cell proliferation, cytokine secretion, and subsequent cytolytic killing of BCMA-expressing cells. Abecma is being jointly developed and commercialized in the U.S. as part of a Co-Development, Co-Promotion, and Profit Share Agreement between Bristol Myers Squibb and 2seventy bio.

This approval further underscores Bristol Myers Squibb’s deep knowledge and experience in cell therapy science and continued clinical advancements for multiple myeloma patients. The companies’ broad clinical development program for Abecma includes ongoing and planned clinical studies (KarMMa-2, KarMMa-3, KarMMa-9) for patients with multiple myeloma. For more information visit clinicaltrials.gov.

U.S. Important Safety Information

BOXED WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME, NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES, HLH/MAS, PROLONGED CYTOPENIA and SECONDARY HEMATOLOGICAL MALIGNANCIES

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients following treatment with ABECMA. Do not administer ABECMA to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids.
Neurologic Toxicities, which may be severe or life-threatening, occurred following treatment with ABECMA, including concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution, or in the absence of CRS. Monitor for neurologic events after treatment with ABECMA. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (HLH/MAS) including fatal and life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients following treatment with ABECMA. HLH/MAS can occur with CRS or neurologic toxicities.
Prolonged Cytopenia with bleeding and infection, including fatal outcomes following stem cell transplantation for hematopoietic recovery, occurred following treatment with ABECMA.
T cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapies, including ABECMA
ABECMA is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the ABECMA REMS.
Warnings and Precautions:

Early Death: In KarMMa-3, a randomized (2:1), controlled trial, a higher proportion of patients experienced death within 9 months after randomization in the ABECMA arm (45/254; 18%) compared to the standard regimens arm (15/132; 11%). Early deaths occurred in 8% (20/254) and 0% prior to ABECMA infusion and standard regimen administration, respectively, and 10% (25/254) and 11% (15/132) after ABECMA infusion and standard regimen administration, respectively. Out of the 20 deaths that occurred prior to ABECMA infusion, 15 occurred from disease progression, 3 occurred from adverse events and 2 occurred from unknown causes. Out of the 25 deaths that occurred after ABECMA infusion, 10 occurred from disease progression, 11 occurred from adverse events, and 4 occurred from unknown causes.

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): CRS, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred following treatment with ABECMA. Among patients receiving ABECMA for relapsed refractory multiple myeloma in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies (N=349), CRS occurred in 89% (310/349), including ≥ Grade 3 CRS (Lee grading system) in 7% (23/349) of patients and Grade 5 CRS in 0.9% (3/349) of patients. The median time-to-onset of CRS, any grade, was 1 day (range: 1 to 27 days), and the median duration of CRS was 5 days (range: 1 to 63 days). In the pooled studies, the rate of ≥Grade 3 CRS was 10% (7/71) for patients treated in dose range of 460 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells and 5.4% (13/241) for patients treated in dose range of 300 to 460 x 106 CAR-positive T cells.

The most common manifestations of CRS (greater than or equal to 10%) included pyrexia (87%), hypotension (30%), tachycardia (26%), chills (19%), hypoxia (16%). Grade 3 or higher events that may be associated with CRS include hypotension, hypoxia, hyperbilirubinemia, hypofibrinogenemia, ARDS, atrial fibrillation, hepatocellular injury, metabolic acidosis, pulmonary edema, coagulopathy, renal failure, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and HLH/MAS.

Identify CRS based on clinical presentation. Evaluate for and treat other causes of fever, hypoxia, and hypotension. CRS has been reported to be associated with findings of HLH/MAS, and the physiology of the syndromes may overlap. HLH/MAS is a potentially life-threatening condition. In patients with progressive symptoms of CRS or refractory CRS despite treatment, evaluate for evidence of HLH/MAS.

Of the 349 patients who received ABECMA in clinical trials, 226 (65%) patients received tocilizumab; 39% (135/349) received a single dose, while 26% (91/349) received more than 1 dose of tocilizumab. Overall, 24% (82/349) of patients received at least 1 dose of corticosteroids for treatment of CRS. Almost all patients who received corticosteroids for CRS also received tocilizumab. For patients treated in dose range of 460 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells, 76% (54/71) of patients received tocilizumab and 35% (25/71) received at least 1 dose of corticosteroids for treatment of CRS. For patients treated in dose range of 300 to 460 x 106 CAR-positive T cells, 63% (152/241) of patients received tocilizumab and 20% (49/241) received at least 1 dose of corticosteroid for treatment of CRS.

Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following ABECMA infusion at the REMS-certified healthcare facility for signs or symptoms of CRS and monitor patients for signs or symptoms of CRS for at least 4 weeks after ABECMA infusion. At the first sign of CRS, institute treatment with supportive care, tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids as indicated. Ensure that a minimum of 2 doses of tocilizumab are available prior to infusion of ABECMA. Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS occur at any time.

Neurologic Toxicities: Neurologic toxicities, including immune-effector cell-associated neurotoxicity (ICANS), which may be severe or life- threatening, occurred concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution, or in the absence of CRS following treatment with ABECMA.

In patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity occurred in 40% (139/349), including Grade 3 in 4% (14/349) and Grade 4 in 0.6% (2/349) of patients. The median time to onset of neurotoxicity was 2 days (range: 1 to 148 days). The median duration of CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity was 8 days (range: 1 to 720 days) in all patients including those with ongoing neurologic events at the time of death or data cut off. CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity resolved in 123 of 139 (88%) patients and median time to resolution was 5 days (range: 1 to 245 days). One-hundred and thirty four out of 349 (38%) patients with neurotoxicity had CRS. The onset of neurotoxicity during CRS was observed in 93 patients, before the onset of CRS in 12 patients, and after the CRS event in 29 patients. The rate of Grade 3 or 4 CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity was 5.6% (4/71) and 3.7% (9/241) for patients treated in dose range of 460 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells and 300 to 460 x 106 CAR-positive T cells, respectively. The most frequent (greater than or equal to 5%) manifestations of CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity include encephalopathy (21%), headache (15%), dizziness (8%), delirium (6%), and tremor (6%).

At the safety update for KarMMa-3 study, one patient developed fatal neurotoxicity 43 days after ABECMA. In KarMMa, one patient had ongoing Grade 2 neurotoxicity at the time of death. Two patients had ongoing Grade 1 tremor at the time of data cutoff.

Cerebral edema has been associated with ABECMA in a patient in another study in multiple myeloma. Grade 3 myelitis and Grade 3 parkinsonism have occurred after treatment with ABECMA in another study in multiple myeloma.

Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following ABECMA infusion at the REMS-certified healthcare facility for signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicities and monitor patients for signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicities for at least 4 weeks after ABECMA infusion and treat promptly. Rule out other causes of neurologic symptoms. Neurologic toxicity should be managed with supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed. Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms occur at any time.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS): In patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, HLH/MAS occurred in 2.9% (10/349) of patients. All events of HLH/MAS had onset within 10 days of receiving ABECMA, with a median onset of 6.5 days (range: 4 to 10 days) and occurred in the setting of ongoing or worsening CRS. Five patients with HLH/MAS had overlapping neurotoxicity. The manifestations of HLH/MAS include hypotension, hypoxia, multiple organ dysfunction, renal dysfunction and cytopenia.

In KarMMa-3, one patient had Grade 5, two patients had Grade 4 and two patients had Grade 3 HLH/MAS. The patient with Grade 5 HLH/MAS also had Grade 5 candida sepsis and Grade 5 CRS. In another patient who died due to stroke, the Grade 4 HLH/MAS had resolved prior to death. Two cases of Grade 3 and one case of Grade 4 HLH/MAS had resolved.

In KarMMa, one patient treated in the 300 x 106 CAR-positive T cells dose cohort developed fatal multi-organ HLH/MAS with CRS. In another patient with fatal bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, HLH/MAS was contributory to the fatal outcome. Three cases of Grade 2 HLH/MAS resolved.

HLH/MAS is a potentially life-threatening condition with a high mortality rate if not recognized early and treated. Treatment of HLH/MAS should be administered per institutional guidelines.

ABECMA REMS: Due to the risk of CRS and neurologic toxicities, ABECMA is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the ABECMA REMS. Further information is available at www.AbecmaREMS.com or contact Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1-866-340-7332.

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Allergic reactions may occur with the infusion of ABECMA. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, may be due to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in ABECMA.

Infections: ABECMA should not be administered to patients with active infections or inflammatory disorders. Severe, life-threatening, or fatal infections occurred in patients after ABECMA infusion.

In all patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, infections (all grades) occurred in 61% of patients. Grade 3 or 4 infections occurred in 21% of patients. Grade 3 or 4 infections with an unspecified pathogen occurred in 12%, viral infections in 7%, bacterial infections in 4.3%, and fungal infections in 1.4% of patients. Overall, 15 patients had Grade 5 infections (4.3%); 8 patients (2.3%) with infections of pathogen unspecified, 3 patients (0.9%) with fungal infections, 3 patients (0.9%) with viral infections, and 1 patient (0.3%) with bacterial infection.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection before and after ABECMA infusion and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic, pre-emptive, and/or therapeutic antimicrobials according to standard institutional guidelines.

Febrile neutropenia was observed in 38% (133/349) of patients after ABECMA infusion and may be concurrent with CRS. In the event of febrile neutropenia, evaluate for infection and manage with broad-spectrum antibiotics, fluids, and other supportive care as medically indicated.

Viral Reactivation: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection resulting in pneumonia and death has occurred following ABECMA administration. Monitor and treat for CMV reactivation in accordance with clinical guidelines. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, and death, can occur in patients treated with drugs directed against plasma cells. Perform screening for CMV, HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in accordance with clinical guidelines before collection of cells for manufacturing. Consider antiviral therapy to prevent viral reactivation per local institutional guidelines/clinical practice.

Prolonged Cytopenias: In patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, 40% of patients (139/349) experienced prolonged Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia and 42% (145/349) experienced prolonged Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia that had not resolved by Month 1 following ABECMA infusion. In 89% (123/139) of patients who recovered from Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia after Month 1, the median time to recovery from ABECMA infusion was 1.9 months. In 76% (110/145) of patients who recovered from Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, the median time to recovery was 1.9 months. Five patients underwent stem cell therapy for hematopoietic reconstitution due to prolonged cytopenia. The rate of Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was 62% (44/71) and 56% (135/241) for patients treated in dose range of 460 to 510 x 106 CAR-positive T cells and 300 to 460 x 106 CAR-positive T cells, respectively.

Monitor blood counts prior to and after ABECMA infusion. Manage cytopenia with myeloid growth factor and blood product transfusion support according to local institutional guidelines.

Hypogammaglobulinemia: In all patients receiving ABECMA in the KarMMa and KarMMa-3 studies, hypogammaglobulinemia was reported as an adverse event in 13% (46/349) of patients; laboratory IgG levels fell below 500 mg/dL after infusion in 37% (130/349) of patients treated with ABECMA.

Hypogammaglobulinemia either as an adverse reaction or laboratory IgG level below 500 mg/dL after infusion occurred in 45% (158/349) of patients treated with ABECMA. Forty-one percent of patients received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) post-ABECMA for serum IgG <400 mg/dL.

Monitor immunoglobulin levels after treatment with ABECMA and administer IVIG for IgG <400 mg/dl. Manage appropriately per local institutional guidelines, including infection precautions and antibiotic or antiviral prophylaxis.

Use of Live Vaccines: The safety of immunization with live viral vaccines during or after ABECMA treatment has not been studied. Vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least 6 weeks prior to the start of lymphodepleting chemotherapy, during ABECMA treatment, and until immune recovery following treatment with ABECMA.

Secondary Malignancies: Patients treated with ABECMA may develop secondary malignancies. In KarMMa-3, myeloid neoplasms (four cases of myelodysplastic syndrome and one case of acute myeloid leukemia) occurred in 2.2% (5/222) of patients following treatment with ABECMA compared to none in the standard regimens arm at the time of the safety update. The median time to onset of myeloid neoplasm from ide-cel infusion was 338 days (Range: 277 to 794 days). Three of these five patients have died following the development of myeloid neoplasm. One out of the five cases of myeloid neoplasm occurred after initiation of subsequent antimyeloma therapy.

T cell malignancies have occurred following treatment of hematologic malignancies with BCMA- and CD19-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapies, including ABECMA. Mature T cell malignancies, including CAR-positive tumors, may present as soon as weeks following infusion, and may include fatal outcomes.

Monitor life-long for secondary malignancies. In the event that a secondary malignancy occurs, contact Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1‑888‑805‑4555 for reporting and to obtain instructions on collection of patient samples for testing of secondary malignancy.

Effects on Ability to Drive and Operate Machinery: Due to the potential for neurologic events, including altered mental status or seizures, patients receiving ABECMA are at risk for altered or decreased consciousness or coordination in the 8 weeks following ABECMA infusion. Advise patients to refrain from driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities, such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery, during this initial period.

Adverse Reactions: The most common nonlaboratory adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 20%) include pyrexia, CRS, hypogammaglobulinemia, infections – pathogen unspecified, musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, febrile neutropenia, hypotension, tachycardia, diarrhea, nausea, headache, chills, upper respiratory tract infection, encephalopathy, edema, dyspnea and viral infections.

Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNINGS and Medication Guide.

Bristol Myers Squibb: Creating a Better Future for People with Cancer

Bristol Myers Squibb is inspired by a single vision — transforming patients’ lives through science. The goal of the company’s cancer research is to deliver medicines that offer each patient a better, healthier life and to make cure a possibility. Building on a legacy across a broad range of cancers that have changed survival expectations for many, Bristol Myers Squibb researchers are exploring new frontiers in personalized medicine and, through innovative digital platforms, are turning data into insights that sharpen their focus. Deep understanding of causal human biology, cutting-edge capabilities and differentiated research platforms uniquely position the company to approach cancer from every angle.

Cancer can have a relentless grasp on many parts of a patient’s life, and Bristol Myers Squibb is committed to taking actions to address all aspects of care, from diagnosis to survivorship. As a leader in cancer care, Bristol Myers Squibb is working to empower all people with cancer to have a better future.

Learn more about the science behind cell therapy and ongoing research at Bristol Myers Squibb here.

About Bristol Myers Squibb

Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.

Galapagos showcases innovative approach in hematological cancer care with clinical and translational data presentations at EBMT congress 2024

On April 4, 2024 Galapagos NV (Euronext & NASDAQ: GLPG) reported that four abstracts, including two oral presentations on encore preliminary clinical and translational data for its seven-day vein-to-vein CAR-T product candidates GLPG5101 and GLPG5201, will be presented at the 50th Annual Meeting of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT) to be held in Glasgow, UK, on 14-17 April 2024 (Press release, Galapagos, APR 4, 2024, View Source [SID1234641866]).

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

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ATALANTA-1 and EUPLAGIA-1 are ongoing Phase 1/2 open-label, multi-center studies designed to assess the safety, efficacy and feasibility of point-of-care manufactured GLPG5101 and GLPG5201 in patients with relapsed/refractory NHL, and relapsed/refractory CLL and RT, respectively. The primary objective of the Phase 1 part of the studies is to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy to determine the recommended dose for the Phase 2 part of the study. The primary objective of the Phase 2 part of the studies is to assess the Objective Response Rate (ORR) and the secondary objectives include the analysis of the Complete Response (CR), duration of response, progression free survival, overall survival, safety, pharmacokinetic profile, and feasibility of point-of-care manufacturing. GLPG5101 and GLPG5201 are second generation anti-CD19/4-1BB CAR-T product candidates, administered as a single fixed intravenous dose.

"We are committed to accelerating breakthrough innovations to extend the reach of CAR-T therapies to patients with rapidly progressing cancers," said Dr. Jeevan Shetty, M.D., Head of Clinical Development Oncology at Galapagos. "We believe that the preliminary safety and efficacy data from our ongoing Phase 1/2 studies with our CD19 CAR-T therapy candidates in patients with relapsed/refractory NHL, CLL and RT, combined with our unique, innovative decentralized manufacturing approach that enables a seven-day vein-to-vein time, support the promise of GLPG5101 and GLPG5201 in addressing the critical needs of patients facing poor prognosis."

The following table provides a summary of Galapagos’ presentations at EBMT 2024:

Abstract Title Authors/Presenter Presentation date/time
Galapagos encore abstracts
Seven-Day Vein-to-Vein Point-of-Care Manufactured CD19 CAR T-Cell Therapy (GLPG5101) in Relapsed/Refractory Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): Results from the Phase 1 ATALANTA-1 Trial Marie José Kersten, Kirsten Saevels, Sophie Servais, Yves Beguin, Joost S.P. Vermaat, Eva Santermans, Stavros Milatos, Maike Spoon, Marte C. Liefaard, Claire Vennin, Margot J. Pont, Anna D.D. van Muyden, Maria T. Kuipers, Sébastien Anguille Oral presentation number: OS16-04
Date: 17 April, 12:57-13:06 (session runs 12:30-13:45)
Session: Oral Session 16: CAR-T outcomes in ALL
Seven-Day Vein-to-Vein Point-of-Care–Manufactured CD19 CAR T-Cell Therapy (GLPG5201) in Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Including Richter Transformation: Results from the Phase 1 EUPLAGIA-1 Study

Valentin Ortiz-Maldonado, Nuria Martinez-Cibrian, Julio Delgado, Sergi Betriu, Leticia Alserawan, Ana Triguero, Nadia Verbruggen, Maike Spoon, Marte C. Liefaard, Anna D.D. van Muyden, Natalia Tovar Oral presentation number: OS16-05
Date: 17 April, 13:06-13:15 (session runs 12:30-13:45)
Session: Oral Session 16: CAR-T outcomes in ALL

EUPLAGIA-1: Seven-Day Vein-to-Vein Point-of-Care Manufactured GLPG5201 Anti-CD19 CAR-T Cells Display Early Phenotypes in Relapsed/Refractory CLL, including RT Esmée P. Hoefsmit, Sandra Blum, Claire Vennin, Kirsten Van Hoorde, Sergi Betriu,
Leticia Alserawan, Julio Delgado, Nadia Verbruggen, Anna D.D. van Muyden, Henriëtte Rozema, Ruiz Astigarraga, Margot J. Pont Poster number: A073
Date: 15 April, 18:00-19:00
Session: Printed poster: CAR-based Cellular Therapy – Clinical

PAPILIO-1: Phase 1/2, Multicenter, Open-Label Study to Evaluate Feasibility, Safety and Efficacy of Point-of-Care–Manufactured Anti-BCMA CAR T-Cell Therapy (GLPG5301) in Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma Niels W.C.J. van de Donk, Sébastien Anguille, Jo Caers, Marte C. Liefaard, Christian Jacques, Anna D.D. van Muyden Poster number: P049
Date: 14 April, 08:30-18:00
Session: ePoster: CAR-based Cellular Therapy – Clinical
About Galapagos’ decentralized CAR-T manufacturing platform
Galapagos’ decentralized, innovative CAR T-cell manufacturing platform near the point-of-care offers the potential for the administration of fresh, fit cells with a vein-to-vein time of seven days, greater physician control and a significantly improved patient experience. The platform consists of an end-to-end xCellit workflow management and monitoring software system, a decentralized, functionally closed, automated manufacturing platform for cell therapies (using Lonza’s Cocoon) and a proprietary quality control testing and release strategy.

About the ATALANTA-1 study (EudraCT 2021-003272-13)
ATALANTA-1 is an ongoing Phase 1/2, open-label, multicenter study to evaluate the safety, efficacy and feasibility of point-of-care manufactured GLPG5101, a CD19 CAR-T product candidate, in patients with relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma (rrNHL). GLPG5101 is a second generation anti-CD19/4-1BB CAR-T product candidate, administered as a single fixed intravenous dose. The primary objective of the Phase 1 part of the study is to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy to determine the recommended dose for the Phase 2 part of the study. Secondary objectives include assessment of efficacy and feasibility of near the point-of-care manufacturing of GLPG5101. The dose levels that were evaluated in Phase 1 are 50×106 (DL1) and 110×106 (DL2) and 250×106 (DL3) CAR+ viable T cells. The primary objective of the Phase 2 part of the study is to evaluate the Objective Response Rate (ORR), while the secondary objectives include Complete Response (CR), duration of response, progression free survival, overall survival, safety, pharmacokinetic profile, and the feasibility of point-of-care manufacturing. Each enrolled patient will be followed for 24 months.

About the EUPLAGIA-1 study (EudraCT 2021-003815-25)
EUPLAGIA-1 is an ongoing Phase 1/2 open-label, multi-center study evaluating the safety, efficacy and feasibility of point-of-care manufactured GLPG5201, a CD19 CAR-T product candidate, in patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (rrCLL) and small cell lymphocytic lymphoma (rrSLL), with or without Richter transformation (RT). GLPG5201 is a second generation anti-CD19/4-1BB CAR-T product candidate, administered as a single fixed intravenous dose. Patients with CD19+ rrCLL or rrSLL with ≥2 lines of prior therapy are eligible to participate, and patients with RT are eligible regardless of prior therapy. The primary objective of the Phase 1 part of the study is to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy to determine the recommended dose for the Phase 2 part of the study. The dose levels that were evaluated in the Phase 1 part of the study are 35×106 (DL1) and 100×106 (DL2) CAR+ viable T cells. The primary objective of the Phase 2 part of the study is to assess the Objective Response Rate (ORR) and the secondary objectives include the analysis of the Complete Response (CR), duration of response, progression free survival, overall survival, safety, pharmacokinetic profile, and feasibility of point-of-care manufacturing.

Sirona Biochem Announces Close of Private Placement

On April 4, 2024 Sirona Biochem Corp. (TSX-V: SBM) (Frankfurt: ZSB) ("Sirona") reported that it has closed its private placement (Private Placement") for gross proceeds of $132,500 CAD. The Private Placement consists of 1,325,000 units, (the "Units") at a price of $0.10 per Unit (Press release, Sirona Biochem, APR 4, 2024, View Source;utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sirona-biochem-announces-close-of-private-placement [SID1234641816]). Each Unit consists of one common share and one transferable share purchase warrant, each whole warrant exercisable into one additional common share of the Company for a period of 2 years from the date of issue at a price of $0.15 per Share in year one and $0.25 per Share in year two. All securities issued under the Private Placement are subject to statutory hold periods expiring on August 4, 2024.
Proceeds will be used for general working capital purposes.
No insiders participated in the Private Placement.
No finders’ fees were paid from the Private Placement.

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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

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Huahui Health to Present Preclinical Data of HH018-sesutecan at the 2024 AACR Annual Meeting

On April 4, 2024 Huahui Health Ltd.("Huahui Health"), a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on discovering and developing virology, hepatology, and oncology therapies, reported that it will present the results of preclinical data of HH018-sesutecan, a tumor microenvironment targeting CD98-directed ADC, at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) (Free AACR Whitepaper) Annual Meeting 2024 (Press release, Huahui Health, APR 4, 2024, View Source [SID1234641809]).

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

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The AACR (Free AACR Whitepaper) meeting will be held April 5–10, 2024, in San Diego, California.

Topic: A tumor microenvironment-targeting CD98-directed ADC confers robust anti-tumor activity in multiple cancers with favorable pharmacokinetics and safety profiles in preclinical models

Session Title: Late-Breaking Research: Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics 4
Session Date and Time: Wednesday Apr 10, 2024 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Location: Poster Section 54
Poster Board Number: 1
Abstract Presentation Number: LB425
Presenter: Bin Chen, CEO of Huahui Health. Zhu Chen, CSO of ProfoundBio