Bradley J. Monk

Gemogenovatucel-T Advantage in Clonal Tumor Mutation Burden–High Ovarian Cancer

PURPOSE Frontline ovarian cancer treatment protocols involving bevacizumab, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors have failed to improve overall survival (OS) in patients with homologous recombination–proficient (HRP) tumors. To determine mechanistic mutation signatures associated with OS advantage, we constructed a whole-exome sequencing bioinformatic pipeline assay to analyze all 91 patients enrolled in the double-blind randomized placebo-controlled phase II VITAL trial. METHODS We hypothesized that patients with stage IIIb-IV ovarian cancer who have HRP profile and high clonal tumor mutation burden (cTMB-H) will achieve greater response when undergoing maintenance therapy with gemogenovatucel-T. Our primary objective was assessment of OS using the Kaplan-Meier method among randomly assigned patients receiving either gemogenovatucel-T or placebo. RESULTS The median OS in cTMB-H/HRP patients treated with gemogenovatucel-T was 68 months versus 19 months in those treated with placebo (hazard ratio [HR], 0.23; 95% CI, 0.06 to 0.83; 1-sided P = .008). The cTMB-H patients in the non-HRP group did not demonstrate OS advantage (HR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.39 to 2.47; 1-sided P = .488). No grade 3 treatment-related toxicity was observed in the gemogenovatucel-T group with a follow-up of 8.4 years. CONCLUSION These results demonstrate OS advantage for maintenance treatment of adult females with newly diagnosed, advanced stage IIIb-IV ovarian cancer with HRP status and cTMB-H profile who are in complete response after debulking surgery and frontline platinum-based doublet chemotherapy.

Optimal bevacizumab treatment strategy in advanced ovarian cancer: A review

Bevacizumab was the first targeted therapy developed for newly diagnosed and recurrent advanced ovarian cancer (AOC). Although bevacizumab has been approved for the treatment of AOC for several years, identifying patients who may benefit most from this treatment is still debated. Bevacizumab has been associated with improved progression-free survival (PFS) regardless of clinical risk, but in some countries the use of bevacizumab in the treatment of newly diagnosed AOC has been restricted to higher-risk patients (stage III inoperable or suboptimally debulked disease, or stage IV disease); this is primarily due to the findings of exploratory subgroup analyses from phase III trials that suggest only higher-risk patients derive an overall survival (OS) advantage with bevacizumab. Recently reported post hoc analyses from the PAOLA-1 trial of maintenance olaparib plus bevacizumab versus bevacizumab alone for patients with newly diagnosed AOC and homologous recombination deficiency-positive tumors suggested PFS and OS benefit was achieved in both lower-risk (with stage III disease who had undergone upfront surgery and had complete resection) and higher-risk (with stage III disease who had undergone upfront surgery and had residual disease or who had received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, or with stage IV disease) patients, prompting reassessment of the role of bevacizumab in lower-risk patients. This review examines the role of bevacizumab in the AOC treatment pathway by discussing its efficacy and safety in the first-line, maintenance and recurrent settings, and evaluates the clinical implications of bevacizumab use across risk groups and lines of therapy.

GOG-3097/ENGOT-ov81/GTG-UK/RAMP 301: a phase 3, randomized trial evaluating avutometinib plus defactinib compared with investigator’s choice of treatment in patients with recurrent low grade serous ovarian cancer

There are no approved treatments specifically for low grade serous ovarian cancer; current standard of care treatment options are limited in efficacy and tolerability. The combination of avutometinib with defactinib has demonstrated efficacy and a consistent safety profile in two clinical trials in recurrent low grade serous ovarian cancer, and a lower discontinuation rate due to adverse events compared with historical rates for standard of care. To compare the progression-free survival of the combination of avutometinib with defactinib versus investigator's choice of treatment in patients with recurrent low grade serous ovarian cancer. Combination treatment with avutometinib-defactinib will significantly improve progression-free survival compared with investigator's choice of treatment in patients with recurrent low grade serous ovarian cancer. GOG-3097/ENGOT-ov81/GTG-UK/RAMP 301 is a phase 3, randomized, international, open-label study designed to compare avutometinib with defactinib versus investigator's choice of treatment in patients with recurrent low grade serous ovarian cancer who have progressed on a previous platinum-based therapy. On confirmation of disease progression using a blinded independent central review, patients on the investigator's choice of treatment arm may cross over to the avutometinib-defactinib arm. Patients must have recurrent low grade serous ovarian cancer (KRAS mutant or wild-type) and have documented progression (radiographic or clinical) or recurrence of low grade serous ovarian cancer after at least one platinum-based chemotherapy regimen. Unlimited additional previous lines of therapy are allowed, including previous MEK/RAF inhibitor. Patients will be excluded if they have co-existing high grade ovarian cancer or had previous treatment with avutometinib, defactinib, or any other FAK inhibitor. Progression-free survival according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) version 1.1, blinded-independent central review. Approximately 270 patients will be randomized in a 1:1 fashion to either the combination avutometinib with defactinib arm (n∼135) or the investigator's choice of treatment arm (n∼135). The estimated primary completion date of RAMP 301 is 2028, and the estimated study completion date is 2031. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06072781.

Predictors of long-term progression-free survival in patients with ovarian cancer treated with niraparib in the PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26/GOG-3012 study

To identify characteristics associated with long-term progression-free survival (≥2 years) in patients with advanced ovarian cancer treated with niraparib first-line maintenance therapy in the phase III PRIMA/ENGOT-OV26/GOG-3012 study. In this post hoc analysis of PRIMA, patients randomized to niraparib were grouped based on investigator-assessed progression-free survival (progressive disease/censoring <2 years or ≥2 years after randomization). Variables assessed for predictive value were Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage at diagnosis, clinical response to platinum-based chemotherapy, number of prior chemotherapy cycles, primary tumor location, body mass index, categorical age, debulking surgery type, number of baseline target lesions, number of baseline non-target lesions, Of 487 patients randomized to niraparib, 152 (31%) had progressive disease/censoring ≥2 years after randomization. Multivariable logistic regression modeling using backward elimination identified The hypothesis-generating results of this analysis suggest that NCT02655016.

ENGOT-EN20/GOG-3083/XPORT-EC-042 – A phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter trial of selinexor in maintenance therapy after systemic therapy for patients with p53 wild-type, advanced, or recurrent endometrial carcinoma: rationale, methods, and trial design

Patients with advanced/recurrent endometrial cancer have a poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Biomarkers such as tumor protein 53 ( To evaluate the efficacy of selinexor compared with placebo as maintenance therapy in patients with advanced or recurrent Selinexor administered at 60 mg weekly as maintenance therapy will show manageable safety and maintain efficacy in patients with This is a prospective, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized phase III study designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of selinexor as a maintenance therapy in patients with advanced or recurrent Eligible patients must have histologically confirmed endometrial cancer, The primary endpoint is investigator-assessed progression-free survival per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) v1.1 in the intent-to-treat population. A total of 220 patients will be enrolled. Accrual is expected to be completed in 2024 with presentation of results in 2025. NCT05611931.

Optimizing disease progression assessment using blinded central independent review and comparing it with investigator assessment in the PRIMA/ENGOT-ov26/GOG-3012 trial: challenges and solutions

Progression-free survival is an established clinically meaningful endpoint in ovarian cancer trials, but it may be susceptible to bias; therefore, blinded independent centralized radiological review is often included in trial designs. We compared blinded independent centralized review and investigator-assessed progressive disease performance in the PRIMA/ENGOT-ov26/GOG-3012 trial examining niraparib monotherapy. PRIMA/ENGOT-ov26/GOG-3012 was a randomized, double-blind phase 3 trial; patients with newly diagnosed stage III/IV ovarian cancer received niraparib or placebo. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors [RECIST] v1.1), determined by two independent radiologists, an arbiter if required, and by blinded central clinician review. Discordance rates between blinded independent centralized review and investigator assessment of progressive disease and non-progressive disease were routinely assessed. To optimize disease assessment, a training intervention was developed for blinded independent centralized radiological reviewers, and RECIST refresher training was provided for investigators. Discordance rates were determined post-intervention. There was a 39% discordance rate between blinded independent centralized review and investigator-assessed progressive disease/non-progressive disease in an initial patient subset (n=80); peritoneal carcinomatosis was the most common source of discordance. All reviewers underwent training, and as a result, changes were implemented, including removal of two original reviewers and identification of 10 best practices for reading imaging data. Post-hoc analysis indicated final discordance rates between blinded independent centralized review and investigator improved to 12% in the overall population. Median progression-free survival and hazard ratios were similar between blinded independent centralized review and investigators in the overall population and across subgroups. PRIMA/ENGOT-ov26/GOG-3012 highlights the need to optimize blinded independent centralized review and investigator concordance using early, specialized, ovarian-cancer-specific radiology training to maximize validity of outcome data.

The promise of combining CDK4/6 inhibition with hormonal therapy in the first-line treatment setting for metastatic or recurrent endometrial adenocarcinoma

Metastatic or recurrent endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the uterine corpus is often incurable with limited treatment options. First-line treatment often includes cytotoxic chemotherapy, which incurs significant toxicities for many patients. Endometrial cancer, specifically endometrioid cancer, is a hormone-sensitive disease and, while single-agent hormonal therapies have demonstrated clinical benefit, resistance to these agents often leads to the use of chemotherapy. There is a lack of approved endocrine treatment options in the metastatic setting for most recurrent endometrial cancers, representing an unmet clinical need. Emerging evidence suggests that hormonal therapy in combination with other targeted treatments, such as cyclin dependent kinase (CDK)4/6 inhibitors, is well tolerated and effective in select patient populations. We discuss the clinical evidence suggesting that the combination of CDK4/6 inhibitors and hormonal therapy has the potential to represent an important addition to the first-line treatment options for patients with low-grade advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer.

Highlights from the 24th European Congress on Gynaecological Oncology in Istanbul: an ENYGO-IJGC Fellows compilation

Checkpoint inhibitor rechallenge in advanced endometrial cancer: revisiting the immune landscape beyond first-line therapy

The integration of immune checkpoint inhibitors into frontline therapy for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer has transformed treatment paradigms, particularly for patients with mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) tumors. However, this advancement has introduced a pressing clinical challenge: how to manage patients who experience disease progression following exposure to a prior immune checkpoint inhibitor. Despite the absence of prospective guidance, immune checkpoint inhibitor rechallenge is already occurring in clinical practice. Notably, 35% of patients in the dostarlimab arm of the RUBY trial received subsequent immunotherapy off-protocol, highlighting the gap between evolving clinical behavior and available evidence. Emerging retrospective data suggest that retreatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors may be clinically and biologically plausible, particularly in biomarker-enriched populations. In a study, 54.5% of patients with dMMR endometrial cancer responded to second-line immune checkpoint inhibitor rechallenge, including complete responses. Additional reports indicate that combining immune checkpoint inhibitors with anti-vascular endothelial growth factors or multi-kinase inhibitors, such as lenvatinib or cabozantinib, may enhance immune reactivation even in microsatellite-stable or carcinosarcoma histologies. Nonetheless, toxicity remains a concern, with grade 3 to 4 immune-related adverse events and high rates of dose modification reported. Mechanistic insights point to immune escape pathways, including vascular endothelial growth factor-driven immunosuppression, MLH1 methylation, and high subclonal neoantigen burden, as contributors to immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance. These findings support the use of rational combinations and novel targets. Prospective trials such as NRG-GY025 are now evaluating dual checkpoint blockade in immune checkpoint inhibitor-pretreated dMMR endometrial cancer. In contrast, synthetic lethality strategies, such as the Werner helicase inhibitor HRO761 in high microsatellite instability tumors, represent promising non-immune-based rechallenge approaches. As immune checkpoint inhibitor exposure becomes commonplace in earlier treatment settings, there is an urgent need for biologically informed, individualized strategies to guide post-immune checkpoint inhibitor management. Future progress will depend on refining rechallenge criteria, optimizing combination regimens, and developing predictive biomarkers to identify patients most likely to benefit from retreatment.

Evolving treatment paradigms in metastatic or recurrent low-grade endometrial cancer: When is hormonal-based therapy the preferred option?

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy in developed countries, with increasing incidence and mortality rates worldwide. While most cases are successfully treated with surgery, first-line treatment options for metastatic or recurrent endometrial cancer involve significant toxicities. Imprecise classification of heterogeneous subgroups further complicates treatment decisions and interpretation of clinical trial results. Recent advances in molecular classification are guiding treatment decisions for metastatic or recurrent endometrial cancers. Integrating molecular characteristics with traditional clinicopathology can both reduce overtreatment or undertreatment and help guide the appropriate choice of therapies and effective design of future studies. Here we discuss the treatment of metastatic or recurrent low-grade endometrioid adenocarcinoma of the uterine corpus, which is distinct from high-grade tumors histologically, molecularly, and in treatment response.

Uterine leiomyosarcoma

Uterine leiomyosarcoma is a rare and heterogeneous gynecological malignancy that poses a significant clinical challenge due to its aggressive nature and limited treatment options. Its multifactorial etiopathogenesis involves complex cytogenetic and molecular aberrations, including TP53, RB1, and chromothripsis-associated gene alterations. The non-specific clinical presentation, resembling other benign conditions, complicates early and accurate diagnosis, alongside intricate radiological and pathological patterns. Advanced imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography, are employed to differentiate uterine leiomyosarcoma from benign conditions, but no single test is definitive. For FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) stage I uterine leiomyosarcoma, treatment consists of en bloc total hysterectomy ± bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Patients with stage II to IV disease amenable to complete resection can undergo surgery followed by adjuvant systemic therapy and/or radiotherapy. Lymphadenectomy is unnecessary in patients lacking bulky nodes. Unresectable or unsuitable cases warrant primary systemic therapy and/or radiotherapy. Managing recurrent disease requires a multimodal approach tailored to factors such as the site and number of metastases, prior radiotherapy, and resectability. Multidisciplinary management and centralization in referral centers are crucial for individualized decision-making. Ongoing research explores the intricate cytogenetic and molecular aberrations of uterine leiomyosarcoma, paving the way for personalized treatment strategies. This review, developed following the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology/Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup/European Reference Network on Rare Adult Solid Cancers guidelines, explores the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and evolving therapeutic strategies for uterine leiomyosarcoma, while also highlighting variations in clinical practice worldwide.

Safety and management of niraparib monotherapy in ovarian cancer clinical trials

Niraparib is a poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor that has shown a significant improvement in progression-free survival irrespective of biomarker status in patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer. This review focuses on the adverse events associated with niraparib and their management to maintain efficacy of niraparib treatment and improve quality of life for patients. In five trials assessing efficacy of niraparib in patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (PRIMA, NOVA, NORA, QUADRA, and PRIME), treatment-emergent adverse events of any grade were reported in nearly all patients (≥99%) receiving niraparib; the events were grade ≥3 in 51-74% of patients. Across all lines of therapy, treatment-emergent adverse events led to dose interruptions in 62-80% of patients receiving niraparib and dose reductions in 47-71%. Hematologic events were most frequently reported, including thrombocytopenia, anemia, and neutropenia. Common non-hematologic events included gastrointestinal events, which were generally low grade (<5% were grade ≥3). Clinical strategies to manage these and other events, such as fatigue and insomnia, cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacologic agents, are summarized. Once-daily niraparib dosing may be advantageous for some patients for many reasons, including night-time dosing which may help alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms. An individualized starting dose (determined by baseline body weight and platelet count) of niraparib demonstrated an improved safety profile while maintaining efficacy. Patients receiving the niraparib individualized starting dose had fewer grade ≥3 adverse events, dose interruptions, and dose reductions than patients receiving a fixed starting dose. The safety profile of niraparib across five pivotal studies in advanced epithelial ovarian cancer was consistent across multiple lines of treatment, including as maintenance therapy in first-line and recurrent settings and as treatment in heavily pre-treated patients. Long-term safety data from the NOVA trial confirmed that, with appropriate and early dose modifications, niraparib is well tolerated.

Physician-reported patient involvement and treatment decisions in first-line ovarian cancer in the USA and Europe

Real-world data evaluating how approvals of novel treatment regimens for ovarian cancer have impacted the treatment paradigm, including first-line maintenance, are lacking. This analysis aimed to describe treatment patterns for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer in Europe and the USA in the first-line maintenance setting. Patient characteristics, biomarker testing rates, and drivers of treatment choice were also evaluated. A retrospective chart review study of electronic medical records in Europe and the USA was conducted for patients diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer (June 1, 2017-May 31, 2020), in line with Healthcare Market Research guidelines. Eligible physicians extracted data from electronic medical records by completing standardized patient record forms, including questions on patient involvement in treatment decisions. Patients with advanced (stage III/IV) disease were stratified by country and diagnosis date to provide information on treatment patterns. Patient record forms for 7072 patients with epithelial ovarian cancer were completed by 416 physicians; 5386 patients had stage III/IV ovarian cancer. Over time, the percentage of patients who were tested for This real-world study showed that treatment patterns for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer varied by country. Rates of physician-reported patient involvement in treatment decisions in the first-line adjuvant and maintenance treatment settings for ovarian cancer were low, highlighting an unmet need for initiatives to improve patient involvement in shared decision-making regarding maintenance therapy selection.

Pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy for advanced and recurrent cervical cancer: final analysis according to bevacizumab use in the randomized KEYNOTE-826 study

In KEYNOTE-826 (NCT03635567), pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy (±bevacizumab) significantly improved overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer. This exploratory analysis examined outcomes in patient subgroups defined by bevacizumab use. Eligible adult patients had persistent, recurrent, or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma, adenosquamous carcinoma, or adenocarcinoma of the cervix not previously treated with chemotherapy and not amenable to curative treatment; measurable disease per RECIST v1.1; and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status ≤1. Patients were randomly allocated 1 : 1 to pembrolizumab 200 mg every 3 weeks or placebo for up to 35 cycles plus chemotherapy (±bevacizumab 15 mg/kg). Dual primary endpoints were OS and PFS per RECIST v1.1 by investigator assessment. Outcomes were assessed in subgroups defined by bevacizumab use. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were based on a stratified Cox regression model. A total of 617 patients were randomly assigned [pembrolizumab arm, n = 308 (63.6% with bevacizumab); placebo arm, n = 309 (62.5% with bevacizumab)]. The most common reason for bevacizumab exclusion was medical contraindication (75.9%). Among patients who received bevacizumab, HRs (95% CIs) for PFS favored the pembrolizumab arm in the programmed cell death-ligand 1 combined positive score ≥1 [0.56 (0.43-0.73)] and all-comer [0.57 (0.45-0.73)] populations; OS results were 0.60 (0.45-0.79) and 0.61 (0.47-0.80), respectively. Among patients who did not receive bevacizumab, HRs (95% CIs) for PFS also favored the pembrolizumab arm in the programmed cell death-ligand 1 combined positive score ≥1 [0.61 (0.44-0.85)] and all-comer [0.69 (0.50-0.94)] populations; OS results were 0.61 (0.44-0.85) and 0.67 (0.49-0.91), respectively. Among patients who received bevacizumab, grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 74.0% of patients in the pembrolizumab arm and 66.8% in the placebo arm. Pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy prolonged PFS and OS and had manageable safety compared with placebo plus chemotherapy in patient subgroups defined by bevacizumab use.

Mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx: first antibody/antigen-drug conjugate (ADC) in advanced or recurrent ovarian cancer

Mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx (MIRV) is a conjugate of a folate receptor alpha (FRα)-directed antibody and the maytansinoid microtubule inhibitor, DM4. Accumulating pre-clinical and clinical data supported the safety and anti-tumor activity of MIRV in tumors expressing FRα. In 2017, a phase I expansion study reported the first experience of MIRV in FRα-positive platinum-resistant ovarian cancer with promising results. However, the phase III FORWARD I study failed to demonstrate a significant benefit of MIRV in FRα-positive tumors. On the basis of the data reported from this latter study, MIRV was then explored in the FRα-high population only and using a different folate receptor assay. The phase II SORAYA trial supported the adoption of MIRV in this setting. Hence, the US Food and Drug Administration granted accelerated approval of MIRV for patients with FRα-positive platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer who have received 1-3 prior systemic treatment regimens. Moreover, the results of the MIRASOL trial showed a significant reduction in the risk of tumor progression or death among patients treated with MIRV versus chemotherapy. VENTANA FOLR1 (FOLR-2.1) was approved as a companion diagnostic test to identify FRα patients. MIRV appears to be a significant asset in managing advanced or recurrent ovarian cancer. Further trials are needed to confirm these promising results, even in the neoadjuvant, adjuvant, and maintenance settings.

A non-comparative, randomized, phase II trial of atezolizumab or atezolizumab plus tiragolumab for programmed death-ligand 1-positive recurrent cervical cancer (SKYSCRAPER-04)

To evaluate tiragolumab (anti-TIGIT) and atezolizumab (anti-PD-L1) as second- or third-line therapy for PD-L1-positive persistent/recurrent cervical cancer. In the open-label, non-comparative, randomized phase II SKYSCRAPER-04 trial (NCT04300647), patients with PD-L1-positive (SP263 tumor area positivity ≥5%) recurrent/persistent cervical cancer after 1-2 chemotherapy lines (≥1 platinum-based) were randomized 3:1 to atezolizumab 1200 mg with/without tiragolumab 600 mg every 3 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Stratification factors were performance status, prior (chemo)radiotherapy, and disease status. The primary endpoint was independent review committee-assessed confirmed objective response rate per RECIST v1.1 in patients receiving tiragolumab plus atezolizumab. An objective response rate ≥21% (one-sample z-test p≤0.0245) was required for statistical significance versus a historical reference. Protocol-defined independent review committee-assessed objective response rates were 19.0% (95% CI 12.6 to 27.0) in 126 patients receiving tiragolumab plus atezolizumab (p=0.0787 vs historical reference) and 15.6% (95% CI 6.5 to 29.5) in 45 atezolizumab-treated patients. Response rates were higher in PD-L1 The objective response rate with the tiragolumab-plus-atezolizumab combination was numerically higher than the historical reference but did not reach statistical significance.

Low-grade serous ovarian cancer: expert consensus report on the state of the science

Compared with high-grade serous carcinoma, low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary or peritoneum is a less frequent epithelial ovarian cancer type that is poorly sensitive to chemotherapy and affects younger women, many of whom endure years of ineffective treatments and poor quality of life. The pathogenesis of this disease and its management remain incompletely understood. However, recent advances in the molecular characterization of the disease and identification of novel targeted therapies with activity in low-grade serous carcinoma offer the promise of improved outcomes. To update clinicians regarding recent scientific and clinical trial advancements and discuss unanswered questions related to low-grade serous carcinoma diagnosis and treatment, a panel of experts convened for a workshop in October 2022 to develop a consensus document addressing pathology, translational research, epidemiology and risk, clinical management, and ongoing research. In addition, the patient perspective was discussed. The recommendations developed by this expert panel-presented in this consensus document-will guide practitioners in all settings regarding the clinical management of women with low-grade serous carcinoma and discuss future opportunities to improve research and patient care.

Safety and activity of anti-mesothelin antibody–drug conjugate anetumab ravtansine in combination with pegylated-liposomal doxorubicin in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer: multicenter, phase Ib dose escalation and expansion study

Anetumab ravtansine is an antibody-drug conjugate consisting of a fully human anti-mesothelin monoclonal antibody conjugated to cytotoxic maytansinoid tubulin inhibitor DM4. Mesothelin is highly expressed in ovarian cancer. This phase Ib study determines the safety, pharmacokinetics, and anti-tumor activity of anetumab ravtansine and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in mesothelin-expressing platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. Anetumab ravtansine (5.5 or 6.5 mg/kg) and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (30 mg/m In dose escalation, nine patients received anetumab ravtansine across two doses (5.5 or 6.5 mg/kg). The maximum tolerated dose of anetumab ravtansine was 6.5 mg/kg every 3 weeks and no dose-limiting toxicities were observed. In dose expansion, 56 patients were treated at the maximum tolerated dose. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events of any grade were nausea (47.7%), decreased appetite (43.1%), fatigue (38.5%), diarrhea (32.3%), and corneal disorder (29.2%). In all treated patients the objective response rate was 27.7% (95% CI 17.3% to 40.2%), including one complete (1.5%) and 17 partial responses (26.2%), with median duration of response of 7.6 (95% CI 3.3 to 10.2) months and median progression-free survival of 5.0 (95% CI 3.2 to 6.0) months. In an exploratory analysis of a sub-set of patients (n=19) with high mesothelin expression who received ≤3 prior lines of systemic therapy, the objective response rate was 42.1% (95% CI 20.3% to 66.5%) with a median duration of response of 8.3 (95% CI 4.1 to 12.0) months and median progression-free survival of 8.5 (95% CI 4.0 to 11.4) months. Anetumab ravtansine and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin showed tolerability and promising clinical activity. These results established the dose schedule and the mesothelin-positive target population of this combination for a phase III study in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. NCT02751918.

Overall survival after PARP maintenance treatment in platinum-sensitive relapsed ovarian cancer: opposing views of the US Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency

Quality of Life and Adverse Events: Prognostic Relationships in Long-Term Ovarian Cancer Survival

Abstract Background There is a critical need to identify patient characteristics associated with long-term ovarian cancer survival. Methods Quality of life (QOL), measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Ovarian-Trial Outcome Index (FACT-O-TOI), including physical, functional, and ovarian-specific subscales, was compared between long-term survivors (LTS) (8+ years) and short-term survivors (STS) (&amp;lt;5 years) of GOG 218 at baseline; before cycles 4, 7, 13, 21; and 6 months post-treatment using linear and longitudinal mixed models adjusted for covariates. Adverse events (AEs) were compared between survivor groups at each assessment using generalized linear models. All P values are 2-sided. Results QOL differed statistically significantly between STS (N = 1115) and LTS (N = 260) (P &amp;lt; .001). Baseline FACT-O-TOI and FACT-O-TOI change were independently associated with long-term survival (odds ratio = 1.05, 95% confidence interval = 1.03 to 1.06 and odds ratio = 1.06, 95% confidence interval = 1.05 to 1.07, respectively). A 7-point increase in baseline QOL was associated with a 38.0% increase in probability of LTS, and a 9-point increase in QOL change was associated with a 67.0% increase in odds for LTS. QOL decreased statistically significantly with increasing AE quartiles (cycle 4 quartiles: 0-5 vs 6-8 vs 9-11 vs ≥12 AEs, P = .01; cycle 21 quartiles: 0-2 vs 3 vs 4-5 vs ≥6 AEs, P = .001). Further, LTS reported statistically significantly better QOL compared with STS (P = .03 and P = .01, cycles 4 and 21, respectively), with similar findings across higher AE grades. Conclusions Baseline and longitudinal QOL change scores distinguished LTS vs STS and are robust prognosticators for long-term survival. Results have trial design and supportive care implications, providing meaningful prognostic value in this understudied population.

Identification of Patients With Ovarian Cancer Experiencing the Highest Benefit From Bevacizumab in the First-Line Setting on the Basis of Their Tumor-Intrinsic Chemosensitivity (KELIM): The GOG-0218 Validation Study

PURPOSE In patients with high-grade ovarian cancer, predictors of bevacizumab efficacy in first-line setting are needed. In the ICON-7 trial, a poor tumor intrinsic chemosensitivity (defined by unfavorable modeled cancer antigen-125 [CA-125] ELIMination rate constant K [KELIM] score) was a predictive biomarker. Only the patients with high-risk disease (suboptimally resected stage III, or stage IV) exhibiting unfavorable KELIM score &lt; 1.0 had overall survival (OS) benefit from bevacizumab (median: 29.7 v 20.6 months; hazard ratio [HR], 0.78). An external validation study in the GOG-0218 trial was performed. METHODS In GOG-0218, 1,873 patients were treated with carboplatin-paclitaxel ± concurrent-maintenance bevacizumab/placebo. Patient KELIM values were calculated with CA-125 kinetics during the first 100 chemotherapy days by the Lyon University team. The association between KELIM score (favorable ≥ 1.0, or unfavorable &lt; 1.0) and bevacizumab benefit for progression-free survival (PFS)/OS was independently assessed by NGR-GOG using univariate/multivariate analyses. RESULTS KELIM was assessable in 1,662 patients with ≥ 3 CA-125 available values. An unfavorable KELIM score was associated with bevacizumab benefit compared with placebo (PFS: HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.82; OS: HR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.73 to 1.03), whereas a favorable KELIM was not (PFS: HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.79 to 1.17; OS: HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 0.89 to 1.39). The highest benefit was observed in patients with a high-risk disease exhibiting unfavorable KELIM, for PFS (median: 9.1 v 5.6 months; HR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.53 to 0.78), and for OS (median: 35.1 v 29.1 months; HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.65 to 0.97). CONCLUSION This GOG-0218 trial investigation validates ICON-7 findings about the association between poor tumor chemosensitivity and benefit from concurrent-maintenance bevacizumab, suggesting that bevacizumab may mainly be effective in patients with poorly chemosensitive disease. Bevacizumab may be prioritized in patients with a high-risk and poorly chemosensitive disease to improve their PFS/OS (patient KELIM score calculator available on the Biomarker Kinetics website).

Proportions and incidence of locally advanced cervical cancer: a global systematic literature review

Optimal treatment of cervical cancer is based on disease stage; therefore, an understanding of the global epidemiology of specific stages of locally advanced disease is needed. This systematic literature review was conducted to understand the global and region-specific proportions of patients with cervical cancer with locally advanced disease and to determine the incidence of the locally advanced disease. Systematic searches identified observational studies published in English between 2010 and June 10, 2020, reporting the proportion of patients with, and/or incidence of, locally advanced stages of cervical cancer (considered International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) IB2-IVA). Any staging criteria were considered as long as the proportion with locally advanced disease was distinguishable. For each study, the proportion of locally advanced disease among the cervical cancer population was estimated. The 40 included studies represented 28 countries in North or South America, Asia, Europe, and Africa. Thirty-eight studies reported the proportion of locally advanced disease among populations with cervical cancer. The estimated median proportion of locally advanced disease among all cervical cancer was 37.0% (range 5.6-97.5%; IQR 25.8-52.1%); estimates were generally lowest in North America and highest in Asia. Estimated proportions of ≥50% were reported in nine studies from Asia, Europe, Brazil, and Morocco; estimates ≤25% were reported in six studies from Asia, United States, Brazil, and South Africa. Locally advanced disease was reported for 44% and 49% of women aged >70 and ≥60 years, and 5-100% of younger women with cervical cancer. A greater proportion of locally advanced disease was reported for Asian American (19%) versus White women (8%) in one United States study. Two of five studies describing the incidence of locally advanced disease reported rates of 2-4/100 000 women among different time frames. This review highlights global differences in proportions of locally advanced cervical cancer, including regional variance and disparities according to patient race and age.

Tisotumab Vedotin in Combination With Carboplatin, Pembrolizumab, or Bevacizumab in Recurrent or Metastatic Cervical Cancer: Results From the innovaTV 205/GOG-3024/ENGOT-cx8 Study

PURPOSE Tissue factor is highly expressed in cervical carcinoma and can be targeted by tisotumab vedotin (TV), an antibody-drug conjugate. This phase Ib/II study evaluated TV in combination with bevacizumab, pembrolizumab, or carboplatin for recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer (r/mCC). METHODS This open-label, multicenter study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03786081 ) included dose-escalation arms that assessed dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) and identified the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of TV in combination with bevacizumab (arm A), pembrolizumab (arm B), or carboplatin (arm C). The dose-expansion arms evaluated TV antitumor activity and safety at RP2D in combination with carboplatin as first-line (1L) treatment (arm D) or with pembrolizumab as 1L (arm E) or second-/third-line (2L/3L) treatment (arm F). The primary end point of dose expansion was objective response rate (ORR). RESULTS A total of 142 patients were enrolled. In dose escalation (n = 41), no DLTs were observed; the RP2D was TV 2 mg/kg plus bevacizumab 15 mg/kg on day 1 once every 3 weeks, pembrolizumab 200 mg on day 1 once every 3 weeks, or carboplatin AUC 5 on day 1 once every 3 weeks. In dose expansion (n = 101), the ORR was 54.5% (n/N, 18/33; 95% CI, 36.4 to 71.9) with 1L TV + carboplatin (arm D), 40.6% (n/N, 13/32; 95% CI, 23.7 to 59.4) with 1L TV + pembrolizumab (arm E), and 35.3% (12/34; 19.7 to 53.5) with 2L/3L TV + pembrolizumab (arm F). The median duration of response was 8.6 months, not reached, and 14.1 months, in arms D, E, and F, respectively. Grade ≥3 adverse events (≥15%) were anemia, diarrhea, nausea, and thrombocytopenia in arm D and anemia in arm F (none ≥15%, arm E). CONCLUSION TV in combination with bevacizumab, carboplatin, or pembrolizumab demonstrated manageable safety and encouraging antitumor activity in treatment-naive and previously treated r/mCC.

Tumor Treating Fields therapy in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer: Results of the ENGOT-ov50/GOG-3029/INNOVATE-3 pivotal phase 3 randomized study

Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) are electric fields that disrupt processes critical for cancer cell viability and tumor progression. The pivotal, phase 3 ENGOT-ov50/GOG-3029/INNOVATE-3 study evaluated efficacy and safety of TTFields therapy with paclitaxel (PTX) vs PTX in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). Adult patients with PROC with ≤ 5 total prior lines of therapy (LOT), including ≤ 2 prior LOT for platinum-resistant disease, and ECOG PS of 0-1 were randomized 1:1 to receive TTFields (200 kHz; ≥ 18 h/day) + PTX (80 mg/m Between March 2019 and November 2021, 558 patients (ECOG PS 0, 60.2 %; median [range] age, 62 [22-91] years) were assigned TTFields+PTX (n = 280) or PTX (n = 278). 24.4 % had 4 + prior LOT. Median OS was 12.2 months with TTFields+PTX vs 11.9 months with PTX (HR, 1.01; 95 % CI, 0.83-1.24; p = 0.89). Grade ≥ 3 adverse events (AEs) were similar between treatment groups. Grade 1/2 device-related skin AEs occurred in 83.6 % of patients receiving TTFields therapy. In exploratory post-hoc analysis in PLD-naive patients, median OS was 16 months with TTFields+PTX (n = 113) vs 11.7 months with PTX (n = 88; nominal HR, 0.67; 95 % CI, 0.49-0.94; p = 0.03). No new safety signals were identified. TTFields+PTX did not significantly improve OS compared with PTX in the intent-to-treat population. An exploratory post-hoc analysis suggests a potentially favorable benefit-risk profile for TTFields therapy in PLD-naive patients.

Rucaparib maintenance for newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer: interim overall survival, progression-free survival, and safety at 5 years of follow-up from the phase III ATHENA-MONO/GOG-3020/ENGOT-ov45 study

We report the long-term efficacy and safety from the multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase III ATHENA-MONO/GOG-3020/ENGOT-ov45 (NCT03522246) study of first-line rucaparib maintenance for advanced ovarian cancer. Patients were randomized 4 : 1 to oral rucaparib + intravenous (i.v.) placebo or oral + i.v. placebo. Stratification factors were homologous recombination deficiency (HRD; BRCA mutation and loss of heterozygosity status) classification, residual disease post-chemotherapy, and surgical timing. The primary endpoint was investigator-assessed progression-free survival (invPFS) in HRD and intent-to-treat (ITT) populations. Overall survival (OS) and safety were secondary endpoints. Second event of progression (PFS2) and time to first subsequent treatment (TFST) were exploratory. Interim OS and final safety analyses data cut-off was 9 March 2023. Updated invPFS, PFS2, and TFST analyses data cut-off was 5 May 2025. Median invPFS follow-up was ∼59 months for both rucaparib (HRD, n = 185; ITT, n = 427) and placebo (HRD, n = 49; ITT, n = 111). invPFS was significantly longer with rucaparib versus placebo in the HRD [31.4 versus 12.0 months; hazard ratio (HR) 0.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.35-0.76] and ITT (20.2 versus 9.2 months; HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.42-0.69) populations. Interim OS was immature (OS maturity: ITT 35%) with the median (95% CI) OS not reached with rucaparib and 46.2 (34.6-not reached) months with placebo for the ITT population (HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.58-1.17). ITT TFST (median 23.6 versus 12.1 months) and PFS2 (35.1 versus 26.9 months) were longer with rucaparib versus placebo. Overall, 34.6% of patients receiving rucaparib completed the 24-month treatment cap versus 17.3% receiving placebo. As of 5 May 2025, 40.0% of patients on rucaparib were still on study and in long-term follow-up. Safety remained consistent with the primary analysis. Rucaparib monotherapy provides significant and durable long-term benefit as first-line maintenance for patients with advanced ovarian cancer with and without HRD.

Efficacy and Safety of Avutometinib ± Defactinib in Recurrent Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer: Primary Analysis of ENGOT-OV60/GOG-3052/RAMP 201

PURPOSE This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of avutometinib (rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma/mitogen-activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase [MEK] clamp) alone or in combination with defactinib (focal adhesion kinase inhibitor) in patients with recurrent low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC). METHODS In this phase II, open-label study, patients with recurrent, measurable LGSOC after ≥1 line of platinum chemotherapy were stratified by tumor Kirsten rat sarcoma virus homolog ( KRAS ) mutation status and randomly assigned to oral avutometinib 4.0 mg two times per week monotherapy or avutometinib 3.2 mg two times per week in combination with oral defactinib 200 mg two times per day. The combination was selected as the go-forward regimen for expansion. The primary end point was objective response rate (ORR) by blinded independent central review. RESULTS A total of 115 patients received the go-forward combination regimen. Patients had a median of 3 (range, 1-9) prior lines of therapy, including hormonal (86%), bevacizumab (51%), and MEK inhibitor (22%). Confirmed ORR was 31% (95% CI, 23% to 41%) with a median duration of response of 31.1 months (95% CI, 14.8 to 31.1). ORR was 44% in KRAS- mutant and 17% in KRAS wild-type cohorts. The median progression-free survival was 12.9 months (95% CI, 10.9 to 20.2) overall and 22.0 months (95% CI, 11.1 to 36.6) and 12.8 months (95% CI, 7.4 to 18.4) in KRAS- mutant and wild-type cohorts, respectively. The most frequent grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events (AEs) were elevated creatine phosphokinase (24%), diarrhea (8%), and anemia (5%). Ten percent of patients discontinued because of AEs. CONCLUSION The efficacy and safety profile of avutometinib in combination with defactinib support this combination as a potential standard of care for recurrent LGSOC. A randomized phase 3 study of avutometinib and defactinib versus investigator's choice of therapy for women with recurrent LGSOC is currently enrolling (RAMP301; ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06072781 ).

A phase III, multicenter, randomized study of olvimulogene nanivacirepvec followed by platinum-doublet chemotherapy and bevacizumab compared with platinum-doublet chemotherapy and bevacizumab in women with platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer

Treatment options for patients with platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancers are limited and only marginally effective. The development of novel, more effective therapies addresses a critical unmet medical need. Olvimulogene nanivacirepvec (Olvi-Vec), with its strong immune modulating effect on the tumor microenvironment, may provide re-sensitization to platinum and clinically reverse platinum resistance or refractoriness in platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer. The primary objective is to evaluate the efficacy of intra-peritoneal Olvi-Vec followed by platinum-based chemotherapy and bevacizumab in patients with platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer. This phase III study investigates Olvi-Vec oncolytic immunotherapy followed by platinum-based chemotherapy and bevacizumab as an immunochemotherapy evaluating the hypothesis that such sequential combination therapy will prolong progression-free survival (PFS) and bring other clinical benefits compared with treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy and bevacizumab. This is a multicenter, prospective, randomized, and active-controlled phase III trial. Patients will be randomized 2:1 into the experimental arm treated with Olvi-Vec followed by platinum-doublet chemotherapy and bevacizumab or the control arm treated with platinum-doublet chemotherapy and bevacizumab. Eligible patients must have recurrent, platinum-resistant/refractory, non-resectable high-grade serous, endometrioid, or clear-cell ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer. Patients must have had ≥3 lines of prior chemotherapy. The primary endpoint is PFS in the intention-to-treat population. Approximately 186 patients (approximately 124 patients randomized to the experimental arm and 62 to the control arm) will be enrolled to capture 127 PFS events. Expected complete accrual in 2024 with presentation of primary endpoint results in 2025. NCT05281471.

Molecular Results and Potential Biomarkers Identified from the Phase 3 MILO/ENGOT-ov11 Study of Binimetinib versus Physician Choice of Chemotherapy in Recurrent Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer

Abstract Purpose: We present the results of a post hoc tumor tissue analysis from the phase 3 MILO/ENGOT-ov11 study (NCT01849874). Patients and Methods: Mutation/copy-number analysis was performed on tissue obtained pre-randomization. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate progression-free survival (PFS). Unbiased univariate analysis, Cox regression, and binary logistic regression were used to test associations between mutation status and outcomes, including PFS and binary response by local RECIST 1.1. Results: MILO/ENGOT-ov11 enrolled 341 patients, ranging in age from 22 to 79, from June, 2013 to April, 2016. Patients were randomized 2:1 to binimetinib or physician's choice of chemotherapy (PCC). The most commonly altered gene was KRAS (33%). In 135 patients treated with binimetinib with response rate (RR) data, other detected MAPK pathway alterations included: NRAS (n = 11, 8.1%), BRAF V600E (n = 8, 5.9%), RAF1 (n = 2, 1.5%), and NF1 (n = 7, 5.2%). In those with and without MAPK pathway alterations, the RRs with binimetinib were 41% and 13%, respectively. PFS was significantly longer in patients with, compared with those without, MAPK pathway alterations treated with binimetinib [HR, 0.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.31–0.79]. There was a nonsignificant trend toward PFS improvement in PCC-treated patients with MAPK pathway alterations compared with those without (HR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.43–1.59). Conclusions: Although this hypothesis-generating analysis is limited by multiple testing, higher RRs and longer PFS were seen in patients with low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC) treated with binimetinib, and to a lesser extent in those treated with PCC, who harbored MAPK pathway alterations. Somatic tumor testing should be routinely considered in patients with LGSOC and used as a future stratification factor.

Primary Analysis of EPIK-O/ENGOT-ov61: Alpelisib Plus Olaparib Versus Chemotherapy in Platinum-Resistant or Platinum-Refractory High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer Without BRCA Mutation

PURPOSE Patients with platinum-resistant/platinum-refractory high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) without a BRCA mutation have poor prognosis and limited treatment options. We report efficacy and biomarker data from EPIK-O, which investigated alpelisib + olaparib versus single-agent chemotherapy in these patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS EPIK-O was an open-label, phase III trial that randomly assigned patients with platinum-resistant/platinum-refractory HGSOC with no germline or known somatic BRCA mutation 1:1 to alpelisib 200 mg once daily + olaparib 200 mg twice daily or treatment of physician's choice (TPC; paclitaxel 80 mg/m 2 once weekly or pegylated liposomal doxorubicin 40-50 mg/m 2 once every 28 days). Patients had 1-3 previous systemic therapies. Previous bevacizumab was required (unless contraindicated); previous poly(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase inhibitors were allowed. Primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS) per RECIST 1.1 (blinded independent review committee [BIRC]). Secondary efficacy end points included overall response rate (ORR; per BIRC), duration of response (per BIRC), and overall survival (OS; key secondary end point). RESULTS A total of 358 patients (alpelisib + olaparib [n = 180], TPC [n = 178]) were included. The median follow-up time was 9.3 months. At data cutoff (April 21, 2023), 33 (18.3%) and 30 (16.9%) patients remained on treatment with alpelisib + olaparib and TPC, respectively. The median PFS (BIRC) was 3.6 versus 3.9 months (hazard ratio [HR], 1.14 [95% CI, 0.88 to 1.48]; one-sided P = .84) for alpelisib + olaparib versus TPC. The ORR was 15.6% (95% CI, 10.6% to 21.7%) versus 13.5% (95% CI, 8.8% to 19.4%). The median OS was 10.0 versus 10.6 months (HR, 1.22; 95% CI, 0.87 to 1.71). The safety profile of alpelisib + olaparib was consistent with that observed for the individual agents. CONCLUSION The primary objective, PFS improvement, was not met in EPIK-O. No new or unexpected adverse events were observed. Biomarker analyses provided new insights for responders to alpelisib + olaparib.

Pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab in East Asian participants with persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer: results from KEYNOTE-826 final analysis

In the phase 3 KEYNOTE-826 study (NCT03635567), pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab significantly improved progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in participants with persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer. We report an exploratory analysis of outcomes for participants enrolled in East Asia based on the final analysis of KEYNOTE-826. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive pembrolizumab 200 mg or placebo every 3 weeks for up to 35 cycles. All participants received chemotherapy with paclitaxel and cisplatin or carboplatin for up to 6 cycles, and optionally received bevacizumab at the investigator's discretion. PFS and OS were dual primary endpoints. Ninety-seven participants from East Asia were enrolled in the intention-to-treat population. At data cutoff (October 3, 2022), in the intention-to-treat population, median PFS in the pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy and placebo plus chemotherapy groups was 18.0 and 10.4 months, respectively (hazard ratio [HR]=0.42; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.23-0.77); median OS was not reached and 20.4 months, respectively (HR=0.53; 95% CI=0.28-0.99). In the programmed cell death ligand 1 combined positive score (CPS) ≥1 population, median PFS was 29.3 and 10.9 months, respectively (HR=0.36; 95% CI=0.19-0.68); median OS was not reached and 17.4 months, respectively (HR=0.43; 95% CI=0.22-0.86). The most common adverse events with pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy versus placebo plus chemotherapy were alopecia (75% vs. 68%) and anemia (67% vs. 65%). These data support the use of pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy with or without bevacizumab for the treatment of persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer in East Asian patients. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03635567.

Ultrasensitive detection and tracking of circulating tumor DNA to predict relapse and survival in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer: phase III CALLA trial analyses.

After chemoradiotherapy (CRT), 30%-50% of patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) relapse, highlighting the unmet need for prognostic biomarkers. In the global randomized CALLA trial (NCT03830866), the addition of durvalumab during and after CRT did not significantly improve progression-free survival (PFS) in a biomarker-unselected intent-to-treat population. We analyzed the association of ultrasensitive circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and circulating human papillomavirus (cHPV) DNA detection with relapse and survival in the largest dataset in LACC to date. In CALLA, adult women with stage IB2-IIB node-positive or IIIA-IVA any node-status LACC were randomized 1 : 1 to receive durvalumab + CRT or CRT alone. The NeXT Personal® (Personalis) ultrasensitive tumor-informed assay with up to 1800 patient-specific variants was used for ctDNA and cHPV DNA analysis at baseline, cycle 3 day 1 (C3D1, post-CRT), and C6D1 (3 months post-CRT). Correlations were analyzed between ctDNA/cHPV DNA detection and outcomes [PFS, overall survival (OS)]. ctDNA was detected in 98.9% (183/185) of baseline samples, with no difference between treatment arms. Detection levels of ctDNA were predictive of disease progression and survival at baseline: hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) comparing PFS and OS, respectively, in the ctDNA less than median versus ctDNA greater than median subgroups were 0.61 (0.28-1.35) and 0.55 (0.23-1.35) with durvalumab + CRT, and 0.49 (0.26-0.95) and 0.65 (0.33-1.28) with CRT. Post-treatment trends were similar and independent of stage or lymph node status. ctDNA detection at C3D1 occurred a median of 164 days (95% confidence interval 85-250) days before clinical progression. Baseline cHPV DNA levels were similar but were only predictive following treatment. This study demonstrates the potential utility of ultrasensitive detection of ctDNA as a predictive and prognostic marker of disease progression and OS in LACC independent of disease stage.

Potential Synergistic Effect between Niraparib and Statins in Ovarian Cancer Clinical Trials

Abstract This study investigates the potential clinical synergy between the PARP inhibitor niraparib (Zejula) and concomitant statins, exploring their combined effects on progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with ovarian cancer. We retrospectively analyzed niraparib registrational clinical trials in ovarian cancer to investigate potential interactions between niraparib and statins. In the PRIMA trial, patients receiving niraparib demonstrated improved PFS compared with those on placebo (HR = 0.62; P &amp;lt; 0.001; median PFS 13.8 vs. 8.2 months). The post hoc analysis revealed that patients receiving maintenance niraparib who reported concomitant use of statins exhibited significantly improved PFS compared with those on placebo with concomitant statins (HR = 0.34; P &amp;lt; 0.001; median PFS 18.2 vs. 6.0 months). Notably, the improved efficacy in the two-arm comparison of concomitant statin patients was much better than that in the two-arm comparison of those patients without statin, as reflected in the niraparib–statin interaction (P = 0.005). These findings suggest novel opportunities in oncology for the use of statins in combination therapies with PARP inhibitors and emphasize the need for further investigation. Significance: The presented retrospective analysis suggests, to the best of our knowledge for the first time, a potential significant interaction between statins and niraparib in clinical settings. Nevertheless, further investigations are required to gain a better understanding of the potential clinical benefit.

Clinical Trial Protocol for ROSELLA: a phase 3 study of relacorilant in combination with nab-paclitaxel versus nab-paclitaxel monotherapy in advanced platinum-resistant ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality among gynecologic cancers, primarily because it typically is diagnosed at a late stage and because of the development of chemoresistance in recurrent disease. Improving outcomes in women with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer is a substantial unmet need. Activation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) by cortisol has been shown to suppress the apoptotic pathways used by cytotoxic agents, limiting their efficacy. Selective GR modulation may be able to counteract cortisol's antiapoptotic effects, enhancing chemotherapy's efficacy. A previous phase 2 study has shown that adding intermittently dosed relacorilant, a selective GR modulator, to nab-paclitaxel improved outcomes, including progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), with minimal added toxicity, in women with recurrent platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. The ROSELLA study aims to confirm and expand on these findings in a larger population. ROSELLA is a phase 3, randomized, 2-arm, open-label, global multicenter study in women with recurrent, platinum-resistant, high-grade serous epithelial ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer. Eligible participants have received 1 to 3 lines of prior systemic anticancer therapy, including ≥1 prior line of platinum therapy and prior treatment with bevacizumab, with documented progressive disease or intolerance to the most recent therapy. There is no biomarker-based requirement for participant selection. Participants are randomized 1:1 to receive intermittently dosed relacorilant in combination with nab-paclitaxel or nab-paclitaxel monotherapy. The study's primary efficacy endpoint is PFS as assessed by blinded independent central review. Secondary efficacy endpoints include OS, investigator-assessed PFS, objective response rate, best overall response, duration of response, clinical benefit rate at 24 weeks, and cancer antigen 125 response. The study is also evaluating safety and patient-reported outcomes. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05257408; European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials Database Identifier: 2022-000662-18.

Phase II Trial of Cisplatin, Gemcitabine, and Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy for Locally Advanced Vulvar Squamous Cell Carcinoma: NRG Oncology/GOG Study 279

PURPOSE To assess efficacy and toxicity of cisplatin (C) and gemcitabine (G) with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) in patients with locally advanced vulvar cancer not amenable to surgery. METHODS Patients enrolled in a single-arm phase II study. Pretreatment inguinal-femoral nodal assessment was performed. Sixty-four Gy IMRT was prescribed to the vulva, with 50-64 Gy delivered to the groins/low pelvis. Radiation therapy (RT) plans were quality-reviewed pretreatment. C 40 mg/m2 and G 50 mg/m2 were administered once per week throughout IMRT. Complete pathologic response (CPR) was the primary end point. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and adverse events were assessed with Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v 4.0. RESULTS Fifty-seven patients enrolled, of which 52 were evaluable. The median age was 58 years (range, 25-58), and 94% were White. Forty (77%) had stage II or III disease, and all had squamous histology. A median of six chemotherapy cycles (range, 1-8) were received. Eighty-five percent of RT plans were quality-reviewed with 100% compliance to protocol. Seven patients came off trial because of toxicity or patient withdrawal. Of 52 patients available for pathologic assessment, 38 (73% [90% CI, 61 to 83]) achieved CPR. No pelvic exenterations were performed. With a median follow-up of 51 months, the 12-month PFS was 74% (90% CI, 62.2 to 82.7) and the 24-month OS was 70% (90% CI, 57 to 79). The most common grade 3 or 4 adverse events were hematologic toxicity and radiation dermatitis. There was one grade 5 event unlikely related to treatment. CONCLUSION Weekly C and G concurrent with IMRT sufficiently improved CPR in women with locally advanced vulvar squamous cell carcinoma not amenable to surgical resection.

First-Line Pembrolizumab + Chemotherapy Versus Placebo + Chemotherapy for Persistent, Recurrent, or Metastatic Cervical Cancer: Final Overall Survival Results of KEYNOTE-826

Clinical trials frequently include multiple end points that mature at different times. The initial report, typically based on the primary end point, may be published when key planned co-primary or secondary analyses are not yet available. Clinical Trial Updates provide an opportunity to disseminate additional results from studies, published in JCO or elsewhere, for which the primary end point has already been reported. The phase III, double-blind KEYNOTE-826 trial of pembrolizumab 200 mg or placebo once every 3 weeks for up to 35 cycles plus platinum-based chemotherapy, with or without bevacizumab, showed statistically significant survival benefits with the addition of pembrolizumab for patients with persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer (primary data cutoff: May 3, 2021). This article reports the protocol-specified final overall survival (OS) results tested in the PD-L1 combined positive score (CPS) ≥1, all-comer, and CPS ≥10 populations. At the final data cutoff (October 3, 2022), the median study follow-up duration was 39.1 months (range, 32.1-46.5 months). In the PD-L1 CPS ≥1 (N = 548), all-comer (N = 617), and CPS ≥10 (N = 317) populations, median OS with pembrolizumab–chemotherapy versus placebo–chemotherapy was 28.6 months versus 16.5 months (hazard ratio [HR] for death, 0.60 [95% CI, 0.49 to 0.74]), 26.4 months versus 16.8 months (HR, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.52 to 0.77]), and 29.6 months versus 17.4 months (HR, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.44 to 0.78]), respectively. The incidence of grade ≥3 adverse events was 82.4% with pembrolizumab–chemotherapy and 75.4% with placebo–chemotherapy. These results show that pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy, with or without bevacizumab, continued to provide clinically meaningful improvements in OS for patients with persistent, recurrent, or metastatic cervical cancer.

Ofranergene Obadenovec (Ofra-Vec, VB-111) With Weekly Paclitaxel for Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer: Randomized Controlled Phase III Trial (OVAL Study/GOG 3018)

PURPOSE To evaluate the addition of ofranergene obadenovec (ofra-vec, VB-111), a novel gene-based anticancer targeted therapy, to once a week paclitaxel in patients with recurrent platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). METHODS This placebo-controlled, double-blind, phase III trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03398655 ) randomly assigned patients with PROC 1:1 to receive intravenous ofra-vec every 8 weeks with once a week IV paclitaxel or placebo with paclitaxel until disease progression. The dual primary end points were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) as assessed by Blinded Independent Central Review. RESULTS Between December 2017 and March 2022, 409 patients were randomly assigned. The median PFS was 5.29 months in the ofra-vec arm and 5.36 months in the control arm, hazard ratio (HR) 1.03 (CI, 0.83 to 1.29; P = .7823). The median OS with ofra-vec was 13.37 months versus 13.14 months, HR 0.97 (CI, 0.75 to 1.27; P = .8440). Objective response rates (ORRs) per RECIST 1.1 were similar in both arms: 28.9% with ofra-vec versus 29.6% with control. In both treatment arms, response to CA-125 was a substantial prognostic factor for both PFS and OS. In the ofra-vec arm, the HR in CA-125 responders compared with that in nonresponders for PFS was 0.2428 (CI, 0.1642 to 0.3588), and for OS, the HR was 0.3343 (CI, 0.2134 to 0.5238). Safety profile was characterized by common transient flu–like symptoms such as fever and chills. CONCLUSION The addition of ofra-vec to paclitaxel did not improve PFS or OS. The PFS and ORR in the control arm exceeded the results that were anticipated on the basis of the AURELIA chemotherapy control arm. CA-125 response was a substantial prognostic biomarker for PFS and OS in patients with PROC treated with paclitaxel.

Gestational choriocarcinoma

Gestational choriocarcinoma accounts for 5% of gestational trophoblastic neoplasms. Approximately 50%, 25%, and 25% of gestational choriocarcinoma occur after molar pregnancies, term pregnancies, and other gestational events, respectively. The FIGO scoring system categorizes patients into low (score 0 to 6) and high risk (score 7 or more) choriocarcinoma. Single-agent and multi-agent chemotherapy are used in low- and high-risk patients, respectively. Chemotherapy for localized disease has a goal of eradication of disease without surgery and is associated with favorable prognosis and fertility preservation. Most patients with gestational choriocarcinoma are cured with chemotherapy; however, some (<5.0%) will die as a result of multi-drug resistance, underscoring the need for novel approaches in this group of patients. Although there are limited data due to its rarity, the treatment response with immunotherapy is high, ranging between 50-70%. Novel combinations of immune checkpoint inhibitors with targeted therapies (including VEGFR-2 inhibitors) are under evaluation. PD-L1 inhibitors are considered a potential important opportunity for chemo-resistant patients, and to replace or de-escalate chemotherapy to avoid or minimize chemotherapy toxicity. In this review, the Rare Tumor Working Group and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer evaluated the current landscape and further perspective in the management of patients diagnosed with gestational choriocarcinoma.

A Study of Avutometinib (VS-6766) + Defactinib (VS-6063) in Recurrent Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer

This study will assess the safety and efficacy of avutometinib (VS-6766) in combination with defactinib versus Investigator's choice of treatments (ICT) in subjects with recurrent LGSOC who have progressed on a prior platinum-based therapy.

Selinexor in Maintenance Therapy After Systemic Therapy for Participants With p53 Wild-Type, Advanced or Recurrent Endometrial Carcinoma

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of selinexor as a maintenance treatment in patients with p53 wt endometrial carcinoma (EC), who have achieved a partial response (PR) or complete response (CR) (per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors version 1.1 \[RECIST v 1.1\]) after completing at least 12 weeks of platinum-based therapy. A total of 276 participants will be enrolled in the study and randomized in a 1:1 ratio to maintenance therapy with either selinexor or placebo.

Efficacy & Safety of Olvi-Vec and Platinum-doublet + Bevacizumab Compared to Physician's Choice of Chemotherapy and Bevacizumab in Platinum-Resistant/Refractory Ovarian Cancer (PRROC) (OnPrime, GOG-3076)

The OnPrime study is a multi-center, randomized open-label phase 3 study evaluating the safety and efficacy of Olvi-Vec followed by platinum-doublet chemotherapy and bevacizumab compared to the Active Comparator Arm with Physician's Choice of chemotherapy and bevacizumab in women diagnosed with platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer (includes fallopian tube cancer and primary peritoneal cancer). This Phase III trial builds on the efficacy and safety data reported in the previous Phase II VIRO-15 trial with promising objective response rate and progression-free survival observed in heavily pre-treated patients with platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer. The phase II results also showed that the intra-peritoneal route of delivery was efficient in generating tumor cell killing and immune activation, and led to clinical reversal of platinum-resistance or refractoriness in this difficult-to-treat patient population.

A Study of Avutometinib (VS-6766) v. Avutometinib (VS-6766) + Defactinib in Recurrent Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer With and Without a KRAS Mutation

This study will assess the safety and efficacy of avutometinib (VS-6766) monotherapy and in combination with defactinib in subjects with recurrent Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer (LGSOC)

A Study of Tiragolumab Plus Atezolizumab and Atezolizumab Monotherapy in Participants With Metastatic and/or Recurrent PD-L1-Positive Cervical Cancer

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tiragolumab in combination with atezolizumab and atezolizumab monotherapy in patients with programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)-positive cervical cancer (metastatic and/or recurrent).

Safety and Efficacy of Tisotumab Vedotin Monotherapy & in Combination With Other Cancer Agents in Subjects With Cervical Cancer

This is an open label, multi-center trial of tisotumab vedotin monotherapy and in combination with bevacizumab, pembrolizumab, or carboplatin in subjects with recurrent or stage IVB cervical cancer. The trial consists of two-parts a dose escalation part and an expansion part. The expansion part of the trial will be initiated once the Recommended Phase 2 Dose (RP2D) of the combinations have been determined in the dose escalation part.

A Study of Niraparib (GSK3985771) Maintenance Treatment in Participants With Advanced Ovarian Cancer Following Response on Front-Line Platinum-Based Chemotherapy

This study aims to assess efficacy of Niraparib (GSK3985771) as maintenance treatment in participants with Stage III or IV ovarian cancer. Participants must have completed front-line platinum based regimen with complete response (CR) or partial response (PR). Data collection for Secondary Outcome measures is ongoing and the approximate duration of the study will be 7 years.

Phase Ib Study of Anetumab Ravtansine in Combination With Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin in Patients With Recurrent Mesothelin-expressing Platinum-resistant Cancer

Anetumab ravtansine is developed for the treatment of patients with recurrent platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. The purpose of the proposed trial is to identify the maximum tolerated dose of anetumab ravtansine that could be safely combined with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in this indication.

A Study of MEK162 vs. Physician's Choice Chemotherapy in Patients With Low-grade Serous Ovarian, Fallopian Tube or Peritoneal Cancer

The MILO Study (MEK Inhibitor in Low-grade Serous Ovarian Cancer) is a Phase 3 study during which patients with recurrent or persistent low-grade serous (LGS) carcinomas of the ovary, fallopian tube or primary peritoneum will receive either investigational study drug MEK162 or a chemotherapy chosen by the physician (liposomal doxorubicin, paclitaxel or topotecan). Patients will be followed to compare the effectiveness of the study drug to that of the selected chemotherapies. Patients may be eligible to crossover from physician's choice chemotherapy to MEK162 if they meet certain inclusion criteria including centrally confirmed disease progression. Approximately 360 patients from North America, Europe and Australia will be enrolled in this study.

Carboplatin and Paclitaxel With or Without Bevacizumab in Treating Patients With Stage III or Stage IV Ovarian Epithelial, Primary Peritoneal, or Fallopian Tube Cancer

This randomized phase III trial studies carboplatin, paclitaxel, and bevacizumab to see how well they work compared to carboplatin, paclitaxel, and placebo in treating patients with stage III or stage IV ovarian epithelial, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as carboplatin and paclitaxel, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Monoclonal antibodies, such as bevacizumab, may interfere with the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. It is not yet known whether carboplatin, paclitaxel, and bevacizumab are more effective than carboplatin, paclitaxel, and placebo in treating ovarian epithelial, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer.