Salvage Ipilimumab plus Nivolumab after Anti-PD-1/PD-L1 Therapy in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Combination anti-PD-(L)1/CTLA-4 blockade is approved in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the first-line setting or after sorafenib, but whether this treatment has efficacy after prior anti-PD-(L)1 therapy is unknown. We performed a multicenter retrospective review of patients with advanced HCC treated with ipilimumab plus nivolumab after prior anti-PD-(L)1 therapy, excluding patients with prior anti-CTLA-4 treatment. Of the 32 patients who met our inclusion criteria, prior anti-PD-(L)1 regimens included atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (50%, n = 16), other anti-VEGF plus anti-PD-(L)1 combinations (31%, n = 10), and anti-PD-(L)1 monotherapy (19%, n = 6). The median number of prior systemic therapies was 2 (range, 1-8). The objective response rate with ipilimumab plus nivolumab by RECIST 1.1 was 22% [1 complete response (3%), 6 partial response (19%), 8 stable disease (25%), 16 progressive disease (50%), and 1 not evaluable (NE) (3%)], and objective response was associated with improved progression-free survival and overall survival. Immune-related adverse events were reported in 13 patients (41%), with no new safety signals. This study demonstrates that ipilimumab plus nivolumab has efficacy in patients with HCC who have received prior anti-PD-(L)1 therapy, suggesting that failure to respond to prior PD-(L)1 blockade should not preclude treatment with salvage ipilimumab plus nivolumab. Prospective studies are needed to define the optimal sequence of therapies.

Significance

Anti-PD-(L)1 containing regimens are the preferred first-line treatment for advanced HCC, but whether salvage with PD-(L)1/CTLA-4 blockade is effective in patients who have failed prior anti-PD-(L)1 therapy is unknown. Our study demonstrates that ipilimumab plus nivolumab has clinical activity in patients with advanced HCC previously treated with anti-PD-(L)1 therapy, supporting the continued use of this regimen in the late-line setting after prior anti-PD-(L)1 exposure.

Multi-specialty physician perspectives on barriers and facilitators to the use of neoadjuvant therapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant therapy (NT) is increasingly utilized for patients with localized pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Given the importance of completing multimodality therapy, the purpose of this qualitative study was to characterize physician perspectives on barriers and facilitators to delivering NT.

METHODS

A purposive sample of surgical, medical, and radiation oncologists participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were transcribed and coded by 3 independent researchers, iteratively identifying themes until saturation was achieved.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 27) were heterogeneous in specialty, years of experience, practice setting, gender, and geography. The most commonly cited advantage of NT was the ability to downstage patients. The most commonly cited barriers included lack of access and limited evidence. Patient preference for immediate surgery was frequently cited as a barrier, but most participants felt that patients eventually understood the treatment recommendation after informed discussion. Recommendations to enhance the delivery of NT included improved patient education, communication, and better evidence.

CONCLUSION

In this qualitative study, indications for, barriers to, and opportunities to improve the delivery of NT for localized PDAC were identified. These results highlight the need for better evidence and protocol standardization for NT as well as methods of improving care coordination, communication, and education to improve patient-centered outcomes.

Altered Plasma Fatty Acid Abundance Is Associated with Cachexia in Treatment-Naïve Pancreatic Cancer

Cachexia occurs in up to 80% of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients and is characterized by unintentional weight loss and tissue wasting. To understand the metabolic changes that occur in PDAC-associated cachexia, we compared the abundance of plasma fatty acids (FAs), measured by gas chromatography, of subjects with treatment-naïve metastatic PDAC with or without cachexia, defined as a loss of > 2% weight and evidence of sarcopenia (n = 43). The abundance of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated FAs was not different between subjects with cachexia and those without. Oleic acid was significantly higher in subjects with cachexia (p = 0.0007) and diabetes (p = 0.015). Lauric (r = 0.592, p = 0.0096) and eicosapentaenoic (r = 0.564, p = 0.015) acids were positively correlated with age in cachexia patients. Subjects with diabetes (p = 0.021) or both diabetes and cachexia (p = 0.092) had low palmitic:oleic acid ratios. Linoleic acid was lower in subjects with diabetes (p = 0.018) and correlated with hemoglobin (r = 0.519, p = 0.033) and albumin (r = 0.577, p = 0.015) in subjects with cachexia. Oleic or linoleic acid may be useful treatment targets or biomarkers of cachexia in patients with metastatic PDAC, particularly those with diabetes.

Randomized Phase II Study of PET Response-Adapted Combined Modality Therapy for Esophageal Cancer: Mature Results of the CALGB 80803 (Alliance) Trial

PURPOSE

To evaluate the use of early assessment of chemotherapy responsiveness by positron emission tomography (PET) imaging to tailor therapy in patients with esophageal and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

After baseline PET, patients were randomly assigned to an induction chemotherapy regimen: modified oxaliplatin, leucovorin, and fluorouracil (FOLFOX) or carboplatin-paclitaxel (CP). Repeat PET was performed after induction; change in maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) from baseline was assessed. PET nonresponders (< 35% decrease in SUV) crossed over to the alternative chemotherapy during chemoradiation (50.4 Gy/28 fractions). PET responders (≥ 35% decrease in SUV) continued on the same chemotherapy during chemoradiation. Patients underwent surgery at 6 weeks postchemoradiation. Primary end point was pathologic complete response (pCR) rate in nonresponders after switching chemotherapy.

RESULTS

Two hundred forty-one eligible patients received Protocol treatment, of whom 225 had an evaluable repeat PET. The pCR rates for PET nonresponders after induction FOLFOX who crossed over to CP (n = 39) or after induction CP who changed to FOLFOX (n = 50) was 18.0% (95% CI, 7.5 to 33.5) and 20% (95% CI, 10 to 33.7), respectively. The pCR rate in responders who received induction FOLFOX was 40.3% (95% CI, 28.9 to 52.5) and 14.1% (95% CI, 6.6 to 25.0) in responders to CP. With a median follow-up of 5.2 years, median overall survival was 48.8 months (95% CI, 33.2 months to not estimable) for PET responders and 27.4 months (95% CI, 19.4 months to not estimable) for nonresponders. For induction FOLFOX patients who were PET responders, median survival was not reached.

CONCLUSION

Early response assessment using PET imaging as a biomarker to individualize therapy for patients with esophageal and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma was effective, improving pCR rates in PET nonresponders. PET responders to induction FOLFOX who continued on FOLFOX during chemoradiation achieved a promising 5-year overall survival of 53%.

A multi-center, single-arm, phase Ib study of pembrolizumab (MK-3475) in combination with chemotherapy for patients with advanced colorectal cancer: HCRN GI14-186

Modified FOLFOX6 is an established therapy for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). We conducted a single-arm phase Ib study to address the hypothesis that addition of pembrolizumab to this regimen could safely and effectively improve patient outcomes (NCT02375672). The relationship between immune biomarkers and clinical response were assessed in an exploratory manner. Patients with mCRC received concurrent pembrolizumab and modified FOLFOX6. The study included safety run-in for the first six patients. The primary objective was median progression-free survival (mPFS), with secondary objectives including median overall survival, safety, and exploratory assessment of immune changes. To assess immunological impact, peripheral blood was collected at baseline and during treatment. The levels of soluble factors were measured via bioplex, while a panel of checkpoint molecules and phenotypically defined cell populations were assessed with flow cytometry and correlated with RECIST and mPFS. Due to incidences of grade 3 and grade 4 neutropenia in the safety lead-in, the dose of mFOLFOX6 was reduced in the expansion cohort. Median PFS was 8.8 months and median OS was not reached at data cutoff. Best responses of stable disease, partial response, and complete response were observed in 43.3%, 50.0%, and 6.7% of patients, respectively. Several soluble and cellular immune biomarkers were associated with improved RECIST and mPFS. Immunosuppressive myeloid and T cell subsets that were analyzed were not associated with response. Primary endpoint was not superior to historic control. Biomarkers that were associated with improved response may be informative for future regimens combining chemotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Neuronal uptake transporters contribute to oxaliplatin neurotoxicity in mice

Peripheral neurotoxicity is a debilitating condition that afflicts up to 90% of patients with colorectal cancer receiving oxaliplatin-containing therapy. Although emerging evidence has highlighted the importance of various solute carriers to the toxicity of anticancer drugs, the contribution of these proteins to oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neurotoxicity remains controversial. Among candidate transporters investigated in genetically engineered mouse models, we provide evidence for a critical role of the organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) in satellite glial cells in oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity, and demonstrate that targeting OCT2 using genetic and pharmacological approaches ameliorates acute and chronic forms of neurotoxicity. The relevance of this transport system was verified in transporter-deficient rats as a secondary model organism, and translational significance of preventive strategies was demonstrated in preclinical models of colorectal cancer. These studies suggest that pharmacological targeting of OCT2 could be exploited to afford neuroprotection in cancer patients requiring treatment with oxaliplatin.

Abstract PO-022: Plasma fatty acid levels in treatment-naïve metastatic pancreatic cancer patients are associated with clinical indicators of cachexia

Cachexia is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by weight loss and tissue wasting, which is associated with reduced quality of life, responsiveness to chemotherapy, and decreased survival. We aim to determine whether changes in plasma fatty acid content in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC): 1) are predictive of developing cachexia, and 2) whether these changes are influenced by other clinical parameters, like diabetes, that could contribute to malnutrition. Treatment-naïve metastatic PDAC subjects (n=51) were enrolled in NCT01280058 in which plasma samples and clinical data were collected prior to treatment. Subjects were assigned to either weight stable (&lt;5% relative body weight loss, n=26) or “cachectic” (≥5% weight loss, n=25). Plasma fatty acid composition was analyzed via gas chromatography and reported as a percentage of the total identified fatty acids. Oleic (p=0.004) and adrenic acids (p=0.018) were significantly increased in cachectic subjects, regardless of age, sex, or BMI. Docosapentaenoic n-6 acid was more commonly elevated in older cachectic subjects compared to younger subjects (p=0.048). Adrenic acid levels were higher in subjects with cachexia and diabetes compared to subjects without diabetes with cachexia (p=0.0019) or stable weight (p=0.029). Additionally, linoleic acid was lower in subjects with cachexia and diabetes compared to subjects with cachexia and no diabetes (p=0.015) and subjects with stable weight (p=0.017). Area under the receiver operator curves (AUC) showed that oleic acid (AUC=0.726) and adrenic acid (AUC=0.706) are mildly effective at predicting cachexia, and the combination slightly improved the predictive ability (AUC=0.757). Our pilot study identified several plasma fatty acids that are associated with PDAC-associated cachexia, and are influenced by age and diabetes status. Further studies examining how fatty acids contribute to or arise from the development of cachexia may create opportunities for developing effective therapies for cachexia.

Citation Format: Kristyn Gumpper, Phil A. Hart, Martha Belury, Olivia Crowe, Rachel M. Cole, Niharika Badi, Alice Hinton, Mitchell L. Ramsey, Anne Noonan, Darwin L. Conwell, Zobeida Cruz-Monserrate. Plasma fatty acid levels in treatment-naïve metastatic pancreatic cancer patients are associated with clinical indicators of cachexia [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Special Conference on Pancreatic Cancer; 2020 Sep 29-30. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(22 Suppl):Abstract nr PO-022.

Post-diagnosis dietary insulinemic potential and survival outcomes among colorectal cancer patients

Background

The empirical dietary index for hyperinsulinemia (EDIH) score is a validated food-based dietary score that assesses the ability of whole-food diets to predict plasma c-peptide concentrations. Although the EDIH has been extensively applied and found to be predictive of risk of developing major chronic diseases, its influence on cancer survival has not been evaluated. We applied the EDIH score in a large cohort of colorectal cancer patients to assess the insulinemic potential of their dietary patterns after diagnosis and determine its influence on survival outcomes.

Methods

We calculated EDIH scores to assess the insulinemic potential of post-diagnosis dietary patterns and examined survival outcomes in a sample of 1718 stage I-III colorectal cancer patients in the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study cohorts. Multivariable-adjusted Cox regression was applied to compute hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for colorectal cancer-specific mortality and all-cause mortality. We also examined the influence of change in diet from pre- to post-diagnosis period, on mortality.

Results

During a median follow-up of 9.9 years, there were 1008 deaths, which included 272 colorectal cancer-specific deaths (27%). In the multivariable-adjusted analyses, colorectal cancer patients in the highest compared to lowest EDIH quintile, had a 66% greater risk of dying from colorectal cancer: HR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.03, 2.69; and a 24% greater risk of all-cause death: HR, 1.24; 95%CI, 0.97, 1.58. Compared to patients who consumed low insulinemic diets from pre- to post-diagnosis period, patients who persistently consumed hyperinsulinemic diets were at higher risk of colorectal cancer death (HR,1.51; 95%CI, 0.98, 2.32) and all-cause death (HR, 1.31; 95%CI, 1.04, 2.64).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that a hyperinsulinemic dietary pattern after diagnosis of colorectal cancer is associated with poorer survival. Interventions with dietary patterns to reduce insulinemic activity and impact survivorship are warranted.

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Hepatocellular Cancer: Current Understanding on Mechanisms of Resistance and Biomarkers of Response to Treatment

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver malignancy worldwide and a leading cause of death worldwide. Its incidence continues to increase in the US due to hepatitis C infection and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Liver transplantation and resection remain the best therapeutic options for cure, but these are limited by the shortage of available organs for transplantation, diagnosis at advanced stage, and underlying chronic liver disease found in most patients with HCC. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been shown to be an evolving novel treatment option in certain advanced solid tumors and have been recently approved for inoperable, advanced, and metastatic HCC. Unfortunately, a large cohort of patients with HCC fail to respond to immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the ICIs currently approved for HCC treatment and their various mechanisms of action. We will highlight current understanding of mechanism of resistance and limitations to ICIs. Finally, we will describe emerging biomarkers of response to ICIs and address future direction on overcoming resistance to immune checkpoint therapy.

Features, Outcomes, and Management Strategies of Male Breast Cancer: A Single Institution Comparison to Well-Matched Female Controls

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to delineate differences in management, overall and distant disease-free survival in males diagnosed with breast cancer and treated at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center as compared to comprehensively matched female subjects. Secondary objectives included assessment of clinical and histopathologic features and recurrence score, as measured by Oncotype DX and the modified Magee equation #2.

Materials and Methods

This single institution retrospective study compared male and comprehensively matched female patients (1:2) with stage I-III breast cancer between 1994 and 2014. Recurrence risk was estimated using a modified Magee equation. Overall survival and distant disease-free survival were estimated and compared using Kaplan-Meier and Log-rank methods.

Results

Forty-five male breast cancer patients were included (stage I: 26.7%; stage II: 53.3%; stage III: 20.0%; hormone receptor positive: 97.8%; human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative: 84.4%) with a median age of 63.8 (43.0-79.4) years at diagnosis. Intermediate and low recurrence scores were most common in male and female patients respectively; mean score was similar between groups (20.3 vs. 19.8). The proportion of male breast cancer patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy and post-mastectomy radiation was lower compared to female patients (42.2% vs. 65.3%, p=0.013; 22.7% vs. 44.4%, p=0.030, respectively). Overall survival and distant disease-free survival between male and female patients were similar.

Conclusion

Male breast cancer patient outcomes were similar compared to well-matched female patients suggesting that breast cancer specific factors are more prognostic than gender.

Neoadjuvant-modified FOLFIRINOX vs nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine for borderline resectable or locally advanced pancreatic cancer patients who achieved surgical resection

We conducted an institutional study to compare the clinical and pathological efficacy between the neoadjuvant therapy (NAT)‐modified FOLFIRINOX (mFOLF) vs nanoparticle albumin–bound paclitaxel plus gemcitabine (nab‐P/G) for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC) and locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) patients who completed resection. The study retrospectively enrolled patients with pathologically confirmed BRPC or LAPC from 2010 to 2018 at our institution. The survival rates were determined by the Kaplan‐Meier method and log‐rank test was used to test differences. Cox's proportional hazard model was used to assess survival with respect to covariates. Seventy‐two patients who completed at least two cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgical resection were included, with 52 (72.2%) patients receiving mFOLF and 20 (27.8%) receiving nab‐P/G. Patients treated with mFOLF had statistically higher rates of RECIST 1.1 partial or complete response (16/52 vs 1/20, P = .028). Additionally, mFOLF patients had greater pathological tumor size reduction, fewer positive lymph nodes, and higher treatment response grade compared to the nab‐P/G patients (all P < .05). The median overall survival was 33.3 months vs 27.1 months (P = .105), and distant metastasis‒free survival (DMFS) was 21.3 months vs 14.6 months (P = .042) in the mFOLF vs nab‐P/G groups, respectively. On multivariate analysis, mFOLF (hazard ratio, 0.428; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.186‐0.987) and abnormal postoperative CA 19‐9 (hazard ratio, 2.47; 95% CI, 1.06‐5.76) were associated with DMFS. Among patients with BRPC and LAPC who complete surgical resection, neoadjuvant mFOLF was associated with improved pathological and clinical outcomes compared with nab‐P/G.

Abstract P2-13-06: Living well with advanced breast cancer: A unique multidisciplinary clinic designed to empower and educate patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC)

Background: Many individuals diagnosed with MBC and their loved ones struggle to find tailored disease specific resources and support (Mayer 2010). Due to a variety of constraints, oncologists are often challenged to adequately address MBC patients’ needs and concerns within the space of a standard medical visit. Managing expectations and emotions, as well as providing education on the complexities of the MBC journey, is daunting. Moreover, survivorship care to date has not addressed the unique needs of the rapidly growing population of individuals living with MBC. The Living Well with Advanced Breast Cancer Clinic (LWABC) was created to address these gaps in care and to offer comprehensive and personalized consultations for MBC patients.

Methods: MBC-specific support services are provided in one multidisciplinary setting, providing a comprehensive experience that incorporates expert medical oncology and symptom education, integrative medicine, palliative medicine, dietetics, and a personalized check out experience with LWABC nurses. MBC patients are referred by their primary medical oncologists for a one-time visit to this clinic. Second opinions are not provided in LWABC; the visit is strictly focused on education for the patient and their caregivers. Each patient receives multidisciplinary one-on-one education from a medical oncologist using audio-visual aides, mind-body interaction by an integrative medicine physician, personalized dietary recommendations by an experienced dietician, and an introduction to the role of palliative care in improving quality of life while living with cancer. Services also include personalized care planning for supportive care, future trials, and referrals for other resources during their 2.5 hour visit.

Results: Between October 2017-February 2019, 73 patients were scheduled twice a month in the half day LWABC clinic; 44 completed consultations. All patients had MBC with all subtypes represented: ER+PR+HER2- (28, 38%), HER2+ (6, 8%) and ER-PR-HER2- (6, 8%). Median age was 60 years (range 36-75). Median time from time of MBC diagnosis to clinic visit was 2 years (range 1-7 years). Referrals placed at the completion of the visit included: social work (5, 11%), psychosocial oncology (9, 20%), physical therapy (12, 27%), occupational therapy (4, 9%), and palliative medicine (3, 6%). Of the 28 patients (63%) who completed satisfaction surveys regarding their experience at the LWABC, 14 (63%) reported a 5/5 experience in every section reviewed. On average, overall experience was evaluated as a 4.82/5 [SD 0.42]. Comments from participants included: “I feel less fearful and more empowered. Knowledge is power. I am now armed with accurate and useful information and am less uncertain”; “I appreciated the relaxed setting that encouraged conversation. I may have received brochures in the past regarding different options but this setting changes how receptive I am to different treatments.” Many patients reported wanting additional follow up visits in the future. Barriers included provider availability, financial reimbursement, and time for patient travel/additional medical appointments.

Conclusion: The LWABC consultative model is an innovative adjunct to the traditional medical oncology visit and provides critically needed education and exposure of MBC patients to supportive care services within a relaxed and intimate setting while screening for unmet needs. Feasibility and satisfaction with this model of care was high; patients felt empowered by the knowledge delivered during the sessions. Additional expansion opportunities, including an introduction to physical therapy and psychosocial oncology, are planned. To our knowledge, this is a unique and first-of a kind resource offered to patients with MBC.

Citation Format: Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy, Raquel R Reinbolt, Heidi Basinger, Lindsey Radcliff, Brittany Unthank, Kathy Hauck, Kelly Hoffman, Neil A. Borja, Sandra Pedraza, Erin E. Holley, Lanny O. Ntukidem, Mathew Cherian, Anne Noonan, Sagar Sardesai, Daniel G Stover, Jeffrey VanDeusen, Nicole Williams, Robert Wesolowski, Maryam B. Lustberg. Living well with advanced breast cancer: A unique multidisciplinary clinic designed to empower and educate patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2019 Dec 10-14; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-13-06.

Abstract P2-20-07: Assessment of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis management and outcomes in patients with advanced breast cancer from 2005 to 2015: A single institution experience

Background Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LMC) is a complication of advanced malignancies wherein metastatic disease invades the meninges of the central nervous system via contiguous spread from bone or brain metastases or hematogenous spread from systemic disease. Breast cancer is the most common solid tumor etiology of LMC. Approximately 5% of patients (pts) with breast cancer develop LMC. LMC has a median survival of 4 weeks when untreated and 8-16 weeks with treatment. The diagnosis of LMC remains challenging with only 60% of pts having cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) positive for malignant cells. There is no generally accepted standard of care for treatment of LMC but it may involve intrathecal or systemic chemotherapy, whole brain or spinal radiotherapy, or a combination of modalities. We aimed to assess detection and treatment strategies of LMC in pts with breast cancer treated at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center-James (OSUCCC-James) to better characterize the disease and guide clinical care. Methods An IRB-approved single-institution retrospective protocol was developed. Medical records of 469 pts who had undergone a procedure related to LMC diagnosis or treatment were identified and reviewed to determine study eligibility. Comprehensive data was obtained through information warehouse and chart review was performed for the eligible 69 pts with breast cancer diagnosed with LMC and treated at the OSUCCC-James between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2015. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic and clinical characteristics. Overall survival (OS) was defined as time from LMC diagnosis to death or last known follow-up, and was generated using Kaplan Meier methods. Comparisons in OS between groups were analyzed using Log-rank tests. Results Sixty-nine female pts were included in the analysis with the following characteristics: median age 55.7 years (range: 48-60.6 years), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0-2 (86%; N=59), and Caucasian (78%; N=54). They had the following subtypes hormone receptor positive (HR +), and human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2) negative (61%, N=42), triple negative (25%, N=17) and HER2 positive (10%, N=7). The most common sites of metastases included bone (42%), brain (28%), and lung (12%). The median time between the diagnosis of first metastasis and LMC was 0.9 years (range: 0-3.2 years). Of the 40 (58%) pts who underwent lumbar puncture, 21 (52%) pts had positive CSF cytology. Sixty-eight pts (99%) had MRI findings suggestive of LMC. The most common treatment modalities were systemic chemotherapy (N=14, 41%), radiotherapy (N=12, 35%), and intrathecal chemotherapy (N=14, 35%). Fifty-six pts (81%) had a change in systemic chemotherapy agent after diagnosis. The median OS of all pts was 2.4 months (95% confidence interval: 1.2-4.4). Pts with ER+/PR+/HER2- had a better OS (4.4 months, 95%CI 1.5, 6.1)) compared to those with HER2+ (1.3 months, 95%CI 0.2, 1.9) or ER-/PR-/HER2- (0.6 months, 95%CI 0.0, 15.8) subtypes (p-value=0.004). Pts with negative CSF cytology had a greater OS compared to those with positive CSF cytology (9.8 vs. 0.7 months, p=0.026) and pts who had a change in systemic treatment had a greater OS compared with patients who had no new treatment (2.5 months vs. 1.2 months, p =0.039). No significant difference was seen in OS between ECOG performance status groups. Conclusions LMC is a relatively rare yet devastating complication of breast cancer. Based on our institutional experience, LMC remains a clinical challenge and is associated with poor OS. Pts with triple negative and HER2 positive disease and those with high disease burden fare worse. Pts who had change in systemic therapy fare better. Dedicated clinical trials are urgently needed to improve outcomes.

Citation Format: Hannah Rinehardt, Nicole Williams, Evan Morgan, Mahmooud Kassem, Marilly Palettas, Abdul Miah, Iyad Alnahhas, Pilar Guillermo Prieto Eibl, Anupama Suresh, Vinay Puduvalli, Pierre Giglio, Maryam Lustberg, Robert Wesolowski, Sagar Sardesai, Daniel Stover, Jeffrey VanDeusen, Jose Bazan, Bhuvaneswari Ramswamy, Anne Noonan. Assessment of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis management and outcomes in patients with advanced breast cancer from 2005 to 2015: A single institution experience [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2019 Dec 10-14; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-20-07.

Abstract P5-10-03: Perceptions of somatic genomic testing in patients with metastatic breast cancer: Psychosocial factors, emotional well-being, and genetic comprehension

Background: Little is known regarding the effect of somatic tumor genomic testing on patient perceptions and psychological well-being. We previously demonstrated that patient perceptions of care can be negatively affected if their next cancer treatment is not supported by the genomic test. To further understand this, we investigated psychological effects of genomic testing, as well as sociodemographic and genomic comprehension factors that may attenuate these effects. Methods: In a prospective, single institution, single-arm trial, patients with metastatic breast cancer underwent next-generation sequencing (NGS) using Foundation Medicine at study entry, with sequencing results released to providers at time of next disease progression. We evaluated patient survey data before and after NGS, including questions about psychosocial characteristics, genetic comprehension, and perceived risks and expectations of the genomic testing. We evaluated psychosocial characteristics using 4 validated psychology measures: the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), the Trust in Physician Scale (TPS), and the Communication and Attitudinal Self-Efficacy scale for Cancer (CASE-cancer). CASE-cancer measures self-efficacy, how confident patients are in their ability to navigate their cancer care. Genetic comprehension was assessed with a 7-question objective measure and a 6-question subjective measure. No formal genetic education was provided, but the informed consent process included an introduction to NGS. We included exploratory questions on perceived risks and expectations of NGS. Results: Among the 58 patients who completed the pre-NGS survey, we found high rates of depression (38%) and anxiety (47%) using validated metrics. Depression and anxiety were positively correlated (Pearson’s r=0.61; p&lt;0.0001) but both were negatively correlated with self-efficacy (Pearson’s r=-0.43 and -0.42 for depression and anxiety, respectively; p=0.001 for both). Baseline genetic knowledge was significantly lower for non-white and lower income status patients (p=0.04 and 0.001, respectively). Genetic knowledge was not associated with any of the 4 validated psychological measures. The validated psychological measures were not associated with demographic characteristics, treatment decisions, or number of treatment options offered by the NGS test. The average time between pre-test and post-test surveys was 7.6 months. Additionally, the validated psychology measures did not significantly change from pre- to post-study (n=40 patients). However, there was a strong trend of self-efficacy decreasing from pre- to post-NGS testing (p=0.05). Subjectively, patients gained confidence in their ability to teach others about genetics from the start (33% “confident”) to the end of study (46%). Yet, objective comprehension of genetics remained modest throughout the study, with an average score of 72% in both the pre- and post-NGS surveys. The exploratory patient perception questions revealed that 33% of patients felt learning their cancer had a high chance of progressing would be too much to cope with emotionally. Conclusions: This is the first study, to our knowledge, to longitudinally evaluate multiple validated psychological metrics in MBC. NGS did not have a significant effect on depression, anxiety, or trust, but there was a trend towards decreased self-efficacy. This may be influenced by the already high rates of depression, anxiety, and trust in this population. In this study, patient genetic knowledge was limited and associated with race and income. These findings raise important questions about how to support MBC patient emotional well-being and how to improve comprehension of somatic genomic testing in future studies.

Citation Format: Elizabeth J Adams, Sarah Asad, Mahmoud Abdel-Rasoul, Raquel E Reinbolt, Robert Wesolowski, Kaitlyn Tolliver, Susan Gillespie, Katherine A Collier, Anne Noonan, Sargar Sardesai, Jeffrey VanDeusen, Nicole Williams, Charles L Shapiro, Erin R Macre, Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy, Clara N Lee, Maryam B Lustberg, Daniel G Stover. Perceptions of somatic genomic testing in patients with metastatic breast cancer: Psychosocial factors, emotional well-being, and genetic comprehension [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2019 Dec 10-14; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-10-03.

Abstract P4-16-01: Feasibility of comprehensive geriatric assessment in an academic breast oncology clinic

Introduction: Adults age ≥65y constitute the majority of patients (pts) diagnosed with cancer. There is a gap in knowledge about the safest and most effect cancer treatments for older pts. At The Ohio State University, we have a longitudinal multidisciplinary geriatric clinic for adults ≥ 65 years of age diagnosed with breast cancer (BC). The clinic team consists of a physician, nurse practitioner, dietician, physical therapist, social worker nurse, and pharmacist. We evaluate the unique needs of older pts with breast cancer by completing a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). Eligible patients are enrolled into OSU-16153 which is a is prospective cohort study of pts ≥65y with new diagnosis of BC to better understand complex health issues of this population, and to collect data to support future studies. Methods: Forty eight pts have completed the baseline questionnaires including demographics, lifestyle and health history and CGA. Summary statistics were used to describe the baseline characteristics. Results: The median age of patients enrolled in the study was 77 years (range 67-94), the mean BMI was 28, 50% (24/48) were Caucasian and 6% (3/48) were African American. Mobility was assessed mobility with the time get up and go (TGUG), mean 9.8 (SD=6.2) and grip strength, mean of 31. Cognitive limitations were screened with the blessed orientation memory concentration test, mean 3.9 (SD=5.0) and mini-cog, mean 3.6 (SD=1), malnutrition, mean 12.3 (SD=12.2) and depression, mean 1.6 (SD=2.4). Functional limitations were measured with Katz, mean 5.9 (SD=0.2), and Lawson, mean 7.8 (SD=0.8). Disease characteristics included 18% (9/48) Tis, 54% (26/48) T1, 21% (10/48) T2, 2%(1/48) T3, and 4% (2/48) T4 tumors, 65% (31/48) lymph node negative and 81% (39/48) estrogen positive (ER+),17% (8/48) ER negative and 4% (2/48) HER2 positive. Oncotype score was &lt;25 in 19% (9/48) and &gt;25 in 4% (2/48). Twelve percent (6/48) received adjuvant chemotherapy for triple negative or ER+ breast cancer with high oncotype with docetaxel/cytoxan and 4% received trastuzumab based therapy and they were able to complete all planned cycles. Two pts received chemotherapy based on results of CGA. Forty-two pts were eligible to receive endocrine therapy (ET); 3 pts with ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS) and 2 pts with invasive BC declined, 1 did not follow up after her initial visit. Five pts switched ET due to side effects. The 7 patients with invasive BC who declined or switched ET due to side effects all had an abnormal TGUG, 43% (3/7) had an impaired min-cog and 57% (4/7) had impaired hand grip. Conclusions: The majority of older adults have no functional deficits in ADL/IADL, have adequate mobility and grip strength and did not screen positive for cognitive limitations, depression or, malnutrition. Our data shows that the mobility and cognitive assessment of a CGA may serve as a predictor of toxicity from ET therapy and identify patients who are at risk for side effects and who may benefit from additional interventions. The majority of pts who received adjuvant chemotherapy and ET tolerated well. Our pilot data shows a CGA is feasible and that a CGA helped direct appropriate therapy.

Citation Format: Nicole Williams, Julie Stephens, Elizabeth Kress, Erin Frey, Susan Fugett, Paige Erdeljac, Stephanie Yager, Erin Holley, Cari Utendorf, Nikki Ford, Caitln Ubbing, Jeanie Overcash, Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy, Anne Noonan. Feasibility of comprehensive geriatric assessment in an academic breast oncology clinic [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2019 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2019 Dec 10-14; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-16-01.

Assessment of outcomes and novel immune biomarkers in metaplastic breast cancer: a single institution retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Metaplastic breast cancer remains poorly characterized given its rarity and heterogeneity. The majority of metaplastic breast cancers demonstrate a phenotype of triple-negative breast cancer; however, differences in clinical outcomes between metaplastic breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer in the era of third-generation chemotherapy remain unclear.

METHODS

We compared the clinical outcomes between women with metaplastic breast cancer and women with triple-negative breast cancer diagnosed between 1994 and 2014. Metaplastic breast cancer patients were matched 1:3 to triple-negative breast cancer patients by stage and age at diagnosis. Distant disease-free survival (DDFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using Kaplan Meier methods and Cox proportional hazard regression models. Immune checkpoint markers were characterized by immunohistochemistry in a subset of samples.

RESULTS

Forty-four metaplastic breast cancer patients (stage I 14%; stage II 73%; stage III 11%; stage IV 2%) with an average age of 55.4 (± 13.9) years at diagnosis. Median follow-up for the included metaplastic breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer patients (n = 174) was 2.8 (0.1-19.0) years. The DDFS and OS between matched metaplastic breast cancer and triple-negative breast cancer patients were similar, even when adjusting for clinical covariates (DDFS: HR = 1.64, p = 0.22; OS: HR = 1.64, p = 0.26). Metaplastic breast cancer samples (n = 27) demonstrated greater amount of CD163 in the stroma (p = 0.05) and PD-L1 in the tumor (p = 0.01) than triple-negative breast cancer samples (n = 119), although more triple-negative breast cancer samples were positive for CD8 in the tumor than metaplastic breast cancer samples (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with metaplastic breast cancer had similar outcomes to those with triple-negative breast cancer based on DDFS and OS. The immune checkpoint marker profile of metaplastic breast cancers in this study may prove useful in future studies attempting to demonstrate an association between immune profile and survival.

LPTO-10. ASSESSMENT OF LEPTOMENINGEAL CARCINOMATOSIS DIAGNOSIS AND OUTCOMES FROM 2005 TO 2015 AT THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY

BACKGROUND: Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LMC) is a complication of solid tumor malignancies where tumors metastasize to the leptomeninges. LMC complicates 4–15% of malignancies with incidence increasing as survival of patients with advanced cancer improves. Diagnostic methods include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytology. We assessed detection methods, incidence, and outcomes of LMC at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center from 2005–2015. METHODS: This was a single-institution retrospective study of 160 patients with confirmed diagnosis of LMC. Patients with hematologic and central nervous system malignancies were excluded. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic and clinical characteristics. Overall survival (OS) was defined as time from LMC diagnosis to death or last known follow-up, and was generated using Kaplan-Meier methods. RESULTS: Median age of LMC diagnosis was 55.8 years (range: 48, 62.5). 69 (43%) patients had primary breast cancer, 41 (26%) had lung cancer, and 17 (11%) had melanoma. 73 patients (46%) presented with stage IV disease at initial diagnosis of the primary cancer, 41 (26%) with stage III disease, and 26 (16%) with stage II disease. Median time from diagnosis of primary cancer to diagnosis of LMC was 2 years (range: 0, 31.2). 158 (99%) patients had metastases at the time of LMC diagnosis, predominantly in bone (36%) or brain (36%). Median OS was 1.9 months (CI: 1.3, 2.5). 160 (100%) patients had an MRI of the brain or spine and 155 (97%) had MRI findings consistent with LMC. 75 (47%) patients underwent lumbar puncture, and 39 (52%) had CSF cytology positive for malignancy. CONCLUSIONS: Despite treatment, prognosis remains poor and confirmation of diagnosis can be challenging. This study highlights the need for novel therapeutics and improved diagnostic techniques for patients with LMC.

Neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment strategies for hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver malignancy worldwide and a major cause of cancer-related mortality for which liver resection is an important curative-intent treatment option. However, many patients present with advanced disease and with underlying chronic liver disease and/or cirrhosis, limiting the proportion of patients who are surgical candidates. In addition, the development of recurrent or de novo cancers following surgical resection is common. These issues have led investigators to evaluate the benefit of neoadjuvant and adjuvant treatment strategies aimed at improving resectability rates and decreasing recurrence rates. While high-level evidence to guide treatment decision making is lacking, recent advances in locoregional and systemic therapies, including antiviral treatment and immunotherapy, raise the prospect of novel approaches that may improve the outcomes of patients with HCC. In this review, we evaluate the evidence for various neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies and discuss opportunities for future clinical and translational research.

Abstract CT169: Pilot study testing the effects of BTK inhibitor ibrutinib and nivolumab on levels and function of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and other immune subsets in patients with metastatic solid tumors (NCT03525925)

Background: Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are a naturally occurring population of immature myeloid cells with immune suppressive function that curtail inflammatory processes. In cancer, these cells abnormally expand and migrate to tumor/lymphoid regions where they negatively impact antigen specific and innate immune effector cells. Circulating MDSC levels have also been associated with the higher tumor burden and decreased survival of patients with solid tumors. Preclinical studies performed by our group demonstrated that ibrutinib (PCI-32765), an irreversible inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, is capable of inhibiting MDSC generation and their immunosuppressive function (A. Stiff, CA Res, 2016). We also found that the combination of ibrutinib and a PD-L1 inhibitor worked synergistically in a mouse model of mammary carcinoma. Based on these results, targeting MDSC with ibrutinib has the potential to enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors such as nivolumab in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Materials and Methods: This pilot study will assess the effect of single agent ibrutinib and ibrutinib in combination with nivolumab on levels and function of circulating myeloid-derived suppressor cells in 15 patients with advanced solid tumors. Eligible patients are required to have metastatic malignancy and be eligible for treatment with nivolumab as determined by the treating physician. Study subjects will be treated with ibrutinib at 420 mg given orally once daily. Nivolumab will be given at a standard dose of 240 mg IV over 30 minutes on days 1 and 15 on 28-day cycles. Ibrutinib dosing will be started 7 (+/-2) days prior to cycle 1 of nivolumab therapy and will be given until cycle 1, day 8 of nivolumab or total of 15 days (whichever comes first). Peripheral blood will be collected just prior to initiation of ibrutinib (at day -7), prior to day 1 of cycle 1, prior to day 8 of cycle 1, prior to day 1 of cycle 2 and at the time of disease progression. The primary objective is to evaluate the effect of the ibrutinib therapy on circulating levels of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). The safety of the study combination, effect of ibrutinib/nivolumab on immune cell subsets and the length of progression-free survival will also be assessed.

Conclusion: The study opened to accrual on August 10, 2018 and is currently enrolling the target 15 patients. To date 9 patients are on study.

Citation Format: Brooke Benner, Megan Duggan, Andrew Stiff, Bhavana Konda, Robert D. Rupert, Paul Monk, Claire Verschraegen, Hiral Shah, Anne Noonan, William E. Carson, Robert Wesolowski. Pilot study testing the effects of BTK inhibitor ibrutinib and nivolumab on levels and function of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and other immune subsets in patients with metastatic solid tumors (NCT03525925) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr CT169.

Evaluation of a locked nucleic acid form of antisense oligo targeting HIF-1α in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) is a gene that regulates tumor survival, neovascularization and invasion. Overexpression of HIF-1α correlates with poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). RO7070179 is a HIF-1α inhibitor that decreases HIF-1α mRNA and its downstream targets, it could be a potential treatment in HCC.

AIM

To evaluate safety and preliminary activity of RO7070179 in patients with previously treated HCC, with focus on a patient with prolonged response to RO7070179.

METHODS

In the preclinical study of RO7070179 in a HCC xenograft model, the mice were separated into 4 groups with each group received doses of 0, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg for total 10 doses. HCC patients who failed at least one line of systemic treatment, received RO7070179 as a weekly infusion, each cycle is 6 wk. We evaluated the safety and HIF-1α mRNA levels of RO7070179.

RESULTS

Preclinical evaluation of RO7070179 in orthotopic HCC xenograft model showed no significant differences in HCC tumor weight between the 3 and 10 mg/kg groups. However, dose of 10 mg/kg of RO7070179, has shown 76% reduction of the amount of HIF-1α mRNA in HCC tissue. In the phase 1b study of RO7070179 in previously treated HCC patients, 8 out of 9 were evaluable: 1 achieved PR and 1 SD. The patient with PR responded after 2 cycles treatments, which has been maintained for 12 cycles. This patient also showed reduction in perfusion of dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) after 1 cycle of treatment. After 1 cycle of treatment, both patients with PR and SD showed decrease in HIF-1α mRNA at the root of biopsies (each biopsy was divided into 2 specimens, the tip and the root).

CONCLUSION

RO7070179 can reduce HIF-1α mRNA level in HCC patients with SD or PR. It is well tolerated at 10 mg/kg, with transaminitis as the dose of increased toxicity. This study indicates that RO7070179 might benefit HCC patients, and an early signal for clinical benefit can potentially be predicted through changes in either mRNA level or DCE-MRI within 1 cycle of therapy.

Abstract P3-07-08: Multi-omic predictor of rapid and late relapse in primary triple negative breast cancer

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease. Clinically, we observe three distinct TNBC outcomes: 1) rapid relapse (rrTNBC) characterized by aggressive drug resistant disease; 2) late relapse (lrTNBC) characterized by indolent or treatment responsive disease; and 3) no relapse (NoRTNBC). We hypothesized that distinct clinical and genomic features of primary tumors define rapid versus late relapse in TNBC.

Approach: Using three publicly-available datasets (METABRIC, TCGA, and a prior gene expression meta-analysis), we identified 455 patients diagnosed with primary TNBC with adequate follow-up to be characterized as rrTNBC (relapse or death within 2 years of diagnosis), lrTNBC (relapse or death more than 2 years after diagnosis), or NoRTNBC (no relapse/death with at least 5 years follow-up). We compiled basic clinical (n=455 patients) and primary tumor multi-omic data, including whole transcriptome (n=455), whole genome copy number (n=317), and mutation data for 171 cancer-related genes (n=317). We evaluated intrinsic subtypes (PAM50, TNBCtype), 125 gene expression signatures, CIBERSORT immune subsets, copy number, and mutation frequency.

Results: We first evaluated patients with relapse (rrTNBC+lrTNBC) vs. NoRTNBC. There was no significant difference in age, grade, stage at diagnosis, or PAM50 or TNBC subtype proportion between relapse and NoRTNBC. Among 125 expression signatures, five immune signatures were significantly higher in NoRTNBCs (FDR p&lt;0.05) suggesting increased immune activity in patients who do not relapse. Using CIBERSORT inferred immune subsets, anti-tumor CD8 T-cell, M1 macrophage, and gamma-delta T-cell subsets were all highly correlated to these immune signatures (all Pearson's r &gt;= 0.3, all p&lt;1.2e-8). Among genomic features, patients who relapsed were significantly more likely to harbor a mutation in PIK3CA (Fisher exact FDR p=0.02) but there was no significant difference in tumor mutation burden or percent genome altered (Student's t-test p=0.83 and p=0.99, respectively). We then evaluated primary TNBC genomic data in patients who ultimately developed rapid vs. late relapse. Patients with rrTNBC were more likely to be higher stage (p&lt;0.0001) while lrTNBC were more likely to be non-basal PAM50 subtype (p=0.03). Among 11 significantly altered gene expression signatures (FDR p&lt;0.05), 6 estrogen/luminal signatures were significantly higher in lrTNBC. Mutations in DNAH11 and PIK3CA were more common in lrTNBC (Fisher exact FDR p=0.04 and p=0.05, respectively) but there were no significant differences in tumor mutation burden or copy number burden (Student's t-test p=0.13 and p=0.45, respectively). Using 317 cases with full genomic data divided into training and validation datasets, we will report a comparison of machine learning models for predicting relapse versus no relapse and rapid versus late relapse.

Conclusions: Primary TNBC tumors destined for rapid, late, or no relapse reflect distinct genomic features. Anti-tumor immune signatures and subsets are enriched in patients who do not relapse yet no difference in mutational or copy number burden. Relative to rapid relapse TNBCs, late relapse TNBCs are enriched for non-basal tumors, estrogen/luminal expression signatures, and mutations in DNAH11 and PIK3CA.

Citation Format: Zhang Y, Nock W, Asad S, Adams E, Singh J, Damicis A, Lustberg MB, Noonan A, Reinbolt R, Sardesai S, VanDeusen J, Wesolowski R, Williams N, Ramaswamy B, Stover DG. Multi-omic predictor of rapid and late relapse in primary triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-07-08.

Abstract P1-09-01: CD8+ T-cell gene expression and signatures in breast cancer and adjacent normal breast tissue: Association with body mass index, alcohol intake, and age at diagnosis

Background: Our understanding of mediators of immune infiltration in breast cancer and normal breast tissue remains limited. We hypothesize that patient factors known to be associated with inflammation and immune subsets, including body mass index, alcohol intake, and age and diagnosis, may play an important role in the tumor-immune microenvironment. Analyses of immune gene expression and signatures facilitate interrogation of the immune microenvironment in large patient cohorts.

Methods: Participants from the Nurses' Health Study cohorts I and II diagnosed with invasive breast cancer were included. Total RNA extracted and microarray performed for 882 tumor and 695 tumor-adjacent samples, of which 623 tumors have matched tumor-adjacent data. CD8+ T-cell expression metrics were assessed: CD8A single gene expression (CD8Agene), a CD8 T-cell signature (CD8sig), and a tumor infiltrating lymphocyte signature derived from the GeparSixto clinical trial (GSAct). Standard clinicopathologic features were evaluated, as well as body mass index (BMI) one year prior to diagnosis, cumulative average alcohol intake, and age at diagnosis.

Results: Overall, tumor and adjacent normal tissue demonstrated positive correlation of CD8Agene, CD8sig, and GSAct (n=623 pairs, Pearson's r = 0.46, 0.36, 0.31, respectively; all p&lt;0.001). Similar correlations were present in TCGA breast cancer, an independent cohort (n=112 pairs, Pearson's r = 0.34, 0.17, 0.45, respectively; all p&lt;0.001). We evaluated paired tumor and adjacent normal samples within individual immunohistochemical (IHC) subtype or PAM50 subtype by Wilcoxon signed-rank test. There was not a consistent trend for CD8Agene, CD8sig, nor GSAct to be greater in tumor or normal within subtypes. We then evaluated patient features/exposures and tumor immune expression metrics. For tumor-adjacent normal, there was no significant association of alcohol intake, BMI, or age at diagnosis with CD8 gene/expression metrics. For tumor tissue, a multivariate model demonstrated that BMI one year before diagnosis was significantly associated with CD8Agene expression. There was no significant association of alcohol intake or age at diagnosis with CD8 gene/expression metrics. We are currently evaluating the association of these CD8 T-cell gene expression signatures with CD8 T-cell immunohistochemistry in a subset of patients, which will be reported at the time of abstract presentation.

Conclusion: In this cohort of over 600 tumor:normal pairs and a separate validation cohort, multiple distinct CD8+ T-cell expression metrics are correlated between breast cancer and tumor-adjacent normal breast tissue. This suggests that the adjacent normal breast may reflect an altered immune microenvironment in the context of breast cancer. While age at diagnosis and alcohol intake are not significantly associated with tumor CD8 expression metrics, BMI was significantly associated with tumor CD8Agene expression in a multivariate model.

Citation Format: Damicis A, Heng YJ, Kensler K, Asad S, Adams E, Singh J, Zhang Y, Nock W, Wesolowski R, Williams N, Reinbolt R, Sardesai S, VanDeusen J, Noonan A, Lustberg MB, Ramaswamy B, Eliassen AH, Hankinson SE, Tamimi R, Stover DG. CD8+ T-cell gene expression and signatures in breast cancer and adjacent normal breast tissue: Association with body mass index, alcohol intake, and age at diagnosis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-09-01.

Abstract P6-17-35: Withdrawn

This abstract was withdrawn by the authors.

Citation Format: Hamilton EP, Barve M, Bardia A, Beeram M, Edenfield WJ, Noonan A, Tolcher A, Bendell J, Mosher R, Xu J, Hailman E, Burris III H, Soliman HH. Withdrawn [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-17-35.

Abstract A20: Analysis of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and expression of PD1 and PD-L1 in breast tumors prior to and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy

Introduction: The effect of chemotherapy on the presence of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and expression of PD1 and PD-L1 is unclear. We sought to describe the differences in the percentage (%) of TILs, cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), and expression of PD1/PD-L1 in tumors of patients (pts) with operable breast cancer (BC) treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) who were enrolled in a biomarker study at our institution (IRB protocol# 2010C0036).

Methods: A multicolor immune-histochemical multiplex assay simultaneously detecting PD1, PD-L1, and CD8 expressing cells was performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded diagnostic pretreatment biopsy or resected tumor specimen following NAC in 18 of 26 pts participating in the study. A cut-off of ≥1% was considered positive for PD1 and PD-L1 expression. We evaluated stromal and intratumoral CTLs by estimating % of stroma and tumor that contained CD8+ cells. In addition, stromal TILs (sTILs) were identified on full-face hematoxylin and eosin stained sections and defined as the % of tumor stroma containing infiltrating lymphocytes. Pathologic complete or near-complete response (pCR) was analyzed based on residual cancer burden (RCB) score and defined as RCB class 0 or I. Analysis of all slides was performed by an expert breast pathologist. Since the number of pts was limited, we only provide descriptive statistics (mean, range). In addition, because most pts had only a biopsy or only residual tumor available for the analysis, we divided pts into 2 separate cohorts based on what tissue was available.

Results: Of 18 pts, biopsy was analyzed in 7 (Bx cohort) and residual tumor was analyzed in 11 pts (RT cohort). The median age of study pts was 48 (range 32-70); 11 (61%), 6 (33%), and 1 (6%) of pts were Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic, respectively. Ten pts (5 in Bx and RT cohorts each) had triple-negative BC (TNBC), 4 had HER2+ BC (1 and 3 in Bx and RT cohorts, respectively), and 4 had hormone receptor-positive, HER2- BC (1 and 3 in Bx and RT cohorts, respectively). Eight pts (44%) had pCR. In the bx cohort, 85% of pts had pCR while 18% of pts in the RT cohort had minimal residual disease (RCB class I). In the Bx cohort, average % of sTILs was 30% (range 2-70%), including 1 pt (14%) with lymphocyte predominant tumor (≥50% of sTILs). The % of sTILs was similar in the 11 residual tumors (mean 22, range 2-60) with 2 pts having lymphocyte predominant tumors. Average % of CTLs was 19 (range 1-50) in the Bx cohort and 14 (range 1-50) in the RT cohort. An average % of intratumoral CTLs was 8 (range 1-30) and 7.5 (range 0-40) while the average % of stromal CTLs was 25 (range 1-60) and 19 (range 1-60) in the Bx and RT cohorts, respectively. Similar % and trends were seen in 10 TNBC pts. PD-L1 expression was seen in 86% and 36% of tumors in the Bx and RT cohorts, respectively, with majority of expression present in the stroma. All cases of intratumoral PD-L1 expression were also positive for stromal PD-L1 expression. This difference was also seen in the TNBC pts (80% vs. 40% of tumors were PD-L1+ in Bx and RT cohorts, respectively). An average PD-L1 intensity was approximately 3% in both cohorts (range 1-20%). Expression of PD1 was very low (1% intensity in 3 pts in Bx cohort and in 1 pt in RT cohort) and it was seen on CD8+ CTLs.

Conclusion: Our study preliminarily shows that percent of sTILs and stromal and intratumoral CTLs does not differ between pretreatment biopsy and residual tumors following NAC. Lower proportion of residual tumors were PD-L1+ compared to pretreatment biopsy specimen. The study limitations include small number of subjects and lack of comparison in the same pts. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Citation Format: Robert Wesolowski, Zaibo Li, Christopher McQuinn, Maryam Lustberg, Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy, Anne Noonan, Raquel Reinbolt, Sagar Sardesai, Jeffrey B. VanDeusen, Nicole Williams, William E. Carson, III. Analysis of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and expression of PD1 and PD-L1 in breast tumors prior to and after neoadjuvant chemotherapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Advances in Breast Cancer Research; 2017 Oct 7-10; Hollywood, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2018;16(8_Suppl):Abstract nr A20.

Abstract OT2-05-03: Does minocycline mitigate chemotherapy induced neuroinflammation? A phase II randomized placebo controlled study

Background: Many breast cancer (BC) patients, particularly those who receive chemotherapy (chemo), experience affective symptoms and cognitive changes that can negatively impact their quality of life. Causal links between inflammatory mediators and the development of depressive-like behavior and cognitive defects, have been established in mouse models, including studies by our group showing increased microglial activation following chemo (A.C DeVries et al). Microglia are resident immune cells of the brain, which release proinflammatory cytokines when activated. Doxorubicin (DOX) induces microglial activation in the brain. Minocycline, a second generation tetracycline, has been shown to suppress inflammation by inhibiting microglial activation in CNS disease models. We hypothesize that (1) chemo activates microglia in the brains of women being treated for BC, which can precipitate or exacerbate depression, anxiety and cognitive deficits and (2) Minocycline administration during neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemo will prevent chemo-induced microglial activation and will reduce affective and cognitive symptom burden. Trial Design: This is a single center, Phase II, double blinded randomized study of minocycline (100 mg twice a day) vs placebo twice a day in women with BC receiving DOX-based or other chemo for BC. Pts will be randomized to either oral minocycline or placebo for up to a 1 week loading period plus chemo treatment period and an optional subsequent 2 week period. Eligibility Criteria: Women diagnosed with BC stages I-III initiating first line adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemo. Aims: (1) to evaluate symptoms related to anxiety and depression and cognitive changes during and after chemo completion (2) to evaluate markers of neuro inflammation as assessed by blood based inflammatory cytokines and central markers of inflammation and microglia activation using 1 F-Fludeoxyglucose and 11C-PK11195 positron emission tomography. Primary endpoints are changes in Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and State Trait Anxiety Index (STAI) from baseline to end of study after minocycline vs placebo intervention. Secondary endpoints are changes in cognitive function during chemo using validated cognitive testing including N-Back Test, Behavioural Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) and the Multifactorial Memory Questionnaire Ability Scale (MMQ). Statistical Methods: Primary analysis for efficacy will be intention-to-treat. The main objective is to preliminarily evaluate the effect of minocycline on chemo-induced depressive symptoms in terms of changes in CES-D and STAI scores. Mixed models will be used to evaluate cognitive function changes. A sample size of 23 per group, will give 80% power to detect an effect size of 0.74 standard deviation (SD) difference between the 2 groups at significance level of 0.10 based on a 2 sided two-sample t-test. From our experience, attrition of less than 20% is expected for studies in this patient population in our center, and to account for this, we plan to recruit up to 60 patients. 16 of 46 evaluable pts have been accrued to date. Accrual started in January 2016. Funded by Pelotonia grant from The OSUCCC. Contact: Study PI: Maryam.lustberg@osumc.edu

Citation Format: Boutrid H, Reinbolt R, Knopp M, Williams N, VanDeusen J, Sardesai S, Noonan A, Flora L, Gleich E, Pan X, Berger M, Vargo C, Wesolowski R, Ramaswamy B, DeVries AC, Lustberg M. Does minocycline mitigate chemotherapy induced neuroinflammation? A phase II randomized placebo controlled study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr OT2-05-03.

Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment in Oncology: Best Practices in Caring for Older Patients

CASE STUDY Michele Green received the results of her breast cancer biopsy last week. Before surgery for infiltrating ductal carcinoma to her left breast, Michele was advised to meet with the members of the Senior Adult Oncology Program (SAOP) at the cancer center. A phone call from a nurse explained that the 2-hour visit with the SAOP would include meetings with many providers, such as a physical therapist, a social worker, a dietitian, a pharmacist, a nurse practitioner, and an oncologist to undergo a comprehensive geriatric assessment. Driving to her appointment, Michele wondered why her visit would take so long and why she had to see so many people. At 81 years old, Michele maintains her physical fitness and has never really been sick. She continues to work each week at the university and engages in an active social life. What could a team possibly find? Walking past the many examination rooms, Michele began to feel despair that she was now a "cancer patient."

Upfront molecular testing in patients with advanced gastro-esophageal cancer: Is it time yet?

INTRODUCTION

Targeting HER2 has improved outcomes in metastatic GE (mGE) cancer. In this study, we aim to explore the feasibility of molecular profiling in patients with refractory mGE cancer in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

Archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples for patients with mGE were analyzed with commercially available targeted next generation sequencing (NGS) and/or FISH for MET amplification. We also reviewed the patients' medical records for concurrent HER 2 testing.

RESULTS

Tumor samples from 99 patients with mGE cancer were analyzed as follows: NGS (N = 56), FISH for MET amplification (N = 65), IHC and/or FISH for HER2 (N = 87). Of patients who underwent NGS, 50/56 (89%) had at least one actionable molecular alteration. The most notable actionable alterations included cell cycle abnormalities (58%), HER2 amplification (30%), PI3KCA mutation (14%), MCL1 amplification (11%), PTEN loss (9%), CDH1 mutation (2%) and MET amplification (5%). Ninety-two percent (12/13) of patients with HER2 amplification by NGS were positive for HER2 by IHC and/or FISH. In contrast, only 12/18 (66%) patients positive for HER2 by IHC and/or FISH demonstrated HER2 amplification by NGS.

CONCLUSION

Comprehensive molecular testing is feasible in clinical practice and provides a platform for screening patients for molecularly guided clinical trials and available targeted therapies.

Why RECIST works and why it should stay--counterpoint

Assessing that the efficacy of a cancer therapeutic is an integral part of its path to regulatory approval, we review the history that led to our current assessment method, Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST). We describe the efforts of Moertel and Hanley to standardize response assessments in lymphoid malignancies and how this was adapted in the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Two decades later, RECIST was advanced to streamline WHO and improve its reproducibility. We describe the ways in which thresholds established by Moertel and Hanley to provide accuracy and reproducibility evolved to become measures of efficacy and why they have been valuable. While we recognize RECIST is far from perfect-in need of modification as a measure of efficacy for some agents and in some diseases-for the majority of solid tumors, it is very valuable. We argue that over time, the efficacy thresholds established by WHO and then RECIST have proved their worth, and we summarize 10 years of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals in solid tumors to support our position that current RECIST thresholds should be retained.

IKK-ε coordinates invasion and metastasis of ovarian cancer

Inhibitor of IκB kinases (IKK) are key regulators of NF-κB signaling. Three IKK isoforms-α, β, and ε-have been linked to oncogenesis, yet the precise components of NF-κB signaling in ovarian cancer have not yet been dissected. We surveyed 120 ovarian cancer specimens for IKK-ε expression. Notably, cytoplasmic expression was elevated in metastatic lesions relative to primary tumors (P = 0.03). Therefore, we hypothesized that IKK-ε drives ovarian cancer metastasis. IKK-ε was identified previously as a breast cancer oncogene and was associated with poor clinical outcome in ovarian cancer. We now define an ovarian cancer-specific IKK-ε-regulated gene expression signature using stably expressed short hairpin RNA targeting IKK-ε. Pathway analysis of the signature indicated that IKK-ε regulates expression of genes involved in cell motility and inflammation. We further showed that IKK-ε depletion in metastatic ovarian cancer cell lines decreased growth, adhesion, and invasion. Consistently, human xenografts depleted of IKK-ε in mice showed decreased aggressiveness, whereas overexpression of IKK-ε in a less invasive ovarian cancer cell line increased metastasis in vivo. Taken together, these data provide evidence that IKK-ε is a key coordinator of invasion and metastasis programs in ovarian cancer. Inhibition of IKK-ε signaling thus emerges as a viable therapeutic strategy in women whose ovarian cancer shows aberrant activation of this pathway.

Lassa fever in Onitsha, East Central State, Nigeria in 1974

Three cases of Lassa fever occurred in Onitsha, East Central State, Nigeria, in January and February 1974. The first case was a 19-year-old Nigerian; the other 2 cases were German missionary physicians at St Charles Borromeo Hospital, Onitsha, one of whom cared for the patient who was the first case. Thus, 2 of the 3 cases were hospital acquired. Investigations failed to discover a village outbreak or the source of virus for the first case. A serosurvey of 258 hospital staff members and contacts of the 3 cases showed no other persons with antibody to Lassa virus. The absence of Lassa virus antibody in a high-risk group indicates a low or nonexistent level of past Lassa virus activity in southeastern Nigeria.

Two-hour embedding procedure for intracellular detection of viruses by electron microscopy

An embedding method requiring only 2 h to complete and giving excellent ultrastructural preservation has been used for the rapid detection of viruses in tissue cultures. The method has also been applied successfully to mammalian tissue. It provides a rapid technique for identifying viruses isolated in tissue cultures, for screening cultures for adventitious agents, and for examining tissue biopsies for viruses.