Emraclidine, a novel positive allosteric modulator of cholinergic M4 receptors, for the treatment of schizophrenia: a two-part, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1b trial

BACKGROUND

Emraclidine is a novel, brain-penetrant, highly selective M4 receptor positive allosteric modulator in development for the treatment of schizophrenia. We aimed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of multiple ascending doses of emraclidine in patients with schizophrenia.

METHODS

We conducted a two-part, randomised, phase 1b trial in the USA. Eligible participants were aged 18-50 years (part A) or 18-55 years (part B) with a primary diagnosis of schizophrenia per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5th edition, as confirmed by the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, and extrapyramidal symptom assessments indicating normal to mild symptoms at screening. Part A evaluated the safety and tolerability of emraclidine in five cohorts of participants with stable schizophrenia who received ascending oral doses of emraclidine 5-40 mg (40 mg was administered as 20 mg twice daily) or placebo at a single US site. Part B was a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study that enrolled adults with acute schizophrenia across five US sites; participants were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to receive emraclidine 30 mg once daily, emraclidine 20 mg twice daily, or placebo for 6 weeks (doses established in part A). The primary endpoint was safety and tolerability, assessed in the safety population (participants who received at least one dose of emraclidine or placebo). This trial is now complete and is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04136873.

FINDINGS

Between Sept 23, 2019, and Sept 17, 2020, 118 patients were assessed for eligibility and 49 were randomly assigned across five cohorts in part A. 44 participants completed the study, with 36 participants receiving emraclidine and eight receiving placebo. The two highest doses tested were selected for part B. Between Oct 12, 2020, and May 7, 2021, 148 patients were assessed for eligibility and 81 were randomly assigned to emraclidine 30 mg once daily (n=27), emraclidine 20 mg twice daily (n=27), or placebo (n=27) in part B. Incidence of adverse events (14 [52%] of 27 participants in the emraclidine 30 mg once daily group, 15 [56%] of 27 in the emraclidine 20 mg twice daily group, and 14 [52%] of 27 in the placebo group), clinical assessments, and weight changes were similar across groups. The most common adverse event was headache (15 [28%] of 54 participants in the emraclidine groups, seven [26%] of 27 in the placebo group). Modest, transient increases in blood pressure and heart rate in emraclidine groups observed at treatment initiation diminished over time and were not considered clinically meaningful by week 6.

INTERPRETATION

These data support further investigation of emraclidine as a once-daily treatment for schizophrenia without need for titration and with a potentially favourable side-effect profile.

FUNDING

Cerevel Therapeutics.

Overall Disability Response Score: An integrated endpoint to assess disability improvement and worsening over time in patients with multiple sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Overall Disability Response Score (ODRS) is a composite endpoint including Expanded Disability Status Scale, Timed 25-foot Walk, and 9-Hole Peg Test, designed to quantify both disability improvement and worsening in multiple sclerosis (MS).

OBJECTIVE

To assess the sensitivity and clinical meaningfulness of ODRS using natalizumab Phase 3 data sets (AFFIRM in relapsing-remitting MS and ASCEND in secondary progressive MS).

METHODS

Differences in ODRS over 96 weeks, ODRS at Week 96, and slope of ODRS change per year between natalizumab and placebo groups were analyzed. Correlation between ODRS and changes in patient-reported outcomes was also analyzed.

RESULTS

The difference (95% confidence interval (CI)) in the ODRS over 96 weeks between natalizumab and placebo groups was 0.34 (0.21-0.46) in AFFIRM (p < 0.001), and 0.18 (0.03-0.34) in ASCEND (p = 0.021). Significant differences between treatment arms were also observed in ODRS at Week 96 and in the slope of change per year in both studies. There was a significant linear correlation between ODRS at Week 96 and the change from baseline in both the physical and mental components of the 36-item Short Form Survey (SF-36) in both studies.

CONCLUSION

This analysis supports ODRS as a sensitive and potentially clinically meaningful disability outcome measure in MS.

021 Determinants of natalizumab-associated PML outcomes

Introduction

Natalizumab treatment is associated with risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopa- thy (PML). Following PML diagnosis, plasma exchange (PLEX) may be used to enable rapid natalizumab clearance. This analysis explores the impact of PLEX and patient characteristics on natalizumab-associated PML outcomes.

Methods

Patients with multiple sclerosis, natalizumab-associated PML, and PLEX treatment status as of September 2018 were included (PLEX+, n=616; PLEX−, n=109). The primary outcome was 2-year survival after PML diagnosis. Kaplan-Meier estimates of cumulative survival for patients with/without PLEX were stratified by log JC virus (JCV) viral copy number (VCN) at PML diagnosis. Hazard ratios for survival were based on a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The cumulative probability of 2-year survival for PLEX+ vs PLEX− patients was 88.2% vs. 89.3% (P=0.857) with log VCN ≤5, 73.8% vs. 89.3% (P=0.097) with log VCN >5 to ≤7, and 68.2% vs. 78.9% (P=0.435) with log VCN >7. Improved survival was associated with younger age, asymptomatic presentation, localized PML lesions, and lower log JCV VCN.

Conclusions

PLEX had no significant effect on survival rates. Numerically worse 2-year survival probabilities were observed with PLEX regardless of PML presentation, suggesting PLEX is not effective for improving post-PML outcomes.

Support

Biogen. Disclosures: Included on the poster.

g.giovannoni@qmul.ac.uk

Prothrombin complex concentrate vs. fresh frozen plasma in adult patients undergoing heart surgery - a pilot randomised controlled trial (PROPHESY trial)

There is equipoise regarding the use of prothrombin complex concentrate vs. fresh frozen plasma in bleeding patients undergoing cardiac surgery. We performed a pilot randomised controlled trial to determine the recruitment rate for a large trial, comparing the impact of prothrombin complex concentrate vs. fresh frozen plasma on haemostasis (1 h and 24 h post-intervention), and assessing safety. Adult patients who developed bleeding within 24 h of cardiac surgery that required coagulation factor replacement were randomly allocated to receive prothrombin complex concentrate (15 IU.kg^-1 based on factor IX) or fresh frozen plasma (15 ml.kg^-1 ). If bleeding continued after the first administration of prothrombin complex concentrate or fresh frozen plasma administration, standard care was administered. From February 2019 to October 2019, 180 patients were screened, of which 134 (74.4% (95%CI 67-81%)) consented, 59 bled excessively and 50 were randomly allocated; 25 in each arm, recruitment rate 35% (95%CI 27-44%). There were 23 trial protocol deviations, 137 adverse events (75 prothrombin complex concentrate vs. 62 fresh frozen plasma) and 18 serious adverse events (5 prothrombin complex concentrate vs. 13 fresh frozen plasma). There was no increase in thromboembolic events with prothrombin complex concentrate. No patient withdrew from the study, four were lost to follow-up and two died. At 1 h after administration of the intervention there was a significant increase in fibrinogen, Factor V, Factor XII, Factor XIII, α₂ -antiplasmin and antithrombin levels in the fresh frozen plasma arm, while Factor II and Factor X were significantly higher in the prothrombin complex concentrate group. At 24 h, there were no significant differences in clotting factor levels. We conclude that recruitment to a larger study is feasible. Haemostatic tests have provided useful insight into the haemostatic changes following prothrombin complex concentrate or fresh frozen plasma administration. A definitive trial is needed to ascertain the benefits and safety for each.

Modeling the Efficacy of Natalizumab in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Who Switch From Every-4-Week Dosing to Extended-Interval Dosing

Natalizumab is approved for multiple sclerosis treatment at a dose of 300 mg every 4 weeks. Extended‐interval dosing of natalizumab has been proposed as a strategy to mitigate the risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, but the efficacy of extended‐interval dosing is not established. Previous models suggesting lower efficacy when initiating natalizumab treatment with extended‐interval dosing rather than every‐4‐week dosing are inconsistent with reports from clinical observations and real‐world studies conducted in patient populations switching to extended‐interval dosing after a period of receiving natalizumab every 4 weeks. Here, the efficacy of natalizumab extended‐interval dosing was modeled specifically in patients switching from every‐4‐week dosing to extended‐interval dosing. Published population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic models were used to simulate the distribution of alpha‐4 integrin saturations for different body weight categories and dosing intervals (every 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, or 12 weeks). Generalized estimating equations relating alpha‐4 integrin saturation to probability of multiple sclerosis lesion or relapse were derived from RESTORE trial data, which included patients (n = 175) who discontinued natalizumab after being treated every 4 weeks for ≥1 year and had no relapses in the year before discontinuation. The model‐based simulations described indicate that every‐5‐week or every‐6‐week dosing is likely to maintain the efficacy of natalizumab, particularly at body weights <80 kg, in patients who switch after a period of stability on every‐4‐week dosing. The efficacy of natalizumab decreases as dosing intervals and body weight increase. Partial model validation was achieved in that observed outcomes in an independent clinical study were similar to those predicted by the models.

Patterning Chronic Active Demyelination in Slowly Expanding/Evolving White Matter MS Lesions

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Slowly expanding/evolving lesions measured by conventional T1-weighted/T2-weighted brain MR imaging may contribute to progressive disability accumulation in MS. We evaluated the longitudinal change in myelin and axonal tissue integrity in white matter slowly expanding/evolving lesions by means of the magnetization transfer ratio and DTI radial diffusivity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Slowly expanding/evolving lesions were detected within the Study to Assess the Efficacy, Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of BIIB033 in Participants With Relapsing Forms of Multiple Sclerosis When Used Concurrently With Avonex (SYNERGY) Phase 2 clinical trial dataset (NCT01864148), comprising patients with relapsing-remitting and secondary-progressive MS (n = 299) with T1-weighted/T2-weighted MR imaging at all trial time points (baseline to week 72).

RESULTS

Compared with non-slowly expanding/evolving lesions (areas not classified as slowly expanding/evolving lesion) of baseline nonenhancing T2 lesions, slowly expanding/evolving lesions had a lower normalized magnetization transfer ratio and greater DTI radial diffusivity, both in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (n = 242) and secondary-progressive MS (n = 57, P < .001 for all). Although the changes with time in both the normalized magnetization transfer ratio and DTI radial diffusivity between slowly expanding/evolving lesions and non-slowly expanding/evolving lesions were positively correlated (P < .001), a decrease in the normalized magnetization transfer ratio and a greater increase in DTI radial diffusivity were observed in slowly expanding/evolving lesions versus non-slowly expanding/evolving lesions from baseline to week 72 in relapsing-remitting MS and secondary-progressive MS (P < .001 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Patterns of longitudinal change in the normalized magnetization transfer ratio and DTI radial diffusivity in slowly expanding/evolving lesions were consistent with progressive demyelination and tissue loss, as seen in smoldering white matter MS plaques.

Phase 1-2 Trial of Antisense Oligonucleotide Tofersen for SOD1 ALS

BACKGROUND

Tofersen is an antisense oligonucleotide that mediates the degradation of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) messenger RNA to reduce SOD1 protein synthesis. Intrathecal administration of tofersen is being studied for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) due to SOD1 mutations.

METHODS

We conducted a phase 1-2 ascending-dose trial evaluating tofersen in adults with ALS due to SOD1 mutations. In each dose cohort (20, 40, 60, or 100 mg), participants were randomly assigned in a 3:1 ratio to receive five doses of tofersen or placebo, administered intrathecally for 12 weeks. The primary outcomes were safety and pharmacokinetics. The secondary outcome was the change from baseline in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) SOD1 concentration at day 85. Clinical function and vital capacity were measured.

RESULTS

A total of 50 participants underwent randomization and were included in the analyses; 48 participants received all five planned doses. Lumbar puncture-related adverse events were observed in most participants. Elevations in CSF white-cell count and protein were reported as adverse events in 4 and 5 participants, respectively, who received tofersen. Among participants who received tofersen, one died from pulmonary embolus on day 137, and one from respiratory failure on day 152; one participant in the placebo group died from respiratory failure on day 52. The difference at day 85 in the change from baseline in the CSF SOD1 concentration between the tofersen groups and the placebo group was 2 percentage points (95% confidence interval [CI], -18 to 27) for the 20-mg dose, -25 percentage points (95% CI, -40 to -5) for the 40-mg dose, -19 percentage points (95% CI, -35 to 2) for the 60-mg dose, and -33 percentage points (95% CI, -47 to -16) for the 100-mg dose.

CONCLUSIONS

In adults with ALS due to SOD1 mutations, CSF SOD1 concentrations decreased at the highest concentration of tofersen administered intrathecally over a period of 12 weeks. CSF pleocytosis occurred in some participants receiving tofersen. Lumbar puncture-related adverse events were observed in most participants. (Funded by Biogen; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02623699; EudraCT number, 2015-004098-33.).

Long-term safety and effectiveness of natalizumab treatment in clinical practice: 10 years of real-world data from the Tysabri Observational Program (TOP)

OBJECTIVE

The Tysabri Observational Programme (TOP), which began >10 years ago, is an open-label, multinational, prospective observational study evaluating the long-term safety and effectiveness of natalizumab in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients.

METHODS

These data provide a 10-year interim analysis of safety and effectiveness in TOP. Annualised relapse rates (ARRs) and disability progression/improvement were analysed using the Poisson model and the Kaplan-Meier method, respectively. Analyses included patients on natalizumab and those who discontinued natalizumab but remained in TOP.

RESULTS

As of November 2017, TOP included 6148 patients. Overall, 829 patients (13.5%) experienced ≥1 serious adverse event (SAE), with infection the most common (4.1%). Fifty-three patients (0.9%) had confirmed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. SAE data were consistent with natalizumab's known safety profile; no new safety signals were identified. A total of 3210 patients (52.2%) discontinued natalizumab; 2117 (34.4%) withdrew from TOP. Median time on natalizumab was 3.3 (range 0-11.6) years; median follow-up time was 5.2 (range 0-10.8) years. The on-natalizumab ARR was 0.15, a 92.5% reduction from the year before initiation. Ten-year cumulative probabilities of disability worsening and improvement were 27.8% and 33.1%, respectively. On-natalizumab ARRs were similar between patients who discontinued or remained on natalizumab, suggesting limited attrition bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Since the TOP 5-year interim analysis (December 2012), cohort size (6148 vs 4821), median exposure (3.3 vs 1.8 years) and median follow-up time (62 vs 26 months) have increased. This 10-year interim analysis further supports the robust real-world effectiveness and well-established safety profile of natalizumab.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT00493298.

Risk of natalizumab-associated PML in patients with MS is reduced with extended interval dosing

OBJECTIVE

To use the large dataset from the Tysabri Outreach: Unified Commitment to Health (TOUCH) program to compare progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) risk with natalizumab extended interval dosing (EID) vs standard interval dosing (SID) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included anti-JC virus antibody-positive patients (n = 35,521) in the TOUCH database as of June 1, 2017. The effect of EID on PML risk was evaluated with 3 planned analyses using Kaplan-Meier methods stratified by prior immunosuppressant use. Risk of PML was analyzed by Cox regression adjusted for age, sex, prior immunosuppressants, time since natalizumab initiation, and cumulative number of infusions.

RESULTS

This study included 35,521 patients (primary analysis: 1,988 EID, 13,132 SID; secondary analysis: 3,331 EID, 15,424 SID; tertiary analysis: 815 EID, 23,168 SID). Mean average dosing intervals were 35.0 to 43.0 and 29.8 to 30.5 days for the EID and SID cohorts, respectively. Hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of PML risk for EID vs SID were 0.06 (0.01-0.22, p < 0.001) and 0.12 (0.05-0.29, p < 0.001) for the primary and secondary analyses, respectively. Relative risk reductions were 94% and 88% in favor of EID for the primary and secondary analyses, respectively. The tertiary analysis included no cases of PML with EID.

CONCLUSION

Natalizumab EID is associated with clinically and statistically significantly lower PML risk than SID.

CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE

This study provides Class III evidence that for patients with MS, natalizumab EID is associated with a lower PML risk than SID.

Safety and efficacy of opicinumab in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (SYNERGY): a randomised, placebo-controlled, phase 2 trial

BACKGROUND

Opicinumab is a human monoclonal antibody against LINGO-1, an inhibitor of oligodendrocyte differentiation and axonal regeneration. Previous findings suggested that opicinumab treatment might enhance remyelination in patients with CNS demyelinating diseases. We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of opicinumab in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis.

METHODS

We did a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging, phase 2 study (SYNERGY) at 72 sites in 12 countries. Participants (aged 18-58 years) with relapsing multiple sclerosis (relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis with relapses) were randomised in a 1:2:2:2:2 ratio by an interactive voice and web response system to opicinumab 3 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, or 100 mg/kg, or placebo. An identical volume of study drug was administered intravenously once every 4 weeks. All participants self-administered intramuscular interferon beta-1a as background anti-inflammatory treatment once a week. The primary endpoint was the percentage of participants achieving confirmed disability improvement over 72 weeks, which was a multicomponent endpoint measured by the Expanded Disability Status Scale, the Timed 25-Foot Walk, the Nine-Hole Peg Test, and the 3 s Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test. The primary endpoint was analysed under intention-to-treat principles. This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01864148.

FINDINGS

Between Aug 13, 2013, and July 31, 2014, 419 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned either placebo (n=93) or opicinumab 3 mg/kg (n=45), 10 mg/kg (n=95), 30 mg/kg (n=94; one patient did not receive the assigned treatment), or 100 mg/kg (n=92). The last patient visit was on March 29, 2016. Confirmed disability improvement over 72 weeks was seen in 45 (49%) of 91 patients assigned to placebo, 21 (47%) of 45 assigned to opicinumab 3 mg/kg, 59 (63%) of 94 assigned to opicinumab 10 mg/kg, 59 (65%) of 91 assigned to opicinumab 30 mg/kg, and 36 (40%) of 91 assigned to opicinumab 100 mg/kg. A linear dose-response in the probability of confirmed disability improvement was not seen (linear trend test p=0·89). Adverse events occurred in 79 (85%) patients assigned placebo and in 275 (85%) assigned any dose of opicinumab. The most common adverse events of any grade in patients assigned any dose of opicinumab included influenza-like illness (140 [43%] with any dose of opicinumab vs 37 [40%] with placebo), multiple sclerosis relapses (117 [36%] vs 30 [32%]), and headache (51 [16%] vs 23 [25%]). Serious adverse events reported as related to treatment were urinary tract infection in one (1%) participant in the the placebo group, suicidal ideation and intentional overdose in one (1%) participant in the 30 mg/kg opicinumab group, bipolar disorder in one (1%) participant in the 100 mg/kg opicinumab group, and hypersensitivity in four (4%) participants in the 100 mg/kg opicinumab group. One patient in the opicinumab 30 mg/kg group died during the study due to a traffic accident, which was not considered related to study treatment.

INTERPRETATION

Our findings did not show a significant dose-linear improvement in disability compared with placebo in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis. Further studies are needed to investigate whether some subpopulations identified in the study might benefit from opicinumab treatment at an optimum dose.

FUNDING

Biogen.

Assessment of Clinically Meaningful Improvements in Self-Reported Walking Ability in Participants with Multiple Sclerosis: Results from the Randomized, Double-Blind, Phase III ENHANCE Trial of Prolonged-Release Fampridine

BACKGROUND

Walking impairment is a hallmark of multiple sclerosis (MS). It affects > 90% of individuals over time, reducing independence and negatively impacting health-related quality of life, productivity, and daily activities. Walking impairment is consistently reported as one of the most distressing impairments by individuals with MS. Prolonged-release (PR)-fampridine previously has been shown to improve objectively measured walking speed in walking-impaired adults with MS. The impact of PR-fampridine from the perspective of the individual with MS warrants full and detailed examination.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether PR-fampridine has a clinically meaningful effect on self-reported walking ability in walking-impaired participants with MS.

METHODS

ENHANCE was a phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of PR-fampridine 10 mg twice daily in walking-impaired individuals age 18-70 years with either relapsing or progressive forms of MS and an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 4.0-7.0 at screening. Participants were stratified by EDSS score (≤ 6.0 or 6.5-7.0) at randomization to ensure a balanced level of disability in the treatment groups. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants with a mean improvement in the 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale (MSWS-12) score exceeding the predefined threshold for clinically meaningful improvement (≥ 8 points) over 24 weeks. Secondary endpoints included the proportion with ≥ 15% improvement in Timed Up and Go (TUG) speed, and mean changes in Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale physical impact subscale (MSIS-29 PHYS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and ABILHAND scores over 24 weeks.

RESULTS

In total, 636 participants with MS were randomized (PR-fampridine, n = 317; placebo, n = 319; modified intention-to-treat sample: PR-fampridine, n = 315; placebo, n = 318). At baseline in the PR-fampridine and placebo groups, 46% and 51% had a progressive form of MS, median [range] EDSS scores were 6.0 [4.0-7.0] and 5.5 [4.0-7.0], mean [range] MSWS-12 scores were 63.6 [0-100] and 65.4 [0-100], and mean [range] TUG speed was 0.38 [0.0-1.0] and 0.38 [0.0-1.2] feet/s, respectively. A significantly higher percentage of PR-fampridine-treated participants (136/315 [43.2%]) had clinically meaningful improvement in MSWS-12 score over 24 weeks versus placebo (107/318 [33.6%]; odds ratio 1.61 [95% confidence interval 1.15-2.26]; p = 0.006). For PR-fampridine versus placebo, significantly more participants had a ≥ 15% improvement in TUG speed, and there was significantly greater mean improvement in MSIS-29 PHYS score (p < 0.05); numerical improvements that were not statistically significant were observed in BBS/ABILHAND. Adverse events that were more common in the PR-fampridine group than placebo group (difference ≥ 3%) by Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA^®) Preferred Term were urinary tract infection and insomnia. There were no seizures reported.

CONCLUSIONS

PR-fampridine treatment resulted in sustained, clinically meaningful improvements over 24 weeks in self-reported walking and functional ability in walking-disabled participants with MS. CLINICALTRIALS.

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT02219932.

071 Natalizumab extended interval dosing (EID) is associated with a significant reduction in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) risk compared with standard interval dosing (SID) in the touch® prescribing program

Introduction

Natalizumab, approved for 300 mg intravenous every-4-weeks dosing, is associated with PML risk. Prior studies have been inconclusive regarding EID’s impact on PML risk. The US REMS program (TOUCH) offers the largest data source that can inform on PML risk in patients on EID. This analysis aimed to determine whether natalizumab EID is associated with reduced PML risk compared with SID.

Methods

Investigators developed SID and EID definitions and finalised the statistical analysis plan while blinded to PML events. Average dosing intervals (ADIs) were ≥3 to<5 weeks for SID and >5 to≤12 weeks for EID. The primary analysis assessed ADI in the last 18 months of infusion history. The secondary analysis identified any prolonged period of EID at any time in the infusion history. The tertiary analysis assessed ADI over the full infusion history. Only anti-JC virus antibody positive (JCV Ab+) patients with dosing intervals≥3 to≤12 weeks were included. PML hazard ratios (HRs) were compared using adjusted Cox regression models and Kaplan-Meier estimates.

Results

Analyses included 13,132 SID and 1988 EID patients (primary), 15,424 SID and 3331 EID patients (secondary), and 23,168 SID and 815 EID patients (tertiary). In primary analyses, ADI (days) was 30 for SID and 37 for EID; median exposure (months) was 44 for SID and 59 for EID. Most EID patients received >2 years SID prior to EID. The PML HR (95% CI) was 0.06 (0.01–0.22; p<0.001) for primary analysis and 0.12 (0.05–0.29; p<0.001) for secondary analysis (both in favour of EID); no EID PML cases were observed in tertiary analyses (Kaplan-Meier log-rank test p=0.02).

Conclusion

In JCV Ab +patients, natalizumab EID is associated with a clinically and statistically significant reduction in PML risk as compared with SID. As TOUCH does not collect effectiveness data, further studies are needed.

Study support

Biogen

Vemurafenib in patients with BRAFV600 mutation-positive metastatic melanoma: final overall survival results of the randomized BRIM-3 study

Background

The BRIM-3 trial showed improved progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) for vemurafenib compared with dacarbazine in treatment-naive patients with BRAFV600 mutation-positive metastatic melanoma. We present final OS data from BRIM-3.

Patients and methods

Patients were randomly assigned in a 1 : 1 ratio to receive vemurafenib (960 mg twice daily) or dacarbazine (1000 mg/m2 every 3 weeks). OS and PFS were co-primary end points. OS was assessed in the intention-to-treat population, with and without censoring of data for dacarbazine patients who crossed over to vemurafenib.

Results

Between 4 January 2010 and 16 December 2010, a total of 675 patients were randomized to vemurafenib (n = 337) or dacarbazine (n = 338, of whom 84 crossed over to vemurafenib). At the time of database lock (14 August 2015), median OS, censored at crossover, was significantly longer for vemurafenib than for dacarbazine {13.6 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 12.0-15.4] versus 9.7 months [95% CI 7.9-12.8; hazard ratio (HR) 0.81 [95% CI 0.67-0.98]; P = 0.03}, as was median OS without censoring at crossover [13.6 months (95% CI 12.0-15.4) versus 10.3 months (95% CI 9.1-12.8); HR 0.81 (95% CI 0.68-0.96); P = 0.01]. Kaplan-Meier estimates of OS rates for vemurafenib versus dacarbazine were 56% versus 46%, 30% versus 24%, 21% versus 19% and 17% versus 16% at 1, 2, 3 and 4 years, respectively. Overall, 173 of the 338 patients (51%) in the dacarbazine arm and 175 of the 337 (52%) of those in the vemurafenib arm received subsequent anticancer therapies, most commonly ipilimumab. Safety data were consistent with the primary analysis.

Conclusions

Vemurafenib continues to be associated with improved median OS in the BRIM-3 trial after extended follow-up. OS curves converged after ≈3 years, likely as a result of crossover from dacarbazine to vemurafenib and receipt of subsequent anticancer therapies.

ClinicalTrials.gov

NCT01006980.

Effect of natalizumab on disease progression in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (ASCEND): a phase 3, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with an open-label extension

BACKGROUND

Although several disease-modifying treatments are available for relapsing multiple sclerosis, treatment effects have been more modest in progressive multiple sclerosis and have been observed particularly in actively relapsing subgroups or those with lesion activity on imaging. We sought to assess whether natalizumab slows disease progression in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, independent of relapses.

METHODS

ASCEND was a phase 3, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (part 1) with an optional 2 year open-label extension (part 2). Enrolled patients aged 18-58 years were natalizumab-naive and had secondary progressive multiple sclerosis for 2 years or more, disability progression unrelated to relapses in the previous year, and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores of 3·0-6·5. In part 1, patients from 163 sites in 17 countries were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive 300 mg intravenous natalizumab or placebo every 4 weeks for 2 years. Patients were stratified by site and by EDSS score (3·0-5·5 vs 6·0-6·5). Patients completing part 1 could enrol in part 2, in which all patients received natalizumab every 4 weeks until the end of the study. Throughout both parts, patients and staff were masked to the treatment received in part 1. The primary outcome in part 1 was the proportion of patients with sustained disability progression, assessed by one or more of three measures: the EDSS, Timed 25-Foot Walk (T25FW), and 9-Hole Peg Test (9HPT). The primary outcome in part 2 was the incidence of adverse events and serious adverse events. Efficacy and safety analyses were done in the intention-to-treat population. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01416181.

FINDINGS

Between Sept 13, 2011, and July 16, 2015, 889 patients were randomly assigned (n=440 to the natalizumab group, n=449 to the placebo group). In part 1, 195 (44%) of 439 natalizumab-treated patients and 214 (48%) of 448 placebo-treated patients had confirmed disability progression (odds ratio [OR] 0·86; 95% CI 0·66-1·13; p=0·287). No treatment effect was observed on the EDSS (OR 1·06, 95% CI 0·74-1·53; nominal p=0·753) or the T25FW (0·98, 0·74-1·30; nominal p=0·914) components of the primary outcome. However, natalizumab treatment reduced 9HPT progression (OR 0·56, 95% CI 0·40-0·80; nominal p=0·001). In part 1, 100 (22%) placebo-treated and 90 (20%) natalizumab-treated patients had serious adverse events. In part 2, 291 natalizumab-continuing patients and 274 natalizumab-naive patients received natalizumab (median follow-up 160 weeks [range 108-221]). Serious adverse events occurred in 39 (13%) patients continuing natalizumab and in 24 (9%) patients initiating natalizumab. Two deaths occurred in part 1, neither of which was considered related to study treatment. No progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy occurred.

INTERPRETATION

Natalizumab treatment for secondary progressive multiple sclerosis did not reduce progression on the primary multicomponent disability endpoint in part 1, but it did reduce progression on its upper-limb component. Longer-term trials are needed to assess whether treatment of secondary progressive multiple sclerosis might produce benefits on additional disability components.

FUNDING

Biogen.

The MSOAC approach to developing performance outcomes to measure and monitor multiple sclerosis disability

Background:

The Multiple Sclerosis Outcome Assessments Consortium (MSOAC) was formed by the National MS Society to develop improved measures of multiple sclerosis (MS)-related disability.

Objectives:

(1) To assess the current literature and available data on functional performance outcome measures (PerfOs) and (2) to determine suitability of using PerfOs to quantify MS disability in MS clinical trials.

Methods:

(1) Identify disability dimensions common in MS; (2) conduct a comprehensive literature review of measures for those dimensions; (3) develop an MS Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC) data standard; (4) create a database of standardized, pooled clinical trial data; (5) analyze the pooled data to assess psychometric properties of candidate measures; and (6) work with regulatory agencies to use the measures as primary or secondary outcomes in MS clinical trials.

Conclusion:

Considerable data exist supporting measures of the functional domains ambulation, manual dexterity, vision, and cognition. A CDISC standard for MS (http://www.cdisc.org/therapeutic#MS) was published, allowing pooling of clinical trial data. MSOAC member organizations contributed clinical data from 16 trials, including 14,370 subjects. Data from placebo-arm subjects are available to qualified researchers. This integrated, standardized dataset is being analyzed to support qualification of disability endpoints by regulatory agencies.

Safety and efficacy of natalizumab in patients with acute ischaemic stroke (ACTION): a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind phase 2 trial

BACKGROUND

In animal models of acute ischaemic stroke, blocking of the leukocyte-endothelium adhesion by antagonism of α4 integrin reduces infarct volumes and improves outcomes. We assessed the effect of one dose of natalizumab, an antibody against the leukocyte adhesion molecule α4 integrin, in patients with acute ischaemic stroke.

METHODS

In this double-blind, phase 2 study, patients with acute ischaemic stroke (aged 18-85 years) from 30 US and European clinical sites were randomly assigned (1:1) to 300 mg intravenous natalizumab or placebo with stratification by treatment window and baseline infarct size. Patients, investigators, and study staff were masked to treatment assignments. The primary endpoint was the change in infarct volume from baseline to day 5 and was assessed in the modified intention-to-treat population. Secondary endpoints were the change in infarct volume from baseline to day 30, and from 24 h to days 5 and 30; the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) at baseline, 24 h, and at days 5 (or discharge), 30, and 90; and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Barthel Index (BI) at days 5 (or discharge), 30, and 90. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01955707.

FINDINGS

Between Dec 16, 2013, and April 9, 2015, 161 patients were randomly assigned to natalizumab (n=79) or placebo (n=82). Natalizumab did not reduce infarct volume growth from baseline to day 5 compared with placebo (median absolute growth 28 mL [range -8 to 303] vs 22 mL [-11 to 328]; relative growth ratio 1·09 [90% CI 0·91-1·30], p=0·78) or to day 30 (4 mL [-43 to 121] vs 4 mL [-28 to 180]; 1·05 [0·88-1·27], p=0·68), from 24 h to day 5 (8 mL [-30 to 177] vs 7 mL [-13 to 204]; 1·00 [0·89-1·12], p=0·49), and from 24 h to day 30 (-5 mL [-93 to 81] vs -5 mL [-48 to 48]; 0·98 [0·87-1·11], p=0·40). No difference was noted between the natalizumab and placebo groups in the NIHSS (score ≤1 or ≥8 point improvement) from baseline at 24 h, day 5 (or discharge), day 30 (27 [35%] vs 36 [44%]; odds ratio 0·69 [90% CI 0·39-1·21], p=0·86), and day 90 (36 [47%] vs 37 [46%]; 1·10 [0·63-1·93], p=0·39). More patients in the natalizumab group than in the placebo group had mRS scores of 0 or 1 at day 30 (13 [18%] vs seven [9%]; odds ratio 2·88 [90% CI 1·20-6·93], p=0·024) and day 90 (18 [25%] vs 16 [21%]; 1·48 [0·74-2·98], p=0·18); and BI (score ≥95) at day 90 (34 [44%] vs 26 [33%]; 1·91 [1·07-3·41], p=0·033) but not significantly at day 5 or day 30 (26 [34%] vs 26 [32%]; 1·13 [0·63-2·00], p=0·37). Natalizumab and placebo groups had similar incidences of adverse events (77 [99%] of 78 patients vs 81 [99%] of 82 patients), serious adverse events (36 [46%] vs 38 [46%]), and deaths (14 [18%] vs 13 [16%]). Two patients in the natalizumab group died because of adverse events assessed as related to treatment by the investigator (pneumonia, and septic shock and multiorgan failure).

INTERPRETATION

Natalizumab administered up to 9 h after stroke onset did not reduce infarct growth. Treatment-associated benefits on functional outcomes might warrant further investigation.

FUNDING

Biogen.

Characterizing absolute lymphocyte count profiles in dimethyl fumarate-treated patients with MS: Patient management considerations

Background:

Delayed-release dimethyl fumarate (DMF), indicated for the treatment of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), is a disease-modifying therapy with potential immunomodulatory and neuroprotective effects. In clinical trials, DMF was associated with reduced white blood cell and absolute lymphocyte counts. Current US prescribing information recommends obtaining a complete blood count, including absolute lymphocyte count (ALC), before initiating and during DMF treatment.

Methods:

We conducted an integrated analysis of phase 2b/3/long-term extension studies of DMF in MS (N = 2,470) to characterize ALC profiles.

Results:

Mean ALCs decreased by 30% during the first year and then plateaued, remaining above the lower limit of normal (LLN). Among patients treated ≥6 months (N = 2,099), 2.2% experienced ALCs <500 mm³ persisting ≥6 months. ALCs remained ≥LLN in 84% and 76% of patients during the first 6 and 12 months, respectively; of these, 0.1% and 0%, respectively, developed ALCs <500 mm³ persisting ≥6 months at any time. Evidence of ALC improvement following DMF discontinuation was observed. DMF efficacy was not substantially different in patients with and without lymphopenia.

Conclusion:

Lymphocyte monitoring provides effective means for early identification of patients at risk for developing severe, prolonged lymphopenia.

Humanin protects against chemotherapy-induced stage-specific male germ cell apoptosis in rats

Humanin (HN) has cytoprotective action on male germ cells after testicular stress induced by heat and hormonal deprivation. To examine whether HN has protective effects on chemotherapy-induced male germ cell apoptosis, we treated four groups of adult rats with (i) vehicle (control), (ii) HN, (iii) cyclophosphamide (CP); or (iv) HN+CP. To investigate whether the protective effects of HN on germ cells require the presence of Leydig cells, another four groups of rats were pre-treated with ethane dimethanesulfonate (EDS), a Leydig cell toxicant, to eliminate Leydig cells. After 3 days, when Leydig cells were depleted by EDS, we administered: (i) vehicle, (ii) HN, (iii) CP; or (iv) HN+CP to rats. All rats were killed 12 h after the injection of HN and/or CP. Germ cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay and quantified by numerical count. Compared with control and HN (alone), CP significantly increased germ cell apoptosis; HN +CP significantly reduced CP-induced apoptosis at early (I-VI) and late stages (IX-XIV) but not at middle stages (VII-VIII) of the seminiferous epithelial cycle. Pre-treatment with EDS markedly suppressed serum and intratesticular testosterone (T) levels, and significantly increased germ cell apoptosis at the middle (VII-VIII) stages. CP did not further increase germ cell apoptosis in the EDS-pre-treated rats. HN significantly attenuated germ cell apoptosis at the middle stages in EDS pre-treated rats. To investigate whether HN has any direct effects on Leydig cell function, adult Leydig cells were isolated and treated with ketoconazole (KTZ) to block testosterone synthesis. HN was not effective in preventing the reduction of T production by KTZ in vitro. We conclude that HN decreases CP and/or EDS-induced germ cell apoptosis in a stage-specific fashion. HN acts directly on germ cells to protect against EDS-induced apoptosis in the absence of Leydig cells and intratesticular testosterone levels are very low.

Hypotonic stress induces RANKL via transient receptor potential melastatin 3 (TRPM3) and vaniloid 4 (TRPV4) in human PDL cells

Bone remodeling occurs in response to various types of mechanical stress. The periodontal ligament (PDL) plays an important role in mechanical stress-mediated alveolar bone remodeling. However, the underlying mechanism at the cellular level has not been extensively studied. In this study, we investigated the effect of shear stress on the expression of bone remodeling factors, including receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG), as well as its upstream signaling pathway in primary human PDL cells. We applied hypotonic stress to reproduce shear stress to PDL cells. Hypotonic stress induced the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression of RANKL but not OPG. It also increased intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)]i). Extracellular Ca(2+) depletion and nonspecific plasma membrane Ca(2+) channel blockers completely inhibited the increase in both [Ca(2+)]i and RANKL mRNA expression. We identified the expression and activation of transient receptor potential melastatin 3 (TRPM3) and vaniloid 4 (TRPV4) channels in PDL cells. Pregnenolone sulfate (PS) and 4α-phorbol 12, 13-didecanoate (4α-PDD), which are agonists of TRPM3 and TRPV4, augmented Ca(2+) influx and RANKL mRNA expression. Both pharmacological (2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate [2-APB], ruthenium red [RR], ononetin [Ono], and HC 067047 [HC]) and genetic (small interfering RNA [siRNA]) inhibitors of TRPM3 and TRPV4 reduced the hypotonic stress-mediated increase in [Ca(2+)]i and RANKL mRNA expression. Our study shows that hypotonic stress induced RANKL mRNA expression via TRPM3- and TRPV4-mediated extracellular Ca(2+) influx and RANKL expression. This signaling pathway in PDL cells may play a critical role in mechanical stress-mediated alveolar bone remodeling.

Response of six neutron survey meters in mixed fields of fast and thermal neutrons

Calibration neutron fields have been developed at KAERI (Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute) to study the responses of commonly used neutron survey meters in the presence of fast neutrons of energy around 10 MeV. The neutron fields were produced by using neutrons from the (241)Am-Be sources held in a graphite pile and a DT neutron generator. The spectral details and the ambient dose equivalent rates of the calibration fields were established, and the responses of six neutron survey meters were evaluated. Four single-moderator-based survey meters exhibited an under-responses ranging from ∼9 to 55 %. DINEUTRUN, commonly used in fields around nuclear reactors, exhibited an over-response by a factor of three in the thermal neutron field and an under-response of ∼85 % in the mixed fields. REM-500 (tissue-equivalent proportional counter) exhibited a response close to 1.0 in the fast neutron fields and an under-response of ∼50 % in the thermal neutron field.

Treatment of patients with cardiovascular disease with L-4F, an apo-A1 mimetic, did not improve select biomarkers of HDL function

L-4F, an apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) mimetic peptide (also known as APL180), was administered daily by either intravenous (IV) infusion for 7 days or by subcutaneous (SC) injection for 28 days in patients with coronary heart disease in two distinct clinical studies. L-4F was well tolerated at all doses tested. Despite achieving plasma levels (mean maximal plasma concentration of 2,907 ng/ml and 395 ng/ml, following IV infusion and SC injection, respectively), that were effective in previously published animal models, treatment with L-4F, as assessed by biomarkers of HDL function such as HDL-inflammatory index (HII), and paraoxonase activity, did not improve. Paradoxically, there was a 49% increase in high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels after seven IV infusions of 30 mg L-4F (P < 0.05; compared with placebo) and a trend for hs-CRP increase in subjects receiving 30 mg SC injection for 28 days. In a subsequent, ex vivo study, addition of L-4F at concentrations of 150, 375, or 1,000 ng/ml to plasma from subjects prior to L-4F treatment resulted in significant dose-dependent HII improvement. In conclusion, in vivo L-4F treatment, delivered by either SC injection or IV infusion, did not improve HDL functional biomarkers despite achieving plasma levels that improved identical biomarkers ex vivo and in animal models.

The effects of paroxetine on the pharmacokinetics of paliperidone extended-release tablets

INTRODUCTION

Co-morbid medical and psychiatric conditions are common in individuals with schizophrenia. As such, selecting antipsychotic medications with a low potential for drug-drug interactions (DDIs) is crucial, as many are extensively metabolized by hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP) isozymes.

METHODS

This randomized, crossover study examined the effects of paroxetine (a potent CYP2D6 inhibitor) on the pharmacokinetic parameters of a single dose of the novel antipsychotic agent, paliperidone extended-release tablets (paliperidone ER), in healthy subjects.

RESULTS

The mean C (max) and AUC of paliperidone were slightly higher and paliperidone clearance was slightly lower following co-administration of paliperidone ER with paroxetine. There was a ratio of geometric treatment means of 116.48% for AUC (infinity) [90% CI: 104.49-129.84]. However, the increase in total exposure to paliperidone was not considered clinically relevant. The incidence of adverse events was lower when subjects received the combination of paliperidone ER and paroxetine compared with paroxetine alone.

DISCUSSION

Results suggest that no clinically relevant pharmacokinetic interaction occurs when paroxetine and paliperidone ER are co-administered and, therefore, initiation or discontinuation of concomitant treatment with CYP2D6-inhibiting drugs does not appear to warrant an adjustment in paliperidone ER dosage.