101
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Relapsed acute myeloid leukemia in children and adolescents: current treatment options and future strategies. Leukemia 2022; 36:1951-1960. [PMID: 35668109 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01619-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) develops from clonal expansion of hematopoietic precursor cells and is characterized by morphologic and cytomolecular heterogeneity. Although the past 40 years have seen significant improvements in overall survival, the prevailing treatment challenges in pediatric AML are the prevention of relapse and the management of relapsed disease. Approximately 25% of children and adolescents with AML suffer disease relapse and face a poor prognosis. Our greater understanding of the genomic, epigenomic, metabolomic, and immunologic pathophysiology of relapsed AML allows for better therapeutic strategies that are being developed for pediatric clinical trials. The development of biologically rational agents is critical as conventional chemotherapeutic salvage regimens are not effective for all patients and pose risk of organ toxicity in heavily pretreated patients. Another major barrier to improvement in outcomes for relapsed pediatric AML is the historic lack of availability and participation in clinical trials. There are ongoing efforts to launch multinational clinical trials of emerging therapies. The purpose of this review is to summarize currently available and newly developed therapies for relapsed pediatric AML.
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102
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New Therapeutic Strategies for Adult Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14112806. [PMID: 35681786 PMCID: PMC9179253 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary For almost 40 years, the combination of anthracyclines and cytarabine, called 3 + 7, has been the standard of induction chemotherapy for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, with the advent of new drugs in recent years, it has become possible to improve the prognosis of patients with AML harboring certain genetic mutations. Additionally, immunotherapies and therapies targeting cell-surface antigens, which are highly expressed in AML, are emerging. Herein, we review new therapeutic strategies for AML that are evolving with the introduction of these drugs. Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a genetically heterogeneous hematological malignancy. Chromosomal and genetic analyses are important for the diagnosis and prognosis of AML. Some patients experience relapse or have refractory disease, despite conventional cytotoxic chemotherapies and allogeneic transplantation, and a variety of new agents and treatment strategies have emerged. After over 20 years during which no new drugs became available for the treatment of AML, the CD33-targeting antibody–drug conjugate gemtuzumab ozogamicin was developed. This is currently used in combination with standard chemotherapy or as a single agent. CPX-351, a liposomal formulation containing daunorubicin and cytarabine, has become one of the standard treatments for secondary AML in the elderly. FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) inhibitors and isocitrate dehydrogenase 1/2 (IDH 1/2) inhibitors are mainly used for AML patients with actionable mutations. In addition to hypomethylating agents and venetoclax, a B-cell lymphoma-2 inhibitor is used in frail patients with newly diagnosed AML. Recently, tumor protein p53 inhibitors, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors, and NEDD8 E1-activating enzyme inhibitors have been gaining attention, and a suitable strategy for the use of these drugs is required. Antibody drugs targeting cell-surface markers and immunotherapies, such as antibody–drug conjugates and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, have also been developed for AML.
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103
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Lv R, Raab M, Wang Y, Tian J, Lin J, Prasad PN. Nanochemistry advancing photon conversion in rare-earth nanostructures for theranostics. Coord Chem Rev 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2022.214486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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104
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Laszlo GS, Orozco JJ, Kehret AR, Lunn MC, Huo J, Hamlin DK, Wilbur DS, Dexter SL, Comstock ML, O’Steen S, Sandmaier BM, Green DJ, Walter RB. Development of [ 211At]astatine-based anti-CD123 radioimmunotherapy for acute leukemias and other CD123+ malignancies. Leukemia 2022; 36:1485-1491. [PMID: 35474099 PMCID: PMC9177726 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01580-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Radioimmunotherapy (RIT) has long been pursued to improve outcomes in acute leukemia and higher-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Of increasing interest are alpha-particle-emitting radionuclides such as astatine-211 (211At) as they deliver large amounts of radiation over just a few cell diameters, enabling efficient and selective target cell kill. Here, we developed 211At-based RIT targeting CD123, an antigen widely displayed on acute leukemia and MDS cells including underlying neoplastic stem cells. We generated and characterized new murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific for human CD123 and selected four, all of which were internalized by CD123+ target cells, for further characterization. All mAbs could be conjugated to a boron cage, isothiocyanatophenethyl-ureido-closo-decaborate(2-) (B10), and labeled with 211At. CD123+ cell targeting studies in immunodeficient mice demonstrated specific uptake of 211At-labeled anti-CD123 mAbs in human CD123+ MOLM-13 cell tumors in the flank. In mice injected intravenously with MOLM-13 cells or a CD123NULL MOLM-13 subline, a single dose of up to 40 µCi of 211At delivered via anti-CD123 mAb decreased tumor burdens and substantially prolonged survival dose dependently in mice bearing CD123+ but not CD123- leukemia xenografts, demonstrating potent and target-specific in vivo anti-leukemia efficacy. These data support the further development of 211At-CD123 RIT toward clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- George S. Laszlo
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Johnnie J. Orozco
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA,Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Allie R. Kehret
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Margaret C. Lunn
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jenny Huo
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Donald K. Hamlin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - D. Scott Wilbur
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Shannon L. Dexter
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Melissa L. Comstock
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shyril O’Steen
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Brenda M. Sandmaier
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA,Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Damian J. Green
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA,Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Roland B. Walter
- Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA,Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA,Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA,Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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105
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Pabon CM, Abbas HA, Konopleva M. Acute myeloid leukemia: therapeutic targeting of stem cells. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:547-556. [DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2083957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cindy M. Pabon
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Hussein A. Abbas
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Marina Konopleva
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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106
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Shin HG, Yang HR, Yoon A, Lee S. Bispecific Antibody-Based Immune-Cell Engagers and Their Emerging Therapeutic Targets in Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5686. [PMID: 35628495 PMCID: PMC9146966 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide after cardiovascular diseases. Harnessing the power of immune cells is a promising strategy to improve the antitumor effect of cancer immunotherapy. Recent progress in recombinant DNA technology and antibody engineering has ushered in a new era of bispecific antibody (bsAb)-based immune-cell engagers (ICEs), including T- and natural-killer-cell engagers. Since the first approval of blinatumomab by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA), various bsAb-based ICEs have been developed for the effective treatment of patients with cancer. Simultaneously, several potential therapeutic targets of bsAb-based ICEs have been identified in various cancers. Therefore, this review focused on not only highlighting the action mechanism, design and structure, and status of bsAb-based ICEs in clinical development and their approval by the US FDA for human malignancy treatment, but also on summarizing the currently known and emerging therapeutic targets in cancer. This review provides insights into practical considerations for developing next-generation ICEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Gyeong Shin
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Science and Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Korea; (H.G.S.); (H.R.Y.)
| | - Ha Rim Yang
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Science and Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Korea; (H.G.S.); (H.R.Y.)
| | - Aerin Yoon
- R&D Division, GC Biopharma, Yongin 16924, Korea
| | - Sukmook Lee
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Science and Technology, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Korea; (H.G.S.); (H.R.Y.)
- Biopharmaceutical Chemistry Major, School of Applied Chemistry, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Korea
- Antibody Research Institute, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Korea
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107
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Wiatrowski K, Kim TH, Przespolewski A. Cellular and Molecular Biomarkers Predictive of Response to Immunotherapy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2022; 12:826768. [PMID: 35664748 PMCID: PMC9160191 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.826768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has without question revolutionized the treatment of both hematologic and solid malignancies. Over the last several years novel strategies are being developed to incorporate these groundbreaking therapies into the care of patients with AML. Here we present an overview of the recent developments in immunotherapy for AML with a focus on biomarkers of response. Topics reviewed include antibody drug conjugates, BiTEs, DARTs, checkpoint inhibitors, and cellular therapy as well as the development of biomarkers predictive of response in each class.
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108
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Bôle-Richard E, Pemmaraju N, Caël B, Daguindau E, Lane AA. CD123 and More: How to Target the Cell Surface of Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2287. [PMID: 35565416 PMCID: PMC9099711 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare and aggressive leukemia derived from plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs). It is associated with a remarkably poor prognosis and unmet need for better therapies. Recently, the first-in-class CD123-targeting therapy, tagraxofusp, was approved for treatment of BPDCN. Other CD123-targeting strategies are in development, including bispecific antibodies and combination approaches with tagraxofusp and other novel agents. In other blood cancers, adoptive T-cell therapy using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells represents a promising new avenue in immunotherapy, showing durable remissions in some relapsed hematologic malignancies. Here, we report on novel and innovative therapies in development to target surface molecules in BPDCN currently in clinical trials or in preclinical stages. We also discuss new cell surface targets that may have implications for future BPDCN treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Bôle-Richard
- INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-25000 Besancon, France; (B.C.); (E.D.)
| | - Naveen Pemmaraju
- Department of Leukemia, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Blandine Caël
- INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-25000 Besancon, France; (B.C.); (E.D.)
| | - Etienne Daguindau
- INSERM, EFS BFC, UMR1098, RIGHT, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Interactions Greffon-Hôte-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, F-25000 Besancon, France; (B.C.); (E.D.)
- Service Hématologie, CHU Besançon, F-25000 Besancon, France
| | - Andrew A. Lane
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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109
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Leukemic Stem Cells as a Target for Eliminating Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Gaps in Translational Research. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 175:103710. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
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110
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Shin DY. Human acute myeloid leukemia stem cells: evolution of concept. Blood Res 2022; 57:67-74. [PMID: 35483929 PMCID: PMC9057671 DOI: 10.5045/br.2022.2021221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The history of human acute myeloid leukemia stem cells (AMLSCs) began in a seminal study performed by Lapidot and Dick, proving that only CD34+CD38- human primary acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells can repopulate in severe combined immunodeficient mice. The concept of leukemic stem cells (LSCs) has impeded a huge change in the treatment strategy against AML from killing proliferating leukemic cells to eradicating quiescent/dormant LSCs. As next-generation sequencing technologies have developed, multiple and recurrent genetic mutations have been discovered in large cohorts of patients with AML, and the updated understanding of leukemogenesis has improved the old concept of LSC to a revised version of a serial developmental model of LSC; that is, pre-LSCs are generated as seeds by the first hit on epigenetic regulators, and then, leukemia-initiating LSCs emerge from seeds by the second hits on genes involved in transcription and signaling. Dreams for universal and targetable AMLSC biomarker sparing healthy hematopoietic stem cells have weakened after the confrontation of significant heterogeneity of AMLSCs from genomic and immunophenotypic viewpoints. However, there is still hope for effective targets for AMLSCs since there is evidence that grouped gene signatures, such as 17-gene LSC score, and common epigenetic signatures, such as HOXA clusters, independent of various gene mutations, exist. Recently, the LSC niche in the bone marrow has been actively investigated and has expanded our knowledge of the physiology and vulnerability of AMLSCs. Presently, an applicable treatment that always works in AMLSCs is lacking. However, we will find a way, we always have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Yeop Shin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,Center for Medical Innovation, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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111
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Merli P. Treating second-relapsed/refractory first-relapsed childhood acute myeloid leukaemia: Successful salvage rather than palliation? Br J Haematol 2022; 197:651-652. [PMID: 35435248 PMCID: PMC9321902 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Prognosis of second‐relapsed/refractory first‐relapsed childhood acute myeloid leukaemia remains poor and there are no clear guidelines on the best treatment approach. The report by White et al. suggests that, while outcomes are still unsatisfactory, there is room to pursue a curative approach rather than palliation. Commentary on: White et al. Clinical outcomes of second relapsed and refractory first relapsed paediatric AML: A retrospective study within the NOPHO‐DB SHIP consortium. Br J Haematol 2022;197:755‐765.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Merli
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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112
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Augmented FLAMSA-Bu versus FluBu2 reduced-intensity conditioning in patients with active relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia: an EBMT analysis. Bone Marrow Transplant 2022; 57:934-941. [PMID: 35393528 DOI: 10.1038/s41409-022-01611-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Comparative data of fludarabine, cytarabine and amsacrine (FLAMSA) chemotherapy followed by busulfan (Bu)-based reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) (FLAMSA-Bu) versus RIC regimens are lacking in patients with active relapsed/refractory (R/R) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) at the time of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT). Here, we retrospectively analyzed outcomes after FLAMSA-Bu versus fludarabine/busulfan (FluBu2) conditioning in this patient population. A total of 476 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria, of whom 257 received FluBu2 and 219 FLAMSA-Bu. Median follow-up was 41 months. Two-year non-relapse mortality (21%), graft-versus-host disease-free, relapse-free survival (24%) and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) (29%) were not statistically different between cohorts. FLAMSA-Bu was associated with lower 2-year relapse incidence (RI) (38 vs 49% after FluBu2, p = 0.004), and increased leukemia-free survival (LFS) (42 vs 29%, p = 0.001), overall survival (47 vs 39%, p = 0.008) and grades II-IV acute GVHD (36 vs 20%, p = 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, FLAMSA-Bu remained associated with lower RI (HR 0.69, p = 0.042), increased LFS (HR 0.74, p = 0.048) and a higher risk of acute GVHD (HR 2.06, p = 0.005). Notwithstanding the limitations inherent in this analysis, our data indicate that FLAMSA-Bu constitutes a tolerable conditioning strategy, resulting in a long-term benefit in a subset of patients reaching alloSCT with active disease.
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113
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Infectious complications of targeted drugs and biotherapies in acute leukemia. Clinical practice guidelines by the European Conference on Infections in Leukemia (ECIL), a joint venture of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (EBMT), the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), the International Immunocompromised Host Society (ICHS) and the European Leukemia Net (ELN). Leukemia 2022; 36:1215-1226. [PMID: 35368047 PMCID: PMC9061290 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-022-01556-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe 9th web-based European Conference on Infections in Leukemia (ECIL-9), held September 16-17, 2021, reviewed the risk of infections and febrile neutropenia associated with more recently approved immunotherapeutic agents and molecular targeted drugs for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Novel antibody based treatment approaches (inotuzumab ozogamicin, gemtuzumab ozogamicin, flotetuzumab), isocitrate dehydrogenases inhibitors (ivosidenib, enasidenib, olutasidenib), FLT3 kinase inhibitors (gilteritinib, midostaurin, quizartinib), a hedgehog inhibitor (glasdegib) as well as a BCL2 inhibitor (venetoclax) were reviewed with respect to their mode of action, their immunosuppressive potential, their current approval and the infectious complications and febrile neutropenia reported from clinical studies. Evidence-based recommendations for prevention and management of infectious complications and specific alerts regarding the potential for drug-drug interactions were developed and discussed in a plenary session with the panel of experts until consensus was reached. The set of recommendations was posted on the ECIL website for a month for comments from members of EBMT, EORTC, ICHS and ELN before final approval by the panelists. While a majority of these agents are not associated with a significantly increased risk when used as monotherapy, caution is required with combination therapy such as venetoclax plus hypomethylating agents, gemtuzumab ozogamicin plus cytotoxic drugs or midostaurin added to conventional AML chemotherapy.
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114
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Granowicz EM, Jonas BA. Targeting TP53-Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Research and Clinical Developments. Onco Targets Ther 2022; 15:423-436. [PMID: 35479302 PMCID: PMC9037178 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s265637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
TP53 is a key tumor suppressor gene that plays an important role in regulating apoptosis, senescence, and DNA damage repair in response to cellular stress. Although somewhat rare, TP53-mutated AML has been identified as an important molecular subgroup with a prognosis that is arguably the worst of any. Survival beyond one year is rare after induction chemotherapy with or without consolidative allogeneic stem cell transplant. Although response rates have been improved with hypomethylating agents, outcomes remain particularly poor due to short response duration. Improvements in our understanding of AML genetics and biology have led to a surge in novel treatment options, though the clinical applicability of these agents in TP53-mutated disease remains largely unknown. This review will focus on the epidemiology, molecular characteristics, and clinical significance of TP53 mutations in AML as well as emerging treatment options that are currently being studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Granowicz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Brian A Jonas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Correspondence: Brian A Jonas, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, 4501 X Street, Suite #3016, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA, Tel +1 916-734-3772, Fax +1 916-734-7946, Email
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115
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Roloff GW, Odenike O, Bajel A, Wei AH, Foley N, Uy GL. Contemporary Approach to Acute Myeloid Leukemia Therapy in 2022. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book 2022; 42:1-16. [PMID: 35658497 DOI: 10.1200/edbk_349605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in acute myeloid leukemia biology and drug development have transformed the therapeutic landscape for patients diagnosed with this disease. By harnessing insights from the study of the molecular pathogenesis of the disease, the acute myeloid leukemia treatment armamentarium now extends beyond conventional cytotoxic agents to include targeted therapies, and immunotherapeutics, with multiple novel modalities under investigation. During the past 5 years, recent drug approvals have also focused attention on disease scenarios and patient populations for whom newer therapies might be deployed. In this review, we highlight select acute myeloid leukemia therapies in the frontline setting through the lens of both disease and patient-related factors. Particular emphasis is placed on the assessment of patient fitness, as contemporary acute myeloid leukemia therapy decisions largely hinge on the determination of whether intensive chemotherapy is suitable for a patient. Additionally, we detail scenarios and areas of controversy wherein disease biology may inspire a reframing of traditional intensive treatment philosophies, regardless of patient fitness. Lastly, we provide an overview of emerging agents that are being investigated in the relapsed/refractory setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory W Roloff
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Olatoyosi Odenike
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - Ashish Bajel
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre & The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew H Wei
- Department of Clinical Haematology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre & The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicole Foley
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Geoffrey L Uy
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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116
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Andreozzi F, Massaro F, Wittnebel S, Spilleboudt C, Lewalle P, Salaroli A. New Perspectives in Treating Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Driving towards a Patient-Tailored Strategy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3887. [PMID: 35409248 PMCID: PMC8999556 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, intensive chemotherapy (IC) has been considered the best therapeutic option for treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML), with no curative option available for patients who are not eligible for IC or who have had failed IC. Over the last few years, several new drugs have enriched the therapeutic arsenal of AML treatment for both fit and unfit patients, raising new opportunities but also new challenges. These include the already approved venetoclax, the IDH1/2 inhibitors enasidenib and ivosidenib, gemtuzumab ozogamicin, the liposomal daunorubicin/cytarabine formulation CPX-351, and oral azacitidine. Venetoclax, an anti BCL2-inhibitor, in combination with hypomethylating agents (HMAs), has markedly improved the management of unfit and elderly patients from the perspective of improved quality of life and better survival. Venetoclax is currently under investigation in combination with other old and new drugs in early phase trials. Recently developed drugs with different mechanisms of action and new technologies that have already been investigated in other settings (BiTE and CAR-T cells) are currently being explored in AML, and ongoing trials should determine promising agents, more synergic combinations, and better treatment strategies. Access to new drugs and inclusion in clinical trials should be strongly encouraged to provide scientific evidence and to define the future standard of treatment in AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Andreozzi
- Hematology Department, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium; (F.M.); (S.W.); (C.S.); (P.L.); (A.S.)
| | - Fulvio Massaro
- Hematology Department, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium; (F.M.); (S.W.); (C.S.); (P.L.); (A.S.)
- PhD Program in Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Sebastian Wittnebel
- Hematology Department, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium; (F.M.); (S.W.); (C.S.); (P.L.); (A.S.)
| | - Chloé Spilleboudt
- Hematology Department, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium; (F.M.); (S.W.); (C.S.); (P.L.); (A.S.)
| | - Philippe Lewalle
- Hematology Department, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium; (F.M.); (S.W.); (C.S.); (P.L.); (A.S.)
| | - Adriano Salaroli
- Hematology Department, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium; (F.M.); (S.W.); (C.S.); (P.L.); (A.S.)
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117
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Saad AA. Targeting cancer-associated glycans as a therapeutic strategy in leukemia. ALL LIFE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2022.2049901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Abdullah Saad
- Unit of Pediatric Hematologic Oncology and BMT, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
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118
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Petersen MA, Rosenberg CA, Brøndum RF, Aggerholm A, Kjeldsen E, Rahbek O, Ludvigsen M, Hasle H, Roug AS, Bill M. Immunophenotypically defined stem cell subsets in paediatric AML are highly heterogeneous and demonstrate differences in BCL-2 expression by cytogenetic subgroups. Br J Haematol 2022; 197:452-466. [PMID: 35298835 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.18094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In adult acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), immunophenotypic differences enable discrimination of leukaemic stem cells (LSCs) from healthy haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). However, immunophenotypic stem cell characteristics are less explored in paediatric AML. Employing a 15-colour flow cytometry assay, we analysed the expression of eight aberrant surface markers together with BCL-2 on CD34+ CD38- bone marrow stem cells from 38 paediatric AML patients and seven non-leukaemic, age-matched controls. Furthermore, clonality was investigated by genetic analyses of sorted immunophenotypically abnormal stem cells from six patients. A total of 50 aberrant marker positive (non-HSC-like) subsets with 41 different immunophenotypic profiles were detected. CD123, CLEC12A, and IL1RAP were the most frequently expressed markers. IL1RAP, CD93, and CD25 expression were not restricted to stem cells harbouring leukaemia-associated mutations. Differential BCL-2 expression was found among defined cytogenetic subgroups. Interestingly, only immunophenotypically abnormal non-HSC-like subsets demonstrated BCL-2 overexpression. Collectively, we observed pronounced immunophenotypic heterogeneity within the stem cell compartment of paediatric AML patients. Additionally, certain aberrant markers used in adults seemed to be ineligible for detection of leukaemia-representing stem cells in paediatric patients implying that inference from adult studies must be done with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne A Petersen
- Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Haematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Carina A Rosenberg
- Department of Haematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rasmus F Brøndum
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.,Department of Haematology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Anni Aggerholm
- Department of Haematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Eigil Kjeldsen
- Department of Haematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ole Rahbek
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Maja Ludvigsen
- Department of Haematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henrik Hasle
- Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anne S Roug
- Department of Haematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Marie Bill
- Department of Haematology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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119
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Abstract
Despite FDA approval of nine new drugs for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in the United States over the last 4 years, AML remains a major area of unmet medical need among hematologic malignancies. In this review, we discuss the development of promising new molecular targeted approaches for AML, including menin inhibition, novel IDH1/2 inhibitors, and preclinical means to target TET2, ASXL1, and RNA splicing factor mutations. In addition, we review progress in immune targeting of AML through anti-CD47, anti-SIRPα, and anti-TIM-3 antibodies; bispecific and trispecific antibodies; and new cellular therapies in development for AML.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Bewersdorf
- Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Omar Abdel-Wahab
- Leukemia Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
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120
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Brivio E, Baruchel A, Beishuizen A, Bourquin JP, Brown PA, Cooper T, Gore L, Kolb EA, Locatelli F, Maude SL, Mussai FJ, Vormoor-Bürger B, Vormoor J, von Stackelberg A, Zwaan CM. Targeted inhibitors and antibody immunotherapies: Novel therapies for paediatric leukaemia and lymphoma. Eur J Cancer 2022; 164:1-17. [PMID: 35121370 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2021.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite improved outcomes achieved in the last decades for children with newly diagnosed leukaemia and lymphoma, treatment of patients with refractory/relapsed disease remains a challenge. The cure rate is still unsatisfactory and often achieved at the cost of significant morbidity. Exploring treatment with novel agents should offer less toxic therapeutic options, without compromising efficacy. Bispecific and antibody-drug conjugates targeting CD19 and CD22 (blinatumomab and inotuzumab ozogamicin) play an important role in the treatment of relapsed and refractory B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (BCP-ALL); antibodies targeting CD123 and CD38 are also under investigation for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and T-ALL, respectively. Targeted therapy with small molecules is of primary importance for specific genetic subtypes, such as BCR-ABL-positive ALL, FLT3-ITD AML and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma. KMT2A-directed targeted therapy with menin inhibitors holds promise to be of relevance in KMT2A-rearranged leukaemias, known to have dismal prognosis. Target inhibition in cellular pathways such as BCL-2, RAS, MEK, Bruton's tyrosine kinase, JAK-STAT or CDK4/CDK6 inhibition may be suitable for different diseases with common mutated pathways. Nevertheless, development and approval of new agents for paediatric cancers lags behind adult therapeutic options. New regulations were implemented to accelerate drug development for children. Considering the number of oncology medicinal products available for adults and the rarity of paediatric cancers, prioritisation based on scientific evidence and medical need, as well as international collaboration, is critical. Herein, we review the current status of drug development for children with leukaemia and lymphoma, excluding cellular therapy despite its well-known significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Brivio
- Princess Ma´xima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - André Baruchel
- Hématologie-Immunologie Pédiatrique, Hoˆ pital Universitaire Robert Debré (APHP) and Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Auke Beishuizen
- Princess Ma´xima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jean-Pierre Bourquin
- Department of Oncology and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick A Brown
- Departments of Oncology and Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Todd Cooper
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center/Children's Healthcare of Atlanta/Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lia Gore
- University of Colorado School of Medicine and Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, USA
| | - E Anders Kolb
- Nemours Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, Nemours/Alfred I DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE, USA
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Sapienza, University of Rome, Italy
| | - Shannon L Maude
- Division of Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Francis J Mussai
- Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy, Cancer Research UK Birmingham Centre, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | | | - Josef Vormoor
- Princess Ma´xima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | | | - C Michel Zwaan
- Princess Ma´xima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Pediatric Oncology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; The Innovative Therapies for Children with Cancer Consortium, Paris, France.
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121
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Koedam J, Wermke M, Ehninger A, Cartellieri M, Ehninger G. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy in acute myeloid leukemia. Curr Opin Hematol 2022; 29:74-83. [PMID: 35013048 PMCID: PMC8815830 DOI: 10.1097/moh.0000000000000703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Treatment outcome of relapsed or refractory AML patients remains dismal and new treatment options are needed. Adoptive cell therapy using CAR-T cells is a potentially interesting approach in this. RECENT FINDINGS Several potentially interesting AML targets are being investigated with CAR-T therapy with over 60 clinical trials listed on clinicaltrials.gov. The first clinical data are only just emerging with mixed results, once more proving that further research is needed. SUMMARY Adoptive cell therapy using chimeric antigen receptor T cells is being investigated in AML through many clinical trials. So far, no AML-specific antigen has been identified, requiring additional strategies to mitigate on-target off-tumor toxicity and to increase efficacy. Focus point is to acquire control over the CAR T cells once administered. Strategies to do so include biodegradable CARs, inducible CARs, suicide-switch containing CARs and two-component modular CARs. Limited and mixed results are available, confirming the risk of lasting toxicity for nonswitchable CARs. Initial results of modular CARs suggest toxicity can be mitigated whilst maintaining CAR activity by the use of modular CAR concepts that allows for 'ON' and 'OFF' switching.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martin Wermke
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation, Medical Clinic I, Department of Medicine I, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus
- National Center for Tumor Diseases
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122
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Efficacy of Flotetuzumab in Combination with Cytarabine in Patient-Derived Xenograft Models of Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11051333. [PMID: 35268423 PMCID: PMC8911345 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11051333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have a poor prognosis despite the intensification of chemotherapy. Future efforts to improve outcomes should focus on more precise targeting of leukemia cells. CD123, or IL3RA, is expressed on the surface of nearly all pediatric AML samples and is a high-priority target for immunotherapy. The efficacy of an investigational dual-affinity retargeting antibody (DART) molecule (CD123 × CD3; MGD006 or flotetuzumab) was assessed in two distinct patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of pediatric AML. MGD006 simultaneously binds to CD123 on target cells and CD3 on effector T cells, thereby activating T cells and redirecting them to induce cytotoxicity in target cells. The concurrent treatment of cytarabine and MGD006 was performed to determine the effect of cytarabine on T-cell counts and MGD006 activity. Treatment with MGD006 along with an allogeneic human T-cell infusion to act as effector cells induced durable responses in both PDX models, with CD123 positivity. This effect was sustained in mice treated with a combination of MGD006 and cytarabine in the presence of T cells. MGD006 enhanced T-cell proliferation and decreased the burden of AML blasts in the peripheral blood with or without cytarabine treatment. These data demonstrate the efficacy of MGD006 in prolonging survival in pediatric AML PDX models in the presence of effector T cells and show that the inclusion of cytarabine in the treatment regimen does not interfere with MGD006 activity.
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123
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Lejman M, Dziatkiewicz I, Jurek M. Straight to the Point-The Novel Strategies to Cure Pediatric AML. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23041968. [PMID: 35216084 PMCID: PMC8878466 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23041968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the outcome has improved over the past decades, due to improved supportive care, a better understanding of risk factors, and intensified chemotherapy, pediatric acute myeloid leukemia remains a life-threatening disease, and overall survival (OS) remains near 70%. According to French-American-British (FAB) classification, AML is divided into eight subtypes (M0–M7), and each is characterized by a different pathogenesis and response to treatment. However, the curability of AML is due to the intensification of standard chemotherapy, more precise risk classification, improvements in supportive care, and the use of minimal residual disease to monitor response to therapy. The treatment of childhood AML continues to be based primarily on intensive, conventional chemotherapy. Therefore, it is essential to identify new, more precise molecules that are targeted to the specific abnormalities of each leukemia subtype. Here, we review abnormalities that are potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of AML in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Lejman
- Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, II Faculty of Pediatrics, Medical University of Lublin, A. Gębali 6, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Izabela Dziatkiewicz
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, II Faculty of Pediatrics, Medical University of Lublin, A. Gębali 6, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (M.J.)
| | - Mateusz Jurek
- Student Scientific Society, Laboratory of Genetic Diagnostics, II Faculty of Pediatrics, Medical University of Lublin, A. Gębali 6, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (I.D.); (M.J.)
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124
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Watts J, Lin TL, Mims A, Patel P, Lee C, Shahidzadeh A, Shami P, Cull E, Cogle CR, Wang E, Uckun FM. Post-hoc Analysis of Pharmacodynamics and Single-Agent Activity of CD3xCD123 Bispecific Antibody APVO436 in Relapsed/Refractory AML and MDS Resistant to HMA or Venetoclax Plus HMA. Front Oncol 2022; 11:806243. [PMID: 35096610 PMCID: PMC8793782 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.806243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
APVO436 is a recombinant bispecific antibody designed to direct host cytotoxic T-cells to CD123-expressing blast cells in patients with hematologic malignancies. APVO436 showed promising tolerability and single-agent activity in relapsed or refractory (R/R) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). The primary purpose of this post-hoc analysis was to evaluate the therapeutic and pharmacodynamic effects of APVO436 in 14 R/R AML/MDS patients who had failed treatment with hypomethylating agents (HMA) or venetoclax plus HMA prior to being enrolled in the APVO436 Phase 1 dose-escalation study that was recently completed. Eight of these 14 patients had R/R AML and had failed treatment with HMA (N=2) or venetoclax plus HMA (N=6). The remaining 6 patients had R/R MDS and had also failed treatment with HMA (N=5) or venetoclax plus HMA (N=1). They were treated with APVO436 at submicrogram dose levels >0.08 mcg/kg that were active in preclinical NOD/SCID mouse xenograft models of AML. APVO436 activated patients' T-cells as evidenced by reduced numbers of circulating CD123+CD34+ and CD33+CD34+ peripheral blasts. Single-agent activity was observed at dose levels ranging from 0.1 mcg/kg to 0.7 mcg/kg in 4 R/R AML patients (50%), including 3 patients with prolonged stable disease (SD) and one patient with complete remission (CR). Likewise, 3 MDS patients had SD (50%) and 3 additional MDS patients (50%) had a marrow CR at dose levels ranging from 0.1 mcg/kg to 0.8 mcg/kg. The median survival for the combined group of 14 R/R AML/MDS patients was 282 days. This early evidence of single-agent activity of APVO436 in R/R AML/MDS patients who failed HMA with or without venetoclax provides proof of concept supporting its in vivo immunomodulatory and anti-leukemic activity and warrants further investigation of its clinical impact potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Watts
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Tara L Lin
- Cancer Center and Medical Pavillon, University of Kansas, Westwood, KS, United States
| | - Alice Mims
- Wexner Medical Center/James Cancer Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Prapti Patel
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Cynthia Lee
- Department of Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Research, Aptevo Therapeutics, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Anoush Shahidzadeh
- Department of Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Research, Aptevo Therapeutics, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Paul Shami
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Elizabeth Cull
- Greenville Health System, Institute for Translational Oncology Research, Greenville, SC, United States
| | - Christopher R Cogle
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Eunice Wang
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Fatih M Uckun
- Department of Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Research, Aptevo Therapeutics, Seattle, WA, United States.,Immuno-Oncology Program, Ares Pharmaceuticals, St. Paul, MN, United States
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125
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Saha C, Attwell L, Harrison CN, McLornan DP. Addressing the challenges of accelerated and blast phase myeloproliferative neoplasms in 2022 and beyond. Blood Rev 2022; 55:100947. [DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2022.100947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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126
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Pasvolsky O, Daher M, Alatrash G, Marin D, Daver N, Ravandi F, Rezvani K, Shpall E, Kebriaei P. CARving the Path to Allogeneic CAR T Cell Therapy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Front Oncol 2022; 11:800110. [PMID: 35083154 PMCID: PMC8784883 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.800110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in the understanding of the genetic landscape of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and the addition of targeted biological and epigenetic therapies to the available armamentarium, achieving long-term disease-free survival remains an unmet need. Building on growing knowledge of the interactions between leukemic cells and their bone marrow microenvironment, strategies to battle AML by immunotherapy are under investigation. In the current review we describe the advances in immunotherapy for AML, with a focus on chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy. CARs constitute powerful immunologic modalities, with proven clinical success in B-Cell malignancies. We discuss the challenges and possible solutions for CAR T cell therapy development in AML, and examine the path currently being paved by preclinical and clinical efforts, from autologous to allogeneic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oren Pasvolsky
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States.,Institute of Hematology, Davidoff Cancer Center, Rabin Medical Center, Petah-Tikva, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - May Daher
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Gheath Alatrash
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - David Marin
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Naval Daver
- Department of Leukemia, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Farhad Ravandi
- Department of Leukemia, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Katy Rezvani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Elizabeth Shpall
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Partow Kebriaei
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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127
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Haddad F, Daver N. An Update on Immune Based Therapies in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: 2021 and Beyond! ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1342:273-295. [PMID: 34972969 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-79308-1_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), relapse is still widely observed and represents the major cause of death among patients with AML. Treatment options in the relapse setting are limited, still relying predominantly on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) and cytotoxic chemotherapy, with poor outcomes. Novel targeted and venetoclax-based combinations are being investigated and have shown encouraging results. Immune checkpoint inhibitors in combination with low-intensity chemotherapy demonstrated encouraging response rates and survival among patients with relapsed and/or refractory (R/R) AML, especially in the pre- and post-allo-HSCT setting. Blocking the CD47/SIRPα pathway is another strategy that showed robust anti-leukemic activity, with a response rate of around 70% and an encouraging median overall survival in patients with newly diagnosed, higher-risk myelodysplastic syndrome and patients with AML with a TP53 mutation. One approach that was proven to be very effective in the relapsed setting of lymphoid malignancies is chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. It relies on the infusion of genetically engineered T cells capable of recognizing specific epitopes on the surface of leukemia cells. In AML, different CAR constructs with different target antigens have been evaluated and demonstrated safety and feasibility in the R/R setting. However, the difficulty of potently targeting leukemic blasts in AML while sparing normal cells represents a major limitation to their use, and strategies are being tested to overcome this obstacle. A different approach is based on endogenously redirecting the patient's system cells to target and destroy leukemic cells via bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs) or dual antigen receptor targeting (DARTs). Early results have demonstrated the safety and feasibility of these agents, and research is ongoing to develop BiTEs with longer half-life, allowing for less frequent administration schedules and developing them in earlier and lower disease burden settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadi Haddad
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Naval Daver
- Department of Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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128
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Insights into Modern Therapeutic Approaches in Pediatric Acute Leukemias. Cells 2022; 11:cells11010139. [PMID: 35011701 PMCID: PMC8749975 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric cancers predominantly constitute lymphomas and leukemias. Recently, our knowledge and awareness about genetic diversities, and their consequences in these diseases, have greatly expanded. Modern solutions are focused on mobilizing and impacting a patient’s immune system. Strategies to stimulate the immune system, to prime an antitumor response, are of intense interest. Amid those types of therapies are chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells, bispecific antibodies, and antibody–drug conjugates (ADC), which have already been approved in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)/acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In addition, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), the pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), i.e., NOD-like receptors (NLRs), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and several kinds of therapy antibodies are well on their way to showing significant benefits for patients with these diseases. This review summarizes the current knowledge of modern methods used in selected pediatric malignancies and presents therapies that may hold promise for the future.
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129
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de Leeuw DC, Ossenkoppele GJ, Janssen JJWM. Older Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia Deserve Individualized Treatment. Curr Oncol Rep 2022; 24:1387-1400. [PMID: 35653050 PMCID: PMC9606099 DOI: 10.1007/s11912-022-01299-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Treatment of elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia is a known challenge for hematologists due to patient diversity, heterogeneous disease biology, and a rapidly evolving treatment landscape. Here, we highlight the importance of determining fitness, review the latest therapeutic developments, and discuss clinical scenarios to provide guidance on individualized treatment for older AML patients. RECENT FINDINGS Several factors, like age, performance status, and comorbidities, play a role in fitness and are associated with outcome. Comorbidity scoring systems and geriatric assessments are tools to help physicians select the most appropriate treatment for each patient. The addition of venetoclax, targeted therapy with IDH1/2 and FLT3 inhibitors, and enhanced formulas of existing drugs like CPX-351 and oral azacitidine have improved responses and outcomes. New drugs and combination therapies have increased the therapeutic options for elderly AML patients but determination of fitness and disease biology is essential to select patient-tailored treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C. de Leeuw
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gert J. Ossenkoppele
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J. W. M. Janssen
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Department of Hematology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VUmc, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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130
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Tettamanti S, Pievani A, Biondi A, Dotti G, Serafini M. Catch me if you can: how AML and its niche escape immunotherapy. Leukemia 2022; 36:13-22. [PMID: 34302116 PMCID: PMC8727297 DOI: 10.1038/s41375-021-01350-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In spite of the remarkable progress in basic and preclinical studies of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the five-year survival rate of AML patients remains poor, highlighting the urgent need for novel and synergistic therapies. Over the past decade, increased attention has been focused on identifying suitable immunotherapeutic strategies for AML, and in particular on targeting leukemic cells and their progenitors. However, recent studies have also underlined the important contribution of the leukemic microenvironment in facilitating tumor escape mechanisms leading to disease recurrence. Here, we describe the immunological features of the AML niche, with particular attention to the crosstalk between the AML blasts and the cellular components of the altered tumor microenvironment (TME) and the mechanisms of immune escape that hamper the therapeutic effects of the most advanced treatments. Considering the AML complexity, immunotherapy approaches may benefit from a rational combination of complementary strategies aimed at preventing escape mechanisms without increasing toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Tettamanti
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Alice Pievani
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
| | - Andrea Biondi
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy.
| | - Gianpietro Dotti
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Marta Serafini
- Tettamanti Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Milano-Bicocca/Fondazione MBBM, Monza, Italy
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131
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Diagnosis and Treatment of Therapy-related Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 171:103607. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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132
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Checkpoint Inhibitors and Other Immune-Based Therapies in Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancer J 2022; 28:43-50. [DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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133
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What Are the Prospects for Treating TP53 Mutated Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Acute Myeloid Leukemia? Cancer J 2022; 28:51-61. [DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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134
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Immune-Based Therapeutic Strategies for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010105. [PMID: 35008269 PMCID: PMC8744886 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary This review summarizes various therapeutic immune approaches representing their targets, the efficacy and toxicity in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia. In particular, immune checkpoint inhibitors, bispecific T-cell engager antibodies and chimeric antigen receptor-T-cell approaches are highlighted. Abstract The development and design of immune-based strategies have become an increasingly important topic during the last few years in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), based on successful immunotherapies in solid cancer. The spectrum ranges from antibody drug conjugates, immune checkpoint inhibitors blocking programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1), cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA4) or T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain containing-3 (TIM3), to T-cell based monoclonal and bispecific T-cell engager antibodies, chimeric antigen receptor-T-cell (CAR-T) approaches and leukemia vaccines. Currently, there are many substances in development and multiple phase I/II studies are ongoing. These trials will help us to deepen our understanding of the pathogenesis of AML and facilitate the best immunotherapeutic strategy in AML. We discuss here the mode of action of immune-based therapies and provide an overview of the available data.
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135
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Barrière S, El-Ghazzi N, Garcia M, Guièze R. [Bispecific antibodies in onco-hematology: Applications and perspectives]. Bull Cancer 2021; 108:S195-S204. [PMID: 34920803 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Bispecific antibodies are novel approaches of immunotherapy engaging immune cells to destroy tumor cells. Their structure is variable and underlies their pharmacocinetic properties. These coumpounds are now being evaluated across multiple hematological malignancies. The anti-CD3/CD19 antibody blinatumomab is the first in class and have been approved for the treatment of patients with Ph-negative B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Other emerging applications are lymphoma, multiple myeloma and acute myeloid leukemia. The safety profile of bispecific antibodies is acceptable while limited by neurotoxicity and cytokine-release syndrome. The present review aims to depict the landscape of emerging bispecific antibodies currently in development for hematological malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Barrière
- CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, service d'hématologie clinique et de thérapie cellulaire, 1, rue Lucie- et Raymond-Aubrac, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | - Nathan El-Ghazzi
- CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, service d'hématologie clinique et de thérapie cellulaire, 1, rue Lucie- et Raymond-Aubrac, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Manon Garcia
- Université Clermont-Auvergne, EA 7453, CHELTER, Clermont-Ferrand, France; Institut GReD, 28, place Henri-Dunant, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Romain Guièze
- CHU de Clermont-Ferrand, service d'hématologie clinique et de thérapie cellulaire, 1, rue Lucie- et Raymond-Aubrac, 63100 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Université Clermont-Auvergne, EA 7453, CHELTER, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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136
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European LeukemiaNet 2017 risk stratification for acute myeloid leukemia: validation in a risk-adapted protocol. Blood Adv 2021; 6:1193-1206. [PMID: 34911079 PMCID: PMC8864653 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2021005585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The ELN 2017 classification has been validated in a risk-adapted intensive protocol, supporting its utility to predict outcome. Within the ELN 2017 adverse group, there is a subset of patients (inv(3) and TP53 abnormalities) with a particularly poor prognosis.
The 2017 European LeukemiaNet (ELN 2017) guidelines for the diagnosis and management of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have become fundamental guidelines to assess the prognosis and postremission therapy of patients. However, they have been retrospectively validated in few studies with patients included in different treatment protocols. We analyzed 861 patients included in the Cooperativo Para el Estudio y Tratamiento de las Leucemias Agudas y Mielodisplasias-12 risk-adapted protocol, which indicates cytarabine-based consolidation for patients allocated to the ELN 2017 favorable-risk group, whereas it recommends allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) as a postremission strategy for the ELN 2017 intermediate- and adverse-risk groups. We retrospectively classified patients according to the ELN 2017, with 327 (48%), 109 (16%), and 245 (36%) patients allocated to the favorable-, intermediate-, and adverse-risk group, respectively. The 2- and 5-year overall survival (OS) rates were 77% and 70% for favorable-risk patients, 52% and 46% for intermediate-risk patients, and 33% and 23% for adverse-risk patients, respectively. Furthermore, we identified a subgroup of patients within the adverse group (inv(3)/t(3;3), complex karyotype, and/or TP53 mutation/17p abnormality) with a particularly poor outcome, with a 2-year OS of 15%. Our study validates the ELN 2017 risk stratification in a large cohort of patients treated with an ELN-2017 risk-adapted protocol based on alloSCT after remission for nonfavorable ELN subgroups and identifies a genetic subset with a very poor outcome that warrants investigation of novel strategies.
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137
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Christodoulou I, Ho WJ, Marple A, Ravich JW, Tam A, Rahnama R, Fearnow A, Rietberg C, Yanik S, Solomou EE, Varadhan R, Koldobskiy MA, Bonifant CL. Engineering CAR-NK cells to secrete IL-15 sustains their anti-AML functionality but is associated with systemic toxicities. J Immunother Cancer 2021; 9:jitc-2021-003894. [PMID: 34896980 PMCID: PMC8655609 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The prognosis of patients with recurrent/refractory acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) remains poor and cell-based immunotherapies hold promise to improve outcomes. Natural Killer (NK) cells can elicit an antileukemic response via a repertoire of activating receptors that bind AML surface ligands. NK-cell adoptive transfer is safe but thus far has shown limited anti-AML efficacy. Here, we aimed to overcome this limitation by engineering NK cells to express chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to boost their anti-AML activity and interleukin (IL)-15 to enhance their persistence. Methods We characterized in detail NK-cell populations expressing a panel of AML (CD123)-specific CARs and/or IL-15 in vitro and in AML xenograft models. Results CARs with 2B4.ζ or 4-1BB.ζ signaling domains demonstrated greater cell surface expression and endowed NK cells with improved anti-AML activity in vitro. Initial in vivo testing revealed that only 2B4.ζ Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-NK cells had improved anti-AML activity in comparison to untransduced (UTD) and 4-1BB.ζ CAR-NK cells. However, the benefit was transient due to limited CAR-NK-cell persistence. Transgenic expression of secretory interleukin (sIL)-15 in 2B4.ζ CAR and UTD NK cells improved their effector function in the setting of chronic antigen simulation in vitro. Multiparameter flow analysis after chronic antigen exposure identified the expansion of unique NK-cell subsets. 2B4.ζ/sIL-15 CAR and sIL-15 NK cells maintained an overall activated NK-cell phenotype. This was confirmed by transcriptomic analysis, which revealed a highly proliferative and activated signature in these NK-cell groups. In vivo, 2B4.ζ/sIL-15 CAR-NK cells had potent anti-AML activity in one model, while 2B4.ζ/sIL-15 CAR and sIL-15 NK cells induced lethal toxicity in a second model. Conclusion Transgenic expression of CD123-CARs and sIL-15 enabled NK cells to function in the setting of chronic antigen exposure but was associated with systemic toxicities. Thus, our study provides the impetus to explore inducible and controllable expression systems to provide cytokine signals to AML-specific CAR-NK cells before embarking on early-phase clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Christodoulou
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras School of Health Sciences, Patras, Western Greece, Greece
| | - Won Jin Ho
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew Marple
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jonas W Ravich
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ada Tam
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ruyan Rahnama
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Adam Fearnow
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Cambrynne Rietberg
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Sean Yanik
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Elena E Solomou
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras School of Health Sciences, Patras, Western Greece, Greece
| | - Ravi Varadhan
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael A Koldobskiy
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Challice L Bonifant
- Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA .,Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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138
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Aureli A, Marziani B, Sconocchia T, Del Principe MI, Buzzatti E, Pasqualone G, Venditti A, Sconocchia G. Immunotherapy as a Turning Point in the Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246246. [PMID: 34944865 PMCID: PMC8699368 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite recent progress achieved in the management of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), it remains a life-threatening disease with a poor prognosis, particularly in the elderly, having an average 5-year survival of approximately 28%. However, recent evidence suggests that immunotherapy can provide the background for developing personalized targeted therapy to improve the clinical course of AML patients. Our review aimed to assess the immunotherapy effectiveness in AML by discussing the impact of monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor T cells, and vaccines in AML preclinical and clinical studies. Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a malignant disease of hematopoietic precursors at the earliest stage of maturation, resulting in a clonalproliferation of myoblasts replacing normal hematopoiesis. AML represents one of the most common types of leukemia, mostly affecting elderly patients. To date, standard chemotherapy protocols are only effective in patients at low risk of relapse and therapy-related mortality. The average 5-year overall survival (OS) is approximately 28%. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) improves prognosis but is limited by donor availability, a relatively young age of patients, and absence of significant comorbidities. Moreover, it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. However, increasing understanding of AML immunobiology is leading to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. Immunotherapy is considered an attractive strategy for controlling and eliminating the disease. It can be a real breakthrough in the treatment of leukemia, especially in patients who are not eligible forintensive chemotherapy. In this review, we focused on the progress of immunotherapy in the field of AML by discussing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), immune checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T cells), and vaccine therapeutic choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Aureli
- CNR Institute of Translational Pharmacology, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (G.S.)
| | - Beatrice Marziani
- Emergency and Urgent Department, University Hospital Sant’Anna of Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy;
| | | | - Maria Ilaria Del Principe
- Hematology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.I.D.P.); (E.B.); (G.P.); (A.V.)
| | - Elisa Buzzatti
- Hematology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.I.D.P.); (E.B.); (G.P.); (A.V.)
| | - Gianmario Pasqualone
- Hematology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.I.D.P.); (E.B.); (G.P.); (A.V.)
| | - Adriano Venditti
- Hematology, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.I.D.P.); (E.B.); (G.P.); (A.V.)
| | - Giuseppe Sconocchia
- CNR Institute of Translational Pharmacology, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (G.S.)
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139
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Boissel N, Rabian F. Immunotherapies in acute leukemia. Therapie 2021; 77:241-250. [PMID: 34924207 DOI: 10.1016/j.therap.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In the past decade, immunotherapy has emerged as one of the most promising field of therapeutic progress in acute leukemia. Antibody-drug conjugates are now combined to standard chemotherapy backbones in both acute myeloid (AML) and lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). CD19 targeting immune cell engagers and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells have been approved in relapsed/refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and pave the way to promising developments in acute myeloid leukemia. Next generation immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting TIM-3 or CD47 binding by SIRPα on macrophages are tested in combination to hypomethylating agents to improve survival of unfit AML patients with acceptable safety profiles. This review summarizes the antibody-derived strategies developed in the field of acute leukemias with a specific focus on recently approved drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Boissel
- Hematology Adolescent and Young Adult Unit, Saint-Louis Hospital, AP-HP, 1, avenue Claude-Vellefaux, 75010 Paris, France; URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, 75010 Paris, France.
| | - Florence Rabian
- Hematology Adolescent and Young Adult Unit, Saint-Louis Hospital, AP-HP, 1, avenue Claude-Vellefaux, 75010 Paris, France; URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, 75010 Paris, France
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140
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Zeidner JF, Vincent BG, Ivanova A, Moore D, McKinnon KP, Wilkinson AD, Mukhopadhyay R, Mazziotta F, Knaus HA, Foster MC, Coombs CC, Jamieson K, Van Deventer H, Webster JA, Prince GT, DeZern AE, Smith BD, Levis MJ, Montgomery ND, Luznik L, Serody JS, Gojo I. Phase II Trial of Pembrolizumab after High-Dose Cytarabine in Relapsed/Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Blood Cancer Discov 2021; 2:616-629. [PMID: 34778801 DOI: 10.1158/2643-3230.bcd-21-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune suppression, exhaustion, and senescence are frequently seen throughout disease progression in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We conducted a phase II study of high-dose cytarabine followed by pembrolizumab 200 mg i.v. on day 14 to examine whether PD-1 inhibition improves clinical responses in relapsed/refractory (R/R) AML. Overall responders could receive pembrolizumab maintenance up to 2 years. Among 37 patients enrolled, the overall response rate, composite complete remission (CRc) rate (primary endpoint), and median overall survival (OS) were 46%, 38%, and 11.1 months, respectively. Patients with refractory/early relapse and those receiving treatment as first salvage had encouraging outcomes (median OS, 13.2 and 11.3 months, respectively). Grade ≥3 immune-related adverse events were rare (14%) and self-limiting. Patients who achieved CRc had a higher frequency of progenitor exhausted CD8+ T cells expressing TCF-1 in the bone marrow prior to treatment. A multifaceted correlative approach of genomic, transcriptomic, and immunophenotypic profiling offers insights on molecular correlates of response and resistance to pembrolizumab. Significance Immune-checkpoint blockade with pembrolizumab was tolerable and feasible after high-dose cytarabine in R/R AML, with encouraging clinical activity, particularly in refractory AML and those receiving treatment as first salvage regimen. Further study of pembrolizumab and other immune-checkpoint blockade strategies after cytotoxic chemotherapy is warranted in AML.See related commentary by Wei et al., p. 551. This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 549.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua F Zeidner
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Benjamin G Vincent
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,University of North Carolina, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Program in Computational Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Anastasia Ivanova
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Dominic Moore
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Karen P McKinnon
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,University of North Carolina, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Alec D Wilkinson
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Rupkatha Mukhopadhyay
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Francesco Mazziotta
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland.,University of Siena, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Siena, Italy
| | - Hanna A Knaus
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Matthew C Foster
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Catherine C Coombs
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Katarzyna Jamieson
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Hendrik Van Deventer
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Jonathan A Webster
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, Division of Hematological Malignancies, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Gabrielle T Prince
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, Division of Hematological Malignancies, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Amy E DeZern
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, Division of Hematological Malignancies, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - B Douglas Smith
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, Division of Hematological Malignancies, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mark J Levis
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, Division of Hematological Malignancies, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nathan D Montgomery
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Leo Luznik
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Oncology, Division of Hematological Malignancies, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jonathan S Serody
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,University of North Carolina, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,Program in Computational Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Ivana Gojo
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, Maryland.,University of Siena, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Siena, Italy
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141
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Chang YJ, Zhao XY, Huang XJ. Haploidentical Stem Cell Transplantation for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Current Therapies, Challenges and Future Prospective. Front Oncol 2021; 11:758512. [PMID: 34778077 PMCID: PMC8581046 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.758512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Haploidentical stem cell transplantation (haplo-SCT), an alternative donor source, offers a curative therapy for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are transplant candidates. Advances in transplantation techniques, such as donor selection, conditioning regimen modification, and graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis, have successfully improved the outcomes of AML patients receiving haplo-SCT and extended the haploidentical transplant indictions for AML. Presently, treating de novo AML, secondary AML, therapy-related AML and refractory and relapsed AML with haplo-SCT can achieve comparable outcomes to those of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched sibling donor transplantation (MSDT), unrelated donor transplantation or umbilical cord blood transplantation. For some subgroups of AML subjects, such as patients with positive pretransplantation minimal/measurable residual disease, recent studies suggest that haplo-SCT might be superior to MSDT in decreasing relapse and improving survival. Unfortunately, for patients with AML after haplo-SCT, relapse and infections remain the causes of death that restrict further improvement in clinical outcomes. In this review, we discuss the recent advances and challenges in haplo-SCT for AML treatment, mainly focusing on unmanipulated haplo-SCT protocols. We provide an outlook on future prospects and suggest that relapse prophylaxis, intervention, and treatment, as well as infection prevention and therapy, are areas of active research in AML patients who receive haploidentical allografts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Jun Chang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Zhao
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Huang
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Disease, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation, Beijing, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, Peking University, Beijing, China
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142
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Fleischmann M, Schnetzke U, Hochhaus A, Scholl S. Management of Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Current Treatment Options and Future Perspectives. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5722. [PMID: 34830877 PMCID: PMC8616498 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has improved in recent years and several new therapeutic options have been approved. Most of them include mutation-specific approaches (e.g., gilteritinib for AML patients with activating FLT3 mutations), or are restricted to such defined AML subgroups, such as AML-MRC (AML with myeloid-related changes) or therapy-related AML (CPX-351). With this review, we aim to present a comprehensive overview of current AML therapy according to the evolved spectrum of recently approved treatment strategies. We address several aspects of combined epigenetic therapy with the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax and provide insight into mechanisms of resistance towards venetoclax-based regimens, and how primary or secondary resistance might be circumvented. Furthermore, a detailed overview on the current status of AML immunotherapy, describing promising concepts, is provided. This review focuses on clinically important aspects of current and future concepts of AML treatment, but will also present the molecular background of distinct targeted therapies, to understand the development and challenges of clinical trials ongoing in AML patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sebastian Scholl
- Klinik für Innere Medizin II, Abteilung Hämatologie und Onkologie, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07740 Jena, Germany; (M.F.); (U.S.); (A.H.)
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143
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Uckun FM. Dual Targeting of Multiple Myeloma Stem Cells and Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells for Treatment of Chemotherapy-Resistant Multiple Myeloma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:760382. [PMID: 34858838 PMCID: PMC8631522 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.760382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we review the insights and lessons learned from early clinical trials of T-cell engaging bispecific antibodies (BsABs) as a new class of biotherapeutic drug candidates with clinical impact potential for the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). BsABs are capable of redirecting host T-cell cytotoxicity in an MHC-independent manner to malignant MM clones as well as immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). T-cell engaging BsAB targeting the BCMA antigen may help delay disease progression in MM by destroying the MM cells. T-cell engaging BsAB targeting the CD38 antigen may help delay disease progression in MM by depleting both the malignant MM clones and the MDSC in the bone marrow microenvironment (BMME). BsABs may facilitate the development of a new therapeutic paradigm for achieving improved survival in MM by altering the immunosuppressive BMME. T-cell engaging BsiABs targeting the CD123 antigen may help delay disease progression in MM by depleting the MDSC in the BMME and destroying the MM stem cells that also carry the CD123 antigen on their surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatih M. Uckun
- Department of Developmental Therapeutics, Immunology, and Integrative Medicine, Drug Discovery Institute, Ares Pharmaceuticals, St. Paul, MN, United States
- Clinical Research Program, Aptevo Therapeutics, Seattle, WA, United States
- Translational Oncology Program, Reven Pharmaceuticals, Westminster, CO, United States
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144
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Innate Immune Mechanisms and Immunotherapy of Myeloid Malignancies. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111631. [PMID: 34829860 PMCID: PMC8615731 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Similar to other cancers, myeloid malignancies are thought to subvert the immune system during their development. This subversion occurs via both malignant cell-autonomous and non-autonomous mechanisms and involves manipulation of the innate and adaptive immune systems. Multiple strategies are being studied to rejuvenate, redirect, or re-enforce the immune system in order to fight off myeloid malignancies. So far, the most successful strategies include interferon treatment and antibody-based therapies, though chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) cells and immune checkpoint inhibitors are also promising therapies. In this review, we discuss the inherent immune mechanisms of defense against myeloid malignancies, currently-approved agents, and agents under investigation. Overall, we evaluate the efficacy and potential of immuno-oncology in the treatment of myeloid malignancies.
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145
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare and aggressive hematologic malignancy with historically poor outcomes for patients, often refractory to traditional chemotherapy. Recent research has focused on targeted therapy to improve responses and limit potential toxicity. AREAS COVERED CD123 (also known as IL-3 Rα) is a cell surface marker and attractive therapeutic target for many myeloid malignancies, particularly BPDCN, whose cells ubiquitously overexpress CD123. We review the history of CD123 research regarding BPDCN, recent advances including FDA approval of tagraxofusp (formerly SL-401) for BPDCN, and ongoing clinical studies utilizing novel therapeutic strategies to target CD123. EXPERT OPINION The approval of tagraxofusp for the treatment of BPDCN in December 2018 drastically changed the treatment landscape for patients with this rare neoplasm. While tagraxofusp is better tolerated than traditional multi-agent chemotherapy regimens, it requires close monitoring and sound clinical judgment by providers to prevent and mitigate severe treatment-related complications with special attention to the recognition and management of capillary leak syndrome (CLS). Several other promising strategies for targeting CD123 in BPDCN are currently under investigation, including antibody-drug conjugates, T-cell engagers, and CAR-T cellular therapeutics. These CD123 targeted approaches may soon become standard of care for patients with this difficult to treat malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J DiPippo
- Clinical Pharmacy Specialist, Pharmacy Clinical Programs, The University of Texas Md Anderson Cancer Center, Houston,Texas US
| | - Nathaniel R Wilson
- Resident Physician, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, US
| | - Naveen Pemmaraju
- Associate Professor, Leukemia, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, US
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146
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Abstract
The β common chain (βc) cytokine family includes granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin-3 (IL-3) and IL-5, all of which use βc as key signaling receptor subunit. GM-CSF, IL-3 and IL-5 have specific roles as hematopoietic growth factors. IL-3 binds with high affinity to the IL-3 receptor α (IL-3Rα/CD123) and then associates with the βc subunit. IL-3 is mainly synthesized by different subsets of T cells, but is also produced by several other immune [basophils, dendritic cells (DCs), mast cells, etc.] and non-immune cells (microglia and astrocytes). The IL-3Rα is also expressed by immune (basophils, eosinophils, mast cells, DCs, monocytes, and megacaryocytes) and non-immune cells (endothelial cells and neuronal cells). IL-3 is the most important growth and activating factor for human and mouse basophils, primary effector cells of allergic disorders. IL-3-activated basophils and mast cells are also involved in different chronic inflammatory disorders, infections, and several types of cancer. IL-3 induces the release of cytokines (i.e., IL-4, IL-13, CXCL8) from human basophils and preincubation of basophils with IL-3 potentiates the release of proinflammatory mediators and cytokines from IgE- and C5a-activated basophils. IL-3 synergistically potentiates IL-33-induced mediator release from human basophils. IL-3 plays a pathogenic role in several hematologic cancers and may contribute to autoimmune and cardiac disorders. Several IL-3Rα/CD123 targeting molecules have shown some efficacy in the treatment of hematologic malignancies.
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147
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Kaleka G, Schiller G. Immunotherapy for Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation is here to stay. Leuk Res 2021; 112:106732. [PMID: 34864447 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2021.106732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) represents 1 % of all new cancer diagnosis made annually in the US and has a five-year survival of 30 %. Traditional treatment includes aggressive induction therapy followed by consolidation therapy that may include a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). Thus far, HSCT remains the only potentially curative therapy for many patients with AML owing to the graft-versus-leukemia effect elicited by this treatment. The use of novel therapies, specifically immunotherapy, in the treatment of AML has been limited by the lack of appropriate target antigens, therapy associated toxicities and variable success with treatment. Antigenic variability on leukemia cells and the sharing of antigens by malignant and non-malignant cells makes the identification of appropriate antigens problematic. While studies with immunotherapeutic agents are underway, prior investigations have demonstrated a mixed response with some studies prematurely discontinued due to associated toxicities. This review presents a discussion of the envisioned role of immunotherapy in the treatment of AML in the setting of mixed therapeutic success and potentially lethal toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guneet Kaleka
- UCLA-Olive View Medical Center, Department of Medicine, Room 2B-182, 14445 Olive View Drive, Sylmar, CA, 91342, United States.
| | - Gary Schiller
- Department of Medicine, Hematology & Oncology at UCLA Medical Center, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Uckun FM, Watts J, Mims AS, Patel P, Wang E, Shami PJ, Cull E, Lee C, Cogle CR, Lin TL. Risk, Characteristics and Biomarkers of Cytokine Release Syndrome in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory AML or MDS Treated with CD3xCD123 Bispecific Antibody APVO436. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5287. [PMID: 34771451 PMCID: PMC8582601 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluate the risk, characteristics and biomarkers of treatment-emergent cytokine release syndrome (CRS) in patients with relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) who received APVO436 during the dose-escalation phase of a Phase 1B study (ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03647800). Of four patients who developed Grade ≥ 3 CRS, two received steroid prophylaxis. The dose level, gender, race, obesity, or baseline hematologic parameters in peripheral blood did not predict the risk of CRS. Patients with a higher leukemia burden as determined by a higher total WBC, higher percentage of blasts in bone marrow, or higher percentage of blasts in peripheral blood (by hematopathology or immunophenotyping) did not have a higher incidence of CRS. There was an age difference between patients who did versus patients who did not develop CRS (72.9 ± 1.6 years (Median 73.5 years) vs. 63.3 ± 2.3 years (Median: 65.0 years), which was borderline significant (p = 0.04). Premedication with steroids did not eliminate the risk of CRS. Cytokine profiling in patients who developed CRS after APVO436 infusion indicates that the predominant cytokine in this inflammatory cytokine response was IL-6. APVO436-associated CRS was generally manageable with tocilizumab with or without dexamethasone. Notably, the development of CRS after APVO436 therapy did not appear to be associated with a response. The prolonged stabilization of disease, partial remissions and complete remissions were achieved in both patients who experienced CRS, as well as patients who did not experience CRS after APVO436 infusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatih M. Uckun
- Department of Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Research, Aptevo Therapeutics, Seattle, WA 98121, USA;
- Immuno-Oncology Program, Ares Pharmaceuticals, St. Paul, MN 55110, USA
| | - Justin Watts
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Alice S. Mims
- The James Cancer Hospital, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Prapti Patel
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
| | - Eunice Wang
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA;
| | - Paul J. Shami
- Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies, Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA;
| | - Elizabeth Cull
- Greenville Health System, Institute for Translational Oncology Research, Greenville, SC 29605, USA;
| | - Cynthia Lee
- Department of Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Research, Aptevo Therapeutics, Seattle, WA 98121, USA;
| | - Christopher R. Cogle
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Tara L. Lin
- Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapeutics, The University of Kansas Cancer Center, Westwood, KS 66205, USA;
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Precision Medicine in Systemic Mastocytosis. Medicina (B Aires) 2021; 57:medicina57111135. [PMID: 34833353 PMCID: PMC8623914 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57111135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mastocytosis is a rare hematological neoplasm characterized by the proliferation of abnormal clonal mast cells (MCs) in different cutaneous and extracutaneous organs. Its diagnosis is based on well-defined major and minor criteria, including the pathognomonic dense infiltrate of MCs detected in bone marrow (BM), elevated serum tryptase level, abnormal MCs CD25 expression, and the identification of KIT D816V mutation. The World Health Organization (WHO) classification subdivides mastocytosis into a cutaneous form (CM) and five systemic variants (SM), namely indolent/smoldering (ISM/SSM) and advanced SM (AdvSM) including aggressive SM (ASM), SM associated to hematological neoplasms (SM-AHN), and mast cell leukemia (MCL). More than 80% of patients with SM carry a somatic point mutation of KIT at codon 816, which may be targeted by kinase inhibitors. The presence of additional somatic mutations detected by next generation sequencing analysis may impact prognosis and drive treatment strategy, which ranges from symptomatic drugs in indolent forms to kinase-inhibitors active on KIT. Allogeneic stem cell transplant (SCT) may be considered in selected SM cases. Here, we review the clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic issues of SM, with special emphasis on the translational implications of SM genetics for a precision medicine approach in clinical practice.
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Evolving Therapeutic Approaches for Older Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in 2021. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205075. [PMID: 34680226 PMCID: PMC8534216 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The better understanding of disease biology, the availability of new effective drugs and the increased awareness of patients’ heterogeneity in terms of fitness and personal expectations has made the current treatment paradigm of AML in the elderly very challenging. Here, we discuss the evolving criteria used to define eligibility for induction chemotherapy and transplantation, the introduction of new agents in the treatment of patients with very different clinical conditions, the implications of precision medicine and the importance of quality of life and supportive care, proposing a simplified algorithm that we follow in 2021. Abstract Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in older patients is characterized by unfavorable prognosis due to adverse disease features and a high rate of treatment-related complications. Classical therapeutic options range from intensive chemotherapy in fit patients, potentially followed by allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo-HCT), to hypomethylating agents or palliative care alone for unfit/frail ones. In the era of precision medicine, the treatment paradigm of AML is rapidly changing. On the one hand, a plethora of new targeted drugs with good tolerability profiles are becoming available, offering the possibility to achieve a prolonged remission to many patients not otherwise eligible for more intensive therapies. On the other hand, better tools to assess patients’ fitness and improvements in the selection and management of those undergoing allo-HCT will hopefully reduce treatment-related mortality and complications. Importantly, a detailed genetic characterization of AML has become of paramount importance to choose the best therapeutic option in both intensively treated and unfit patients. Finally, improving supportive care and quality of life is of major importance in this age group, especially for the minority of patients that are still candidates for palliative care because of very poor clinical conditions or unwillingness to receive active treatments. In the present review, we discuss the evolving approaches in the treatment of older AML patients, which is becoming increasingly challenging following the advent of new effective drugs for a very heterogeneous and complex population.
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