FGFR2 inhibitors alone or in combination with immune stimulants in cancer treatment
Combining FGFR2 inhibitors with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors enhances tumoricidal immune responses and tumor growth inhibition by increasing immune cell populations in the tumor microenvironment, addressing the limitations of single-agent FGFR2 inhibitor treatments.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024009617
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2016-08-24
- Filing Date
- 2024-01-25
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-25
- Estimated Expiration
- 2036-11-22
AI Technical Summary
Current cancer treatments using FGFR2 inhibitors alone do not fully harness the potential for enhancing tumoricidal immune responses, and the combination of FGFR2 inhibitors with immune checkpoint inhibitors like PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitors has not been fully explored for synergistic effects.
Administering FGFR2 inhibitors, such as anti-FGFR2 antibodies or ECD fusion molecules, in combination with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors to modulate the tumor microenvironment and enhance antitumor immune responses.
The combination of FGFR2 inhibitors with PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors demonstrates additive or synergistic effects in inhibiting tumor growth and increasing immune cell populations in tumor tissue, such as NK cells, PD-L1-expressing cells, and CD3+, CD8+, and CD4+ T cells, thereby improving cancer treatment outcomes.
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Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of the following three U.S. provisional patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 258,731, filed November 23, 2015; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 314,174, filed March 28, 2016; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 379,094, filed August 24, 2016, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
[0002] Sequence Listing This application is filed together with an electronic sequence listing, which is provided as a file entitled "2016-11-17_01134-0046-00PCT_SeqList_ST25.txt," created on November 17, 2016, and 103,517 bytes in size. The information in the electronic sequence listing is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
[0003] The present application relates to the use of fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) inhibitors, optionally in combination with immune stimulatory agents such as inhibitors of PD-1 or PD-L1, in the treatment of cancer. [Background technology]
[0004] Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family members bind to four known tyrosine kinase receptors, fibroblast growth factor receptors 1 to 4 (FGFR1-4) and their isoforms, with different FGFs binding to different FGFRs to varying degrees (Zhang et al., J. Biol. Chem. 281:15694, 2006). The protein sequence of human FGFR2 is provided, for example, in GenBank locus AF487553. Each FGFR consists of an extracellular domain (ECD) containing three immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domains (D1, D2, and D3), a single transmembrane helix, and an intracellular catalytic kinase domain (Mohammadi et al., Cytokine Growth Factor Revs, 16:107, 2005). FGFs bind to the receptor primarily via the D2 and D3 regions of the receptor. The linker between D1 and D2 contains a stretch of consecutive acidic amino acids called the "acid box" (AB). The region containing D1 and AB is thought to be involved in receptor autoregulation, which is relieved upon ligand binding.
[0005] FGFRs are characterized by multiple alternative splicing of their mRNAs, resulting in various isoforms (Ornitz et al., J. Biol. Chem. 271:15292, 1996; see also Swiss-Prot P21802 and isoforms P21802-1 to P21802-20 for FGFR2 and its isoforms). These include forms containing all three Ig domains (α isoforms) or forms containing only two Ig domains, D2 and D3, but omitting D1 (β isoforms). In FGFR1 to FGFR3, all forms contain the first half of D3, designated IIIa, but two alternative exons can be used for the second half of D3, resulting in IIIb and IIIc forms. For FGFR2, these are designated FGFR2-IIIb and FGFR2-IIIc (or simply FGFR2b and FGFR2c), respectively; the corresponding beta forms are designated FGFR2(beta)IIIb and FGFR2(beta)IIIc. FGFR2-IIIc (also designated K-sam-I) binds well to both FGF1 and FGF2 but not to KGF family members, whereas the FGFR2-IIIb form of FGFR2 (also designated K-sam-II) is a high-affinity receptor for both FGF1 and KGF family members (FGF7, FGF10, and FGF22) (Miki et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 89:246, 1992). Indeed, FGFR2IIIb is the only receptor for KGF family members (Ornitz et al., 1996, op.cit.), and is therefore designated KGFR.
[0006] FGFRs and their isoforms are differentially expressed in various tissues. FGFR2-IIIb (and the IIIb forms of FGFR1 and FGFR3) are expressed in epithelial tissues, whereas FGFR2-IIIc is expressed in mesenchymal tissues (Duan et al., J. Biol. Chem. 267:16076, 1992; Ornitz et al., 1996, op. cit.). Specific FGF ligands for these receptors have opposite expression patterns. Thus, KGF subfamily members, including FGF7 (KGF), FGF10, and FGF22, bind only to FGFR2-IIIb (Zhang et al., op. cit.) and are expressed in mesenchymal tissues, and thus may be paracrine effectors of epithelial cells (Ornitz et al., 1996, op. cit.). On the other hand, FGF4 subfamily members FGF4-6 bind to FGFR2-IIIc and are expressed in both epithelia and mesenchymal tissues, and thus may have either autocrine or paracrine functions. Due to the expression patterns of FGFR2 isoforms and their ligands, FGFR2 plays a role in epithelial-mesenchymal interactions (Finch et al., Dev. Dyn. 203:223, 1995). Therefore, knockout of FGFR2-IIIb in mice causes embryonic defects and lethality (De Moerlooze et al., Development 127:483, 2000).
[0007] KGF (FGF7) and KGFR (FGFR2-IIIb) are overexpressed in many pancreatic cancers (Ishiwata et al., Am. J. Pathol. 153:213, 1998), and their coexpression correlates with poor prognosis (Cho et al., Am. J. Pathol. 170:1964, 2007). Somatic mutations in the FGFR2 gene were found in 12% of a large panel of endometrial (uterine) cancers and were essential for tumor cell survival in various test cases (Dutt et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 105:8713, 2008). In both tumors, the FGFR2 mutation was found to be the same S252W substitution associated with Apert syndrome. Amplification and overexpression of FGFR2 are associated with undifferentiated diffuse gastric cancer, which has a significantly poor prognosis, and inhibition of FGFR2 activity by small molecule compounds strongly inhibited the proliferation of such cancer cells (Kunii et al., Cancer Res. 68:2340, 2008; Nakamura et al., Gastroenterol. 131:1530, 2006).
[0008] FGFR2 inhibitors may include antibodies and FGFR2 ECD domains or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules. For example, U.S. Patent No. 8,101,723B2 describes monoclonal antibodies that bind to human FGFR2-IIIb but bind poorly or not at all to FGFR2-IIIc, and vice versa. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015-0050273A1 describes certain non-fucosylated antibodies that bind to FGFR2-IIIb. U.S. Patent Publication No. US2013-0324701A1 describes certain FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules that include, for example, the extracellular domain of FGFR2-IIIc and a fusion partner. Additional FGFR ECD fusion molecules are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,338,569B2.
[0009] Genetic alterations in cancer provide a diverse set of antigens capable of mediating antitumor immunity. Antigen recognition via the T cell receptor (TCR) initiates T cell responses, which are regulated by a balance between activating and inhibitory signals. Inhibitory signals, or "immune checkpoints," play an important role in normal tissues by preventing autoimmunity. Upregulation of immune checkpoint proteins may enable cancers to evade antitumor immunity. Two immune checkpoint proteins are the focus of clinical cancer immunotherapy: cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1). Anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 antibodies have been approved for the treatment of metastatic melanoma and are currently in clinical trials for other cancers. Anti-PD-L1 antibodies, directed against the PD-1 ligand, are also currently in clinical development.
[0010] Inhibition of FGFR signaling has been reported to improve antitumor immunity and impair breast cancer metastasis (see, for example, T. Ye et al., Breast Cancer Res. Treat. 143:435-446 (2014)). Anti-FGFR2 antibodies have also been tested in gastric cancer models, for example. However, it was unknown whether co-administration of FGFR2 inhibitors with immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as PD-1 or PD-L1 inhibitors, would further improve treatment in tumor models. The inventors herein demonstrated that the combination of an FGFR2 inhibitory antibody and a PD-1 inhibitory antibody exhibited at least additive effects in a mouse breast tumor model. The inventors further demonstrated that treatment with an FGFR2 inhibitory antibody alone led to an increase in PD-L1-expressing cells, NK cells, and CD3+, CD8+, and CD4+ T cells in tumor tissue in a mouse breast tumor model, resulting in an increase in the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in the tumor tissue. Additionally, FGFR2 inhibitors given alone have also benefited human bladder cancer subjects. Taken together, the results herein demonstrate that FGFR2 inhibitors can alter the tumor microenvironment and thereby enhance tumoricidal immune responses, either alone or in combination with PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitors. Summary of the Invention
[0011] In some embodiments, a method for treating cancer in a subject is provided, comprising administering to the subject an FGFR2 inhibitor, such as an anti-FGFR2 antibody or an FGFR2 ECD or an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule, in combination with at least one immunostimulatory agent. In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent is a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, such as an anti-PD-1 antibody, an anti-PD-L1 antibody, a PD-1 fusion molecule, or a PD-1 polypeptide. In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent comprises one or more of the agents described in the section below entitled "Combination with Other Immunostimulatory Agents." In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is an antibody. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is an antibody that recognizes FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, an FGFR2-IIIb antibody binds to FGFR2-IIIc with lower affinity than FGFR2-IIIb, or does not detectably bind to FGFR2-IIIc. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is an FGFR2 ECD. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule comprising an FGFR2 ECD and a fusion partner, such as an Fc domain, albumin, or polyethylene glycol (PEG). In some embodiments, when the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is an antibody. In some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is an anti-PD-1 antibody or an anti-PD-L1 antibody. In some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is a PD-1 polypeptide, while in some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is a PD-1 fusion molecule.
[0012] In any of the embodiments of the methods and compositions described herein, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor may have the following features: In some embodiments, the inhibitor is an anti-PD-1 antibody comprising the heavy and light chain CDRs of an antibody selected from nivolumab, pidilizumab, and pembrolizumab. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy and light chain variable regions of an antibody selected from nivolumab, pidilizumab, and pembrolizumab. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody is selected from nivolumab, pidilizumab, and pembrolizumab. In some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is an anti-PD-L1 antibody. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-L1 antibody comprises the heavy and light chain CDRs of an antibody selected from BMS-936559, MPDL3280A (atezolizumab), MEDI4736, and MSB0010718C (avelumab). In some embodiments, the anti-PD-L1 antibody comprises the heavy and light chain variable regions of an antibody selected from BMS-936559, MPDL3280A, MEDI4736, and MSB0010718C. In some embodiments, the anti-PD-L1 antibody is selected from BMS-936559, MPDL3280A, MEDI4736, and MSB0010718C. In some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is a fusion molecule. In some embodiments, the fusion molecule is AMP-224. In some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is a PD-1 polypeptide, such as AUR-012.
[0013] In any of the compositions or methods described herein involving an anti-PD-1 antibody, the anti-PD-1 antibody may be a humanized antibody. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the anti-PD-1 antibody may be selected from Fab, Fv, scFv, Fab', and (Fab')2. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the anti-PD-1 antibody may be a chimeric antibody. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the anti-PD-1 antibody may be selected from IgA, IgG, and IgD. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the anti-PD-1 antibody may be an IgG. In any of the methods described herein, the antibody may be an IgG1 or IgG2.
[0014] In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the FGFR2 inhibitor may have the following characteristics: In some embodiments, the inhibitor is an FGFR2 antibody. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody is an FGFR2-IIIb antibody (also referred to herein as αFGFR2b). In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody binds to FGFR2-IIIb with higher affinity than FGFR2-IIIc, or alternatively, does not detectably bind to FGFR2-IIIc. In some embodiments, the antibody inhibits binding of FGF2 and / or FGF7 to FGFR2.
[0015] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody has the heavy and light chain hypervariable region (HVR) H1, H2, H3, L1, L2, and L3 amino acid sequences of monoclonal antibody GAL-FR21, GAL-FR22, or GAL-FR23 described in U.S. Patent No. 8,101,723 B2. In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody heavy chain variable region comprises (i) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:6; (ii) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:7; and (iii) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:8; and the light chain variable region comprises (iv) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:9; (v) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:10; and (vi) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:11.
[0016] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises an FGFR2-IIIb antibody whose heavy chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises an FGFR2-IIIb antibody whose light chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5. In some embodiments, the heavy chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, and the light chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises an FGFR2-IIIb antibody whose heavy chain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises an FGFR2-IIIb antibody whose light chain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. In some embodiments, the heavy chain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, and the light chain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3.
[0017] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody heavy chain variable region comprises (i) a CDR1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 40; (ii) a CDR2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 41; and (iii) a CDR3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 42; and the light chain variable region comprises (iv) a CDR1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 44; (v) a CDR2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 45; and (vi) a CDR3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 46.
[0018] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises an FGFR2-IIIb antibody whose heavy chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 39. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises an FGFR2-IIIb antibody whose light chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 43. In some embodiments, the heavy chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 39, and the light chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 43.
[0019] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody lacks fucose at Asn297. In some embodiments, the antibody comprises a kappa light chain constant region. In some embodiments, the antibody comprises an IgG1 heavy chain constant region. In some embodiments, the nonfucosylated antibody has enhanced ADCC (antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity) activity in vitro and / or in vivo compared to an antibody having the same amino acid sequence that is fucosylated at Asn297. In some embodiments, the nonfucosylated antibody has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA compared to an antibody having the same amino acid sequence that is fucosylated at Asn297. In some embodiments, the nonfucosylated antibody can increase the number of one or more of PD-L1-positive cells, NK cells, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and macrophages in tumor tissue in mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor models compared to a control (e.g., compared to a control antibody that does not target FGFR2).
[0020] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is an FGFR2 ECD, such as an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule. The FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule may include a fusion partner, such as an Fc domain, albumin, or PEG.
[0021] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is capable of binding to FGFR2 as well as FGFR2 mutants with activating mutations, for example, the FGFR2-S252W mutation found in some cancer cells.
[0022] In any of the compositions or methods described herein involving an FGFR2 antibody, the FGFR2 antibody may be a humanized antibody. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the FGFR2 antibody may be selected from Fab, Fv, scFv, Fab', and (Fab')2. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the FGFR2 antibody may be a chimeric antibody. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the FGFR2 antibody may be selected from IgA, IgG, and IgD. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the FGFR2 antibody may be an IgG. In any of the methods described herein, the antibody may be IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, or IgG4.
[0023] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is administered at a dose of at least 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 20, or 30 mg / kg, or a range bracketed by any two of these doses. In some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is administered at a dose of at least 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 mg / kg, or a range bracketed by any two of these doses, e.g., in the range of 0.5-10 mg / kg. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor and at least one immune stimulatory agent, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, are administered at least once every 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 weeks.
[0024] In some embodiments, cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 gene amplification.In some embodiments, FGFR2IIIb overexpression is determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).For example, overexpression can be determined by the IHC signal of 1+, 2+ or 3+ in at least 10% tumor cells, for example, in at least 20%, 30%, 40% or 50% tumor cells.
[0025] In some embodiments, the cancer is selected from gastric cancer, breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, esophageal cancer (including gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma), and endometrial cancer. In some embodiments, the cancer has recurred or progressed after treatment selected from surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the subject is an inadequate responder to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. In some embodiments, the subject has previously received PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor therapy.
[0026] In some embodiments, the method for treating cancer further comprises administering at least one additional therapeutic agent selected from a platinum agent, paclitaxel, ABRAXANE®, docetaxel, gemcitabine, capecitabine, irinotecan, epirubicin, FOLFOX, FOLFIRI, leucovorin, fluorouracil, mitomycin C, and doxorubicin hydrochloride. In some embodiments, the platinum agent is selected from cisplatin, oxaliplatin, and carboplatin. In some embodiments, the method for treating cancer further comprises administering paclitaxel. In some embodiments, the method for treating cancer further comprises administering cisplatin and / or 5-FU.
[0027] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor and the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor are administered simultaneously or sequentially. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor and the immunostimulant are administered simultaneously. In some embodiments, one or more doses of the immunostimulant are administered before administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor. In some embodiments, the subject has received a complete course of immunostimulant therapy before administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is administered during a second course of immunostimulant therapy. In some embodiments, the subject has received at least one, at least two, at least three, or at least four doses of the immunostimulant before administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor. In some embodiments, at least one dose of the immunostimulant is administered simultaneously with the FGFR2 inhibitor. In some embodiments, one or more doses of the FGFR2 inhibitor are administered before administration of the immunostimulant. In some embodiments, the subject may receive at least two, at least three, at least three, or at least four doses of the FGFR2 inhibitor before administration of the immunostimulant. In some embodiments, at least one dose of an FGFR2 inhibitor is administered simultaneously with an immune stimulant.
[0028] In some embodiments, administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor and a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor in a mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor model results in either additive or synergistic inhibition of tumor growth. In some embodiments, the model is a breast cancer model. In some embodiments, the model comprises 4T1 cells.
[0029] In any of the methods of the above embodiments, the combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor and a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor may inhibit tumor growth in mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor models by, e.g., at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% over a period of at least one week, ten days, or two weeks. In any of the methods of the above embodiments, administration of a combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor and an immune stimulant, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, to a subject may reduce at least one tumor volume in the subject by, e.g., at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% over a period of at least one month, two months, three months, six months, or one year.
[0030] In any of the methods of the above embodiments, administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor in a xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor model may result in an increase in NK cells, such as NKp46+ cells, an increase in PD-L1-expressing cells, an increase in macrophages, such as F480+ macrophages, an increase in one or more of CD3+, CD8+, and CD4+ T cells, and / or an increase in the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumor tissue, compared to a control, for example, by at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% over a period of at least 1 day, at least 4 days, at least 1 week, at least 10 days, or at least 2 weeks. In some embodiments, the mouse syngeneic tumor model is a 4T1 mammary tumor model. In some embodiments, the control is a vehicle or an Ig-Fc molecule or another compound that does not inhibit tumor growth in the model.
[0031] Also provided herein are methods for increasing the number of NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, and / or CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD8+ T cells and / or macrophages in tumor tissue of a subject with cancer, and / or increasing the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumor tissue of the subject, comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of an FGFR2 inhibitory antibody, such as any of the FGFR2 antibodies described in the preceding paragraph. The increase in one or more of CD3+, CD8+, and CD4+ T cells and / or the increase in the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumor tissue compared to a control is, e.g., at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95%, over a period of at least 1 day, at least 4 days, at least 1 week, at least 10 days, or at least 2 weeks. In some embodiments, the antibody may have one or more of the following properties: (a) lacking fucose at Asn297; (b) comprising a kappa light chain constant region; (c) comprising an IgG1 heavy chain constant region; (d) having enhanced ADCC activity in vitro compared to an antibody having the same amino acid sequence but fucosylated at Asn297; and (e) having enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA compared to an antibody having the same amino acid sequence but fucosylated at Asn297. In some embodiments, the non-fucosylated antibody can increase the number of one or more of PD-L1-positive cells, NK cells, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and macrophages in tumor tissue in mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor models compared to a control (e.g., compared to a control antibody that does not target FGFR2). In some embodiments, the method inhibits tumor growth or reduces at least one tumor volume in a subject. In some embodiments, the subject has breast cancer, gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, esophageal cancer (including gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma), and endometrial cancer.In some embodiments, the methods further include obtaining at least one tumor sample from the subject after administration of the FGFR2 antibody and determining the number of NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, and / or CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells in the sample, and administering a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor to the subject if the number of one or more of these types of cells is increased relative to the sample before administration of the FGFR2 antibody or relative to a non-tumor sample from the subject. In some embodiments, the methods further include obtaining at least one tumor sample from the subject after administration of the FGFR2 antibody and determining the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in the sample, and administering at least one to the subject if the ratio is increased relative to the sample before administration of the FGFR2 antibody or relative to a non-tumor sample from the subject. The at least one immunostimulatory agent, e.g., at least one PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, in these methods may be any of those described in the preceding paragraph or in the section below entitled "Combination with Other Immunostimulatory Agents." In some embodiments, the patient may be administered a combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor, a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, and at least one other immune stimulatory agent.
[0032] Also provided herein is a method for treating cancer in a subject, comprising administering to the subject an FGFR2 inhibitor, and if the subject is determined to have an increased number of NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, macrophages, CD3+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and / or CD4+ T cells relative to a control, e.g., relative to a sample taken before administration of the FGFR2 antibody, or relative to a non-tumor sample from the subject, administering to the subject at least one immunostimulatory agent, such as a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. Also provided herein is a method for treating cancer in a subject, comprising administering to the subject an FGFR2 inhibitor, and if the subject is determined to have an increased ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells relative to a control, e.g., relative to a sample taken before administration of the FGFR2 antibody, or relative to a non-tumor sample from the subject, administering to the subject at least one immunostimulatory agent, such as a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. In such methods, the FGFR2 inhibitor and immunostimulatory agent may be any of those described in the preceding paragraph or in the section below entitled "Combination with Other Immunostimulatory Agents." Furthermore, administration of the FGFR2 and immunostimulant may follow the methods described above, where administration of the immunostimulant is not initiated until after at least one dose of the FGFR2 inhibitor has been administered. In such cases, testing to determine the number of NK cells, PD-L1 positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, lymphoid, and / or myeloid cells may be performed, for example, after initiation of administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor, but before initiation of administration of the combined FGFR2 and immunostimulant.
[0033] Also provided are compositions comprising any of the FGFR2 inhibitors described herein and any of the immunostimulatory agents described herein. In such compositions, the FGFR2 inhibitor and at least one immunostimulatory agent may be located in separate containers or separate compartments of the same container, or alternatively, may be mixed together in the same container or compartment. Such compositions may be used, for example, to treat cancer, such as any of the cancers described above. In some embodiments, instructions, such as instructions for use in treating cancer, may also be included.
[0034] Also provided herein are methods for increasing the number of one or more of PD-L1-positive cells, NK cells, macrophages, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, and CD8+ T cells in tumor tissue of a subject with cancer, comprising administering an FGFR2 inhibitor, where the inhibitor is an FGFR2 antibody with enhanced ADCC activity. In some such embodiments, an immunostimulant is not administered along with the FGFR2 antibody. In some such embodiments, administration of the FGFR2 antibody in a mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor model increases the number of one or more of PD-L1-positive cells, NK cells, macrophages, CD3+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and CD4+ T cells in tumor tissue and / or increases the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumor tissue compared to a control. In some such embodiments, the subject has breast cancer, gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, esophageal cancer (including gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma), or endometrial cancer, e.g., bladder cancer.
[0035] In the above method, the FGFR2 antibody may be an FGFR2-IIIb antibody that may have one or more of the following properties: (a) binds to FGFR2-IIIb with higher affinity than FGFR2-IIIc or does not detectably bind to FGFR2-IIIc; (b) inhibits the binding of FGF2 and / or FGF7 to human FGFR2; (c) inhibits the growth of human tumors in mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor models; (d) induces ADCC activity; (e) has enhanced ADCC activity; and (f) is non-fucosylated.
[0036] In some embodiments of the above method, the FGFR2 antibody comprises heavy and light chain variable regions, wherein the heavy chain variable region comprises (i) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (ii) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; and (iii) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8; and the light chain variable region comprises (iv) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (v) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (vi) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11.
[0037] In some cases, the heavy chain variable domain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises an amino acid sequence at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, and / or the light chain variable domain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises an amino acid sequence at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5. In some cases, the heavy chain variable domain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, and / or the light chain variable domain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5. In some cases, the heavy chain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises an amino acid sequence at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, and / or the light chain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises an amino acid sequence at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. In some cases, the heavy chain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2, and / or the light chain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. In some cases, the FGFR2 antibody is chimeric, humanized, or human. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody is selected from Fab, Fv, scFv, Fab', and (Fab')2. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody has one or more of the following properties: (a) lacks fucose at Asn297; (b) comprises a kappa light chain constant region; (c) comprises an IgG1 heavy chain constant region; (d) has enhanced ADCC activity in vitro compared to an antibody having the same amino acid sequence but with a fucosylation at Asn297; and (e) has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA compared to an antibody having the same amino acid sequence but with a fucosylation at Asn297. In some embodiments, the non-fucosylated antibody can increase the number of one or more of PD-L1-positive cells, NK cells, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and macrophages in tumor tissue in mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor models compared to a control (e.g., compared to a control antibody that does not target FGFR2).
[0038] In any of the methods or uses described in this Summary section, the cancer may be previously determined to overexpress FGFR2IIIb, either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 gene amplification. Alternatively, in any of the methods or uses described in this Summary section, the method may further include testing the subject's cancer, e.g., prior to administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor, to determine whether the cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb and / or to determine whether the FGFR2 gene is amplified in tumor cells. In either case, FGFR2IIIb may optionally be determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and FGFR2 gene amplification may optionally be determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), e.g., using probes for the FGFR2 locus and chromosome 10 centromere, where the FGFR2 gene is located. In some embodiments, an IHC signal of 1+, 2+, or 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells, e.g., at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of tumor cells, indicates overexpression of FGFR2IIIb. In some embodiments, a ratio of FGFR2 to chromosome 10 centromere (CEN10) of 2 or greater indicates FGFR2 gene amplification.
[0039] In some embodiments in which the patient is afflicted with gastric cancer or bladder cancer, the subject may be predetermined to have one of the following profiles, or alternatively, the treatment method comprises determining whether the patient fits one of the following profiles for FGFR2 expression / gene amplification, which may indicate an expected level of responsiveness to treatment: a) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells; b) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells, and an FGFR2 gene amplification. gene amplification; c) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells without amplification of the FGFR2 gene; d) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; e) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an IHC signal of 1+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; f) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an IHC signal of 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; g) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of greater than 20; h) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of 10-19; i) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of less than 10.
[0040] The present disclosure also provides methods for determining responsiveness to any of the above-mentioned FGFR2 inhibitors, treatments, and uses. Such methods may include testing a subject's cancer to determine whether the cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb and / or whether the FGFR2 gene is amplified in tumor cells. FGFR2IIIb overexpression may optionally be determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC), and FGFR2 gene amplification may optionally be determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), for example, using probes for the FGFR2 locus and chromosome 10 centromere, where the FGFR2 gene is located. In some embodiments, an IHC signal of 1+, 2+, or 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells, e.g., at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of tumor cells, indicates FGFR2IIIb overexpression. In some embodiments, a ratio of FGFR2 to chromosome 10 centromere (CEN10) of 2 or greater indicates FGFR2 gene amplification.
[0041] In some embodiments in which the patient has gastric cancer or bladder cancer, the method may include determining whether the patient's cancer falls into one of the following categories that may indicate responsiveness to a treatment or FGFR2 inhibitor composition: a) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells; b) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells and amplification of the FGFR2 gene; c) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, no amplification of the FGFR2 gene. d) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; e) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an IHC signal of 1+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; f) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an IHC signal of 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; g) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of greater than 20; h) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of 10-19; i) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of less than 10.
[0042] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in any way. All references cited herein, including patent applications and publications, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for any purpose. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0043] [Figure 1]Figure 1 shows changes in the volume of implanted 4T1 mammary tumors in BALB / c mice after treatment with an Ig-Fc control, a nonfucosylated anti-FGFR2b antibody (anti-FGFR2) containing the heavy and light chain HVRs of SEQ ID NOS: 6-11, or an anti-FGFR2b antibody (anti-FGFR2-N297Q) with the same amino acid sequence except that an N was substituted with a Q at amino acid position 297 to eliminate effector function (see SEQ ID NOS: 12 in the Sequence Listing below for a depiction of this mutation). As shown in both Figures 1a and 1b, only the anti-FGFR2 antibody inhibited 4T1 tumor growth. Statistical significance (P<0.05 = *; P<0.01 = **; P<0.001 = ***; P<0.001 = ****) was determined by one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's multiple comparison test. [Figure 2a] Figures 2a and 2b show staining of 4T1 tumor cells for the presence of either NKp46 (Figures 2a-b) or PD-L1 (Figures 2c-d) compared to DAPI staining of cell nuclei on either day 1, 1 day after a single-dose treatment with vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 (Figures 2a and 2c), or day 4, 1 day after the second of two treatments in which vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 was given on days 0 and 3 (Figures 2b and 2d). Each image was taken from a different tumor, and images were collected using a 10x objective. Treatment with anti-FGFR2 increased the number of NKp46+ cells in 4T1 tumors compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4 (Figures 2a-b) and increased the number of PD-L1+ cells compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4 (Figures 2c-d). [Figure 2b]Figures 2a and 2b show staining of 4T1 tumor cells for the presence of either NKp46 (Figures 2a-b) or PD-L1 (Figures 2c-d) compared to DAPI staining of cell nuclei on either day 1, 1 day after a single-dose treatment with vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 (Figures 2a and 2c), or day 4, 1 day after the second of two treatments in which vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 was given on days 0 and 3 (Figures 2b and 2d). Each image was taken from a different tumor, and images were collected using a 10x objective. Treatment with anti-FGFR2 increased the number of NKp46+ cells in 4T1 tumors compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4 (Figures 2a-b) and increased the number of PD-L1+ cells compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4 (Figures 2c-d). [Figure 2c] Figures 2a and 2b show staining of 4T1 tumor cells for the presence of either NKp46 (Figures 2a-b) or PD-L1 (Figures 2c-d) compared to DAPI staining of cell nuclei on either day 1, 1 day after a single-dose treatment with vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 (Figures 2a and 2c), or day 4, 1 day after the second of two treatments in which vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 was given on days 0 and 3 (Figures 2b and 2d). Each image was taken from a different tumor, and images were collected using a 10x objective. Treatment with anti-FGFR2 increased the number of NKp46+ cells in 4T1 tumors compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4 (Figures 2a-b) and increased the number of PD-L1+ cells compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4 (Figures 2c-d). [Figure 2d]Figures 2a and 2b show staining of 4T1 tumor cells for the presence of either NKp46 (Figures 2a-b) or PD-L1 (Figures 2c-d) compared to DAPI staining of cell nuclei on either day 1, 1 day after a single-dose treatment with vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 (Figures 2a and 2c), or day 4, 1 day after the second of two treatments in which vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 was given on days 0 and 3 (Figures 2b and 2d). Each image was taken from a different tumor, and images were collected using a 10x objective. Treatment with anti-FGFR2 increased the number of NKp46+ cells in 4T1 tumors compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4 (Figures 2a-b) and increased the number of PD-L1+ cells compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4 (Figures 2c-d). [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows an analysis of the effect of anti-FGFR2 exposure on the number of NKp46+ cells in murine 4T1 tumors on day 4. Treatment with anti-FGFR2 increased NK cells in tumors compared to vehicle controls, P<0.05 by t-test. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the change in implanted mammary 4T1 tumor volume in female BALB / c mice after treatment with an Ig-Fc control, anti-PD-1 antibody, a nonfucosylated anti-FGFR2b antibody (designated anti-FGFR2), and a combination of anti-PD-1 and nonfucosylated anti-FGFR2b antibodies. Each graph shows tumor volume as mean mm3 + / - SEM. As shown in Figure 4a, the combination of anti-FGFR2 (10 mg / kg BIW) and anti-PD1 antibody (5 mg / kg BIW) resulted in significant inhibition of 4T1 tumor growth compared to the control and either antibody alone by day 18. As shown in Figure 4b, at day 18 after tumor implantation, the combination demonstrated statistically significant inhibition of 4T1 tumor growth compared to the Ig-Fc control or anti-PD1 antibody. Statistical significance was determined by one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's multiple comparison test. [Figure 5]Figure 5 shows the results of staining 4T1 tumor cells for the presence of either NKp46+ cells, PD-L1+ cells, or CD3+ T cells on day 1 (Figure 5a), 1 day after a single-dose treatment with vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 or anti-FGFR2 N297Q, or 1 day after the second of two treatments in which vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 was given on days 4, 0, and 3 (Figure 5b). Each image was taken from a different tumor, and images were collected using a 10x objective. Treatment with anti-FGFR2 increased the number of NKp46+ cells in 4T1 tumors compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4, and increased the number of PD-L1+ cells compared to vehicle on both days 1 and 4, with the number of visible cells being higher on day 4 than on day 1. CD3+ T cells also infiltrated tumors by day 4 after treatment with anti-FGFR2. [Figure 6-1] Figure 6 shows the results of staining 4T1 tumor cells for the presence of CD3+ and CD8+ T cells (Figure 6a) or CD3+ and CD4+ T cells (Figure 6b) adjacent to DAPI staining of cell nuclei on day 4 of the treatment protocol. The images show that treatment with anti-FGFR2 resulted in an increase in the number of all three types of T cells in the tumor tissue by day 4 compared to vehicle control and treatment with anti-FGFR2 N297Q. [Figure 6-2] Figure 6 shows the results of staining 4T1 tumor cells for the presence of CD3+ and CD8+ T cells (Figure 6a) or CD3+ and CD4+ T cells (Figure 6b) adjacent to DAPI staining of cell nuclei on day 4 of the treatment protocol. The images show that treatment with anti-FGFR2 resulted in an increase in the number of all three types of T cells in the tumor tissue by day 4 compared to vehicle control and treatment with anti-FGFR2 N297Q. [Figure 7]Figure 1 shows the results of FACS analysis of tumor cells in the 4T1 syngeneic tumor model on days 1 and 4, respectively. CD3+ T cells are presented for each treatment group as a percentage of live CD45+ single cells. As shown in the figure, the anti-FGFR2 group showed an increased percentage of CD3+ T cells compared to both the vehicle control and anti-FGFR2 N297Q groups by day 4. The increase was also statistically significant according to Student's T-test, as indicated by the ** symbol indicating P≦0.01. [Figure 8] Figure 1 shows the results of FACS analysis of tumor cells in the 4T1 syngeneic tumor model on days 1 and 4, respectively. CD8+ T cells are presented for each treatment group as a percentage of live CD45+ single cells. As shown in the figure, the anti-FGFR2 group showed an increased percentage of CD8+ T cells compared to both the vehicle control and anti-FGFR2 N297Q groups by day 4. The increase was also statistically significant according to Student's T-test, as indicated by the ** symbol indicating P≦0.01. [Figure 9] Figure 1 shows the results of FACS analysis of tumor cells in the 4T1 syngeneic tumor model on days 1 and 4, respectively. CD4+ T cells are presented for each treatment group as a percentage of live CD45+ single cells. As shown in the figure, the anti-FGFR2 group showed an increase in the percentage of CD4+ T cells compared to both the vehicle control and anti-FGFR2 N297Q groups by day 4. The increase was also statistically significant according to Student's T-test, as indicated by the * symbol indicating P≦0.5. [Figure 10-1]Further results of FACS analysis of tumor cells in the 4T1 syngeneic tumor model at day 4 are shown. In Figure 10a, NKp46+ cells are presented for each treatment group as a percentage of live CD45+ single cells. The figure shows a statistically significant increase in NKp46+ cells in the anti-FGFR2 group compared to the other groups according to Student's T-test, where * indicates P≦0.5, ** indicates P≦0.01, and *** indicates P≦0.001. Figures 10b and 10c show that myeloid cells are significantly decreased in the anti-FGFR2 group, while lymphoid cells are significantly increased, thus demonstrating that the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells is increased at day 4 after treatment with anti-FGFR2 compared to the other groups. [Figure 10-2] Further results of FACS analysis of tumor cells in the 4T1 syngeneic tumor model at day 4 are shown. In Figure 10a, NKp46+ cells are presented for each treatment group as a percentage of live CD45+ single cells. The figure shows a statistically significant increase in NKp46+ cells in the anti-FGFR2 group compared to the other groups according to Student's T-test, where * indicates P≦0.5, ** indicates P≦0.01, and *** indicates P≦0.001. Figures 10b and 10c show that myeloid cells are significantly decreased in the anti-FGFR2 group, while lymphoid cells are significantly increased, thus demonstrating that the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells is increased at day 4 after treatment with anti-FGFR2 compared to the other groups. [Figure 11] Staining of 4T1 tumor tissue in a mouse syngeneic tumor model is shown on days 1 or 4 after treatment with a vehicle control (upper panel), an anti-FGFR2 antibody (middle panel), or an anti-FGFR2-N297Q antibody (lower panel). The images show staining with anti-F480 antibody to detect infiltration of F480+ macrophages into the tumor tissue, and corresponding DAPI staining of cell nuclei. As can be seen, after anti-FGFR2 treatment, F480+ macrophages are much more numerous than in the control (compared to the upper and middle panels on day 4). No difference was observed between the control and the anti-FGFR2-N297Q panel (compared to the upper and lower panels on day 4). Images were collected using a 10x objective. [Figure 12]Staining of 4T1 tumor tissue in a mouse syngeneic tumor model is shown on day 4 after treatment with various antibodies: a control antibody (Fc-G1 antibody) (top panel), a rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody designed to reduce the number of NKp46 cells (second panel), an anti-FGFR2 antibody (third panel), and a combination of anti-FGFR2 and anti-asialoGM1 antibodies (bottom panel). Tissues were stained with NKp46 reagent or DAPI to stain cell nuclei (left and right panels, respectively). Anti-asialoGM1 antibody was administered at 1.25 mg / kg, and anti-FGFR2 antibody was administered at 10 mg / kg. Images were collected using a 10x objective. As can be seen in the four different NKp46 staining panels, anti-asialoGM1 antibody depleted NKp46 cells in the tumor tissue, while anti-FGFR2 antibody increased the number of NKp46 cells (compare the top and third left panels). Anti-FGFR2 antibody in combination with anti-asialoGM1 antibody increased the number of NKp46 cells compared to anti-asialoGM1 antibody alone (but not compared to the control), indicating that anti-FGFR2 antibody can increase the number of NKp46 cells in tumor tissue even when NKp46 cells are depleted by the presence of a competing antibody (compare the top, second, and bottom left panels). [Figure 13] Staining of CD3+ T cells and corresponding DAPI staining of cell nuclei in 4T1 tumor tissue in a mouse syngeneic tumor model on day 4 after treatment with a control antibody (Fc-G1 antibody) (top panel), rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody (second panel), anti-FGFR2 antibody (third panel), and a combination of anti-FGFR2 antibody and anti-asialoGM1 antibody (bottom panel). Anti-asialoGM1 antibody was administered at 1.25 mg / kg, and anti-FGFR2 antibody was administered at 10 mg / kg. Images were collected using a 10x objective. As can be seen by comparing the four left panels, treatment with anti-FGFR2 antibody increased the number of CD3+ T cells in tumor tissue, but not when administered together with anti-asialoGM1 antibody. [Figure 14]Figure 1 shows staining of PD-L1-positive cells and corresponding DAPI staining of cell nuclei in 4T1 tumor tissue in a mouse syngeneic tumor model on day 4 after treatment with a control antibody (Fc-G1 antibody) (top panel), rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody (second panel), anti-FGFR2 antibody (third panel), and a combination of anti-FGFR2 antibody and anti-asialoGM1 antibody (bottom panel). Anti-asialoGM1 antibody was administered at 1.25 mg / kg, and anti-FGFR2 antibody was administered at 10 mg / kg. Images were collected using a 10x objective. As can be seen by comparing the four left panels, treatment with anti-FGFR2 antibody increased the number of PD-L1-positive cells in tumor tissue, but not when administered together with anti-asialoGM1 antibody. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows the growth of 4T1 orthotopic tumors in mice after inoculation with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) control, anti-FGFR2 antibody, anti-asialoGM1 antibody, or a combination of anti-FGFR2 and anti-asialoGM1 antibodies. Figure 15a shows tumor volumes on days 12 and 15 after inoculation. Figure 15b shows plots of tumor volumes in individual mice on day 15 after inoculation. The figures show a statistically significant reduction in tumor volume in the anti-FGFR2 group compared to the control and anti-asialoGM1 groups according to Student's T-test, where * indicates P<0.5 and ** indicates P<0.01, as well as a statistically significant change in tumor volume between the group receiving only anti-FGFR2 antibody and the group receiving the combination of anti-FGFR2 and anti-asialoGM1 antibody. [Figure 16-1]Figure 16 shows the growth of 4T1 orthotopic tumors in SCID mice after inoculation with vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 antibody up to 27 days after inoculation with tumor cells. Figure 16a shows tumor volume over time. The arrows below the graph indicate administration of either vehicle or 20 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 antibody on days 12 and 15 after inoculation. An asterisk (*) indicates a statistically significant difference between tumor growth under vehicle or anti-FGFR2 antibody according to Student's T-test at a P < 0.5 level. Figure 16b shows tumor volumes in individual mice from each group on day 19 after inoculation. An asterisk (*) indicates a statistically significant difference between tumor growth in the two groups according to Student's T-test at a P < 0.5 level. Figure 16c shows tumor volumes in individual mice from each group on day 23 after inoculation. An asterisk (*) indicates a statistically significant difference between tumor growth in the two groups according to the Student's T-test at the P≦0.5 level. Figure 16d shows tumor volumes in individual mice in each group on day 27 post-inoculation. [Figure 16-2] Figure 16 shows the growth of 4T1 orthotopic tumors in SCID mice after inoculation with vehicle control or anti-FGFR2 antibody up to 27 days after inoculation with tumor cells. Figure 16a shows tumor volume over time. The arrows below the graph indicate administration of either vehicle or 20 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 antibody on days 12 and 15 after inoculation. An asterisk (*) indicates a statistically significant difference between tumor growth under vehicle or anti-FGFR2 antibody according to Student's T-test at a P < 0.5 level. Figure 16b shows tumor volumes in individual mice from each group on day 19 after inoculation. An asterisk (*) indicates a statistically significant difference between tumor growth in the two groups according to Student's T-test at a P < 0.5 level. Figure 16c shows tumor volumes in individual mice from each group on day 23 after inoculation. An asterisk (*) indicates a statistically significant difference between tumor growth in the two groups according to the Student's T-test at the P≦0.5 level. Figure 16d shows tumor volumes in individual mice in each group on day 27 post-inoculation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0044] definition Unless otherwise specified, scientific and technical terms used in connection with the present invention shall have the meanings commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, and unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include plural terms and plural terms shall include the singular.
[0045] Representative techniques used in connection with recombinant DNA, oligonucleotide synthesis, tissue culture and transformation (e.g., electroporation, lipofection), enzymatic reactions, and purification methods are known in the art. Many such techniques and procedures are described, inter alia, in, for example, Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual (2nd ed., Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, NY (1989)). Furthermore, representative techniques for chemical synthesis, chemical analysis, pharmaceutical preparation, formulation, and delivery, and treatment of patients are also known in the art.
[0046] In this application, the use of "or" means "and / or" unless otherwise specified. In the context of multiple dependent claims, the use of "or" refers back to more than one preceding independent or dependent claim in the alternative only. Also, terms such as "element" or "component" encompass both elements and components comprising a single unit and elements and components comprising multiple subunits, unless otherwise specified.
[0047] As used in accordance with the present disclosure, the following terms, unless otherwise indicated, shall be understood to have the following meanings:
[0048] The terms "nucleic acid molecule" and "polynucleotide" may be used interchangeably and refer to a polymer of nucleotides. Such a polymer of nucleotides may comprise natural and / or non-natural nucleotides and may include, but is not limited to, DNA, RNA, and PNA. A "nucleic acid sequence" refers to the linear sequence of nucleotides that comprises a nucleic acid molecule or polynucleotide.
[0049] The terms "polypeptide" and "protein" are used interchangeably to refer to polymers of amino acid residues and are not limited to a minimum length. Such polymers of amino acid residues may contain natural or unnatural amino acid residues and may include, but are not limited to, peptides, oligopeptides, dimers, trimers, and multimers of amino acid residues. Both full-length proteins and fragments thereof are included by definition. The term also includes post-expression modifications of the polypeptide, such as glycosylation, sialylation, acetylation, and phosphorylation. Furthermore, for purposes of the present invention, "polypeptide" refers to proteins containing modifications to the native sequence, such as deletions, additions, and substitutions (usually conservative in nature), so long as the protein maintains the desired activity. These modifications may be intentional, such as through site-directed mutagenesis, or may be accidental, such as through mutations of hosts producing the protein or errors during PCR amplification.
[0050] "FGFR2" refers to fibroblast growth factor receptor 2, including any of its alternatively spliced forms, such as IIIa, IIIb, and IIIc splice forms. The term "FGFR2" encompasses wild-type FGFR2 and naturally occurring mutant forms, such as FGFR2-activating mutant forms such as FGFR2-S252W, found in some cancer cells. "FGFR2-IIIb" or "FGFR2b" are used interchangeably and refer to the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 IIIb splice form. An exemplary human FGFR2-IIIb is set forth in GenBank Accession No. NP_075259.4, dated July 7, 2013. A non-limiting exemplary mature human FGFR2-IIIb amino acid sequence is set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1. "FGFR2-IIIc" or "FGFR2c" are used interchangeably and refer to the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 IIIc splice form. An exemplary human FGFR2-IIIc is set forth in GenBank Accession No. NP_000132.3, dated July 7, 2013. A non-limiting exemplary mature human FGFR2-IIIc amino acid sequence is set forth in SEQ ID NO:12.
[0051] "FGFR2 ECD" refers to the extracellular domain of FGFR2, including native and genetically engineered variants thereof. Non-limiting examples of FGFR2 ECDs include SEQ ID NOs: 13-23, 29, and 32. "FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule" refers to a molecule comprising an FGFR2 ECD and a fusion partner, such as an Fc domain, albumin, or PEG. The fusion partner may be covalently attached, for example, to the N-terminus or C-terminus of the FGFR2 ECD or at an internal position. Non-limiting examples of FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules include SEQ ID NOs: 30, 31, and 33.
[0052] "FGFR2 inhibitor" refers to a molecule, such as an antibody, that binds to FGFR2, e.g., an FGFR2 ECD or an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule, that inhibits binding of FGFR2 to one or more of its ligands, such as FGF1, FGF7, and / or FGF2. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor can bind to FGFR2 as well as an FGFR2 mutant having an activating mutation, e.g., FGFR2-S252W.
[0053] As used herein, the term "immunostimulatory agent" refers to a molecule that stimulates the immune system by either acting as an agonist of immune stimulatory molecules, including costimulatory molecules, or by acting as an antagonist of immune inhibitory molecules, including co-inhibitory molecules. An immune stimulatory agent may be a biologic such as an antibody or antibody fragment, other protein, or vaccine, or may be a small molecule drug.
[0054] The terms "programmed cell death protein 1" and "PD-1" refer to an immunoinhibitory receptor belonging to the CD28 family. PD-1 is expressed primarily on preactivated T cells in vivo and binds to two ligands, PD-L1 and PD-L2. As used herein, the term "PD-1" includes human PD-1 (hPD-1), variants, isoforms, and species homologs of hPD-1, as well as analogs that share at least one epitope with hPD-1. The complete hPD-1 sequence can be found under GenBank accession number U64863. In some embodiments, the PD-1 is human PD-1 having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 34 (precursor including signal sequence) or SEQ ID NO: 35 (mature form without signal sequence).
[0055] The terms "programmed cell death 1 ligand 1" and "PD-L1" refer to one of two cell surface glycoprotein ligands for PD-1 (the other is PD-L2), which down-regulates T cell activation and cytokine secretion upon binding to PD-1. As used herein, the term "PD-L1" includes human PD-L1 (hPD-L1), variants, isoforms, and species homologs of hPD-L1, and analogs that share at least one epitope with hPD-L1. The complete hPD-L1 sequence can be found under GenBank Accession No. Q9NZQ7. In some embodiments, the PD-L1 is human PD-L1 having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 37 (precursor including signal sequence) or SEQ ID NO: 38 (mature form without the signal sequence).
[0056] The term "PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor" refers to a moiety that disrupts the PD-1 / PD-L1 signaling pathway. In some embodiments, the inhibitor inhibits the PD-1 / PD-L1 signaling pathway by binding to PD-1 and / or PD-L1. In some embodiments, the inhibitor also binds to PD-L2. In some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor inhibits the binding of PD-1 to PD-L1 and / or PD-L2. Non-limiting exemplary PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitors include antibodies that bind to PD-1; antibodies that bind to PD-L1; PD-1 fusion molecules, such as AMP-224; and PD-1 polypeptides, such as AUR-012.
[0057] The term "PD-1-inhibiting antibody" refers to an antibody that inhibits PD-1 and / or PD-L1 signaling by binding to PD-1 or PD-L1. In some embodiments, a PD-1-inhibiting antibody binds to PD-1 and blocks PD-L1 and / or PD-L2 from binding to PD-1. In some embodiments, a PD-1-inhibiting antibody binds to PD-L1 and blocks PD-1 from binding to PD-L1. A PD-1-inhibiting antibody that binds to PD-L1 can be referred to as an anti-PD-L1 antibody. A PD-1-inhibiting antibody that binds to PD-1 can be referred to as an anti-PD-1 antibody.
[0058] With reference to FGFR2 antibodies, FGFR2 ECD, and FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules, the terms "block binding of" or "inhibit binding of" a ligand refer to the ability to inhibit the interaction of FGFR2 with an FGFR2 ligand, such as FGF1 or FGF2. Such inhibition can occur through any mechanism, including direct interference with ligand binding, e.g., due to overlapping binding sites on FGFR2 and / or antibody-induced conformational changes in FGFR2 that alter ligand affinity, or, in the case of an FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule, by competing for binding to the FGFR2 ligand.
[0059] The terms "blocks the binding of" or "inhibits the binding of" a ligand, such as PD-L1, and grammatical variants thereof, when referring to anti-PD-1 antibodies and PD-1 fusion molecules or polypeptides, refer to the ability to inhibit the interaction of PD-1 with a PD-1 ligand, such as PD-L1. Such inhibition can occur through any mechanism, including direct interference with ligand binding, e.g., due to overlapping binding sites on PD-1 and / or antibody-induced conformational changes in PD-1 that alter ligand affinity, or by competing for binding with the PD-1 ligand.
[0060] As used herein, the term "antibody" refers to a molecule comprising at least the hypervariable regions (HVRs) H1, H2, and H3 of a heavy chain and the L1, L2, and L3 of a light chain, and capable of binding to an antigen. The term "antibody" includes fragments capable of binding to an antigen, such as, but not limited to, Fv, single-chain Fv (scFv), Fab, Fab', and (Fab')2. The term "antibody" also includes, but is not limited to, chimeric antibodies, humanized antibodies, human antibodies, and antibodies of various species, such as murine, human, and cynomolgus monkey. It also includes antibodies conjugated to other molecules, such as small molecule drugs, bispecific antibodies, and multispecific antibodies.
[0061] The term "heavy chain variable region" refers to the region comprising heavy chain HVR1, framework (FR) 2, HVR2, FR3, and HVR3. In some embodiments, the heavy chain variable region also comprises at least a portion of FR1 and / or at least a portion of FR4.
[0062] The term "heavy chain constant region" refers to a region containing at least three heavy chain constant domains: CH1, CH2, and CH3. Non-limiting exemplary heavy chain constant regions include gamma, delta, and alpha. Non-limiting exemplary heavy chain constant regions include epsilon and mu. Each heavy chain constant region corresponds to an antibody isotype. For example, an antibody containing a gamma constant region is an IgG antibody, an antibody containing a delta constant region is an IgD antibody, and an antibody containing an alpha constant region is an IgA antibody. Furthermore, an antibody containing a mu constant region is an IgM antibody, and an antibody containing an epsilon constant region is an IgE antibody. A particular isotype can be further divided into subclasses. For example, IgG antibodies include, but are not limited to, IgG1 (containing a γ1 constant region), IgG2 (containing a γ2 constant region), IgG3 (containing a γ3 constant region), and IgG4 (containing a γ4 constant region) antibodies; IgA antibodies include, but are not limited to, IgA1 (containing an α1 constant region) and IgA2 (containing an α2 constant region) antibodies; and IgM antibodies include, but are not limited to, IgM1 and IgM2.
[0063] The term "heavy chain" refers to a polypeptide comprising at least a heavy chain variable region, with or without a leader sequence. In some embodiments, a heavy chain comprises at least a portion of a heavy chain constant region. The term "full-length heavy chain" refers to a polypeptide comprising a heavy chain variable region and a heavy chain constant region, with or without a leader sequence.
[0064] The term "light chain variable region" refers to the region comprising light chain HVR1, framework (FR) 2, HVR2, FR3, and HVR3. In some embodiments, the light chain variable region also comprises FR1 and / or FR4.
[0065] The term "light chain constant region" refers to the region comprising the light chain constant domain, CL. Non-limiting exemplary light chain constant regions include λ and κ.
[0066] The term "light chain" refers to a polypeptide comprising at least a light chain variable region, with or without a leader sequence. In some embodiments, a light chain comprises at least a portion of a light chain constant region. The term "full-length light chain" refers to a polypeptide comprising a light chain variable region and a light chain constant region, with or without a leader sequence.
[0067] The term "hypervariable region" or "HVR" refers to each region of an antibody variable domain that is hypervariable in sequence and / or forms a structurally defined loop ("hypervariable loop"). Typically, a naturally occurring four-chain antibody comprises six HVRs: three in the VH (H1, H2, H3) and three in the VL (L1, L2, L3). HVRs generally comprise amino acid residues from the hypervariable loops and / or from the "complementarity-determining regions" (CDRs), the latter of which are of greatest sequence variability and / or are involved in antigen recognition. Exemplary hypervariable loops occur at amino acid residues 26-32 (L1), 50-52 (L2), 91-96 (L3), 26-32 (H1), 53-55 (H2), and 96-101 (H3) (Chothia and Lesk, J. Mol. Biol. 196:901-917 (1987)). Exemplary CDRs (CDR-L1, CDR-L2, CDR-L3, CDR-H1, CDR-H2, and CDR-H3) occur at amino acid residues 24-34 of L1, 50-56 of L2, 89-97 of L3, 31-35B of H1, 50-65 of H2, and 95-102 of H3 (Kabat et al., Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, 5th Ed. Public Health Service, National Institutes of Health, 1987). Health, Bethesda, MD (1991). The terms hypervariable region (HVR) and complementarity determining region (CDR) both refer to the portions of the variable region that form the antigen-binding region.
[0068] "Affinity" or "binding affinity" refers to the strength of the sum total of noncovalent interactions between a single binding site of a molecule (e.g., an antibody) and its binding partner (e.g., an antigen). In some embodiments, "binding affinity" refers to the intrinsic binding affinity, which reflects a 1:1 interaction between members of a binding pair (e.g., an antibody and an antigen). The affinity of a molecule X for its partner Y can generally be expressed as a dissociation constant (Kd).
[0069] "Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity" or "ADCC" refers to a form of cytotoxicity in which secreted Ig bound to Fc receptors (FcRs) present on certain cytotoxic cells (e.g., NK cells, neutrophils, and macrophages) enables cytotoxic effector cells to specifically bind to antigen-bearing target cells and subsequently kill the target cells with cytotoxins. NK cells, the primary cells mediating ADCC, express only FcγRIII, whereas monocytes express FcγRI, FcγRII, and FcγRIII. FcR expression on hematopoietic cells is summarized in Table 3 on page 464 of Ravetch and Kinet, Annu. Rev. Immunol. 9:457-92 (1991). To assess ADCC activity of a molecule of interest, an in vitro ADCC assay, such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 5,500,362 or U.S. Patent No. 5,821,337, or U.S. Patent No. 6,737,056 (Presta), may be performed. Useful effector cells for such assays include PBMCs and NK cells. Alternatively, or additionally, ADCC activity of a molecule of interest can be assessed in vivo in an animal model, such as that disclosed in Clynes et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (USA) 95:652-656 (1998). Additional antibodies with modified Fc region amino acids and enhanced or decreased ADCC activity are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,923,538 and 7,994,290.
[0070] An antibody with "enhanced ADCC activity" refers to an antibody that is more effective at mediating ADCC in vitro or in vivo compared to the parent antibody, when the amounts of such antibody and the parent antibody used in the assay are essentially the same, and the antibody and the parent antibody differ in at least one structural aspect. In some embodiments, the antibody and the parent antibody have the same amino acid sequence, but the antibody is non-fucosylated, while the parent antibody is fucosylated. In some embodiments, ADCC activity is determined using an in vitro ADCC assay such as that disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 2015-0050273-A1, although other assays or methods for determining ADCC activity, such as animal models, are contemplated. In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced ADCC activity also has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA. In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced ADCC activity has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA(V158). In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced ADCC activity has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA(F158).
[0071] "Enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA" refers to an antibody that has a higher affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA than a parent antibody (in some instances, also referred to as Cd16a), where the antibody and parent antibody differ in at least one structural aspect. In some embodiments, the antibody and parent antibody have the same amino acid sequence, but the parent antibody is fucosylated, whereas the antibody is non-fucosylated. Any suitable method for determining affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA may be used. In some embodiments, affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA is determined by the method described in U.S. Publication No. 2015-0050273-A1. In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA also has enhanced ADCC activity. In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA(V158). In some embodiments, the antibody with enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA(F158).
[0072] As used herein, a "chimeric antibody" refers to an antibody that comprises at least one variable region derived from a first species (e.g., mouse, rat, cynomolgus monkey, etc.) and at least one constant region derived from a second species (e.g., human, cynomolgus monkey, etc.). In some embodiments, a chimeric antibody comprises at least one mouse variable region and at least one human constant region. In some embodiments, a chimeric antibody comprises at least one cynomolgus monkey variable region and at least one human constant region. In some embodiments, a chimeric antibody comprises at least one rat variable region and at least one mouse constant region. In some embodiments, all of the variable regions of a chimeric antibody are derived from a first species and all of the constant regions of a chimeric antibody are derived from a second species.
[0073] As used herein, "humanized antibody" refers to an antibody in which at least one amino acid in the framework region of a non-human variable region has been replaced with the corresponding amino acid from a human variable region. In some embodiments, a humanized antibody comprises at least one human constant region, or a fragment thereof. In some embodiments, a humanized antibody is a Fab, scFv, (Fab')2, etc.
[0074] As used herein, "human antibody" refers to antibodies produced in humans, antibodies produced in non-human animals that contain human immunoglobulin genes, such as Xeno mice®, and antibodies selected using in vitro methods, such as phage display, whose antibody repertoire is based on human immunoglobulin sequences.
[0075] A "nonfucosylated" antibody or "fucose-lacking" antibody refers to an IgG1 or IgG3 isotype antibody lacking fucose in the glycosylation of the constant region. Glycosylation of IgG1 or IgG3 occurs at Asn297 (N297), with the predominant fucosylated biantennary complex oligosaccharide glycosylation terminating in up to two Gal residues. In some embodiments, a nonfucosylated antibody lacks fucose at Asn297. These structures are defined as G0, G1 (α1,6 or α1,3), or G2 glycan residues, depending on the amount of terminal Gal residues. See, e.g., Raju, TS, BioProcess Int. 1:44-53 (2003). CHO-type glycosylation of antibody Fc is described, e.g., in Routier, FH, Glycoconjugate J. 14:201-207 (1997). Within a population of antibodies, an antibody is considered to be nonfucosylated if <5% of the antibodies in the population contain fucose at Asn297.
[0076] "Effector function" refers to a biological activity attributable to the Fc region of an antibody, which varies depending on the antibody isotype. Examples of antibody effector functions include: C1q binding and complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC); Fc receptor binding; antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC); phagocytosis; down-regulation of cell surface receptors (e.g., B cell receptors); and B cell activation.
[0077] "Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity" or "ADCC" refers to a form of cytotoxicity in which secreted Ig bound to Fc receptors (FcRs) present on certain cytotoxic cells (e.g., NK cells, neutrophils, and macrophages) enables cytotoxic effector cells to specifically bind to antigen-bearing target cells and subsequently kill the target cells with cytotoxins. NK cells, the primary cells mediating ADCC, express only FcγRIII, whereas monocytes express FcγRI, FcγRII, and FcγRIII. FcR expression on hematopoietic cells is summarized in Table 3 on page 464 of Ravetch and Kinet, Annu. Rev. Immunol. 9:457-492 (1991). To assess ADCC activity of a molecule of interest, an in vitro ADCC assay, such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 5,500,362 or U.S. Patent No. 5,821,337, or U.S. Patent No. 6,737,056 (Presta), may be performed. Useful effector cells for such assays include PBMCs and NK cells. Alternatively, or additionally, ADCC activity of a molecule of interest can be assessed in vivo in an animal model, such as that disclosed in Clynes et al. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. (USA) 95:652-656 (1998). Additional antibodies with modified Fc region amino acids and enhanced or decreased ADCC activity are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,923,538 and 7,994,290.
[0078] An antibody with "enhanced ADCC activity" refers to an antibody that is more effective at mediating ADCC in an in vitro or in vivo assay compared to the parent antibody, when the amounts of such antibody and the parent antibody used in the assay are essentially the same, where the antibody and the parent antibody have the same sequence but for at least one structural change designed to alter ADCC activity. In some embodiments, the antibody and the parent antibody have the same amino acid sequence but for a mutation in the Fc domain, e.g., an amino acid substitution that causes non-fucosylation if the parent antibody is fucosylated. In some embodiments, ADCC activity is determined using the in vitro ADCC assay disclosed herein, although other assays or methods for determining ADCC activity, such as, for example, animal models, are contemplated. In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced ADCC activity has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA. In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced ADCC activity has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA(V158). In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced ADCC activity has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA(F158).
[0079] "Enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA" refers to an antibody that has a higher affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA than the parent antibody (also referred to in some instances as Cd16a), where the antibody and the parent antibody differ in at least one structural aspect. In some embodiments, the antibody and the parent antibody have the same amino acid sequence, but the parent antibody is fucosylated, whereas the antibody is non-fucosylated. Any suitable method for determining affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA may be used. In some embodiments, affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA is determined by the methods described herein. In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA has enhanced ADCC activity. In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA(V158). In some embodiments, an antibody with enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA(F158).
[0080] The term "leader sequence" refers to a sequence of amino acid residues located at the N-terminus of a polypeptide that facilitates secretion of the polypeptide from mammalian cells. During export of the polypeptide from mammalian cells, the leader sequence may be cleaved to form the mature protein. Leader sequences may be natural or synthetic, and leader sequences may be heterologous or homologous to the protein that provides them. Non-limiting exemplary leader sequences include leader sequences from heterologous proteins. In some embodiments, the antibody lacks a leader sequence. In some embodiments, the antibody comprises at least one leader sequence, which may be selected from a natural antibody leader sequence and a heterologous leader sequence.
[0081] The term "vector" is used to refer to a polynucleotide that can be manipulated to contain a cloned polynucleotide or that can be propagated in a host cell. A vector may contain one or more of the following elements: an origin of replication, one or more regulatory sequences (e.g., promoters and / or enhancers) that control the expression of a polypeptide of interest, and / or one or more selectable marker genes (e.g., antibiotic resistance genes and genes that can be used in colorimetric assays, e.g., β-galactosidase). The term "expression vector" refers to a vector used to express a polypeptide of interest in a host cell.
[0082] A "host cell" refers to a cell that can be or has been the recipient of a vector or isolated polynucleotide. A host cell can be a prokaryotic or eukaryotic cell. Exemplary eukaryotic cells include mammalian cells, such as primate or non-primate animal cells, fungal cells, such as yeast, plant cells, and insect cells. Non-limiting exemplary mammalian cells include, but are not limited to, NSO cells, PER.C6® cells (Crucell), and 293 and CHO cells and their derivatives, such as 293-6E and DG44 cells, respectively.
[0083] As used herein, the term "isolated" refers to a molecule that is separated from at least some of the components with which it is typically found in nature. For example, a polypeptide is considered "isolated" if it is separated from at least some of the components of the cell in which it is produced. If a polypeptide is secreted by a cell after expression, physically separating the supernatant containing the polypeptide from the cell that produced it is considered to "isolate" the polypeptide. Similarly, a polynucleotide is considered "isolated" when it is typically found in nature within larger polynucleotides (e.g., genomic DNA or mitochondrial DNA in the case of DNA polynucleotides) but is not part of these larger polypeptides, or, for example, in the case of RNA polynucleotides, when it is separated from at least some of the components of the cell in which it is produced. Thus, a DNA polynucleotide contained in a vector within a host cell can be considered "isolated" as long as the polynucleotide is not found in that vector in nature.
[0084] The term "elevated levels" refers to higher levels of a protein in a particular tissue of a subject compared to the same tissue in a control, such as an individual or individuals not afflicted with cancer or other conditions described herein. Elevated levels may be the result of any mechanism, such as increased expression, increased stability, decreased degradation, increased secretion, or decreased clearance of the protein.
[0085] With respect to a protein or cell type, "reduce" or "increase" means changing the level of the protein or cell type by at least 10% in a particular tissue of a subject, e.g., a tumor. In some embodiments, an agent such as an FGFR2 or PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor increases or decreases the level of the protein or cell type in a particular tissue of a subject, e.g., a tumor, by at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, or at least 90%. In some embodiments, the level of the protein or cell type is decreased or increased relative to the level of the protein before contact with the agent such as an FGFR2 or PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, or relative to the level of a control treatment.
[0086] The terms "subject" and "patient" are used interchangeably herein to refer to humans. In some embodiments, methods of treating other mammals are also provided, including, but not limited to, rodents, anthropoids, cats, dogs, horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, mammalian laboratory animals, mammalian farm animals, mammalian sport animals, and mammalian pets.
[0087] As used herein, the term "sample" refers to a composition obtained or derived from a subject that contains cellular and / or other molecular entities that are characterized, quantified, and / or identified based on, for example, physical, biochemical, chemical, and / or physiological characteristics. An exemplary sample is a tissue sample.
[0088] The term "cancer" refers to a malignant proliferative disease associated with uncontrolled cell proliferation, unrestrained cell growth, and decreased cell death by apoptosis. Examples of cancer include, but are not limited to, carcinoma, lymphoma, blastoma, sarcoma, and leukemia. More specific, non-limiting examples of such cancers include squamous cell carcinoma, small cell lung cancer, pituitary cancer, esophageal cancer (including gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma), astrocytoma, soft tissue sarcoma, non-small cell lung cancer (including squamous cell non-small cell lung cancer), lung adenocarcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma, peritoneal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, gastrointestinal cancer, pancreatic cancer, glioblastoma, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, bladder cancer, hepatoma, breast cancer, colon cancer, colorectal cancer, endometrial or uterine cancer, salivary gland cancer, kidney cancer, renal cell carcinoma, liver cancer, prostate cancer, vulvar cancer, thyroid cancer, liver cancer, brain cancer, endometrial cancer, testicular cancer, bile duct cancer, gallbladder cancer, stomach cancer, melanoma, and various types of head and neck cancer (including squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck).
[0089] In some embodiments, the cancer is gastric cancer (including gastroesophageal cancer). In some embodiments, the cancer is bladder cancer. Bladder cancer, as defined herein, includes forms of the disease such as urinary bladder cancer (UBC) and transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), also known as urothelial carcinoma (UC), as well as non-transitional cell carcinoma that arises in the bladder.
[0090] In some embodiments, the cancer contains FGFR2 gene amplification, while in some embodiments, the cancer does not contain FGFR2 amplification. In some embodiments, if amplification occurs, the FGFR2 amplification is characterized by an FGFR2:CEN10 (chromosome 10 centromere) ratio of >3. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 amplification is characterized by an FGFR2:CEN10 ratio of ≥2. In other embodiments, however, the FGFR2 level is characterized by an FGFR2:CEN10 ratio of 1-2, indicating that FGFR2 is not amplified. In some embodiments, a mutation or translocation may cause FGFR2 gene amplification. Gene amplification may be determined, for example, using a fluorescent in situ hybridization assay (FISH).
[0091] In some embodiments, when the cancer contains FGFR2 gene amplification, the cancer overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, the cancer containing FGFR2 amplification significantly overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb more than FGFR2-IIIc. In some embodiments, the cancer containing FGFR2 amplification expresses FGFR2-IIIb at a normalized level that is 2-fold, 3-fold, 5-fold, or 10-fold or more higher than the normalized level of FGFR2-IIIc expression. In some embodiments, the expression level is normalized to GUSB. In some embodiments, the cancer overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb but does not contain FGFR2 gene amplification.
[0092] In some embodiments, the cancer involves FGFR2, such as FGFR2-IIIb protein overexpression, while in some other embodiments, the cancer does not involve FGFR2 or FGFR2-IIIb protein overexpression. FGFR2-IIIb protein overexpression may be determined by any suitable method in the art, including, but not limited to, antibody-based methods such as immunohistochemistry (IHC). In some embodiments, IHC staining is scored according to methods in the art. The terms "FGFR2-IIIb protein overexpression" and "FGFR2IIIb overexpression," etc., refer to elevated levels of FGFR2-IIIb protein, regardless of the cause of such elevated levels (i.e., whether the elevated levels are the result of increased translation and / or decreased protein degradation, other mechanisms, or a combination of mechanisms).
[0093] The level of FGFR2 or FGFR2IIIb expression by IHC may be determined by assigning an IHC score to tumor samples on a scale of 0 to 3. Herein, a score of "0" is given if no reactivity is observed or if <10% of tumor cells have membrane reactivity; a score of "1+" is given if at least 10% of tumor cells have faint or slight peristaltic membrane reactivity or if cells have only partial membrane reactivity; a score of "2+" is given if at least 10% of tumor cells have weak to moderate complete basolateral or lateral membrane reactivity; and a score of "3+" is given if at least 10% of tumor cells have strong complete basolateral or lateral membrane reactivity. In some embodiments, 1+, 2+, or 3+ staining of tumor cells by IHC indicates FGFR2IIIb overexpression. In some embodiments, 2+ or 3+ staining of tumor cells by IHC indicates FGFR2IIIb overexpression. In some embodiments, 3+ staining of tumor cells by IHC indicates FGFR2IIIb overexpression. In some embodiments, the gastric cancer or bladder cancer contains FGFR2 gene amplification. In some embodiments, the gastric cancer or bladder cancer containing FGFR2 gene amplification overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, the gastric cancer or bladder cancer containing FGFR2 amplification overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb to a greater extent than FGFR2-IIIc. In some embodiments, the gastric cancer or bladder cancer overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb but does not contain FGFR2 gene amplification. In some embodiments, the gastric cancer or bladder cancer containing FGFR2 amplification expresses FGFR2-IIIb at a normalized level that is 2-fold, 3-fold, 5-fold, or 10-fold or more greater than the normalized level of FGFR2-IIIc expression. In some embodiments, the expression level is normalized to GUSB. In some embodiments, the overexpression is mRNA overexpression. In some embodiments, the overexpression is protein overexpression.
[0094] As used herein, "treatment" refers to both therapeutic treatment and preventative or conservative measures, the purpose of which is to prevent or slow (lessen) the targeted condition or disorder. In certain embodiments, the term "treatment" encompasses any administration or application of a therapeutic agent for a disease in a mammal, including a human, and includes inhibiting or slowing the disease or disease progression; partially or completely alleviating the disease, for example, by causing a reduction or restoring or repairing a lost, missing, or defective function; stimulating an inefficient process; or causing a disease plateau of reduced severity. The term "treatment" also includes reducing the severity of any phenotypic trait and / or reducing the incidence, degree, or likelihood of the trait. Those in need of treatment include those already with the disorder, as well as those prone to have the disorder or those in whom the disorder is to be prevented.
[0095] The term "effective amount" or "therapeutically effective amount" refers to an amount of drug effective to treat a disease or disorder in a subject. In certain embodiments, an effective amount refers to an amount effective, at dosages and for periods of time necessary, to achieve the desired therapeutic or prophylactic result. The therapeutically effective amount of an FGFR2 inhibitor and / or PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor of the present invention may vary depending on factors such as the individual's medical condition, age, sex, and weight, as well as the ability of the antibody or antibodies to elicit a desired response in the individual. A therapeutically effective amount encompasses an amount in which the therapeutically beneficial effects outweigh any toxic or adverse effects of the antibody or antibodies. In some embodiments, the phrase "effective amount" refers to an amount of antibody that is effective to treat cancer.
[0096] Administration "in combination with" one or more further therapeutic agents includes simultaneous (concurrent) and sequential (sequential) administration in any order.
[0097] "Pharmaceutically acceptable carrier" refers to a non-toxic solid, semi-solid, or liquid filler, diluent, encapsulating material, formulation aid, or carrier commonly used in the art that is used with a therapeutic agent to form a "pharmaceutical composition" administered to a subject. A pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is non-toxic to a recipient at the dosage and concentration used and is compatible with other ingredients of the formulation. A pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is suitable for the formulation in which it is used. For example, if the therapeutic agent is administered orally, the carrier may be a gel capsule. If the therapeutic agent is administered subcutaneously, the carrier ideally is non-irritating to the skin and does not cause injection site reactions.
[0098] Additional definitions are provided in the following sections.
[0099] Exemplary FGFR2 Inhibitors The FGFR2 inhibitor of the methods and compositions described herein can be an FGFR2 antibody, an FGFR2 ECD, or an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule.
[0100] Exemplary FGFR2 Antibodies In any of the compositions or methods described herein involving an FGFR2 antibody, the FGFR2 antibody may be a humanized antibody, a chimeric antibody, or a human antibody. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the FGFR2 antibody may be selected from Fab, Fv, scFv, Fab', and (Fab')2. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the FGFR2 antibody may be selected from IgA, IgG, and IgD. In any of the compositions or methods described herein, the FGFR2 antibody may be IgG. In any of the methods described herein, the antibody may be IgG1 or IgG3.
[0101] Exemplary FGFR2 antibodies include antibodies that bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, FGFR2-IIIb antibodies bind to FGFR2-IIIc with lower affinity than they bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, FGFR2-IIIb antibodies do not detectably bind to FGFR2-IIIc.
[0102] An exemplary FGFR2-IIIb antibody for use in the embodiments herein is the HuGAL-FR21 antibody described in U.S. Patent No. 8,101,723 B2, issued January 24, 2012, which is specifically incorporated herein by reference. Figures 13 and 14 of U.S. Patent No. 8,101,723 B2 show the amino acid sequences of the variable region and full-length mature antibody chain of HuGAL-FR21, which are specifically incorporated herein by reference. The heavy chain variable region sequence of antibody HuGAL-FR21 is underlined in Figure 13 of U.S. Patent No. 8,101,723 B2, which is specifically incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297. Additional antibodies that may be used in embodiments herein include those described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015-0050273-A1, which describes certain non-fucosylated FGFR2-IIIb antibodies and is incorporated herein by reference.
[0103] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises at least one, two, three, four, five, or six hypervariable regions (HVRs; e.g., CDRs) selected from: (a) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (b) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; (c) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8; (d) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (e) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (f) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0104] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region and a light chain variable region. In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises at least one heavy chain comprising a heavy chain variable region and at least a portion of a heavy chain constant region, and at least one light chain comprising a light chain variable region and at least a portion of a light chain constant region. In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises two heavy chains, each comprising a heavy chain variable region and at least a portion of a heavy chain constant region, and two light chains, each comprising a light chain variable region and at least a portion of a light chain constant region. In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a heavy chain variable region comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4 and a light chain variable region comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5. In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0105] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises six HVRs, including (a) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (b) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; (c) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8; (d) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (e) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (f) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises six HVRs as described above and binds to FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, the FGFR-IIIb antibody does not bind to FGFR2-IIIc. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0106] In one aspect, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody competes with an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising six HVRs: (a) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (b) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; (c) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8; (d) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (e) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (f) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0107] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises at least one, at least two, or all three VH HVR sequences selected from: (a) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (b) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; and (c) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8. In some embodiments, the antibody is non-fucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0108] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises at least one, at least two, or all three VL HVR sequences selected from: (a) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (b) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (c) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0109] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises: (a) a VH domain comprising at least one, at least two, or all three VH HVR sequences selected from (i) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6, (ii) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7, and (iii) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8; and (b) a VL domain comprising at least one, at least two, or all three VL HVR sequences selected from (i) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9, (ii) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10, and (c) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0110] In some embodiments, an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a heavy chain variable domain (VH) sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4. In certain embodiments, a VH sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity contains substitutions (e.g., conservative substitutions), insertions, or deletions relative to the reference sequence, but an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising that sequence retains the ability to bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In certain embodiments, such an FGFR2-IIIb antibody retains the ability to selectively bind to FGFR2-IIIb without binding to FGFR2-IIIc. In certain embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids are substituted, inserted, and / or deleted in SEQ ID NO: 4. In certain embodiments, the substitutions, insertions, or deletions occur in regions outside the HVRs (i.e., within the FRs). Optionally, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises the VH sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5, including post-translational modifications of the sequence. In certain embodiments, the VH comprises one, two, or three HVRs selected from (a) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (b) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; and (c) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0111] In some embodiments, an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a light chain variable domain (VL) having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5. In certain embodiments, a VL sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity contains substitutions (e.g., conservative substitutions), insertions, or deletions relative to the reference sequence, but an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising such a sequence retains the ability to bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In certain embodiments, an FGFR2-IIIb antibody retains the ability to selectively bind to FGFR2-IIIb without binding to FGFR2-IIIc. In certain embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids are substituted, inserted, and / or deleted in SEQ ID NO: 5. In certain embodiments, the substitutions, insertions, or deletions occur in regions outside the HVRs (i.e., within the FRs). Optionally, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises the VL sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, including post-translational modifications of the sequence. In certain embodiments, the VL comprises one, two, or three HVR sequences selected from (a) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (b) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (c) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0112] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a heavy chain variable domain (VH) sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, and a light chain variable domain (VL) having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5. In certain embodiments, a VH sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity to a reference sequence contains substitutions (e.g., conservative substitutions), insertions, or deletions, and a VL sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity to a reference sequence contains substitutions (e.g., conservative substitutions), insertions, or deletions, but an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising such a sequence retains the ability to bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In certain embodiments, such an FGFR2-IIIb antibody retains the ability to selectively bind to FGFR2-IIIb without binding to FGFR2-IIIc. In certain embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids are substituted, inserted, and / or deleted in SEQ ID NO: 4. In certain embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids are substituted, inserted, and / or deleted in SEQ ID NO: 5. In certain embodiments, the substitutions, insertions, or deletions occur in regions outside the HVRs (i.e., within the FRs). Optionally, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises the VH sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4 and the VL sequence of SEQ ID NO: 5, including post-translational modifications of one or both sequences. In certain embodiments, the VH comprises one, two, or three HVRs selected from (a) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (b) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; and (c) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8; and the VL comprises one, two, or three HVR sequences selected from (a) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (b) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (c) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11.In some embodiments, the antibody is non-fucosylated, hi some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody that lacks fucose at Asn297.
[0113] In some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a VH in any of the embodiments provided above and a VL in any of the embodiments provided above. In one embodiment, the antibody comprises a VH and VL that are SEQ ID NO: 4 and SEQ ID NO: 5, respectively, including post-translational modifications of those sequences. In some embodiments, the antibody is non-fucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0114] In some embodiments, an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a heavy chain sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, a heavy chain sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity contains substitutions (e.g., conservative substitutions), insertions, or deletions relative to the reference sequence, but an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising that sequence retains the ability to bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In certain embodiments, such an FGFR2-IIIb antibody retains the ability to selectively bind to FGFR2-IIIb without binding to FGFR2-IIIc. In certain embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids are substituted, inserted, and / or deleted in SEQ ID NO: 2. In certain embodiments, the substitutions, insertions, or deletions occur in regions outside the HVRs (i.e., within the FRs). Optionally, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody heavy chain comprises the VH sequence in SEQ ID NO: 2, including post-translational modifications of that sequence. In certain embodiments, the heavy chain comprises one, two, or three HVRs selected from (a) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (b) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; and (c) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0115] In some embodiments, an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a light chain having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. In certain embodiments, a light chain sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity contains substitutions (e.g., conservative substitutions), insertions, or deletions relative to the reference sequence, but an anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising that sequence retains the ability to bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In certain embodiments, such an FGFR2-IIIb antibody retains the ability to selectively bind to FGFR2-IIIb without binding to FGFR2-IIIc. In certain embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids are substituted, inserted, and / or deleted in SEQ ID NO: 3. In certain embodiments, the substitutions, insertions, or deletions occur in regions outside the HVRs (i.e., within the FRs). Optionally, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody light chain comprises the VL sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3, including post-translational modifications of the sequence. In certain embodiments, the light chain comprises one, two, or three HVR sequences selected from (a) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (b) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (c) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0116] In some embodiments, an FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprises a heavy chain sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 2 and a light chain sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3. In certain embodiments, the heavy chain sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity contains substitutions (e.g., conservative substitutions), insertions, or deletions relative to the reference sequence, but an anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising that sequence retains the ability to bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In certain embodiments, such FGFR2-IIIb retains the ability to selectively bind to FGFR2-IIIb without binding to FGFR2-IIIc. In certain embodiments, a light chain sequence having at least 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identity to a reference sequence contains substitutions (e.g., conservative substitutions), insertions, or deletions relative to the reference sequence, but an anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising the sequence retains the ability to bind to FGFR2-IIIb. In certain embodiments, such FGFR2-IIIb retains the ability to selectively bind to FGFR2-IIIb without binding to FGFR2-IIIc. In certain embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids are substituted, inserted, and / or deleted in SEQ ID NO:2. In certain embodiments, a total of 1 to 10 amino acids are substituted, inserted, and / or deleted in SEQ ID NO:3. In certain embodiments, the substitution, insertion, or deletion occurs in a region outside the HVR (i.e., within the FR). Optionally, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody heavy chain comprises the VH sequence in SEQ ID NO: 2, including post-translational modifications of that sequence, and the FGFR2-IIIb antibody light chain comprises the VL sequence in SEQ ID NO: 3, including post-translational modifications of that sequence.In certain embodiments, the heavy chain comprises one, two, or three HVRs selected from (a) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (b) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; and (c) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8; and the light chain comprises one, two, or three HVR sequences selected from (a) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (b) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (c) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11. In some embodiments, the antibody is nonfucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0117] Additional exemplary FGFR2 antibodies are the GAL-FR22 and GAL-FR23 antibodies described in U.S. Patent No. 8,101,723 B2, which is incorporated herein by reference. The light and heavy chain variable regions of GAL-FR22 are provided, for example, as SEQ ID NOs: 7 and 8 in U.S. Patent No. 8,101,723 B2, while the Kabat CDRs and light and heavy chain variable regions are also provided in Figure 16 of that patent, which is incorporated herein by reference. Hybridomas producing GAL-FR21, GAL-FR22, and GAL-FR23 have been deposited with the American Type Culture Collection, P.O. Box 1549, Manassa, VA, USA 20108, under ATCC No. 9586 (November 6, 2008), ATCC No. 9587 (November 6, 2008), and ATCC No. 9408 (August 12, 2008), respectively. Thus, in some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody is an antibody comprising the amino acid sequence of an antibody obtained from one of these three hybridoma strains.
[0118] The heavy and light chain variable regions of GAL-FR22 are also set forth herein as SEQ ID NOS: 39 and 43, while the Kabat CDRs are set forth herein as SEQ ID NOS: 40 to 42 and 44 to 46. Thus, in some embodiments, the FGFR2-IIIb antibody heavy chain variable region comprises (i) a CDR1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 40, (ii) a CDR2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 41, and (iii) a CDR3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 42; the light chain variable region comprises (iv) a CDR1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 44, (v) a CDR2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 45, and (vi) a CDR3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 46.
[0119] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises an FGFR2-IIIb antibody whose heavy chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 39. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises an FGFR2-IIIb antibody whose light chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 43. In some embodiments, the heavy chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 39, and the light chain variable domain is at least 95%, e.g., at least 97%, at least 98%, or at least 99% identical to, or comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 43. In some embodiments, the antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody that lacks fucose at Asn297.
[0120] Nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibody In some embodiments, an FGFR2 antibody, such as an FGFR2-IIIb antibody as described above, has a carbohydrate structure lacking fucose attached (directly or indirectly) to the Fc region (i.e., a non-fucosylated antibody). That is, the antibody is non-fucosylated. In some embodiments, the non-fucosylated antibody is an IgG1 or IgG3 antibody lacking fucose at Asn297.
[0121] As used herein, an antibody is considered non-fucosylated if a plurality of such antibodies comprises at least 95% non-fucosylated antibody. The amount of fucose may be determined by calculating the average amount of fucose in the glycan at Asn297 relative to the total amount of all glycostructures attached to Asn297 (e.g., complex, hybrid, and high mannose structures). Non-limiting exemplary methods for detecting fucose in antibodies include MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (see, e.g., WO2008 / 077546), HPLC of fluorescently labeled free oligosaccharides (see, e.g., Schneider et al., "N-Glycan analysis of monoclonal antibodies and other glycoproteins using UHPLC with fluorescence detection," Agilent Technologies, Inc. (2012); Lines, J. Pharm. Biomed. Analysis, 14:601-608 (1996); Takahasi, J. Chrom., 720:217-225 (1996)), capillary electrophoresis of fluorescently labeled free oligosaccharides (see, e.g., Ma et al., Anal. Chem., 71:5185-5192 (1999)), and HPLC with pulsed amperometric detection for monosaccharide composition measurement (see, e.g., Hardy, et al., "N-Glycan analysis of monoclonal antibodies and other glycoproteins using UHPLC with fluorescence detection," Agilent Technologies, Inc. (2012); Lines, J. Pharm. Biomed. Analysis, 14:601-608 (1996); Takahasi, J. Chrom., 720:217-225 (1996)) al., Analytical Biochem., 170:54-62 (1988)).
[0122] Asn297 refers to the asparagine residue located at about position 297 in the Fc region (EU numbering of Fc region residues); however, in a given antibody sequence, Asn297 may be located ±3 residues upstream or downstream of position 297, i.e., between positions 294 and 300, due to minor antibody sequence variations. In the FGFR2-IIIb antibodies described herein, Asn297 is located at the following sequence: [ka] and is shown in bold and underlined in SEQ ID NO:2 in the sequence table below.
[0123] Fucosylation variants may improve ADCC function. See, e.g., US Patent Publication No. 2003 / 0157108 (Presta, L.); US2004 / 0093621 (Kyowa Hakko Kogyo Co., Ltd.). Examples of publications related to "non-fucosylated" or "fucose-deficient" antibodies include US2003 / 0157108; WO2000 / 61739; WO2001 / 29246; US2003 / 0115614; US2002 / 0164328; US2004 / 0093621; US2004 / 0132140; US2004 / 0110704; US2004 / 0110282; US2004 / 0109865; WO2003 / 085119; WO2003 / 084570; WO2005 / 035586; WO2005 / 035778; WO2005 / 053742; WO2002 / 031140; Okazaki et al. al. J. Mol. Biol. 336:1239-1249 (2004); Yamane-Ohnuki et al. Biotech. Bioeng. 87:614 (2004). Examples of cell lines capable of producing nonfucosylated antibodies include Lec13 CHO cells, which are deficient in protein fucosylation (Ripka et al. Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 249:533-545 (1986); U.S. Patent Publication No. US2003 / 0157108 A1, Presta, L; and WO2004 / 056312 A1, Adams et al., especially Example 11), and knockout cell lines, such as cell lines lacking a functional alpha-1,6-fucosyltransferase gene, FUT8, e.g., knockout CHO cells (e.g., Yamane-Ohnuki et al. Biotech. Bioeng. 87:614 (2004); Kanda, Y. et al. al., Biotechnol. Bioeng., 94(4):680-688 (2006); and WO2003 / 085107).
[0124] The FGFR2 antibodies herein may also have biantennary oligosaccharides, e.g., biantennary oligosaccharides attached to the Fc region of the antibody bisected by GlcNAc. Such antibodies may have reduced fucosylation and / or improved ADCC function. Examples of such antibodies are described, for example, in WO 2003 / 011878 (Jean-Mairet et al.); U.S. Patent No. 6,602,684 (Umana et al.); and US 2005 / 0123546 (Umana et al.). In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody has at least one galactose residue in the oligosaccharide attached to the Fc region. Such antibodies may have improved CDC function. Such antibodies are described, for example, in WO 1997 / 30087 (Patel et al.); WO 1998 / 58964 (Raju, S.); and WO 1999 / 22764 (Raju, S.).
[0125] In some embodiments of the invention, nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibodies mediate ADCC in the presence of human effector cells more effectively than antibodies having the same amino acid sequence that includes fucose. Generally, ADCC activity may be determined using the in vitro ADCC assay disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015-0050273A1, although other assays or methods for determining ADCC activity, such as in animal models, are also contemplated.
[0126] In some embodiments, the FGFR2 antibody comprises the heavy and light chain sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 2 and 3. In some embodiments, the antibody comprising the heavy and light chain sequences of SEQ ID NOs: 2 and 3 is non-fucosylated.
[0127] FGFR2 ECD and FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is an FGFR2 ECD, such as an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule. The FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule may include a fusion partner, such as a polymer, a polypeptide, a lipophilic moiety, and a succinyl group. Exemplary polypeptide fusion partners include serum albumin and an antibody Fc domain. Further exemplary polymer fusion partners include, but are not limited to, polyethylene glycol, e.g., branched and / or linear polyethylene glycol. Certain exemplary fusion partners include, but are not limited to, an immunoglobulin Fc domain, albumin, and polyethylene glycol. The amino acid sequences of certain exemplary Fc domains are set forth in SEQ ID NOs: 24-26.
[0128] Exemplary FGFR2 ECD and FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules include those described in PCT Publication No. WO2007 / 014123. FGFR2 ECD and FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules may comprise a native ECD amino acid sequence, including that of FGFR2-IIIb or FGFR2-IIIc BCD. Alternatively, FGFR2 ECD and FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules may comprise an FGFR2 ECD with a C-terminal deletion of one or more and up to 22 amino acid residues, counting from the C-terminus, wherein the FGFR2 ECD retains at least one of its FGF ligand binding activities. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 ECD has up to 22 amino acids deleted at the C-terminus. In some embodiments, the deletion does not extend to or does not include the valine residue at amino acid residue 357 of native full-length FGFR2-IIIb or amino acid residue 359 of native full-length FGFR2-IIIc.
[0129] For example, in some embodiments, an FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14, but with amino acid residues deleted from the amino and / or carboxy terminus, and the resulting molecule is capable of binding to FGF2. In some embodiments, an FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 15, which corresponds to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 14, but with the last three carboxy-terminal amino acid residues, YLE, deleted. Further examples of such variants include those with four C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 16), five C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 17), eight C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 18), nine C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 19), ten C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 20), fourteen C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 21), fifteen C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 22), sixteen C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 23), and seventeen C-terminal amino acid residues deleted (SEQ ID NO: 24) compared to the native FGFR2-IIIb or FGFR2-IIIc sequence. Any of the above FGFR2 ECD fragments may be combined with any of the above-mentioned fusion partners to form an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule.
[0130] In certain embodiments, at least one amino acid in the FGFR2 ECD sequence is mutated to prevent glycosylation at that site in the polypeptide. Non-limiting exemplary FGFR2 ECD amino acids that may be glycosylated include N62, N102, N207, N220, N244, N276, N297, and N310 of SEQ ID NO:28.
[0131] Additional exemplary FGFR2 ECD and FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules include those described in PCT Publication No. WO2010 / 017198. Included herein are FGFR2 ECD and FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules with mutations in the "acid box" region of the FGFR2 ECD. Such FGFR2 ECD acidic region muteins may be used as either FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecules. In certain embodiments, an FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule comprises an FGFR1 short acid box in place of the FGFR2 short acid box. For example, FGFR2 ECD residues 111-118 (SEQ ID NO: 28) may be replaced with FGFR1 ECD residues 105-112 (SEQ ID NO: 29). In some embodiments, an FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 30. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule comprises the amino acid sequence of any of SEQ ID NOs: 31-34. Additionally, any of the "acid box" mutant FGFR2 ECD sequences, such as SEQ ID NO: 30, may be combined with any of the C-terminally deleted FGFR2 ECD sequences described above (SEQ ID NOs: 15-24), and optionally linked into one or more fusion molecules (e.g., SEQ ID NOs: 32-34).
[0132] In certain embodiments, the FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule lacks a signal peptide. In certain embodiments, the FGFR2 ECD comprises at least one signal peptide, which may be selected from the native FGFR2 signal peptide and / or a heterologous signal peptide, e.g., from FGFR1, FGFR3, or FGFR4.
[0133] In the case of an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule, the fusion partner can be attached to either the amino or carboxy terminus of the polypeptide. In certain embodiments, the polypeptide and fusion partner are covalently linked. When the fusion partner is also a polypeptide (a "fusion partner polypeptide"), the polypeptide and fusion partner polypeptide can be part of a contiguous amino acid sequence. In such cases, the polypeptide and fusion partner polypeptide can be translated as a single polypeptide from a coding sequence encoding both the polypeptide and the fusion partner polypeptide. In certain embodiments, an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule contains a "GS" linker between the FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD acidic region mutein and the fusion partner. In certain embodiments, the polypeptide and fusion partner are covalently linked by other means, such as a chemical bond other than a peptide bond. In certain embodiments, the polypeptide and fusion partner are non-covalently linked. In certain such embodiments, they may be linked using, for example, a binding pair. Exemplary binding pairs include, but are not limited to, biotin and avidin or streptavidin, an antibody and its antigen, etc.
[0134] Exemplary PD-1 / PD-L1 Inhibitors Exemplary PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitors include antibodies that inhibit PD-1, such as anti-PD-1 antibodies and anti-PD-L1 antibodies. Such antibodies may be humanized, chimeric, murine, human, and antibodies containing the heavy and / or light chain CDRs discussed herein. PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitors also include fusion molecules that block the binding of PD-1 to PD-L1, such as AMP-224, and inhibitory PD-1 polypeptides, such as AUR-012, that can compete with PD-1 for binding to PD-L1.
[0135] Exemplary PD-1 / PD-L1 Antibodies PD-1 is an important immune checkpoint receptor expressed by activated T and B cells and mediates immunosuppression. PD-1 is a member of the CD28 family of receptors, which also includes CD28, CTLA-4, ICOS, PD-1, and BTLA. Two cell surface glycoprotein ligands for PD-1, programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) and programmed death ligand-2 (PD-L2), have been identified. These ligands are expressed on antigen-presenting cells as well as many human cancers and have been shown to downregulate T cell activation and cytokine secretion upon binding to PD-1. Inhibition of PD-1 / PD-L1 interaction mediates potent antitumor activity in preclinical models.
[0136] Human monoclonal antibodies (HuMAbs) that specifically bind to PD-1 with high affinity are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,008,449. Other anti-PD-1 mAbs are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,808,710, 7,488,802, 8,168,757, and 8,354,509, and PCT Publication No. WO2012 / 145493. Each of the anti-PD-1 HuMAbs disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,008,449 (a) binds to human PD-1 with a KD of 1×10 M or less, as determined by surface plasmon resonance using a Biacore biosensor system; (b) does not substantially bind to human CD28, CTLA-4, or ICOS; (c) increases T-cell proliferation in a mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) assay; (d) increases interferon-γ production in an MLR assay; (e) increases IL-2 secretion in an MLR assay; (f) binds to human PD-1 and cynomolgus PD-1; (g) inhibits the binding of PD-L1 and / or PD-L2 to PD-1; (h) stimulates an antigen-specific memory response; (i) stimulates an antibody response; and / or (j) inhibits tumor cell growth in vivo. Anti-PD-1 antibodies that can be used in the present invention include antibodies that specifically bind to human PD-1 and exhibit at least one, at least two, at least three, at least four, or at least five of the above characteristics (a) to (j).
[0137] In one embodiment, the anti-PD-1 antibody is nivolumab. Nivolumab (also known as "Opdivo®" and formerly known as 5C4, BMS-936558, MDX-1106, or ONO-4538) is a fully human IgG4 (S228P) PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor antibody that selectively blocks interaction with PD-1 ligands (PD-L1 and PD-L2), thereby blocking downregulation of anti-tumor T cell function (U.S. Patent No. 8,008,449; Wang et al., 2014 Cancer Immunol Res. 2(9):846-56).
[0138] In another embodiment, the anti-PD-1 antibody is pembrolizumab. Pembrolizumab (also known as "KEYTRUDA®," lambrolizumab, and MK-3475) is a humanized monoclonal IgG4 antibody directed against the human cell surface receptor PD-1 (programmed death-1 or programmed cell death-1). Pembrolizumab is described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 8,900,587; see also the site at http: / / www.cancer.gov / drugdictionary?cdrid=695789 (last accessed December 14, 2014). Pembrolizumab has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of recurrent or refractory melanoma.
[0139] In other embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody is MEDI0608 (formerly AMP-514), which is a monoclonal antibody against the PD-1 receptor. MEDI0608 is described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 8,609,089 B2 or at the internet site: http: / / www.cancer.gov / drugdictionary?cdrid=756047 (last accessed December 14, 2014).
[0140] In some embodiments, the anti-PD-1 antibody is pidilizumab (CT-011), which is a humanized monoclonal antibody. Pidilizumab is described in U.S. Patent No. 8,686,119 B2 or WO 2013 / 014668 A1.
[0141] Anti-PD-1 antibodies that can be used in the methods of the present disclosure also include isolated antibodies that specifically bind to human PD-1 and cross-compete with nivolumab for binding to human PD-1 (see, e.g., U.S. Patent No. 8,008,449; WO2013 / 173223). The ability of antibodies to cross-compete for binding to an antigen indicates that these antibodies bind to the same epitope region of the antigen and sterically hinder other cross-competing antibodies from binding to that particular epitope region. These cross-competing antibodies are expected to have functional properties very similar to nivolumab due to the fact that they bind to the same epitope region of PD-1. Cross-competing antibodies can be readily identified based on their ability to cross-compete with nivolumab in standard PD-1 binding assays, such as Biacore analysis, ELISA assays, or flow cytometry (see, e.g., WO2013 / 173223).
[0142] In certain embodiments, the antibody that cross-competes with nivolumab for binding to human PD-1 or binds to the same epitope region of human PD-1 as nivolumab is a monoclonal antibody. For administration to human subjects, these cross-competing antibodies may be chimeric, humanized, or human.
[0143] Anti-PD-1 antibodies that can be used in the methods of the invention also include antigen-binding portions of the above antibodies, including (i) a Fab fragment, which is a monovalent fragment consisting of the VL, VH, CL, and CH1 domains; (ii) an F(ab')2 fragment, which is a bivalent fragment comprising two Fab fragments linked by a disulfide bridge at the hinge region; (iii) an Fd fragment consisting of the VH and CH1 domains; and (iv) an Fv fragment consisting of the VL and VH domains of a single arm of an antibody.
[0144] A non-limiting exemplary fusion molecule that is a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is AMP-224 (Amplimmune, GlaxoSmithKline). A non-limiting exemplary polypeptide that is a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is AUR-012.
[0145] Exemplary Antibody Constant Regions In some embodiments, the FGFR2 or anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 antibodies described herein comprise one or more human constant regions. In some embodiments, the human heavy chain constant region is of an isotype selected from IgA, IgG, and IgD. In some embodiments, the human light chain constant region is of an isotype selected from kappa and lambda.
[0146] In some embodiments, the antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG constant region. In some embodiments, if effector function is desired, an antibody comprising a human IgG1 heavy chain constant region or a human IgG3 heavy chain constant region is selected. In some embodiments, the antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region. In some embodiments, the antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region, and N297 is afucosylated. In some embodiments, the antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region and a human κ light chain.
[0147] Unless expressly stated or known to one of skill in the art, throughout this specification and claims, the numbering of residues in immunoglobulin heavy chains is that of the EU index in Kabat et al., Sequences of Proteins of Immunological Interest, 5th Ed. Public Health Service, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md. (1991), expressly incorporated herein by reference. "EU index in Kabat" refers to the residue numbering of the human IgG1 EU antibody.
[0148] In certain embodiments, antibodies of the invention comprise a variant Fc region having at least one amino acid substitution compared to the Fc region of a wild-type IgG or wild-type antibody. In certain embodiments, the variant Fc region has two or more amino acid substitutions in the Fc region of a wild-type antibody. In certain embodiments, the variant Fc region has three or more amino acid substitutions in the Fc region of a wild-type antibody. In certain embodiments, the variant Fc region has at least one, two, or three or more Fc region amino acid substitutions described herein. In certain embodiments, the variant Fc region herein will have at least about 80% homology to the native sequence Fc region and / or the Fc region of the parent antibody. In certain embodiments, the variant Fc region herein will have at least about 90% homology to the native sequence Fc region and / or the Fc region of the parent antibody. In certain embodiments, the variant Fc region herein will have at least about 95% homology to the native sequence Fc region and / or the Fc region of the parent antibody.
[0149] In certain embodiments, the antibodies provided herein are modified to increase or decrease the extent to which the antibody is glycosylated. Addition or deletion of glycosylation sites to an antibody can be conveniently accomplished by altering the amino acid sequence such that one or more glycosylation sites are created or removed.
[0150] If an antibody contains an Fc region, the carbohydrate attached to it can be varied. Natural antibodies produced by mammalian cells typically contain branched, biantennary oligosaccharides, generally N-linked to Asn297 in the CH2 domain of the Fc region. See, for example, Wright et al., TIBTECH 15:26-32 (1997). The oligosaccharides can contain various carbohydrates, such as mannose, N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), galactose, sialic acid, and fucose attached to the GlcNAc in the "stem" of the biantennary oligosaccharide structure. In some embodiments, modifications of the oligosaccharides in the antibodies of the invention can be made to generate antibodies with certain improved properties.
[0151] Antibodies can also have an amino-terminal leader extension. For example, one or more amino acid residues of an amino-terminal leader sequence are present at the amino terminus of any one or more heavy or light chains of the antibody. An exemplary amino-terminal leader extension comprises or consists of three amino acid residues, VHS, present in one or both light chains of the antibody.
[0152] The in vivo or serum half-life of a human FcRn high-affinity binding polypeptide can be assessed, for example, in transgenic mice, humans, or non-human primates to which the polypeptide having a mutant Fc region is administered. See, e.g., Petkova et al., International Immunology 18(12):1759-1769 (2006).
[0153] Exemplary Chimeric Antibodies In certain embodiments, the FGFR2 or anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 antibodies provided herein are chimeric antibodies. Certain chimeric antibodies are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 4,816,567 and Morrison et al., (1984) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 81:6851-6855 (1984). In one example, a chimeric antibody comprises a non-human variable region (e.g., a variable region derived from a mouse, rat, hamster, rabbit, or non-human primate such as a monkey) and a human constant region. In a further example, a chimeric antibody is a "class-switched" antibody in which the class or subclass has been changed from that of the parent antibody. Chimeric antibodies include antigen-binding fragments thereof.
[0154] Non-limiting exemplary chimeric antibodies include chimeric antibodies against either FGFR2 or PD-1 / PD-L1 comprising the heavy chain HVR1, HVR2, and HVR3, and / or light chain HVR1, HVR2, and HVR3 sequences described herein.
[0155] In some embodiments, the chimeric antibodies described herein comprise one or more human constant regions. In some embodiments, the human heavy chain constant region is of an isotype selected from IgA, IgG, and IgD. In some embodiments, the human light chain constant region is of an isotype selected from Kappa and Lambda. In some embodiments, the chimeric antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG constant region. In some embodiments, the chimeric antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG4 heavy chain constant region. In some embodiments, the chimeric antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG4 constant region and a human Kappa light chain.
[0156] As discussed above, whether effector function is desirable may depend on the particular therapeutic method for which the antibody is intended. Thus, in some embodiments, if effector function is desirable, a chimeric antibody comprising a human IgG1 heavy chain constant region or a human IgG3 heavy chain constant region is selected. In some embodiments, if effector function is undesirable, a chimeric antibody comprising a human IgG4 or IgG2 heavy chain constant region is selected. In some embodiments, the chimeric antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region, and N297 is non-fucosylated. In some embodiments, the chimeric antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region and a human κ light chain.
[0157] Exemplary Humanized Antibodies In some embodiments, humanized antibodies that bind to FGFR2 or PD-1 / PD-L1 are used. Humanized antibodies are effective as therapeutic molecules because they reduce or eliminate human immune responses to non-human antibodies (e.g., human anti-mouse antibody (HAMA) responses), which can result in an immune response against the therapeutic antibody and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.
[0158] In certain embodiments, a chimeric antibody is a humanized antibody. Typically, a non-human antibody is humanized to reduce immunogenicity to humans while retaining the specificity and affinity of the parent non-human antibody. Generally, a humanized antibody comprises one or more variable domains in which the HVRs or CDRs (or portions thereof) are derived from a non-human antibody and the FRs (or portions thereof) are derived from human antibody sequences. Optionally, a humanized antibody also comprises at least a portion of a human constant region. In some embodiments, some FR residues in a humanized antibody are substituted with corresponding residues from a non-human antibody (e.g., the antibody from which the HVR residues are derived), e.g., to restore or improve the specificity or affinity of the antibody.
[0159] Humanized antibodies and methods for making humanized antibodies are reviewed, e.g., in Almagro and Fransson, (2008) Front. Biosci. 13:1619-1633, and are described, e.g., in Riechmann et al., (1988) Nature 332:323-329; Queen et al., (1989) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 86:10029-10033; U.S. Patent Nos. 5,821,337, 7,527,791, 6,982,321, and 7,087,409; Kashmiri et al. al., (2005) Methods 36:25-34 (describing SDR (a-CDR) grafting); Padlan, (1991) Mol. Immunol. 28:489-498 (describing "surface reconstitution"); Dall'Acqua et al., (2005) Methods 36:43-60 (describing "FR shuffling"); and Osbourn et al., (2005) Methods 36:61-68 and Klimka et al., (2000) Br. J. Cancer, 83:252-260 (describing a "guided selection" approach to FR shuffling).
[0160] Human framework regions that may be used for humanization include framework regions selected using the "best-fit" method (see, e.g., Sims et al. (1993) J. Immunol. 151:2296); framework regions derived from consensus sequences of human antibodies of particular subgroups of light or heavy chain variable regions (see, e.g., Carter et al. (1992) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 89:4285; and Presta et al. (1993) J. Immunol., 151:2623); human mature (somatically mutated) framework regions or human germline framework regions (see, e.g., Almagro and Fransson, (2008) Front. Biosci. 13:1619-1633); and framework regions derived from screening of FR libraries (see, e.g., Baca et al. (2008) Front. Biosci. 13:1619-1633). al., (1997) J. Biol. Chem. 272:10678-10684 and Rosok et al., (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271:22611-22618).
[0161] In some embodiments, a humanized antibody comprises one or more human constant regions. In some embodiments, the human heavy chain constant region is of an isotype selected from IgA, IgG, and IgD. In some embodiments, the human light chain constant region is of an isotype selected from kappa and lambda.
[0162] In some embodiments, the humanized antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG constant region. In some embodiments, if effector function is desired, the antibody comprises a human IgG1 heavy chain constant region or a human IgG3 heavy chain constant region. In some embodiments, the humanized antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region. In some embodiments, the humanized antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region, and N297 is afucosylated. In some embodiments, the humanized antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region and a human κ light chain.
[0163] Human antibodies Human FGFR2 or PD-1 / PD-L1 antibodies can be made by any suitable method, including, but not limited to, producing human antibodies in transgenic mice containing human immunoglobulin loci. See, for example, Jakobovits et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 90:2551-55 (1993); Jakobovits et al., Nature 362:255-8 (1993); Lonberg et al., Nature 368:856-9 (1994); and U.S. Patent Nos. 5,545,807; 6,713,610; 6,673,986; 6,162,963; 5,545,807; 6,300,129; 6,255,458; 5,877,397; 5,874,299; and 5,545,806.
[0164] Non-limiting exemplary methods include producing human antibodies using phage display libraries (see, e.g., Hoogenboom et al., J. Mol. Biol. 227:381-8 (1992); Marks et al., J. Mol. Biol. 222:581-97 (1991); and PCT Publication No. WO 99 / 10494).
[0165] In some embodiments, a human antibody comprises one or more human constant regions. In some embodiments, the human heavy chain constant region is of an isotype selected from IgA, IgG, and IgD. In some embodiments, the human light chain constant region is of an isotype selected from κ and λ. In some embodiments, a human antibody described herein comprises a human IgG constant region. In some embodiments, a human antibody described herein comprises a human IgG4 heavy chain constant region. In some such embodiments, a human antibody described herein comprises a S241P mutation in the human IgG4 constant region. In some embodiments, a human antibody described herein comprises a human IgG4 constant region and a human κ light chain.
[0166] In some embodiments, when effector function is desired, a human antibody comprising a human IgG1 heavy chain constant region or a human IgG3 heavy chain constant region is selected. In some embodiments, when effector function is undesired, a human antibody comprising a human IgG4 or IgG2 heavy chain constant region is selected. In some embodiments, the humanized antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region, and N297 is afucosylated. In some embodiments, the humanized antibodies described herein comprise a human IgG1 constant region and a human κ light chain.
[0167] Exemplary Antibody Conjugates In some embodiments, the FGFR2 or PD-1 / PD-L1 antibody is conjugated to a label and / or a cytotoxic agent. As used herein, a label is a moiety that facilitates detection of the antibody and / or facilitates detection of the molecule to which the antibody binds. Non-limiting exemplary labels include, but are not limited to, radioisotopes, fluorescent groups, enzymatic groups, chemiluminescent groups, biotin, epitope tags, metal-binding tags, etc. One of skill in the art can select an appropriate label depending on the intended use.
[0168] As used herein, a cytotoxic agent is a moiety that reduces the proliferative capacity of one or more cells. When a cell becomes less proliferative, it reduces its proliferative capacity because, for example, the cell undergoes apoptosis or otherwise dies, the cell cannot progress through the cell cycle and / or does not divide, the cell differentiates, etc. Non-limiting exemplary cytotoxic agents include, but are not limited to, radioisotopes, toxins, and chemotherapeutic agents. One skilled in the art can select an appropriate cytotoxic agent depending on the intended use.
[0169] In some embodiments, the label and / or cytotoxic agent is conjugated to the antibody using in vitro chemical methods. Non-limiting exemplary chemical methods of conjugation are known in the art and include commercially available services, methods, and / or reagents from, for example, Thermo Scientific Life Science Research Produces (formerly Pierce; Rockford, IL), Prozyme (Hayward, CA), SACRI Antibody Services (Calgary, Canada), AbD Serotec (Raleigh, NC), etc. In some embodiments, when the label and / or cytotoxic agent is a polypeptide, the label and / or cytotoxic agent can be expressed from the same expression vector with at least one antibody chain to produce a polypeptide comprising the label and / or cytotoxic agent fused to the antibody chain. Those skilled in the art can select an appropriate method for conjugating the label and / or cytotoxic agent to the antibody depending on the intended use.
[0170] Nucleic acid molecules encoding antibodies Nucleic acid molecules are provided that comprise polynucleotides encoding one or more chains of an antibody. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid molecule comprises a polynucleotide encoding a heavy chain or a light chain of the antibody. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid molecule comprises both a polynucleotide encoding a heavy chain and a polynucleotide encoding a light chain of the antibody. In some embodiments, a first nucleic acid molecule comprises a first polynucleotide encoding the heavy chain and a second nucleic acid molecule comprises a second polynucleotide encoding the light chain.
[0171] In some such embodiments, the heavy and light chains are expressed as two separate polypeptides from one nucleic acid molecule or from two separate nucleic acid molecules, in some embodiments, for example when the antibody is an scFv, a single polynucleotide encodes a single polypeptide comprising both the heavy and light chains linked together.
[0172] In some embodiments, a polynucleotide encoding an antibody heavy or light chain comprises a nucleotide sequence that, when translated, encodes a leader sequence located at the N-terminus of the heavy or light chain. As discussed above, the leader sequence may be the native heavy or light chain leader sequence or another heterologous leader sequence.
[0173] The nucleic acid molecule can be constructed using recombinant DNA techniques routine in the art. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid molecule is in an expression vector suitable for expression in a selected host cell.
[0174] Antibody Expression and Production vector Vectors comprising polynucleotides encoding antibody heavy and / or light chains are provided. Vectors comprising polynucleotides encoding antibody heavy and / or light chains are also provided. Such vectors include, but are not limited to, DNA vectors, phage vectors, viral vectors, retroviral vectors, etc. In some embodiments, the vector comprises a first polynucleotide sequence encoding a heavy chain and a second polynucleotide sequence encoding a light chain. In some embodiments, the heavy and light chains are expressed from the vector as two separate polypeptides. In some embodiments, the heavy and light chains are expressed as part of a single polypeptide, for example, when the antibody is an scFv.
[0175] In some embodiments, a first vector comprises a first polynucleotide encoding a heavy chain, and a second vector comprises a second polynucleotide encoding a light chain. In some embodiments, the first and second vectors are transfected into host cells in similar amounts (e.g., similar molar amounts or similar mass amounts). In some embodiments, the first and second vectors are transfected into host cells in a molar or mass ratio between 5:1 and 1:5. In some embodiments, a mass ratio between 1:1 and 1:5 is used for the vector encoding the heavy chain and the vector encoding the light chain. In some embodiments, a mass ratio of 1:2 is used for the vector encoding the heavy chain and the vector encoding the light chain.
[0176] In some embodiments, a vector is selected that is optimized for expression of a polypeptide in CHO or CHO-derived cells, or NSO cells. Exemplary such vectors are described, for example, in Running Deer et al., Biotechnol. Prog. 20:880-889 (2004).
[0177] In some embodiments, vectors are selected for in vivo expression of antibody heavy chains and / or antibody light chains in animals, including humans. In some such embodiments, expression of the polypeptide is under the control of a promoter that functions in a tissue-specific manner. For example, liver-specific promoters are described, for example, in PCT Publication No. WO2006 / 076288.
[0178] host cell In various embodiments, antibody heavy and / or light chains can be expressed in prokaryotic cells, e.g., bacterial cells; or eukaryotic cells, such as fungal cells (such as yeast), plant cells, insect cells, and mammalian cells. Such expression can be carried out, for example, according to procedures known in the art. Exemplary eukaryotic cells that can be used to express polypeptides include, but are not limited to, COS cells (including COS7 cells); 293 cells (including 293-6E cells); CHO cells (including CHO-S and DG44 cells); PER.C6® cells (Crucell); and NSO cells. In some embodiments, antibody heavy and / or light chains can be expressed in yeast. See, e.g., U.S. Publication No. US2006 / 0270045(A1). In some embodiments, a particular eukaryotic host cell is selected based on its ability to make desired post-translational modifications to the antibody heavy and / or light chain. For example, in some embodiments, CHO cells produce polypeptides that have higher levels of sialylation than the same polypeptides produced in 293 cells.
[0179] Introduction of one or more nucleic acids into desired host cells can be achieved by any method, including, but not limited to, calcium phosphate transfection, DEAE-dextran-mediated transfection, cationic lipid-mediated transfection, electroporation, transduction, infection, etc. Non-limiting exemplary methods are described, for example, in Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning, A Laboratory Manual, 3rd ed. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press (2001). Nucleic acids can be transiently or stably transfected into desired host cells according to any suitable method.
[0180] In some embodiments, one or more polypeptides can be produced in vivo in an animal that has been genetically engineered or transfected with one or more nucleic acid molecules encoding the polypeptides, according to any suitable method.
[0181] Antibody purification Antibodies can be purified by any suitable method, including, but not limited to, the use of affinity matrix or hydrophobic interaction chromatography. Suitable affinity ligands include antigens and ligands that bind to antibody constant regions. For example, Protein A, Protein G, Protein A / G, or antibody affinity columns can be used to bind to the constant region and purify the antibody. Hydrophobic interaction chromatography, such as butyl or phenyl columns, is also suitable for purifying some polypeptides. Many methods for purifying polypeptides are known in the art.
[0182] Cell-free production of antibodies In some embodiments, the antibody is produced in a cell-free system. Non-limiting exemplary cell-free systems are described, for example, in Sitaraman et al., Methods Mol. Biol. 498:229-44 (2009); Spirin, Trends Biotechnol. 22:538-45 (2004); Endo et al., Biotechnol. Adv. 21:695-713 (2003).
[0183] Therapeutic Compositions and Methods Cancer treatment methods In some embodiments, methods are provided for treating cancer, comprising administering an effective amount of an FGFR2 inhibitor described herein. Some such embodiments include methods of increasing the number of one or more of PD-L1-positive cells, NK cells, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, and CD8+ T cells in tumor tissue of a subject with cancer, comprising administering an FGFR2 inhibitor, wherein the inhibitor is an FGFR2 antibody with enhanced ADCC activity. In some such embodiments, an immunostimulatory agent is not administered together with the FGFR2 antibody.
[0184] In some other embodiments, methods are provided for treating cancer, comprising administering an effective amount of an FGFR2 inhibitor and an effective amount of at least one immunostimulatory agent. In exemplary embodiments, the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor and the at least one immunostimulatory agent, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, are administered simultaneously. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor and the at least one immunostimulatory agent, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, are administered sequentially. In some embodiments, at least one, at least two, at least three, at least five, or at least ten doses of the FGFR2 inhibitor are administered prior to administration of the at least one immunostimulatory agent, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. In some embodiments, at least one, at least two, at least three, at least five, or at least ten doses of the at least one immunostimulatory agent, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, are administered prior to administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor. In some embodiments, the final dose of the at least one immune stimulatory agent, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, is administered at least 1, 2, 3, 5, or 10 days, or 1, 2, 3, 5, 12, or 24 weeks, before the first dose of the FGFR2 inhibitor. In some other embodiments, the final dose of the FGFR2 inhibitor is administered at least 1, 2, 3, 5, or 10 days, or 1, 2, 3, 5, 12, or 24 weeks before the first dose of the at least one immune stimulatory agent, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. In some embodiments, the subject has received or is receiving PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor therapy, and the FGFR2 inhibitor is added to the treatment regimen.
[0185] In some embodiments, the cancer is selected from gastric cancer, breast cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, small cell lung cancer, pituitary cancer, esophageal cancer (including gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma), astrocytoma, soft tissue sarcoma, non-small cell lung cancer, lung adenocarcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma, peritoneal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, gastrointestinal cancer, pancreatic cancer, glioblastoma, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, liver cancer, bladder cancer, hepatoma, breast cancer, colon cancer, colorectal cancer, endometrial or uterine cancer, salivary gland cancer, kidney cancer, renal cell carcinoma, liver cancer, prostate cancer, vulvar cancer, thyroid cancer, liver cancer, brain cancer, endometrial cancer, testicular cancer, bile duct cancer, gallbladder cancer, gastric cancer, melanoma, and various types of head and neck cancer. In some embodiments, the lung cancer is non-small cell lung cancer or lung squamous cell carcinoma. In some embodiments, the leukemia is acute myeloid leukemia or chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In some embodiments, the breast cancer is invasive breast cancer. In some embodiments, the ovarian cancer is ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma. In some embodiments, the kidney cancer is kidney renal clear cell carcinoma. In some embodiments, the colorectal cancer is colon adenocarcinoma. In some embodiments, the bladder cancer is bladder urothelial carcinoma. In some embodiments, the cancer is selected from bladder cancer, cervical cancer (e.g., squamous cell cervical carcinoma), head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, rectal adenocarcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, endometrial carcinoma, prostate adenocarcinoma, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer (e.g., serous epithelial ovarian carcinoma), and melanoma. In some embodiments, the cancer is gastric cancer (including gastroesophageal cancer) or bladder cancer (e.g., transitional cell carcinoma, also known as urothelial carcinoma).
[0186] In some embodiments, the cancer comprises FGFR2 gene amplification, while in some embodiments, the cancer does not comprise FGFR2 amplification. In some embodiments, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) is used to assess gene amplification, for example, with probes to the FGFR2 locus and chromosome 10 centromere. In some embodiments, if amplification occurs, the FGFR2 amplification is characterized by an FGFR2:CEN10 (chromosome 10 centromere) ratio of >3. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 amplification is characterized by an FGFR2:CEN10 ratio of ≥2. In other embodiments, however, the FGFR2 level is characterized by an FGFR2:CEN10 ratio of 1-2, indicating that FGFR2 is not amplified.
[0187] In some embodiments, when the cancer contains FGFR2 gene amplification, the cancer overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, the cancer containing FGFR2 amplification overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb to a greater extent than FGFR2-IIIc. In some embodiments, the cancer does not contain gene amplification but overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, the cancer containing FGFR2 amplification expresses FGFR2-IIIb at a normalized level that is 2-fold, 3-fold, 5-fold, or 10-fold or more greater than the normalized level of FGFR2-IIIc expression. In some embodiments, the expression level is normalized to GUSB. In some embodiments, the cancer overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb but does not contain FGFR2 gene amplification. In some embodiments, the gastric cancer or bladder cancer contains FGFR2 gene amplification. In some embodiments, the gastric cancer or bladder cancer contains FGFR2 gene amplification that overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb.
[0188] In some embodiments, gastric or bladder cancers containing FGFR2 amplification significantly overexpress FGFR2-IIIb over FGFR2-IIIc. In some embodiments, gastric or bladder cancers do not contain gene amplification but overexpress FGFR2-IIIb. In some embodiments, gastric or bladder cancers containing FGFR2 amplification express FGFR2-IIIb at a normalized level that is 2-fold, 3-fold, 5-fold, or 10-fold or more greater than the normalized level of FGFR2-IIIc expression. In some embodiments, the expression level is normalized to GUSB. In some embodiments, gastric or bladder cancers overexpress FGFR2-IIIb but do not contain FGFR2 gene amplification. In some embodiments, the overexpression is mRNA overexpression. In some embodiments, the overexpression is protein overexpression. In some embodiments, point mutations or translocations can cause overexpression of FGFR2. The expression level of an FGFR2 species may be determined, for example, using IHC.
[0189] In some embodiments, FGFR2 overexpression is determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC). For example, overexpression may be determined by an IHC signal of 1+, 2+, or 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells, for example, at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of tumor cells. For example, in some such embodiments, the cancer is gastric cancer, and the treated patient may have an IHC signal of 3+ for FGFR2b in at least 10% of tumor cells (for example, in the cell membrane). In some embodiments, the gastric cancer patient may have a 2+ or 3+ signal in at least 10% of tumor cells. In some embodiments, the gastric cancer patient may have at least a 1+ signal in at least 10% of tumor cells.
[0190] In some embodiments, FGFR2 overexpression may be reported as an "H score." For example, in some such embodiments, the tumor is a bladder cancer tumor. To determine the H score, initial membrane staining intensity may be determined for cells in a fixed field, e.g., via IHC, to obtain a score of 0, 1+, 2+, or 3+, and the H score may be calculated using the following formula: 1×(% of cells visualized with an IHC intensity of 1+)+2×(% of cells visualized with an IHC intensity of 2+)+3×(% of cells visualized with an IHC intensity of 3+). Theoretically, the H score may range from 0 to 300, and is equal to 300 if all cells in the field have an IHC staining of 3+. In some embodiments, the patient being treated has a starting H-score for FGFR2, e.g., FGFR2b (e.g., FGFR2IIIb), of >20, e.g., >30, >40, >50, or >100, or in the range of 20-300, 20-100, 20-50, 20-40, or 20-30. In some embodiments, the patient has an H-score of >10, or within the range of 10-20 or 15-20. In other embodiments, the patient has an H-score of 0-10, which may indicate a lack of FGFR2 overexpression. In some such embodiments, the patient is a bladder cancer patient.
[0191] In some embodiments, the cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb, and / or The patient has already been determined to carry FGFR2 gene amplification. In other embodiments, the methods herein first assess either or both of FGFR2IIIb expression and FGFR2 gene amplification status before administering treatment. The present disclosure further provides methods for determining responsiveness to any of the FGFR2 inhibitors, treatments, and uses described above, comprising assessing FGFR2IIIb expression and / or FGFR2 gene amplification in a cancer patient.
[0192] In some embodiments in which the patient has gastric cancer or bladder cancer, the method may include determining whether the patient's cancer falls into one of the following categories that may indicate responsiveness to a treatment or FGFR2 inhibitor composition: a) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells; b) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells and amplification of the FGFR2 gene; c) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, no amplification of the FGFR2 gene. d) in the case of a gastric cancer subject, an IHC signal of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; e) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an IHC signal of 1+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; f) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an IHC signal of 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; g) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of greater than 20; h) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of 10-19; i) in the case of a bladder cancer subject, an H-score of less than 10.
[0193] In some embodiments of the methods described herein, the subject is an "inadequate responder" to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. A subject who is an inadequate responder to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor may have previously responded to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, may have become poorly responsive to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, or the subject may have never responded to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. An inadequate response to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor means that aspects of the condition that would be expected to improve after a standard dose of a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor do not improve and / or only improve when a higher than standard dose is administered. In some embodiments, a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor inadequate responder has experienced or is experiencing an inadequate response to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor after receiving a standard dose for at least 2 weeks, at least 3 weeks, at least 4 weeks, at least 6 weeks, or at least 12 weeks. A "standard" dose will be determined by a medical professional and may depend on the subject's age, weight, health history, severity of disease, frequency of administration, etc. In some embodiments, a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor inadequate responder has experienced or is experiencing an inadequate response to an anti-PD-1 antibody and / or anti-PD-L1 antibody. In some embodiments, a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor inadequate responder has experienced or is experiencing an inadequate response to AMP-224. In some embodiments, a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor inadequate responder has experienced or is experiencing an inadequate response to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor selected from nivolumab, pidilizumab, and pembrolizumab.
[0194] In any of the methods of the above embodiments, the combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor and at least one immunostimulant, e.g., a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, may inhibit tumor growth in a mouse tumor model by, e.g., at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% over a period of at least one week, 10 days, or 2 weeks. In any of the methods of the above embodiments, administration of a combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor and a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor to a subject may reduce the volume of at least one tumor in the subject by, e.g., at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% over a period of at least one month, two months, three months, six months, or one year.
[0195] FGFR2 antibodies increase the numbers of NK cells, PD-L1-expressing cells, macrophages, and CD3+, CD8+, and CD4+ T cells, as well as the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumors In any of the methods of the above embodiments, administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor may result in an increase in NK cells, such as NKp46+ cells, an increase in PD-L1-expressing cells, an increase in CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, an increase in macrophages, and / or an increase in the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells over a period of at least 1 day, 4 days, 1 week, 10 days, or 2 weeks, e.g., by at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% compared to a control in tumors harvested from a mouse tumor model, such as a xenograft or syngeneic tumor model. In some embodiments, the mouse tumor model is a 4T1 tumor model.
[0196] Data provided in the Examples herein demonstrate that treatment of a mouse syngeneic tumor model with a nonfucosylated anti-FGFR2b antibody increases the number of NKp46+ cells in murine tumor tissue while inhibiting tumor growth. Similar treatment with an antibody with a mutation at N297 that lacks ADCC activity (anti-FGFR2-N297Q) did not increase NK cells and had no effect on tumor growth (see Examples 2a-b below).
[0197] Data provided in the Examples herein also show that treatment of a mouse syngeneic model with a nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibody increases the number of PD-L1-positive cells in tumor tissue (see Example 2a). This suggests that FGFR2 inhibitors can be successfully combined with PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitors for cancer treatment, and that the claimed combination may have at least an additive, and in some cases, a synergistic, effect in combination with inhibition of tumor volume or tumor growth. Furthermore, data herein show that treatment of a mouse syngeneic tumor model with a nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibody also increases the number of CD3+, CD8+, and CD4+ T cells in tumor tissue, and increases the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells. Such results were not observed with an FGFR2 antibody containing the N297Q mutation, designed to prevent effector function (see Example 2b). Further data herein show that treatment of a mouse syngeneic tumor model with a nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibody also increases the number of macrophages in tumor tissue (see Example 2c). These data suggest that the tumor growth inhibition observed with nonfucosylated anti-FGFR2 antibodies is driven in part by NK cell-mediated ADCC activity. Additionally, the data suggest that this ADCC activity may increase PD-L1-expressing cells in tumors, which may lead to T cell infiltration within the tumor. The increased ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells further suggests that nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibodies may have potent antitumor activity as single agents and in combination with PD-1 inhibitors by altering the tumor microenvironment.
[0198] Accordingly, also included herein is a method for increasing the number of NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, and / or the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells, in tumor tissue of a subject, comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of an FGFR2 inhibitor, e.g., an FGFR2 antibody, e.g., an antibody with enhanced FGFR2 ADCC activity. In some embodiments, when an FGFR2 antibody is administered, the antibody is nonfucosylated, e.g., nonfucosylated at position N297. In some embodiments, the increase can be observed after a period of at least 1 day, 4 days, 1 week, 10 days, or 2 weeks, and can be, for example, an increase of at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95%, when compared to a control, e.g., tumor tissue or non-tumor tissue before treatment. The FGFR2 inhibitor may be administered, for example, under the administration conditions described elsewhere herein.
[0199] Also included herein is a method for increasing the number of NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, and / or the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells, in tumor tissue of a subject, comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of an antibody having ADCC activity, e.g., enhanced ADCC activity. In some embodiments, the antibody has enhanced ADCC activity due to non-fucosylation at position N297. In some embodiments, the increase can be observed after a period of at least 1 day, 4 days, 1 week, 10 days, or 2 weeks, and can be, for example, an increase of at least 10%, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95%, compared to a control, e.g., tumor tissue or non-tumor tissue, before treatment. Generally, such antibodies can be administered in an amount ranging from about 10 μg / kg body weight to about 100 mg / kg body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 50 μg / kg body weight to about 5 mg / kg body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 100 μg / kg body weight to about 10 mg / kg body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 100 μg / kg body weight to about 20 mg / kg body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 0.5 mg / kg body weight to about 20 mg / kg body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody is administered at a dose of 0.1 to 10 mg / kg, e.g., 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 mg / kg, or within a dose range bracketed by any two of the foregoing numbers.
[0200] The present application also includes methods of determining the number of NK cells, PD-L1 positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, and / or the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumor tissue of a subject before and / or after administration of an antibody with ADCC activity or enhanced ADCC activity, for example, to determine if the antibody has such an effect on at least one tumor in the subject. The present application also includes methods of determining the number of NK cells, PD-L1 positive cells, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells in tumor tissue of a subject before and / or after administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor, either alone or as part of a combination with a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, and / or determining the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumor tissue of a subject. Also included herein are methods for determining the number of NK cells, PD-L1 positive cells, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells in tumor tissue of a subject receiving combination treatment with an FGFR2 and PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, and / or determining the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumor tissue of the subject.
[0201] Determining the number of NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, and / or determining the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells, may be performed, for example, via tissue biopsy or some other method of obtaining a sample from a tumor for such testing. Such a biopsy or other sample may generally be taken, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 17, 30, 45, or 90 days after the first administration of an antibody with ADCC activity or an FGFR2 inhibitor. The number of NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, and / or the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells may be determined, for example, by comparison with a control, e.g., a pre-treatment tumor sample, or a sample from a non-tumor tissue. In some embodiments, the number may be expressed as a percentage of a particular cell type, such as CD45+ mononuclear cells. In some embodiments, the number of a particular cell type may be determined by FACS analysis.
[0202] In some embodiments, if an increase in NK cells, PD-L1 positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, and / or the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells is observed in such studies compared to a control, the subject may further be administered a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. In some embodiments, if no increase, or no significant increase, is observed, the dosage of the FGFR2 inhibitor or antibody with ADCC activity may be increased.
[0203] In some embodiments, such assessment of increases in NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, and / or the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells may be used to determine whether to administer combination treatment with a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, or whether to continue treatment without the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. For example, after administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor, a tumor sample from the subject may be assessed for the number of NK cells, PD-L1-positive cells, macrophages, CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells, and / or the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells, compared to a control, and if an increase in either or both of these types of cells is observed in the sample, a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor may be administered together with an FGFR2 inhibitor according to any of the method embodiments described herein.
[0204] Routes of Administration, Carriers, Additional Pharmaceutical Compositions In various embodiments, antibodies can be administered in vivo by a variety of routes, including, but not limited to, oral, intraarterial, parenteral, intranasal, intravenous, intramuscular, intracardiac, intracerebroventricular, intratracheal, buccal, rectal, intraperitoneal, intradermal, topical, transdermal, and intrathecal, or by implantation or inhalation. The subject compositions can be formulated into solid, semisolid, liquid, or gaseous formulations, including, but not limited to, tablets, capsules, powders, granules, ointments, solutions, suppositories, enemas, injections, inhalants, and aerosols. Nucleic acid molecules encoding antibodies can be coated onto gold microparticles and delivered intradermally by particle bombardment or "gene gun," as described in the literature (see, e.g., Tang et al., Nature 356:152-154 (1992)). The appropriate formulation and route of administration can be selected depending on the intended use.
[0205] In various embodiments, compositions comprising antibodies are provided in formulations containing a wide variety of pharmaceutically acceptable carriers (see, e.g., Gennaro, Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy with Facts and Comparisons: Drugfacts Plus, 20th ed. (2003); Ansel et al., Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems, 7th ed., Lippencott Williams and Wilkins (2004); Kibbe et al., Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients, 3rd ed., Pharmaceutical Press (2000)). A variety of pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, including vehicles, adjuvants, and diluents, are available. In addition, a variety of pharmaceutically acceptable auxiliary substances, such as pH adjusting agents and buffers, osmotic pressure adjusting agents, stabilizers, wetting agents, and the like, are also available. Non-limiting exemplary carriers include saline, buffered saline, dextrose, water, glycerol, ethanol, and combinations thereof.
[0206] In various embodiments, compositions comprising antibodies can be formulated for injection, including subcutaneous administration, by dissolving, suspending, or emulsifying them in an aqueous or non-aqueous solvent, such as vegetable or other oils, synthetic fatty acid glycerides, esters of higher fatty acids, or propylene glycol, with conventional additives, such as solubilizers, isotonicity agents, suspending agents, emulsifiers, stabilizers, and preservatives, as needed. In various embodiments, compositions can be formulated for inhalation using pressurized acceptable propellants, such as dichlorodifluoromethane, propane, nitrogen, and the like. In various embodiments, compositions can also be formulated into sustained-release microcapsules, such as biodegradable or non-biodegradable polymers. Non-limiting exemplary biodegradable formulations include polylactic-glycolic acid polymers. Non-limiting exemplary non-biodegradable formulations include polyglycerol fatty acid esters. Certain methods for producing such formulations are described, for example, in EP 1 125 584 A1.
[0207] Pharmaceutical packs and kits comprising one or more containers, each containing one or more doses of an antibody or antibody combination, are also provided. In some embodiments, a unit dose is provided, wherein the unit dose contains a predetermined amount of a composition comprising an antibody or antibody combination, with or without one or more additional agents. In some embodiments, such a unit dose is supplied in a single-use pre-filled syringe for injection. In various embodiments, the composition contained in the unit dose can include saline, sucrose, or the like; a buffer such as phosphate; and / or can be formulated within a stable and effective pH range. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the composition can be provided as a lyophilized powder that can be reconstituted upon addition of an appropriate liquid, such as sterile water. In some embodiments, the composition includes one or more substances that inhibit protein aggregation, including, but not limited to, sucrose and arginine. In some embodiments, the compositions of the present invention include heparin and / or proteoglycan.
[0208] The pharmaceutical composition is administered in an amount effective for treating or preventing a particular indication. The therapeutically effective amount typically depends on the weight of the subject being treated, their physical or health condition, the extent of the condition being treated, and the age of the subject being treated. Generally, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 10 μg / kg to about 100 mg / kg of body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 50 μg / kg to about 5 mg / kg of body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 100 μg / kg to about 10 mg / kg of body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 100 μg / kg to about 20 mg / kg of body weight per dose. In some embodiments, the antibody may be administered in an amount ranging from about 0.5 mg / kg to about 20 mg / kg of body weight per dose.
[0209] In some embodiments, the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, such as an antibody or fusion molecule or polypeptide, is administered at a dose of 0.1-100 mg / kg, e.g., 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 mg / kg, or within a dose range bracketed by any two of the foregoing numbers. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor, such as an antibody or fusion molecule or ECD polypeptide, is administered at a dose of 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 mg / kg, or within a dose range bracketed by any two of the foregoing numbers.
[0210] The antibody composition may be administered to a subject as needed. The frequency of administration can be determined by a skilled artisan, such as an attending physician, based on considerations such as the condition being treated, the age of the subject being treated, the severity of the condition being treated, and the general health of the subject being treated. In some embodiments, an effective dose of the antibody is administered to a subject one or more times. In various embodiments, an effective dose of the antibody is administered monthly, less than monthly, for example, every two or three months. In other embodiments, an effective dose of the antibody is administered more frequently, such as every three weeks, every two weeks, or every week. In some embodiments, an effective dose of the antibody is administered once every one, two, three, four, or five weeks. In some embodiments, an effective dose of the antibody is administered two or three times per week. An effective dose of the antibody is administered to a subject at least once. In some embodiments, an effective dose of the antibody may be administered multiple times, including over a period of at least one month, at least six months, or at least one year.
[0211] Also provided are compositions comprising an FGFR2 inhibitor described herein and a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor described herein. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor and the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor are contained in separate containers or separate compartments of a single container, e.g., so that they are not mixed together. In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor and the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor may be mixed together by being in the same container or compartment. In some embodiments, the composition includes instructions for use in treating cancer.
[0212] Combination with other immunostimulants In some embodiments, the FGFR2 inhibitor is combined with at least one immunostimulatory agent other than a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor and a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor may be further combined with an effective amount of at least one additional immunostimulatory agent.
[0213] Immunostimulatory agents can include, for example, small molecule drugs or biologics. Examples of biological immunostimulatory agents include, but are not limited to, antibodies, antibody fragments, receptor fragments, or ligand polypeptides that block receptor-ligand binding, vaccines, and cytokines.
[0214] In some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises an agonist of an immunostimulatory molecule, e.g., a costimulatory molecule, while in some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises an antagonist of an immunoinhibitory molecule, e.g., a costimulatory molecule. In some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises an agonist of an immunostimulatory molecule, e.g., a costimulatory molecule, found on immune cells such as T cells. In some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises an antagonist of an immunoinhibitory molecule, e.g., a costimulatory molecule, found on immune cells such as T cells. In some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises an agonist of an immunostimulatory molecule, e.g., a costimulatory molecule, found on cells involved in innate immunity, such as NK cells. In some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises an agonist of an immunoinhibitory molecule, e.g., a costimulatory molecule, found on cells involved in innate immunity, such as NK cells. In some embodiments, the combination enhances an antigen-specific T cell response in the treated subject and / or enhances the innate immune response in the subject.
[0215] In some embodiments, the combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor and at least one immunostimulatory agent results in an improved anti-tumor response in an animal cancer model, such as a mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor model, compared to administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, the combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor and at least one immunostimulatory agent results in an additive or synergistic response in an animal cancer model, such as a mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor model, compared to administration of either agent alone.
[0216] In embodiments involving a combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor, a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, and at least one additional immunostimulatory agent, the combination results in an improved anti-tumor response in an animal cancer model, such as a mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor model, compared to administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, the combination of the FGFR2 inhibitor and the additional therapeutic agent results in an additive or synergistic response in an animal cancer model, such as a mouse xenograft and / or syngeneic tumor model, compared to administration of either therapeutic agent alone.
[0217] In certain embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent targets a stimulatory or inhibitory molecule that is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF). For example, the immunostimulatory agent may be an agent that targets (or specifically binds to) another member of the B7 family of polypeptides. The immunostimulatory agent may also be an agent that targets a member of the TNF family of membrane-bound ligands, or a costimulatory or co-inhibitory receptor that specifically binds to a member of the TNF family. Exemplary TNF and TNFR family members that can be targeted by immune stimulatory agents include CD40 and CD40L, OX-40, OX-40L, GITR, GITRL, CD70, CD27L, CD30, CD30L, 4-1BBL, CD137 (4-1BB), TRAIL / Apo2-L, TRAILR1 / DR4, TRAILR2 / DR5, TRAILR3, TRAILR4, OPG, RANK, RANKL, TWEAKR / Fn14, TWEAK, BAFFR, EDAR, XEDAR, TACI, APRIL, BCMA, LTβR, LIGHT, DcR3, HVEM, VEGI / TL1A, TRAMP / DR3, EDAR, EDA1, XEDAR, EDA2, TNFR1, lymphotoxin alpha / TNFβ, TNFR2, TNFα, LTβR, lymphotoxin alpha 1β2, FAS, FASL, RELT, DR6, TROY, and NGFR.
[0218] In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent may include (i) an antagonist of a protein that inhibits T cell activation (e.g., an immune checkpoint inhibitor), such as CTLA4, LAG-3, TIM3, Galectin-9, CEACAM-1, BTLA, CD69, Galectin-1, TIGIT, CD113, GPR56, VISTA, B7-H3, B7-H4, 2B4, CD48, GARP, PD1H, LAIR1, TIM-1, TIM-4, and ILT4, and / or (ii) an agonist of a protein that stimulates T cell activation, such as B7-2, CD28, 4-1BB (CD137), 4-1BBL, ICOS, ICOS-L, OX40, OX40L, GITR, GITRL, CD70, CD27, CD40, CD40L, DR3, and CD28H.
[0219] In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent may include an agent that inhibits T cell activation or is an antagonist of a cytokine that inhibits T cell activation (e.g., IL-6, IL-10, TGF-β, VEGF, and other immunosuppressive cytokines), and in some embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent may include an agent that is an agonist of a cytokine that stimulates T cell activation, such as IL-2, IL-7, IL-12, IL-15, IL-21, and IFNα (e.g., the cytokine itself). In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent may include an antagonist of a chemokine, such as CXCR2 (e.g., MK-7123), CXCR4 (e.g., AMD3100), CCR2, or CCR4 (mogamulizumab).
[0220] In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent may comprise an antagonist of an inhibitory receptor on an NK cell or an agonist of an activating receptor on an NK cell, hi some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent is an antagonist of a KIR.
[0221] Immunostimulatory agents may also include agents that inhibit TGF-β signaling, agents that enhance tumor antigen presentation, such as dendritic cell vaccines, GM-CSF-secreting cellular vaccines, CpG oligonucleotides, and imiquimod, or therapeutic agents that enhance the immunogenicity of tumor cells (e.g., anthracyclines).
[0222] Immunostimulants can also include certain vaccines, such as mesothelin-targeted vaccines or attenuated Listeria cancer vaccines, such as CRS-207.
[0223] Immunostimulatory agents can also include treatments that deplete or block Treg cells, for example, agents that specifically bind to CD25.
[0224] Immunostimulants can also include agents that inhibit metabolic enzymes such as indoleamine dioxygenase (IDO), dioxygenase, arginase, or nitric oxide synthase.
[0225] Immunostimulants may also include agents that inhibit the formation of adenosine or that inhibit the adenosine A2A receptor.
[0226] Immunostimulatory agents may also include agents that reverse / prevent T cell anergy or exhaustion, and agents that induce innate immune activation and / or inflammation at the tumor site.
[0227] In some embodiments, the immunostimulatory agent may comprise a CD40 agonist, e.g., a CD40 agonist antibody. The combination of an FGFR2 inhibitor and a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor may further be combined with a combinatorial approach that targets multiple components of the immune pathway, for example, with one or more of the following: at least one agent that enhances tumor antigen presentation (e.g., dendritic cell vaccines, GM-CSF-secreting cellular vaccines, CpG oligonucleotides, imiquimod); at least one agent that inhibits negative immune regulation, e.g., by inhibiting the CTLA4 pathway and / or depleting or blocking Tregs or other immunosuppressive cells; a treatment that stimulates positive immune regulation, e.g., with agonists that stimulate the CD-137, OX-40, and / or GITR pathways and / or stimulate T cell effector function; at least one agent that systemically increases the frequency of anti-tumor T cells; e.g., a CD25 antagonist. treatments that deplete or inhibit Tregs, such as Tregs, in tumors by the use of (e.g., daclizumab) or by ex vivo anti-CD25 bead depletion; at least one agent that affects the function of suppressor myeloid cells in tumors; treatments that enhance the immunogenicity of tumor cells (e.g., anthracyclines); adoptive T cell or NK cell transfer (CAR-T therapy) comprising genetically modified cells, e.g., cells modified with chimeric antigen receptors; at least one agent that inhibits metabolic enzymes such as indoleamine dioxygenase (IDO), dioxygenase, arginase, or nitric oxide synthase; at least one agent that restores / prevents T cell anergy or exhaustion; treatments that induce innate immune activation and / or inflammation at the tumor site; administration of immunostimulatory cytokines or blockade of immunosuppressive cytokines.
[0228] For example, the at least one immunostimulatory agent may include an agonist that ligates one or more positive costimulatory receptors; one or more antagonists (blockers) that attenuate signaling through inhibitory receptors, e.g., antagonists that overcome different immunosuppressive pathways within the tumor microenvironment; one or more agents that increase the frequency of anti-tumor immune cells systemically, e.g., T cells that deplete or inhibit Tregs (e.g., by inhibiting CD25); one or more agents that inhibit metabolic enzymes such as IDO; one or more agents that reverse / prevent T cell anergy or exhaustion; and one or more agents that induce innate immune activation and / or inflammation at the tumor site.
[0229] In one embodiment, the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a CTLA4 antagonist, such as an antagonist CTLA4 antibody. Suitable CTLA4 antibodies include, for example, YERVOY (ipilimumab) or tremelimumab.
[0230] In some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a LAG-3 antagonist, such as an antagonist LAG-3 antibody. Suitable LAG-3 antibodies include, for example, BMS-986016 (WO10 / 19570, WO14 / 08218), or IMP-731 or IMP-321 (WO08 / 132601, WO09 / 44273).
[0231] In some embodiments, the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a CD137 (4-1BB) agonist, such as an agonistic CD137 antibody. Suitable CD137 antibodies include, for example, urelumab or PF-05082566 (WO12 / 32433).
[0232] In some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a GITR agonist, such as an agonistic GITR antibody. Suitable GITR antibodies include, for example, TRX-518 (WO06 / 105021, WO09 / 009116), MK-4166 (WO11 / 028683), or the GITR antibodies disclosed in WO2015 / 031667.
[0233] In some embodiments, at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises an OX40 agonist, such as an agonistic OX40 antibody. Suitable OX40 antibodies include, for example, MEDI-6383, MEDI-6469, or MOXR0916 (RG7888; WO06 / 029879).
[0234] In some embodiments, the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a CD27 agonist, such as an agonist CD27 antibody. Suitable CD27 antibodies include, for example, varlilumab (CDX-1127).
[0235] In some embodiments, the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises MGA271, which targets B7H3 (WO11 / 109400).
[0236] In some embodiments, the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a KIR antagonist, such as lirilumab.
[0237] In some embodiments, the at least one immunostimulant comprises an IDO antagonist, such as INCB-024360 (WO2006 / 122150, WO07 / 75598, WO08 / 36653, WO08 / 36642), indoximod, NLG-919 (WO09 / 73620, WO09 / 1156652, WO11 / 56652, WO12 / 142237), or F001287.
[0238] In some embodiments, the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a Toll-like receptor agonist, e.g., a TLR2 / 4 agonist (e.g., Bacillus Calmette-Guerin); a TLR7 agonist (e.g., Hiltonol or imiquimod); a TLR7 / 8 agonist (e.g., resiquimod); or a TLR9 agonist (e.g., CpG7909).
[0239] In some embodiments, the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a TGF-β inhibitor, for example, GC1008, LY2157299, TEW7197, or IMC-TR1.
[0240] Further combination therapy The antibodies may be administered alone or in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities. They may be provided prior to, substantially simultaneously with, or following the administration of other therapeutic modalities, e.g., surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a biologic such as another therapeutic antibody. In some embodiments, the cancer has recurred or progressed after treatment selected from surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, or a combination thereof.
[0241] For the treatment of cancer, the inhibitor may be administered in conjunction with one or more additional anti-cancer agents, such as chemotherapeutic agents, growth inhibitory agents, anti-angiogenic agents, and / or anti-tumor compositions. Non-limiting examples of chemotherapeutic agents, growth inhibitory agents, anti-angiogenic agents, anti-cancer agents, and anti-tumor compositions that can be used in combination with the antibodies of the invention are provided in the definitions below.
[0242] A "chemotherapeutic agent" is a chemical compound useful in the treatment of cancer. Examples of chemotherapeutic agents include, but are not limited to, alkylating agents such as thiotepa and Cytoxan® cyclophosphamide; alkyl sulfonates such as busulfan, improsulfan, and piposulfan; aziridines such as benzodopa, carboquone, meturedopa, and uredopa; ethylenimines and methylameramines such as altretamine, triethylenemelamine, triethylenephosphoramide, triethylenethiophosphoramide, and trimethylolmelamine; acetogenins (particularly bullatacin and bullatacinone); camptothecins (including the synthetic analog topotecan); bryostatin; kallistatin; CC-1065 (including its synthetic analogs adozelesin, carzelesin, and bizelesin); cryptophycins (particularly cryptophycin 1) and cryptophycin 8); dolastatins; duocarmycins (including synthetic analogs, KW-2189 and CB1-TM1); eleutherobin; pancratistatin; sarcodictine; spongistatins; nitrogen mustards such as chlorambucil, chlornaphazine, colofosfamide, estramustine, ifosfamide, mechlorethamine, mechlorethamine oxide hydrochloride, melphalan, novembitine, phenesterine, prednimustine, trofosfamide, uracil mustard; nitrosoureas such as carmustine, chlorozotocin, fotemustine, lomustine, nimustine, and ranimustine; enediyne antibiotics (e.g., calicheamicins, particularly calicheamicin gamma 1I and calicheamicin omega 1I (e.g., Agnew, Chem Intl. Ed. Engl., 33:183-186 (1994); dynemycins such as dynemycin A; bisphosphonates such as clodronate; esperamicin;and neocarzinostatin chromophore and related chromoprotein enediyne antibiotic chromophores, aclacinomycin, actinomycin, autramycin, azaserine, bleomycin, cactinomycin, carabicin, carminomycin, carzinophilin, chromomycinis, dactinomycin, daunorubicin, detorubicin, 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine, Adriamycin® doxorubicin (morpholino-doxorubicin, cyanomorpholino-doxorubicin, 2-pyrrolino-doxorubicin, and deoxydoxorubicin). sorbicin, etc.), mitomycins such as epirubicin, esorubicin, idarubicin, marcelomycin, and mitomycin C, mycophenolic acid, nogalamycin, olivomycin, peplomycin, potfilomycin, puromycin, queramycin, rodorubicin, streptonigrin, streptozocin, tubercidin, ubenimex, zinostatin, and zorubicin; antimetabolites such as methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU); folic acid analogs such as denopterin, methotrexate, pteropterin, and trimetrexate; Purine analogues such as fludarabine, 6-mercaptopurine, thiamiprine, and thioguanine; pyrimidine analogues such as ancitabine, azacitidine, 6-azauridine, carmofur, cytarabine, dideoxyuridine, doxifluridine, enocitabine, and floxuridine; androgens such as calucelone, dromostanolone propionate, epithiostanol, mepitiostane, and testolactone; antiadrenal agents such as aminoglutethimide, mitotane, and trilostane; folic acid supplements such as folinic acid; aceglatone; and aldophosphamide glycosides ;Aminolevulinic acid;Eniluracil;Amsacrine;Vestravcil;Bisantrene;Edatraxate;Defofamine;Demecolcine;Diaziquone;Elfornithine;Elliptinium acetate;Epothilone;Etoglucide;Gallium nitrate;Hydroxyurea;Lentinan;Lonidynin;Maytansinoids such as maytansine and ansamitocin;Mitoguazone;Mitoxantrone;Mopidammol;Nitraerin;Pentostatin;Fenamet;Pirarubicin;Losoxantrone;Podophyllic acid;2-Ethylhydrazide;Procarbazine;PSK® polysaccharide complex (JHS Natural Products, Eugene, OR); razoxane; rhizoxin; schizofiran; spirogermanium; tenuazonic acid; triaziquone; 2,2',2''-trichlorotriethylamine; trichothecenes (especially T-2 toxin, veracrine A, roridin A, and anguidine); urethane; vindesine; dacarbazine; mannomustine; mitobronitol; mitolactol; pipobroman; gacytosine; arabinoside ("Ara-C"); cyclophosphamide; thiotepa; taxoids, such as Taxol® paclitaxel (Bristol-Myers Squibb Oncology, Princeton, NJ), Abraxane® cremophor-free, an albumin-engineered nanoparticle formulation of paclitaxel (American Pharmaceutical Partners, Schaumberg, Illinois), and Taxoterer® docetaxel (Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, Antony, France); chlorambucil; Gemzar® gemcitabine; 6-thioguanine; mercaptopurine; methotrexate; platinum analogs such as cisplatin, oxaliplatin, and carboplatin; vinblastine; platinum; etoposide (VP-16); ifosfamide; mitoxantrone; vincristine; Navelbine® vinorelbine; novantrone; teniposide; edatrexate; daunomycin; aminopterin; Xeloda; ibandronate; irinotecan (Camptosar, CPT-11) (Irinotecan including therapeutic regimens of rinotecan with 5-FU and leucovorin); the topoisomerase inhibitor RFS2000; difluoromethylornithine (DMFO); retinoids such as retinoic acid; capecitabine; combretastatin; leucovorin (LV); oxaliplatin, such as the oxaliplatin therapeutic regimen (FOLFOX); inhibitors of PKC-alpha, Raf, H-Ras, EGFR (e.g., erlotinib (Tarceva®)), and VEGF-A that reduce cell proliferation, as well as pharmaceutically acceptable salts, acids, or derivatives of any of the above;
[0243] Further non-limiting exemplary chemotherapeutic agents include antihormonal agents that act to regulate or inhibit hormone action on cancer, such as antiestrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), e.g., tamoxifen (such as Nolvadex® tamoxifen), raloxifene, droloxifene, 4-hydroxytamoxifen, trioxifene, keoxifene, LY117018, onapristone, and Fareston® toremifene; aromatase inhibitors that inhibit the aromatase enzyme, which regulates estrogen production in the adrenal glands, such as 4(5)-imidazole, aminoglutethimide, Megase® megestrol acetate, Aromasin® exemestane, formestane, fadrozole, Rivisor® vorozole, Femara® letrozole, and Arimidex® anastrozole. and antiandrogens such as flutamide, nilutamide, bicalutamide, leuprolide, and goserelin; and troxacitabine (a 1,3-dioxolane nucleoside cytosine analog); antisense oligonucleotides, particularly those that inhibit the expression of genes in signaling pathways involved in abnormal cell growth, such as, for example, PKC-alpha, Ralf, and H-Ras; ribozymes such as VEGF expression inhibitors (e.g., Angiozyme® ribozyme) and HER2 expression inhibitors; vaccines, such as gene therapy vaccines, for example, Allovectin® vaccine, Leuvectin® vaccine, and Vaxid® vaccine; Proleukin® rIL-2; Lurtotecan® topoisomerase 1 inhibitor; Abarelix® rmRH; and pharmaceutically acceptable salts, acids, or derivatives of any of the above.
[0244] "Anti-angiogenic agent" or "angiogenesis inhibitor" refers to a low molecular weight substance, polynucleotide (e.g., inhibitory RNA (RNAi or siRNA)), polypeptide, isolated protein, recombinant protein, antibody, or conjugate or fusion protein thereof that directly or indirectly inhibits angiogenesis, vasculogenesis, or undesirable vascular permeability. It should be understood that anti-angiogenic agents include agents that bind to angiogenic factors or their receptors and block their angiogenic activity. For example, anti-angiogenic agents are antibodies or other antagonists to angiogenic agents, e.g., antibodies to VEGF-A (e.g., bevacizumab (Avastin®) or antibodies to a VEGF-A receptor (e.g., KDR receptor or Flt-1 receptor), anti-PDGFR inhibitors such as Gleevec® (imatinib mesylate), small molecules that block VEGF receptor signaling (e.g., PTK787 / ZK2284, SU6668, Sutent® / SU11248 (sunitinib malate), AMG706, or, for example, those described in International Patent Application No. WO 2004 / 113304). Anti-angiogenic agents also include natural angiogenesis inhibitors, e.g., angiostatin, endostatin, and the like. See, e.g., Klagsbrun and See D'Amore (1991) Annu. Rev. Physiol. 53:217-39; Streit and Detmar (2003) Oncogene 22:3172-3179 (e.g., Table 3 listing antiangiogenic therapies in malignant melanoma); Ferrara & Alitalo (1999) Nature Medicine 5(12):1359-1364; Tonini et al. (2003) Oncogene 22:6549-6556 (e.g., Table 2 listing known antiangiogenic factors); and Sato (2003) Int. J. Clin. Oncol. 8:200-206 (e.g., Table 1 listing antiangiogenic agents used in clinical trials).
[0245] As used herein, a "growth inhibitory agent" refers to a compound or composition that inhibits cell proliferation (e.g., cells expressing VEGF) in vitro or in vivo. Thus, a growth inhibitory agent may significantly reduce the percentage of cells in S phase (e.g., cells expressing VEGF). Examples of growth inhibitory agents include, but are not limited to, agents that block cell cycle progression (at a location other than S phase), such as agents that induce G1 arrest and M-phase arrest. Classical M-phase blockers include vincas (vincristine and vinblastine), taxanes, and topoisomerase II inhibitors such as doxorubicin, epirubicin, daunorubicin, etoposide, and bleomycin. Agents that arrest G1, e.g., DNA alkylating agents such as tamoxifen, prednisone, dacarbazine, mechlorethamine, cisplatin, methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, and ara-C, also extend to S-phase arrest. Further information can be found in Mendelsohn and Israel, eds., The Molecular Basis of Cancer, Chapter 1, entitled "Cell cycle regulation, oncogenes, and antitineoplastic drugs," Murakami et al. (WB Saunders, Philadelphia, 1995), e.g., p. 13. Taxanes (paclitaxel and docetaxel) are anticancer drugs that are both derived from the yew tree. Docetaxel (Taxotere®, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer), derived from the European yew tree, is a semisynthetic analog of paclitaxel (Taxol®, Bristol-Myers Squibb). Paclitaxel and docetaxel promote the assembly of microtubules from tubulin dimers and stabilize microtubules by preventing depolymerization, resulting in the inhibition of mitosis in cells.
[0246] The term "anti-tumor composition" refers to a composition useful for treating cancer that contains at least one active therapeutic agent. Examples of therapeutic agents include, but are not limited to, chemotherapeutic agents, growth inhibitors, cytotoxic agents, agents used in radiation therapy, anti-angiogenic agents, cancer immunotherapeutics other than PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitors, apoptotic agents, anti-tubulin agents, as well as anti-HER-2 antibodies, anti-CD20 antibodies, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antagonists (e.g., tyrosine kinase inhibitors), HER1 / EGFR inhibitors (e.g., erlotinib (Tarceva®)), platelet-derived growth factor inhibitors (e.g., Gleevec® (imatinib mesylate)), COX-2 inhibitors (e.g., celecoxib), and steroids. and other agents for treating cancer, such as terferon, CTLA-4 inhibitors (e.g., the anti-CTLA antibody ipilimumab (YERVOY®)), PD-L2 inhibitors (e.g., anti-PD-L2 antibodies), TIM3 inhibitors (e.g., anti-TIM3 antibodies), cytokines, antagonists (e.g., neutralizing antibodies) that bind to one or more of the following targets: ErbB2, ErbB3, ErbB4, PDGFR-beta, BlyS, APRIL, BCMA, PD-L2, CTLA-4, TIM3, or VEGF receptors, TRAIL / Apo2, and other bioactive and organic chemical agents. Combinations thereof are also encompassed by the present invention.
[0247] Specific Embodiments Certain specific embodiments of the present disclosure include:
[0248] 1. A method for treating cancer in a subject, comprising administering to the subject a fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) inhibitor and at least one immunostimulatory agent, for example, at least one programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) / programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor.
[0249] 2. The method of embodiment 1, wherein at least one immunostimulatory agent is a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, and the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is an antibody.
[0250] 3. The method of embodiment 2, wherein the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is an anti-PD-1 antibody.
[0251] 4. The method of embodiment 3, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises the heavy and light chain CDRs of an antibody selected from nivolumab, pidilizumab, and pembrolizumab.
[0252] 5. The method of embodiment 4, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody comprises heavy and light chain variable regions of an antibody selected from nivolumab, pidilizumab, and pembrolizumab.
[0253] 6. The method of embodiment 5, wherein the anti-PD-1 antibody is selected from nivolumab, pidilizumab, and pembrolizumab.
[0254] 7. The method of embodiment 2, wherein the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is an anti-PD-L1 antibody.
[0255] 8. The method of embodiment 7, wherein the anti-PD-L1 antibody comprises the heavy chain and light chain CDRs of an antibody selected from BMS-936559, MPDL3280A, MEDI4736, and MSB0010718C.
[0256] 9. The method of embodiment 8, wherein the anti-PD-L1 antibody comprises the heavy and light chain variable regions of an antibody selected from BMS-936559, MPDL3280A, MEDI4736, and MSB0010718C.
[0257] 10. The method of embodiment 9, wherein the anti-PD-L1 antibody is selected from BMS-936559, MPDL3280A, MEDI4736, and MSB0010718C.
[0258] 11. The method of embodiment 1, wherein at least one immunostimulatory agent is a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, and the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is a PD-1 fusion molecule.
[0259] 12. The method of embodiment 11, wherein the fusion molecule is AMP-224.
[0260] 13. The method of embodiment 1, wherein at least one immunostimulatory agent is a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, and the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is a PD-1 polypeptide, such as AUR-012.
[0261] 14. The method of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor is an FGFR2 antibody.
[0262] 15. The method of embodiment 14, wherein the FGFR2 antibody is an FGFR2-IIIb antibody.
[0263] 16. The FGFR2-IIIb antibody has one or more of the following properties: a. binds to FGFR2-IIIb with higher affinity than to FGFR2-IIIc, or does not detectably bind to FGFR2-IIIc; b.Inhibits the binding of FGF2 to human FGFR2; c.Inhibits the binding of FGF7 to human FGFR2; d. inhibiting human tumor growth in mouse tumor models; e. Induce ADCC activity; f. has enhanced ADCC activity; g. nonfucosylated; and h. The method of embodiment 15, which is capable of increasing the number of one or more of PD-L1 positive cells, NK cells, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and macrophages in tumor tissue in a mouse tumor model compared to a control.
[0264] 17. The FGFR2 antibody comprises a heavy chain and a light chain variable region; The heavy chain variable region is (i) HVR-H1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 6; (ii) HVR-H2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 7; and (iii) HVR-H3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 8; Including, The light chain variable region is (iv) HVR-L1 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 9; (v) HVR-L2 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 10; and (vi) HVR-L3 comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 11 17. The method of embodiment 15 or embodiment 16, comprising:
[0265] 18. The method of embodiment 17, wherein the heavy chain variable domain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises an amino acid sequence that is at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:4.
[0266] 19. The method of embodiment 17 or 18, wherein the light chain variable domain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises an amino acid sequence that is at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:5.
[0267] 20. The method of any one of embodiments 17 to 19, wherein the heavy chain variable region of the FGFR2 antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:4.
[0268] 21. The method of any one of embodiments 17 to 20, wherein the light chain variable region of the FGFR2 antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:5.
[0269] 22. The method of embodiment 17, wherein the heavy chain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises an amino acid sequence that is at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:2.
[0270] 23. The method of embodiment 17 or 22, wherein the light chain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises an amino acid sequence that is at least 95% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3.
[0271] 24. The method of any one of embodiments 17, 22 or 23, wherein the heavy chain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:2.
[0272] 25. The method of any one of embodiments 17 or 22-24, wherein the light chain of the FGFR2 antibody comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 3.
[0273] 26. The method of any one of embodiments 15 to 25, wherein the FGFR2 antibody is chimeric, humanized, or human.
[0274] 27. The method of any one of embodiments 15 to 26, wherein the FGFR2 antibody is selected from Fab, Fv, scFv, Fab', and (Fab')2.
[0275] 28. The FGFR2 antibody has one or more of the following properties: a. lacking fucose at position Asn297; b. Contains the kappa light chain constant region; c. Contains IgG1 heavy chain constant region; d. has enhanced ADCC activity in vitro compared to an antibody having the same amino acid sequence that is fucosylated at position Asn297; e. has enhanced affinity for Fc gamma RIIIA compared to an antibody having the same amino acid sequence that is fucosylated at position Asn297; and f. The method of any one of embodiments 17 to 27, which is capable of increasing the number of one or more of PD-L1 positive cells, NK cells, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and macrophages in tumor tissue in a mouse tumor model compared to a control.
[0276] 29. The method of any one of embodiments 1-13, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor is an FGFR2 extracellular domain (ECD) or an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule.
[0277] 30. The method of embodiment 29, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor is an FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule comprising an FGFR2 ECD and at least one fusion partner selected from an Fc domain, albumin, and polyethylene glycol.
[0278] 31. The method of embodiment 30, wherein the FGFR2 ECD or FGFR2 ECD fusion molecule comprises the amino acid sequence of any one of SEQ ID NOs: 13-33 or 29-33.
[0279] 32. The method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 31, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor and the immunostimulant are administered simultaneously or sequentially.
[0280] 33. The method of embodiment 32, wherein one or more doses of an immune stimulant are administered prior to administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor.
[0281] 34. The method of embodiment 33, wherein the subject has undergone a complete course of immune stimulant therapy prior to administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor.
[0282] 35. The method of embodiment 34, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor is administered during a second course of immune stimulant therapy.
[0283] 36. The method of any one of embodiments 33-35, wherein the subject has received at least one, at least two, at least three, or at least four doses of at least one immune stimulant prior to administration of the FGFR2 inhibitor.
[0284] 37. The method of any one of embodiments 33-36, wherein at least one dose of the at least one immunostimulant is administered simultaneously with the FGFR2 inhibitor.
[0285] 38. The method of embodiment 32, wherein one or more doses of the FGFR2 inhibitor are administered before administration of the immune stimulant.
[0286] 39. The method of embodiment 38, wherein the subject has received at least two, at least three, at least three, or at least four doses of an FGFR2 inhibitor prior to administration of the at least one immune stimulant.
[0287] 40. The method of embodiment 38 or embodiment 39, wherein at least one dose of the FGFR2 inhibitor is administered simultaneously with the immune stimulant.
[0288] 41. The method of any one of embodiments 1-40, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor is administered at a dose of at least 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 mg / kg, or a range bracketed by any two of mg / kg doses, such as 6-10 mg / kg, 10-15 mg / kg, or 6-15 mg / kg.
[0289] 42. The method of any one of embodiments 32-41, wherein at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor.
[0290] 43. The method of embodiment 42, wherein the PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor is administered at a dose of at least 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 mg / kg.
[0291] 44. The method of any one of embodiments 1-43, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor and the immune stimulant are administered once every 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 weeks.
[0292] 45. The method of any one of embodiments 1-44, wherein the cancer is selected from breast cancer, gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, esophageal cancer, and endometrial cancer.
[0293] 46. The method of any one of embodiments 1-45, wherein the cancer is recurrent or progressive after treatment selected from surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination thereof.
[0294] 47. A method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 46, wherein (a) the cancer is predetermined to overexpress FGFR2IIIb, either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 gene amplification, or (b) the method comprises a further step of determining whether the cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb, and optionally also a further step of determining whether the FGFR2 gene is amplified in the tumor cells.
[0295] 48. The method of embodiment 47, wherein FGFR2IIIb overexpression is determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).
[0296] 49. The method of embodiment 48, wherein overexpression is determined by an IHC signal of 1+, 2+, or 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells, such as at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of tumor cells.
[0297] 50. The method of any one of embodiments 47 to 49, wherein FGFR2 gene amplification is determined by obtaining the ratio of FGFR2 to chromosome 10 centromere (CEN10) using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and if the FGFR2 / CEN10 ratio determined by FISH is 2 or greater, the FGFR2 gene is considered to be amplified.
[0298] 51. The method of any one of embodiments 47-50, wherein the cancer is gastric cancer or bladder cancer.
[0299] 52.a) the cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; b) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is amplified; c) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is not amplified; d) the cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; e) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; f) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; g) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 20 or greater; h) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 10 to 19; or The method of any one of embodiments 48 to 50, wherein i) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of <10.
[0300] 53. The method of any one of embodiments 1-52, wherein the subject is an inadequate responder to a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor.
[0301] 54. The method of any one of embodiments 1 to 53, wherein administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor and a PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor in a mouse tumor model of cancer results in either additive or synergistic inhibition of tumor growth.
[0302] 55. The method of embodiment 54, wherein the cancer is breast cancer and the mouse tumor model comprises 4T1 cells.
[0303] 56. The method of any one of embodiments 1 to 55, wherein administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor in a mouse tumor model increases the number of NK cells in the tumor tissue compared to a control.
[0304] 57. The method of any one of embodiments 1 to 56, wherein administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor in a mouse tumor model increases the number of PD-L1 positive cells in the tumor tissue compared to a control.
[0305] 58. The method of any one of embodiments 1 to 57, wherein administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor in a mouse tumor model increases the number of CD3+, CD8+, and / or CD4+ T cells in the tumor tissue compared to a control.
[0306] 59. The method of any one of embodiments 1-58, wherein administration of an FGFR2 inhibitor in a mouse tumor model increases the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in the tumor tissue compared to a control.
[0307] 60. A composition comprising an FGFR2 inhibitor according to any one of embodiments 14 to 31 and at least one immunostimulant, such as at least one PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, according to any one of embodiments 2 to 13.
[0308] 61. The composition of embodiment 60, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor and at least one immunostimulant are contained in separate containers or compartments.
[0309] 62. The composition of embodiment 60 or 61, further comprising instructions for use in treating cancer.
[0310] 63. A composition according to any one of embodiments 60 to 62, for use in cancer treatment.
[0311] 64. The composition of embodiment 63, wherein the cancer is selected from breast cancer, gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, esophageal cancer, and endometrial cancer.
[0312] 65. The composition of any one of embodiments 63-64, wherein the cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 gene amplification.
[0313] 66. The composition of embodiment 65, wherein FGFR2IIIb overexpression is determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).
[0314] 67. The composition of embodiment 66, wherein overexpression is determined by an IHC signal of 1+, 2+, or 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells, for example, in at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of tumor cells.
[0315] 68. The composition of any one of embodiments 63 to 67, wherein the cancer has a FGFR2 / CEN10 ratio, determined by FISH, of 2 or greater.
[0316] 69. The composition of any one of embodiments 63-68, wherein the cancer is gastric cancer or bladder cancer.
[0317] 70. a) the cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; b) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is amplified; c) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is not amplified; d) the cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; e) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; f) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; g) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 20 or greater; h) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 10 to 19; or The composition of any one of embodiments 63 to 69, wherein i) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of <10.
[0318] 71. A method for increasing the number of NK cells and / or PD-L1-positive cells in tumor tissue of a subject having cancer, comprising administering an effective amount of an FGFR2 inhibitor to the subject.
[0319] 72. The method according to embodiment 71, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor is an inhibitor according to any one of embodiments 14 to 31.
[0320] 73. The method of embodiment 71 or 72, wherein the method inhibits tumor growth or reduces at least one tumor volume in the subject.
[0321] 74. The method of embodiment 73, wherein the cancer is selected from breast cancer, gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, esophageal cancer, and endometrial cancer.
[0322] 75. A method according to any one of embodiments 71 to 74, wherein (a) the cancer is predetermined to overexpress FGFR2IIIb, either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 gene amplification, or (b) the method comprises a further step of determining whether the cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb, and optionally also a further step of determining whether the FGFR2 gene is amplified in the tumor cells.
[0323] 76. The method of embodiment 75, wherein FGFR2IIIb overexpression is determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).
[0324] 77. The method of embodiment 76, wherein overexpression is determined by an IHC signal of 1+, 2+, or 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells, for example, in at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of tumor cells.
[0325] 78. The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 77, wherein FGFR2 gene amplification is determined by the ratio of FGFR2 to chromosome 10 centromere (CEN10) using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and if the FGFR2 / CEN10 ratio determined by FISH is 2 or greater, the FGFR2 gene is considered to be amplified.
[0326] 79. The method of any one of embodiments 75-78, wherein the cancer is gastric cancer or bladder cancer.
[0327] 80. a) the cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; b) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is amplified; c) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is not amplified; d) the cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; e) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; f) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; g) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 20 or greater; h) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 10 to 19; or The method of any one of embodiments 75 to 79, wherein i) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of <10.
[0328] 81. The method of any one of embodiments 71 to 80, wherein the method further comprises, after administration of the FGFR2 antibody, obtaining at least one tumor sample from the subject and determining the number of NK cells and / or PD-L1-positive cells and / or CD8+ T cells in the sample, and administering to the subject at least one immune stimulant, such as at least one PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor, if the number of NK cells and / or PD-L1-positive cells and / or CD8+ T cells is increased relative to the sample before administration of the FGFR2 antibody.
[0329] 82. A method for treating cancer in a subject, comprising administering to the subject an FGFR2 inhibitor, and if the subject is determined to have an increased number of NK cells and / or PD-L1 positive cells and / or CD8+ T cells relative to a sample before administration of the FGFR2 antibody, administering to the subject at least one immune stimulant, such as at least one PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor.
[0330] 83. The method according to embodiment 82, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor is an inhibitor according to any one of embodiments 14 to 31.
[0331] 84. The method of embodiment 82 or 83, wherein the at least one immunostimulatory agent comprises at least one PD-1 / PD-L1 inhibitor described in any one of embodiments 2 to 13.
[0332] 85. The method according to any one of embodiments 82 to 84, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor and at least one immunostimulant are administered according to the method according to embodiment 38 or 39.
[0333] 86. A method for increasing the number of one or more of PD-L1-positive cells, NK cells, CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and macrophages in tumor tissue of a cancer subject, comprising administering an FGFR2 inhibitor that is an FGFR2 antibody with enhanced ADCC activity.
[0334] 87. The method of embodiment 86, wherein the antibody is an antibody according to any one of embodiments 15 to 28.
[0335] 88. The method of embodiment 86 or 87, wherein administration of the FGFR2 antibody in a mouse tumor model increases the number of one or more of PD-L1-positive cells, NK cells, CD3+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, and macrophages in tumor tissue, and / or increases the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells in tumor tissue, compared to a control.
[0336] 89. The method of any one of embodiments 86-88, wherein the subject is suffering from breast cancer, gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer, bile duct cancer, esophageal cancer, or endometrial cancer.
[0337] 90. A method according to any one of embodiments 86 to 89, wherein (a) the cancer is predetermined to overexpress FGFR2IIIb, either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 gene amplification, or (b) the method comprises a further step of determining whether the cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb, and optionally also a further step of determining whether the FGFR2 gene is amplified in the tumor cells.
[0338] 91. The method of embodiment 90, wherein FGFR2IIIb overexpression is determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).
[0339] 92. The method of embodiment 91, wherein overexpression is determined by an IHC signal of 1+, 2+, or 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells, for example, in at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of tumor cells.
[0340] 93. The method of any one of embodiments 90-92, wherein FGFR2 gene amplification is determined by the ratio of FGFR2 to chromosome 10 centromere (CEN10) using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and if the FGFR2 / CEN10 ratio determined by FISH is 2 or greater, the FGFR2 gene is considered to be amplified.
[0341] 94. The method of any one of embodiments 89-93, wherein the subject is suffering from gastric cancer or bladder cancer.
[0342] 95.a) The cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells; b) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is amplified; c) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is not amplified; d) the cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; e) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; f) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; g) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 20 or greater; h) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 10 to 19; or The method of any one of embodiments 90 to 94, wherein i) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of <10.
[0343] 96. The method of any one of embodiments 86-95, wherein the FGFR2 antibody is administered weekly, every two weeks, every three weeks, or monthly at a dose of at least 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 mg / kg, or a range bracketed by any two of the mg / kg doses, such as 6-10 mg / kg, 10-15 mg / kg, or 6-15 mg / kg.
[0344] 97. A method for determining whether a patient with gastric cancer or bladder cancer will respond to treatment with an FGFR2 inhibitor, comprising: determining whether the gastric cancer or bladder cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb by IHC; The method, wherein overexpression is determined by an IHC signal of 1+, 2+, or 3+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells of the cancer, for example, at least 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% of the tumor cells.
[0345] 98. Further comprising determining whether the FGFR2 gene is amplified by obtaining a ratio of FGFR2 to chromosome 10 centromere (CEN10) using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH); 98. The method of embodiment 97, wherein the FGFR2 gene is considered to be amplified if the FGFR2 / CEN10 ratio determined by FISH is 2 or greater.
[0346] 99. a) The cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; b) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is amplified; c) the cancer is gastric cancer, the cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is not amplified; d) the cancer is gastric cancer, and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; e) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 1+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; f) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an IHC signal of 2+ in at least 10% of the tumor cells; g) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 20 or greater; h) the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of 10 to 19; or i) if the cancer is bladder cancer and the cancer has an H-score of <10; The method of embodiment 97 or 98, wherein the patient is determined to be responsive to FGFR2IIIb antibody treatment.
[0347] 100. The method according to any one of embodiments 97 to 99, wherein the FGFR2 inhibitor is an inhibitor according to any one of embodiments 14 to 31.
[0348] 101. The method of any one of embodiments 97-100, wherein the treatment comprises administering an FGFR2 inhibitor at a dose of at least 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 mg / kg, or in a range bracketed by any two of the mg / kg doses, such as 6-10 mg / kg, 10-15 mg / kg, or 6-15 mg / kg.
[0349] 102. The method of any one of embodiments 97-101, wherein the treatment comprises performing the method of embodiment 71, 82, or 86.
[0350] 103. The method of any one of embodiments 97-101, wherein the treatment further comprises administering at least one immunostimulant to the subject.
[0351] 104. The method of embodiment 103, wherein the at least one immunostimulant comprises an immunostimulant according to any one of embodiments 2 to 13.
[0352] The method of embodiment 103, wherein the treatment comprises administering an FGFR2 inhibitor and at least one immunostimulant according to the method of any one of embodiments 32 to 44, or wherein the treatment comprises administering a composition of any one of embodiments 60 to 62. [Example]
[0353] The examples described below are purely for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the present invention in any way. These examples do not represent that the experiments described below are all or the only experiments performed. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers used (e.g., amounts, temperatures, etc.), but some experimental error and deviation should be accounted for. Unless otherwise indicated, parts are parts by weight, molecular weight is weight average molecular weight, temperature is in degrees Celsius, and pressure is at or near atmospheric pressure.
[0354] Example 1: ADCC activity is required for tumor growth inhibition in the 4T1 mouse breast tumor model Seventy 8-week-old female BALB / c mice (IACUC category: AUP 2011 #01-03) were purchased from Charles River Laboratories (Wilmington, MA, USA). Animals were allowed to acclimate for at least 3 days upon arrival and were housed five animals per cage with free access to food and water. Once acclimated, animals were weighed and shaved prior to tumor cell implantation.
[0355] The BALB / cfC3H-derived breast tumor line 4T1 was used as a tumor model and was obtained from the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC, Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. CRL-2539). Cells were cultured at 37°C in RPMI 1640 medium (Mediatech, Inc., Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. 10-041-CV) containing 10% fetal bovine serum, 2 mM L-glutamine, and 1% penicillin / streptomycin.
[0356] Each mouse was inoculated with 5 x 10 4T1 cells by orthotopic injection under the fourth mammary nipple (nipple). Subsequently, the tumor volume and body weight of the mice were monitored periodically until the tumor volume measured 100 mm 3 + / - 25 mm 3 . Once the tumor reached 100 mm 3 + / - 25 mm 3 , the mice were divided into four treatment groups according to tumor size. Group 1 received 20 mg / kg of Fc-G1 antibody (intraperitoneally (IP), once every two weeks (BIW)), Group 2 received 20 mg / kg of a non-fucosylated FGFR2 antibody having heavy and light chain HVRs of SEQ ID NOs: 6-11 (anti-FGFR2) (IP, BIW), and Group 3 received 20 mg / kg of an FGFR2 antibody with the N297Q mutation (anti-FGFR2-N297Q) that prevents this molecule from stimulating ADCC activity (IP, BIW).
[0357] Overall, treatment with anti-FGFR2 resulted in approximately 30% inhibition of tumor growth compared to the FcG1 control (P<0.001), whereas treatment with anti-FGFR2-N297Q did not inhibit tumor growth compared to the control (see Figures 1a-b). These data support the role of ADCC as a mechanism of anti-FGFR2 tumor growth inhibition.
[0358] Example 2a: Exposure to anti-FGFR2 antibodies leads to an increase in NK cells and PD-L1-expressing cells in tumor tissue For immunohistochemistry analysis, BALB / cfC3H mice were inoculated with 5 × 10 4T1 cells by orthotopic injection as described above. When tumors reached 100 mm3 + / - 25 mm3 (day 0), mice were divided into two treatment groups according to tumor size: vehicle or 10 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 (IP). Each group was subdivided into mice that received either (a) one or two doses on day 0 or (b) one or two doses on day 3. Mice were euthanized 24 hours after treatment on days 1 or 4, respectively, and processed for histology or FACS analysis.
[0359] For histology, on days 1 and 4, 24 hours after the first and second treatments, mice were euthanized with CO2 and then perfused with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), pH 7.4. Briefly, the mouse's chest was rapidly opened, and 40 mL of PBS was injected into the aorta through the left ventricular incision using a syringe with a 20-gauge needle. Blood and PBS were then expelled through the right atrium opening. 4T1 orthotopic tumors were removed and immersed in 10% neutral-buffered formalin at 4°C. After 2 hours, the tissues were rinsed three times with PBS and then transferred to 30% sucrose in PBS overnight. The following day, tumors were frozen in OCT compound and stored at -80°C.
[0360] Serial sections of 20 μm thickness were cut from each tumor. Sections were dried on Superfrost Plus slides (VWR) for 1–2 hours. Sections were permeabilized with 0.3% Triton X-100 in PBS and incubated with 5% normal goat serum in PBS 0.3% Triton X-100 (blocking solution) at room temperature for 1 hour to block nonspecific antibody binding. After 1 hour, the blocking solution was removed, and sections were incubated overnight in primary antibody. To detect NK cells, sections were incubated with rat anti-NKp46 (CD335; Biolegend, cat#137602) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. To detect PD-L1, sections were incubated with rat anti-PD-L1 (eBioscience, cat#14-5982-82) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. NK cell and PD-L1 staining was performed on serial sections because both primary antibodies were produced in rats. Negative control sections only had secondary antibodies incubated in 5% normal serum rather than primary antibodies.
[0361] The next day, the specimens were rinsed with PBS containing 0.3% Triton X-100 and then incubated with Alexa Fluor 594-conjugated goat anti-rat (Jackson Immuno Research, cat#112-585-167) and Alexa Fluor 488-conjugated goat anti-rabbit (Jackson Immuno Research, cat#111-545-144) secondary antibodies diluted 1:400 in PBS for 4 hours at room temperature. After rinsing with PBS containing 0.3% Triton X-100, the specimens were fixed in 1% paraformaldehyde (PFA), rinsed again with PBS, and mounted with Vectashield (Vector, H-1200) containing DAPI. DAPI was used to label cell nuclei.
[0362] Specimens were examined under a Zeiss Axiophot® 2+ fluorescence microscope equipped with an AxioCam® HRc camera. Representative images per experimental group showing the quantity and distribution of NKp46+ and PD-L1+ cells within the tumor were collected and are shown in Figures 2a–2d.
[0363] In 4T1 tumors from vehicle-injected mice, we detected minimally scattered NKp46+ NK cells, with most of these cells located at the tumor periphery (Figure 2a). In comparison, after one day of treatment with anti-FGFR2 at 10 mg / kg, NKp46+ NK cells were more numerous. Most of these cells were found at the tumor edge, but some infiltrated the tumor center (see Figure 2a). Similar results were observed 4 days after a second dose of anti-FGFR2 (Figure 2b).
[0364] PD-L1 staining revealed that in 4T1 tumors treated with vehicle for 1 day, PD-L1 immunoreactivity was only present in a small number of cells within the tumor (Figure 2c). In contrast, 24 hours after one dose of anti-FGFR2, PD-L1-positive cells were more numerous within the tumor center (Figure 2c). Similar results were observed 4 days after treatment initiation (Figure 2d).
[0365] As an orthogonal assay to quantify the increase in NK cells, FACS was performed on 4T1 tumor-bearing mice that received two doses of saline or 10 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 as previously described. For FACS analysis, tumors were cut into 1-2 mm pieces and placed in DMEM with 10% FBS, 50 U / mL DNAse I, and 250 U / mL collagenase I (Worthington Biochemical Corporation, Lakewood, NJ) in a shaking incubator for 30 minutes at 37°C. Cells were passed through a 70 μm nylon mesh strainer, and single-cell suspensions were stained according to standard protocols with antibodies purchased from BD Biosciences (San Jose, CA): CD45 (clone 30-F11) and CD11b (1D3); Affymetrix eBioscience (San Diego, CA): CD16 / 32 (FC receptor blocker, 93), CD335 (NKp46, 29A1.4), CD8a (53.67), and CD3e (145-2C11); R&D Systems (Minneapolis, MN): EphA2 (233720); or ThermoFisher Scientific (Grand Island, NY): Live / Dead Aqua. Cells were fixed and acquired the following day on a BD LSRII. Results were analyzed using FlowJo (V10, Ashland, OR) to isolate live lymphocytes using the following gating strategy: CD45+EphA2-, singlets (FSC-H vs. FSC-A), live cells (live / dead negative), and CD11b-. NK cells were gated as NKp46+CD3- and expressed as a percentage of live CD45+ singlets.
[0366] As shown in Figure 3, tumors treated with anti-FGFR2 showed an increase in NK cells compared to tumors treated with the saline control.
[0367] Example 2b: Exposure to anti-FGFR2 antibodies and non-anti-FGFR2 N297Q results in an increase in NK cells, T cells, and PD-L1 expressing cells in tumor tissue As in Example 1 above, BALB / cfC3H mice were inoculated with 5 × 10 4T1 cells by orthotopic injection. When tumors reached 100 mm + / - 25 mm (day 0), mice were divided into three treatment groups according to tumor size: vehicle (control group), 10 mg / kg nonfucosylated anti-FGFR2 antibody (IP) (anti-FGFR2 group), and 10 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 N297Q antibody (anti-FGFR2 N297Q group). The N297Q modification is a mutation in the Fc domain of an antibody intended to eliminate the effector function of the antibody.
[0368] Each group was subdivided into mice that received either (a) one or two doses on day 0 or (b) one or two doses on day 3, and the mice were euthanized 24 hours after dosing on days 1 or 4, respectively, and processed for histology or FACS analysis.
[0369] For histology, on days 1 and 4, 24 hours after the first and second treatments, respectively, mice were euthanized with CO2 and then perfused with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), pH 7.4. Briefly, the mouse's chest was rapidly opened, and 40 mL of PBS was injected into the aorta through the left ventricular incision using a syringe with a 20-gauge needle. Blood and PBS were then expelled through the right atrium opening. 4T1 orthotopic tumors were removed and immersed in 10% neutral-buffered formalin at 4°C. After 2 hours, the tissues were rinsed three times with PBS and then transferred to 30% sucrose in PBS overnight. The following day, tumors were frozen in OCT compound and stored at -80°C.
[0370] Serial sections of 20 μm thickness were cut from each tumor. Sections were dried on Superfrost Plus slides (VWR) for 1–2 hours. Sections were permeabilized with 0.3% Triton X-100 in PBS and incubated with 5% normal goat serum in PBS 0.3% Triton X-100 (blocking solution) at room temperature for 1 hour to block nonspecific antibody binding. After 1 hour, the blocking solution was removed, and sections were incubated overnight in primary antibody. To detect NK cells, sections were incubated with rat anti-NKp46 (CD335; Biolegend, cat#137602) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. To detect PD-L1, sections were incubated with rat anti-PD-L1 (eBioscience, cat#14-5982-82) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. To detect CD3+ T cells, sections were incubated with hamster anti-CD3 antibody (BD Biosciences, cat#553058) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. To detect CD4+ T cells, sections were incubated with rat anti-CD4 antibody (AbD Serotec, cat#MCA4635) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. To detect CD8+ T cells, sections were incubated with rat anti-CD8 antibody (Abcam, cat#ab22378) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. NK cell and PD-L1 staining was performed on consecutive sections because both primary antibodies were produced in rats. CD3- and CD4-positive cells were stained together on the same section. CD3 and CD8 staining was also performed on the same section. Negative control sections were incubated with secondary antibody alone in 5% normal serum rather than the primary antibody.
[0371] The next day, the specimens were rinsed with PBS containing 0.3% Triton X-100 and then incubated with Alexa Fluor 594-conjugated goat anti-rat (Jackson Immuno Research, cat#112-585-167) and Alexa Fluor 488-conjugated goat anti-hamster (Jackson Immuno Research, cat#127-545-160) secondary antibodies diluted 1:400 in PBS for 4 hours at room temperature. After rinsing with PBS containing 0.3% Triton X-100, the specimens were fixed in 1% paraformaldehyde (PFA), rinsed again with PBS, and mounted with Vectashield (Vector, H-1200) containing DAPI. DAPI was used to label cell nuclei.
[0372] Specimens were examined under a Zeiss Axiophot® 2+ fluorescence microscope equipped with an AxioCam® HRc camera. Representative images per experimental group showing the quantity and distribution of NKp46+ and PD-L1+ cells within the tumor were collected and are shown in Figures 5a-5b.
[0373] In 4T1 tumors derived from mice injected with vehicle or anti-FGFR2 N297Q, minimally scattered NKp46+ NK cells were detected 1 day after treatment, with most of these cells located at the tumor periphery (Figure 5a). In comparison, after 1 day of treatment with anti-FGFR2 at 10 mg / kg, NKp46+ NK cells were more numerous. Most of these cells were found at the tumor edge, although some infiltrated the tumor center (see Figure 5a). Similar results were observed 4 days after a second dose of anti-FGFR2 (Figure 5b).
[0374] PD-L1 staining revealed that in 4T1 tumors treated with vehicle or anti-FGFR2 N297Q for 1 day, PD-L1 immunoreactivity was only present in a small number of cells within the tumor (Figure 5a). In contrast, 24 hours after one dose of anti-FGFR2, PD-L1-positive cells were more numerous within the tumor center. Similar results were observed 4 days after treatment initiation (Figure 5b).
[0375] CD3, CD8, and CD4 staining revealed that T cell infiltration remained confined to the tumor periphery in tumors treated with vehicle or anti-FGFR2 N297Q for 1 or 4 days, whereas on day 4, anti-FGFR2-treated tumors resulted in infiltration of CD3-, CD8-, and CD4-positive T cells within the tumor center (Figures 6a-6b).
[0376] As an orthogonal assay to quantify the increase in NK cells, FACS was performed on 4T1 tumor-bearing mice that received two doses of saline or 10 mg / kg of anti-FGFR2 or anti-FGFR2 N297Q as previously described. For FACS analysis, tumors were cut into 1-2 mm pieces and placed in DMEM with 10% FBS, 50 U / mL DNAse I, and 250 U / mL collagenase I (Worthington Biochemical Corporation, Lakewood, NJ) in a shaking incubator for 30 minutes at 37°C. Cells were passed through a 70 μm nylon mesh strainer, and single-cell suspensions were stained according to standard protocols with antibodies purchased from BD Biosciences (San Jose, CA): CD45 (clone 30-F11), CD4 (GK1.5), and CD11b (1D3); Affymetrix eBioscience (San Diego, CA): CD16 / 32 (FC receptor blocker, 93), CD335 (NKp46, 29A1.4), CD8a (53.67), and CD3e (145-2C11); R&D Systems (Minneapolis, MN): EphA2 (233720); or ThermoFisher Scientific (Grand Island, NY): Live / Dead Aqua. Cells were fixed and acquired the following day on a BD LSRII. Results were analyzed using FlowJo (V10, Ashland, OR) to isolate live lymphocytes using the following gating strategy: CD45+EphA2-, singlets (FSC-H vs. FSC-A), live cells (live / dead negative), and CD11b-. NK cells were gated as NKp46+CD3-. CD4 and CD8 T cells were gated on CD3+ cells, and each subset was expressed as a percentage of live CD45+ singlets.
[0377] As shown in Figure 10a, tumors treated with anti-FGFR2 showed an increase in NK cells compared to tumors treated with saline control or anti-FGFR2 N297Q. In addition, CD3, CD8, and CD4 T cells were elevated 24 hours after the second dose (Figures 7-9), and the ratio of lymphoid to myeloid cells preferentially increased with anti-FGFR2 treatment compared to vehicle or anti-FGFR2 N297Q (Figures 10b-c).
[0378] Example 2c: Exposure to anti-FGFR2 and non-anti-FGFR2 N297Q antibodies increases F480+ macrophages in tumor tissue To detect macrophages in 4T1 tumors, sections were incubated with rat anti-F480 antibody (Bio-Rad AbD Serotec Inc, cat# MCA497R) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. NK cell, PD-L1, and F480 staining were performed on serial sections because all these primary antibodies were produced in rats.
[0379] In 4T1 tumors from mice treated with the control, abundant F480+ macrophages were detected throughout the tumor (Figure 11, upper panel). In comparison, after 4 days of treatment with 10 mg / kg of anti-FGFR2, the number of F480+ cells detected in the tumor increased (Figure 11, middle panel). This effect was not seen in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice treated with 10 mg / kg of anti-FGFR2 antibody for 1 day or with anti-FGFR2-N297Q mutant antibody for 1 or 4 days (Figure 11, lower panel).
[0380] Example 3: Combination of FGFR2 and PD-1 antibodies in a breast 4T1 syngeneic tumor model In this example, the antitumor efficacy of a combination of a nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibody (anti-FGFR2) and an anti-PD-1 antibody (Bio X Cell, West Lebanon, NH, USA, clone RMP1-14) was evaluated in the 4T1 syngeneic murine model of breast cancer in immunocompetent mice. The 4T1 model shows modest overexpression of FGFR2-IIIb but no FGFR2 amplification.
[0381] Seventy 8-week-old female BALB / c mice were purchased from Charles River Laboratories (Wilmington, MA, USA). Animals were acclimated for at least 3 days upon arrival and housed five animals per cage with free access to food and water. Once acclimated, animals were weighed and shaved prior to tumor cell implantation.
[0382] The BALB / cfC3H-derived breast tumor line 4T1 was used as a tumor model and was obtained from the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC, Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. CRL-2539). Cells were cultured at 37°C in RPMI 1640 medium (Mediatech, Inc., Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. 10-041-CV) containing 10% fetal bovine serum, 2 mM L-glutamine, and 1% penicillin / streptomycin.
[0383] Each mouse was inoculated with 5 × 10 4T1 cells by orthotopic injection under the fourth mammary nipple (nipple). Subsequently, mouse tumor volume and body weight were monitored regularly until the tumor volume measured 150 mm3 + / - 25 mm3. Once the tumor reached 150 mm3 + / - 25 mm3, the mice were divided into four treatment groups according to tumor size. Group 1 received 10 mg / kg Ig-FC control (intraperitoneally (IP), once every two weeks (BIW)), Group 2 received 5 mg / kg anti-PD-1 antibody (IP, days 0, 3, and 7), Group 3 received 10 mg / kg FGFR2 antibody (IP, BIW), and Group 4 received 5 and 10 mg / kg anti-PD-1 and FGFR2 antibody combinations, respectively.
[0384] Tumor volumes were measured on day 12 (day 0 of administration), day 15, and day 18 after implantation. Figures 4a and 4b show that by day 18, the FGFR2 antibody significantly reduced 4T1 tumor volume in mice compared to the Ig-FC control group (P<0.001 or P=0.01, respectively, by t-test). The combination of the FGFR2 antibody and anti-PD-1 antibody further reduced tumor volume by day 18 compared to the FGFR2 antibody alone (P=0.08, respectively) (see Figures 4a-b). The combination of the FGFR2 antibody and anti-PD-1 antibody further reduced tumor volume by day 18 compared to the anti-PD-1 antibody alone (P<0.01).
[0385] Overall, treatment with FGFR2 antibodies resulted in approximately 25% inhibition of tumor growth compared to IgFC, whereas treatment with anti-PD-1 antibodies resulted in 0% inhibition of tumor growth compared to controls. Treatment with both anti-FGFR2 and anti-PD-1 antibodies inhibited tumor growth by approximately 40%, indicating that combined treatment has at least additive benefits.
[0386] The table below shows the analysis of fractional tumor volume (FTV) compared to the Fc-G1 control. [Table 1] a: FTV = fractional tumor volume = mean TV treated / mean TV control b: Days after tumor cell transplantation c: Expected value = (average FTV drug 1) × (average FTV drug 2) d: Observed value = Average FTV for the combination of drug 1 + drug 2 e: Reported value = Expected value (c) ÷ Observed value (d); values > 1 indicate a synergistic response, whereas values = 1 indicate an additive response and values < 1 indicate an antagonistic response.
[0387] This experiment examined the effect of anti-FGFR2 antibodies on NK cell-depleted tumor tissue. The BALB / cfC3H-derived breast tumor line 4T1 was used as a tumor model and was obtained from the American College of Cancer Research (ATCC, Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. CRL-2539). Cells were cultured at 37°C in RPMI 1640 medium (Mediatech, Inc., Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. 10-041-CV) supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum, 2 mM L-glutamine, and 1% penicillin / streptomycin.
[0388] Each mouse was inoculated with 5 × 10 4T1 cells by orthotopic injection under the fourth mammary nipple (nipple). Subsequently, mouse tumor volume and body weight were monitored periodically until the tumor volume measured 100 mm3 + / - 25 mm3. When the tumor reached 125 mm3 + / - 25 mm3, the mice were divided into four groups for treatment according to tumor size (day 0). Group 1 received 10 mg / kg of human Fc-G1 control antibody (intraperitoneally (IP) on days 0 and 3). Group 2 received 50 mg / kg of rabbit anti-asialo GM1 antibody (Wako Chemicals, Osaka, Japan), an antibody designed to deplete NK cells from BalbC mice, intravenously once on day 0. Group 3 received 10 mg / kg of anti-FGFR2 (IP on days 0 and 3). Group 4 received 50 mg / kg rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody (day 0) in combination with 10 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 (IP on days 0 and 3).
[0389] For histology, on day 4, 24 hours after the second treatment, mice were euthanized with CO2 and then perfused with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), pH 7.4. Briefly, the mouse's chest was rapidly opened, and 40 mL of PBS was injected into the aorta through the left ventricular incision using a syringe with a 20-gauge needle. Blood and PBS were then expelled through the right atrium opening. 4T1 orthotopic tumors were removed and immersed in 10% neutral-buffered formalin at 4°C. After 2 hours, the tissue was rinsed three times with PBS and then transferred to 30% sucrose in PBS overnight. The following day, tumors were frozen in OCT compound and stored at -80°C.
[0390] Serial sections of 20 μm thickness were cut from each tumor. Sections were dried on Superfrost Plus slides (VWR) for 1–2 hours. Sections were permeabilized with 0.3% Triton X-100 in PBS and incubated with 5% normal goat serum in PBS 0.3% Triton X-100 (blocking solution) at room temperature for 1 hour to block nonspecific antibody binding. After 1 hour, the blocking solution was removed, and sections were incubated overnight in primary antibody. To detect NK cells, sections were incubated with rat anti-NKp46 (CD335; Biolegend, cat#137602) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. To detect PD-L1, sections were incubated with rat anti-PD-L1 (eBioscience, cat#14-5982-82) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. To detect CD3+ T cells, sections were incubated with hamster anti-CD3 antibody (BD biosciences, cat#553058) diluted 1:500 in blocking solution. NK cell and PD-L1 staining was performed on serial sections because all of these primary antibodies were produced in rats. Negative control sections were incubated with secondary antibodies only in 5% normal serum rather than primary antibodies.
[0391] The next day, the specimens were rinsed with PBS containing 0.3% Triton X-100 and then incubated with Alexa Fluor 594-conjugated goat anti-rat (Jackson Immuno Research, cat#112-585-167) and Alexa Fluor 488-conjugated goat anti-hamster (Jackson Immuno Research, cat#127-545-160) secondary antibodies diluted 1:400 in PBS for 4 hours at room temperature. After rinsing with PBS containing 0.3% Triton X-100, the specimens were fixed in 1% paraformaldehyde (PFA), rinsed again with PBS, and mounted with Vectashield (Vector, H-1200) containing DAPI. DAPI was used to label cell nuclei.
[0392] Specimens were examined under a Zeiss Axiophot® 2+ fluorescence microscope equipped with an AxioCam® HRc camera. Representative images per experimental group showing the quantity and distribution of NKp46+, CD3+, and PD-L1+ cells within the tumor were collected and are shown in Figures 12-14.
[0393] In 4T1 tumors derived from mice injected with the Fc-G1 control antibody, minimally scattered NKp46+ NK cells were detected within the tumor (Figure 12, upper panel). Administration of a 50 mg / kg dose of rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody reduced the number of NKp46+ NK cells compared with the control (Figure 12, second panel). After 4 days of treatment with 10 mg / kg of anti-FGFR2, NKp46+ NK cells were more numerous (see Figure 12, third panel). However, this increase was not observed when anti-FGFR2 was combined with rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody and anti-FGFR2. After combined treatment, the number of NKp46+ NK infiltrating cells was comparable to that of the control (Figure 12, fourth panel).
[0394] CD3 staining revealed few scattered CD3+ T cells within the tumor in 4T1 tumors treated with the control for 4 days, most of which were located at the tumor periphery (Figure 13, upper panel). Treatment with a 50 mg / kg dose of rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody did not affect the number of CD3+ T cells compared with the control (Figure 13, second panel). After 4 days of treatment with 10 mg / kg of anti-FGFR2, the number of CD3+ T infiltrating cells was comparable to that of the control (Figure 13, third panel). In comparison, when anti-FGFR2 was combined with rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody, the number of CD3+ T infiltrating cells was comparable to that of the control (Figure 13, fourth panel).
[0395] PD-L1 staining revealed that in 4T1 tumors treated with the control for 4 days, PD-L1 immunoreactivity was only found in sparse cells within the tumor (Figure 14, upper panel). Treatment with rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody did not affect PD-L1 immunoreactivity (Figure 14, second panel). Treatment with anti-FGFR2 alone increased the number of PD-L1-positive cells (Figure 14, third panel), but when anti-FGFR2 was given in combination with rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody, PD-L1 staining was similar to that of the control (Figure 14, fourth panel).
[0396] Example 4b: Inhibition of tumor growth from anti-FGFR2 antibodies is attenuated in the presence of NK cell depleting agents This experiment examined the effect of depleting NK cells on anti-FGFR2 efficacy in a 4T1 syngeneic tumor model. The 4T1 breast tumor line, derived from the mouse strain BALB / cfC3H, was used as the tumor model and was obtained from the American College of Cancer (ATCC, Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. CRL-2539). Cells were cultured at 37°C in RPMI 1640 medium (Mediatech, Inc., Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. 10-041-CV) containing 10% fetal bovine serum, 2 mM L-glutamine, and 1% penicillin / streptomycin.
[0397] Each mouse was inoculated with 5 × 10 4T1 cells by orthotopic injection under the fourth mammary nipple (nipple). Subsequently, mouse tumor volume and body weight were monitored periodically until the tumor volume measured 100 mm3 + / - 25 mm3. Once the tumor reached 100 mm3 + / - 25 mm3, the mice were divided into four groups for treatment according to tumor size (day 0). Group 1 received PBS as a control (intraperitoneally (IP) on days 0 and 3). Group 2 received 50 mg / kg of rabbit anti-asialo GM1 antibody (Wako Chemicals, Osaka, Japan), an antibody designed to deplete NK cells from BalbC mice, intravenously once on day 0. Group 3 received 10 mg / kg of anti-FGFR2 (IP on days 0 and 3). Group 4 received 50 mg / kg rabbit anti-asialoGM1 antibody (day 0) in combination with 10 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 (IP on days 0 and 3) and tumor volume was monitored every two weeks.
[0398] Overall, treatment with anti-FGFR2 resulted in approximately 35% inhibition of tumor growth (P<0.01) compared to the PBS control group and the anti-asialoGM1 antibody group (P<0.05). Treatment with anti-asialoGM1 antibody had no effect on tumor burden compared to the PBS control group. The combination of anti-asialoGM1 antibody and anti-FGFR2 resulted in attenuated tumor growth inhibition compared to the anti-FGFR2 group (P<0.05). This suggests that NK cell and ADCC activity are essential for promoting tumor growth inhibition in the 4T1 syngeneic tumor model. Combined with the histological data, anti-FGFR2 inhibits 4T1 tumor burden through modification of the tumor microenvironment via the innate and adaptive immune systems.
[0399] Example 4c: Anti-FGFR2-driven tumor growth inhibition is blunted in CB17 SCID mice lacking the adaptive immune system Eight-week-old female CB17 SCID mice were purchased from Charles River Laboratories (Wilmington, MA, USA). Animals were acclimated for at least 3 days upon arrival and housed five animals per cage with free access to food and water. Once acclimated, animals were weighed and shaved prior to tumor cell implantation.
[0400] The mouse-derived syngeneic breast tumor line 4T1 was used as a tumor model and was obtained from ATCC (Manassas, VA, USA: Cat. No. CRL-2539). Cells were cultured at 37°C in RPMI 1640 medium (Mediatech, Inc., Manassas, VA, USA; Cat. No. 10-041-CV) containing 10% fetal bovine serum, 2 mM L-glutamine, and 1% penicillin / streptomycin.
[0401] Each mouse was inoculated with 5 × 10 4T1 cells by orthotopic injection under the fourth mammary nipple (nipple). Subsequently, the tumor volume and body weight of the mice were monitored periodically until the tumor volume measured 80 mm 3 + / - 25 mm 3 . On day 12, when the tumors reached 80 mm 3 + / - 25 mm 3 , the mice were divided into two groups for treatment according to tumor size. Group 1 received a vehicle control, and group 2 received 20 mg / kg of nonfucosylated anti-FGFR2 antibody (intraperitoneally (IP) on days 12 and 15).
[0402] In contrast to an approximately 30% reduction in tumor volume (P<0.001) in BalbC mice (Example 1), treatment with anti-FGFR2 antibody resulted in an approximately 20% inhibition of tumor growth (P<0.05) compared to vehicle controls in CB17 SCID mice, which possess the innate immune system (NK cells and macrophages) but lack adaptive immune cell components (T cells and B cells).
[0403] These data suggest that anti-FGFR2 antibodies can stimulate innate immune cells to immediately initiate tumor cell killing, whereas CB17 SCID mice exhibit a blunted response to anti-FGFR2 antibody treatment, likely due to an inability to engage the adaptive immune system. This further demonstrates that anti-FGFR2 antibodies work in concert with the innate and adaptive immune systems to alter the tumor microenvironment and result in sustained tumor growth inhibition in immunocompetent mice.
[0404] Example 5: Open-label Phase I study of cancer patients with advanced solid tumors treated with anti-FGFR2 antibodies In a dose-escalation study of a nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibody comprising heavy and light chain HVRs of SEQ ID NOS: 6-11, approximately 30 patients with any locally advanced or metastatic solid tumor or lymphoma who have exhausted standard therapy will be treated with the antibody every two weeks in 28-day cycles. In Part 1A of the study, six cohorts of patients will be administered six different dose levels in the dose-escalation study: 0.3 mg / kg, 1 mg / kg, 3 mg / kg, 6 mg / kg, 10 mg / kg, and 15 mg / kg. Patients will be evaluated for the occurrence of any dose-limiting toxicities during the 28-day cycles. Additional 28-day cycles may be continued if clinically indicated.
[0405] In Part 1B, further safety and efficacy evaluation will be conducted in up to 30 patients with gastric cancer and / or patients known to have amplified the FGFR2 gene or overexpress the FGFR2b protein. Subjects in this part will initially receive one dose level below the current maximum dose level of the six cohorts in Part 1A, i.e., 0.3, 1, 3, or 10 mg / kg, with potential escalation to 15 mg / kg in Part 1B if a maximum tolerated dose is not identified in Part 1A.
[0406] Part 2 will begin once the reference dose has been identified in Parts 1A and 1B of the study. Part 2 will include patients with histologically documented gastric or gastroesophageal cancer or other histologically or cytologically confirmed solid tumor types: (a) FGFR2b overexpression with FGFR2 amplification; (b) FGFR2b overexpression without FGFR2 amplification; or (c) non-FGFR2b overexpression, who have locally recurrent or metastatic disease progressing after or unsuitable for standard therapy and who also have measurable disease as defined by RECIST version 1.1. Patients will be grouped into three cohorts: approximately 30 patients will have gastric cancer with both FGFR2b overexpression (determined by IHC analysis as 3+) and FGFR2 gene amplification (determined by FISH analysis as an FGFR2 to CEN10 ratio of ≥2). Approximately 30 patients have gastric cancer with FGFR2b overexpression (IHC 3+) but in the absence of FGFR2b gene amplification (FISH ratio of approximately 1). Approximately 10 patients do not have FGFR2b overexpression (IHC analysis of 0 to 2+).
[0407] The detailed objectives, protocol, and inclusion / exclusion criteria of the study are as follows:
[0408] The primary objectives are to evaluate the safety profile of dose-escalation of the antibody in patients with advanced solid tumors and determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended dose (RD) (Part 1A); and to evaluate the safety profile of dose-escalation of the antibody in patients with advanced gastric or gastroesophageal cancer, collectively referred to herein as "gastric cancer" (Part 1B). Secondary objectives are: (a) to characterize the PK profile of single and multiple doses of intravenously administered antibody in patients with gastric cancer and other solid tumors; (b) to evaluate the safety and tolerability of long-term exposure to the administered antibody; (c) to evaluate the objective response rate (ORR) in patients with FGFR2b-selected gastric cancers (Part 2 only); and (d) to evaluate the duration of response in patients with FGFR2b-selected gastric cancers (Part 2 only).
[0409] Some exploratory objectives are: (a) to evaluate the rate and duration of stable disease in patients with gastric tumors that overexpress FGFR2b, either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 amplification (Part 2 only); (b) to evaluate progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with gastric tumors that overexpress FGFR2b, either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 amplification (Part 2 only); and (c) to explore the association between the degree of FGFR2b overexpression and FGFR2 amplification in tumor tissue and clinical outcomes.
[0410] This is a three-part, open-label safety, tolerability, and PK study. Patients will be enrolled in either Part 1 (A or B) or Part 2 of the study, but not both. After an initial screening period of up to 28 days (4 weeks), patients will be treated with the antibody every 2 weeks in 28-day cycles. In Part 1A, each enrolled patient will be observed for 28 days for safety assessments and the occurrence of dose-limiting toxicities (DLT observation period). Additional treatment, if clinically indicated, may be administered every 2 weeks in subsequent 28-day cycles (extended treatment period). In Part 1B, patients will be treated every 2 weeks in 28-day cycles at the current Part 1A DLT-clearing dose level. In Part 2, patients will be treated every 2 weeks in 28-day cycles with the anti-FGFR2 antibody at the recommended dose (RD) selected after evaluation of data from Parts 1A and 1B.
[0411] Part 1A is a dose-escalation study in patients with any locally advanced or metastatic solid tumor or lymphoma for which standard therapy has been exhausted. Approximately six dose cohorts are expected, with a minimum of three patients enrolled in each cohort. Expected dose levels are 0.3 mg / kg, 1 mg / kg, 3 mg / kg, 6 mg / kg, 10 mg / kg, and 15 mg / kg. Validation of safety and PK parameters may inform decisions to add cohorts at alternative dose levels or dosing regimens (e.g., less frequent dosing) to reach optimal target exposure. All dose-escalation decisions will be based on assessment of DLTs, overall safety, and tolerability and will occur after the last patient enrolled in each cohort completes the first treatment cycle. Dose-escalation decisions will be agreed upon by a cohort review committee (CRC) consisting of the sponsor and investigators. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) is defined as the highest dose at which fewer than 33% of patients experience DLTs during Cycle 1 (the safety and PK evaluation period). If a DLT is observed in one of three patients, three additional patients will be enrolled at the same dose level. Dose escalation may continue until two of three to six patients treated at a dose level experience a DLT. The next lower dose is then considered the MTD. Alternatively, intermediate doses between the last clearing dose level and the dose level resulting in more than 33% DLT may be explored before concluding that the MTD has been reached. Once the MTD or RD is reached, three to ten additional gastric cancer patients may be accrued before initiating Part 2, and safety and PK may be further explored at this dose level.
[0412] The following algorithm will be used to determine dose escalation in Part 1A: [Table 2]
[0413] Although the MTD will not be identified, the sponsor and investigator may decide to discontinue dose escalation in the event that drug exposure exceeds that deemed necessary based on nonclinical pharmacology data or the clinical PK profile.
[0414] Upon completion of Cycle 1 (safety and PK evaluation period), patients in Part 1A may enter an optional extension treatment period starting on Day 1 of Cycle 2. The anti-FGFR2 antibody will be administered every 2 weeks in 4-week cycles until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, patient or physician decision to discontinue, death, or end of study.
[0415] The purpose of Part 1B is to further evaluate the safety of anti-FGFR2 antibodies and assess their PK in gastric cancer patients before initiating Part 2. The clearance of some antibodies (e.g., bevacizumab and trastuzumab) has been shown to be more rapid in gastric cancer patients than in patients with other solid tumors. Enrolled patients may be retrospectively tested gastric cancer patients or patients known to have FGFR2 gene amplification or overexpress FGFR2b protein. In the case of staggered Part 1A dose escalation, patients in Part 1B will be enrolled at one dose level below the current maximum dose level of the cohort being studied in Part 1A. For example, if the current dose level being studied in Part 1A is 3 mg / kg, Part 1B patient enrollment will be at the 1 mg / kg dose level; if the current dose level being studied in Part 1A is 6 mg / kg, Part 1B patient enrollment will be at the 3 mg / kg dose level.
[0416] Approximately 3 patients will be enrolled at each dose level in Part 1B, with up to 6 patients per dose cohort at the option of the sponsor and investigator. Dose escalation may continue to 15 mg / kg in Part 1B if the MTD is not identified in Part 1A.
[0417] Enrollment in Part 2 will begin once a recommended dose (RD) is identified by the CRC based on overall safety, tolerability, PK, and estimates of effective exposure extrapolated from nonclinical data. The RD may or may not be the same as the MTD identified in Part 1A. For example, if the MTD is not reached, or if exposure at the MTD is much higher than the level considered necessary for efficacy, or if data from Part 1B patients or subsequent treatment cycles from both Part 1 (A and B) provide further insight into the safety profile, the RD may be a different dose than the MTD. Once the RD is established, patients with gastric cancer selected based on FGFR2b expression will be enrolled in Part 2 of the study. Part 2 patients will be enrolled and treated to further characterize safety and preliminary efficacy in a selected cancer patient population with the greatest potential for clinical benefit from antibody treatment. Treatment may continue until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, patient or physician decision to discontinue, death, or the end of the study.
[0418] Patients enrolled in Part 1 (A or B) or Part 2 must meet all of the following inclusion criteria: 1) understand and sign an Institutional Review Board / Independent Ethics Committee approved informed consent form prior to any study-specific assessment; 2) life expectancy of at least 3 months; 3) ECOG performance status of 0–1; 4) Except for patients from Taiwan, the patient's age must be ≥18 years at the time of signing the informed consent form, and the patient's age must be ≥20 years at the time of signing the informed consent form; 5) Sexually active patients (i.e., women of childbearing potential who have not experienced menopause as defined by 12 consecutive months of amenorrhea or who are not on permanent contraception, and men who are not on permanent contraception) must be willing to use two effective methods of contraception, one of which must be a physical barrier method (condom, diaphragm, or cervical / vertebral cap) for 6 months after the last dose of anti-FGFR2 antibody. The other effective method of contraception must be permanent contraception (hysterectomy and / or bilateral oophorectomy, or surgical bilateral tubal ligation, or vasectomy) at least 6 months prior to screening. Female patients of childbearing potential must be on stable oral contraceptive therapy or intrauterine or implantable devices or must abstain from sexual intercourse as a lifestyle for at least 90 days prior to the study. 6) Adequate hematological and biological function as confirmed by the following laboratory values: a) Bone marrow function i) ANC ≥ 1.5 × 10 / L ii) Platelet >100×109 / L iii) Hemoglobin ≥ 9g / dL b) Liver function i) Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ≤ 3 x upper limit of normal (ULN); if liver metastases are present, ≤ 5 x ULN ii) bilirubin ≤ 1.5 × ULN c) Kidney function i) Serum creatinine ≦ 1.5 × ULN 7) Tumor tissue available for determination of FGFR2b expression and FGFR2 amplification (optional for each Part 1A patient).
[0419] Patients enrolled in Part 1A (dose escalation) of the study must also meet the following inclusion criteria: 8) Histologically or cytologically confirmed solid tumor or lymphoma that is locally recurrent or metastatic and has progressed after or is not suitable for standard treatment; 9) Measurable or non-measurable disease.
[0420] Patients enrolled in Part 1B of the study must also meet the following inclusion criteria: 10) histologically documented gastric or gastroesophageal cancer; 11) Tumor tissue for prospective or retrospective determination of FGFR2b expression and FGFR2 amplification; 12) locally recurrent or metastatic disease progressing after or not suitable for standard treatment; 13) Measurable disease as defined by RECIST version 1.1.
[0421] Patients enrolled in Part 2 (dose expansion) of the study must also meet the following inclusion criteria: 14) Histologically documented gastric or gastroesophageal cancer with: a) FGFR2b overexpression with FGFR2 amplification, or b) FGFR2b overexpression without FGFR2 amplification, or c) FGFR2b non-overexpression; 15) locally recurrent or metastatic disease progressing after or not suitable for standard treatment; 16) Measurable disease as defined by RECIST version 1.1.
[0422] Patients enrolling in Part 1 (A or B) or Part 2 will be excluded if any of the following criteria apply: 1) Untreated or symptomatic central nervous system (CNS) metastases. Patients with asymptomatic CNS metastases are eligible as long as they have been clinically stable for at least 4 weeks and have not required interventions such as surgery, radiation therapy, or any corticosteroid therapy to manage symptoms associated with CNS disease. 2) Cardiac dysfunction or clinically significant cardiac disease, including any of the following: a) Unstable angina pectoris ≤6 months prior to the first scheduled dose of antibody b) Acute myocardial infarction ≤6 months prior to the first scheduled dose of antibody 3) QTc segment >470 msec 4) Known human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related illness, or a history of chronic hepatitis B or C. 5) Treatment with any anticancer therapy or participation in another therapeutic clinical study with an investigational drug ≤14 days (≤28 days for Korean patients) prior to the first dose of the antibody. 6) Ongoing adverse events from prior therapy >NCI CTCAE grade 1. a) retinal disease or a history of retinal disease or detachment, or an increased risk of retinal detachment in the opinion of an ophthalmologist b) Current evidence or history of retinal vein occlusion (RVO) or central serous retinopathy. c) Glaucoma diagnosed within one month prior to Day 1 of the study d) Ongoing medical therapy for glaucoma. e) Pre-intraocular injection or laser treatment of macular degeneration. f) History of corneal defects, corneal ulcers, keratitis, keratoconus, corneal transplantation, or other known abnormalities of the cornea that, in the opinion of an ophthalmologist, may pose a risk to anti-FGFR2 antibody treatment. g) NSCLC patients with EGFR mutations or ALK amplification in exons 19 or 21, respectively, who have not received an EGFR or ALK TKI (Part 1A only). h) Patients with HER2-overexpressing gastric cancer and breast cancer who have not received anti-HER2 targeted therapy. i) Major surgery is not permitted ≤28 days prior to administration of anti-FGFR2 antibodies. In all cases, patients must be sufficiently recovered and stable before treatment administration. j) Pregnant or lactating women; women of childbearing potential must not consider becoming pregnant during the study. k) The presence of any serious or unstable concomitant systemic illness incompatible with the clinical study (e.g., substance abuse, psychiatric disorder, or uncontrolled intercurrent illness, e.g., active infection, arterial thrombosis, and symptomatic pulmonary embolism). l) The presence of any other condition that may increase the risks associated with study participation or that may interfere with the interpretation of the study results and that, in the opinion of the investigator, makes the patient's entry into the study inappropriate. 7) Known allergy or hypersensitivity to any component of the anti-FGFR2 antibody formulation, including polysorbate. 8) History of previous malignancy, except for the following: a) therapeutically treated non-melanoma skin cancer, or b) solid tumors that were curatively treated more than 5 years ago without evidence of recurrence or c) History of other malignancies that, in the investigator's opinion, do not affect the determination of study treatment effect. 9) In Parts 1B and 2 (dose expansion), prior treatment with any selective inhibitor of the FGF-FGFR pathway (e.g., AZD4547, BGJ398, JNJ-42756493, BAY1179470).
[0423] No waiver of these inclusion or exclusion criteria will be permitted.
[0424] Part 2 will involve the following study cohorts: A, C, D, E, and F. Cohort A will involve approximately 30 patients with gastric cancer with strong FGFR2b overexpression, defined as IHC 3+ ≥ 10% tumor membrane staining. Cohort C will involve approximately 10-30 gastric cancer patients with no FGFR2b overexpression, defined as IHC = 0. Cohorts D-F may also be included. Cohort D will involve approximately 30 patients with gastric cancer with moderate FGFR2b overexpression, defined as IHC 2+ ≥ 10% and / or IHC 3+ < 10% tumor membrane staining. Cohort E will involve approximately 30 patients with gastric cancer with low FGFR2b overexpression, defined as IHC 1+ and / or IHC 2+ < 10% tumor membrane staining. Cohort F will involve approximately 30 patients with non-gastric solid tumors for each tumor type tested. For bladder cancer patients, there are two subgroups: subgroup 1 has an FGFR2b H-score of 10-19, and subgroup 2 has an FGFR2b H-score of 20 or greater.
[0425] Study Dosing: Anti-FGFR2 antibody will be supplied in a sterile vial for dilution into an intravenous bag for administration at the study site. In Part 1A, patients will receive two doses of anti-FGFR2 antibody, two weeks apart. If tolerated without disease progression by the end of the first cycle, patients will be eligible to continue in the study in an extended treatment period, receiving anti-FGFR2 antibody every two weeks until disease progression or other cause of study withdrawal.
[0426] Dose Adjustments: Dose reductions may be permitted for patients on treatment beyond the DLT period in Part 1A or for any patient in Parts 1B or 2, after consultation with and approval from the sponsor. Patients may miss up to two consecutive doses (up to 6 weeks between doses) for adverse events or other events; omission of additional doses for more than 6 weeks for adverse events or other events will require removal of the patient from the study, unless permitted by the study sponsor. Intra-patient dose escalation above the individual patient's starting dose in Parts 1 (A and B) and 2 is not permitted. If a patient's dose is reduced for unrelated reasons, dose escalation to the originally assigned dose may occur after consultation with and approval from the sponsor.
[0427] Concomitant Medications: Supportive care (e.g., antiemetics; analgesics for pain management) may be used at the investigator's discretion and in accordance with institutional procedures. Hematopoietic stimulating agents may be used if necessary. Concomitant anticancer therapy of any kind is not permitted, with the exception of chronic maintenance therapy, such as luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) modulators for breast or prostate cancer. Chronic maintenance therapy may be continued if the patient is taking these medications and 1) continued use is unlikely to result in further reduction in tumor measurements and 2) is considered standard of care for the patient.
[0428] Withdrawal: Patients must discontinue protocol-defined treatment if any of the following apply: · Withdrawal of consent at the patient's request or at the request of their legally authorized representative; Patient disease progression; patients experiencing clinical benefit despite isolated disease progression may continue on the study after consultation with medical surveillance; · Any event that would pose an unacceptable safety risk to patients; · Concomitant illnesses that significantly affect the assessment of the clinical condition; A positive pregnancy test at any time during the study; · At the specific request of the sponsor or its authorized representative (e.g., if the study is terminated for patient safety reasons).
[0429] Pharmacokinetic Evaluation: Patients enrolled in Parts 1A and 1B will have blood drawn on Days 1, 2, 4, and 8 during Cycle 1 to measure serum anti-FGFR2 antibody concentrations. In addition, blood samples will be collected both before and at the end of infusion on Day 15 of Cycle 1, Day 1 of Cycles 2-5, and Day 1 of every other cycle starting from Cycle 5, as well as at the end of treatment. For patients in Part 2, blood samples will be collected both before and at the end of infusion on Day 1 and Day 8 during Cycle 1. Blood samples will be collected both before and at the end of infusion on Day 15 of Cycle 1, Day 1 of Cycles 2-5, and Day 1 of every other cycle starting from Cycle 5, as well as at the end of treatment to explore PK in selected gastric cancer patients with tumors overexpressing FGFR2b with or without FGFR2 amplification. Standard PK parameters will be determined based on serum anti-FGFR2 antibody concentration-time data.
[0430] Immunogenicity: All patients in the study will have blood samples collected pre-dose on Day 1 of Cycles 1-5 and every other cycle from Cycle 5 onwards to measure antibodies to the anti-FGFR2 antibody.
[0431] Efficacy Assessment: Efficacy measures include tumor assessment consisting of clinical examination and appropriate imaging techniques, preferably computed tomography (CT) scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis with appropriate slice thickness per RECIST; other assessments (magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], X-ray, positron emission tomography (PET), and ultrasound) may be performed as needed. Tumor assessments will be performed at screening, then every 6 weeks for 24 weeks after the first dose, and approximately every 12 weeks thereafter. Once an initial complete response (CR) or partial response (PR) is noted, a confirmatory scan should be performed 4-6 weeks later.
[0432] Safety Assessment: Safety measures include AEs, hematology, clinical chemistry, urinalysis, vital signs, weight, concomitant medications / procedures, ECOG performance status, subject physical examination, ECG, ophthalmologic / retinal examination, and anti-FGFR2 antibody dose changes.
[0433] The planned total enrollment for this study is approximately 100-130 patients: approximately 20-30 patients will be enrolled in Part 1A. Up to 30 patients with gastric cancer will be enrolled in Part 1B. Part 2 will explore exploratory activity by enrolling one or more of the following: Cohort A: Approximately 30 patients with gastric cancer with both FGFR2b overexpression (IHC 3+) and FGFR2 amplification (FISH ratio ≥ 2); Cohort B: Approximately 30 patients with gastric cancer with FGFR2b overexpression (IHC 3+) in the absence of FGFR2 amplification (FISH ratio = 1) to help characterize the predictive significance of FGFR2 selection. Cohort C: Approximately 10-30 gastric cancer patients without FGFR2b overexpression, defined as IHC=0-2+. Cohort D: Approximately 30 patients with gastric cancer with moderate FGFR2b overexpression, defined as IHC 2+ ≥ 10% and / or IHC 3+ < 10% tumor membrane staining. Cohort E: Approximately 30 patients with gastric cancer with low FGFR2b overexpression, defined as IHC 1+ and / or IHC 2+<10% tumor membrane staining. Cohort F: Approximately 30 non-gastric solid tumor patients per tumor type tested. For bladder cancer patients, there are two subgroups: Subgroup 1 has an FGFR2b H-score of 10-19, and Subgroup 2 has an FGFR2b H-score of 20 or higher.
[0434] Example 6: Treatment of bladder cancer patients with anti-FGFR2 antibodies This example describes treatment of a 76-year-old man enrolled in the above-mentioned study (see Example 5) with a nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibody comprising heavy and light chain HVRs of SEQ ID NOS: 6-11 from the study described in Example 5. The patient was diagnosed with bladder cancer in July 2014 after presenting to his physician with hematuria. He underwent diagnostic cystoscopy and biopsy, followed by resection of the primary tumor. He was staged as T2, N2, M0 (tumor invading the muscle wall, with three of six sampled lymph nodes positive) and was eligible for stage 4 treatment. He received four cycles of gemcitabine and cisplatin (SOC) in the adjuvant setting. In March 2015, approximately six months after completing adjuvant chemotherapy, the patient underwent routine surveillance PET and CT scans. CT scans revealed multiple enlarged lymph nodes in the pelvis and retroperitoneum, which were metabolically active and consistent with recurrent metastatic bladder cancer (UBC), which was confirmed by PET scan. The patient began receiving anti-FGFR2 antibody at a dose of 3 mg / kg approximately every 2 weeks. The largest lymph node and overall lymphadenopathy were subsequently tracked. At the time of initial screening and first anti-FGFR2 administration in April 2015, the largest lymph node measured 18 x 12 mm. Six weeks later, the largest lymph node measured 15 x 11 mm. After 12 weeks, the size had decreased to 9 x 7 mm, representing a reduction of approximately half. In August 2014, no significant lymphadenopathy was observed. Subsequent restaging scans confirmed no significant lymphadenopathy, and PET scans performed in November 2015 showed no abnormal metabolic activity. The patient remains on anti-FGFR2 antibody therapy.
[0435] Example 7: Immunohistochemical analysis of bladder cancer samples for FGFR2b overexpression To assess the frequency of FGFR2b overexpression in the bladder cancer population, immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed on normal bladder and archival urothelial carcinoma (UC) specimens using a murine αFGFR2b antibody containing the murine variable region of GAL-FR21 (see U.S. Patent No. 8,101,723 B2). 422 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded UC sections (both primary and metastatic, whole section, or in tissue microarray format) were stained and detected using a chromogenic substrate. Membranous tumor cell staining intensity was scored on a scale of 0 to 3, with a score of "0" being given if no reactivity was observed or if only <10% of tumor cells had membrane reactivity; a score of "1+" being given if at least 10% of tumor cells had faint or slight perceptible membrane reactivity or if cells had only partial membrane reactivity; a score of "2+" being given if at least 10% of tumor cells had weak to moderate complete basolateral or lateral membrane reactivity; and a score of "3+" being given if at least 10% of tumor cells had strong complete basolateral or lateral membrane reactivity. Tumors with 1+ membrane reactivity in ≥10% of tumor cells were considered positive in this study.
[0436] Normal bladders have weak staining (<1+) of the transitional epithelium. However, IHC analysis of 422 archival primary UC samples showed that FGFR2b was overexpressed in >10% of samples with an expression intensity of at least 1+.
[0437] Furthermore, primary tumor samples from surgically resected anti-FGFR2-responsive bladder cancer patients (see Example 6) had 15% 2+ IHC staining and 35% 1+ FGFR2-D antibody staining. This contrasts with previous data from gastric cancer patients, where patient tumor samples with 3+ staining were selected and objective responses were observed. This patient's response to anti-FGFR2 antibodies (see Example 6) and the positive IHC staining in the UC samples collectively suggest that bladder cancer may be an additional indication that it may be sensitive to anti-FGFR2 antibody treatment.
[0438] Example 8: Open-label Phase I Study of an Anti-FGFR2 Antibody in Combination with Nivolumab in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors A two-part, open-label, multicenter, dose-escalation and dose-expansion study will be conducted to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and preliminary efficacy of a nonfucosylated FGFR2 antibody containing heavy and light chain HVRs of SEQ ID NOs: 6-11 in combination with nivolumab in patients with advanced solid tumors. Each part of the study will consist of three periods: screening (up to 28 days), treatment, and follow-up (up to 100 days). The anti-FGFR2 antibody and nivolumab will be administered on day 1 of each 14-day treatment cycle. The anti-FGFR2 antibody will be administered as an IV infusion over 30 minutes, followed by a 30-minute test, followed by nivolumab as an IV infusion over 30 minutes. If any Grade 3 or severe infusion reactions are observed during the infusion of either drug at the proposed infusion rate, the infusion rate will be extended to 60 minutes for all current and subsequent patients for the duration of the study. Survival of all patients will be tracked after completion of the study's treatment and follow-up period.
[0439] The study includes Part 1 dose escalation and Part 2 dose expansion. Part 1 consists of two planned dosing cohorts of an anti-FGFR2 antibody in combination with nivolumab in patients with gastric or gastroesophageal junction cancer (collectively referred to as gastric cancer). Phenotypic characterization, which is not required for study entry into the dose escalation part of this study, will be performed retrospectively. This phenotypic characterization includes, but is not limited to, analysis of FGFR2b and PD-L1 expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Each patient enrolled in Part 1 will be observed for 28 days (or upon completion of two 14-day cycles) for safety assessments and the occurrence of dose-limiting toxicities (DLT observation period). Upon the first occurrence of a delayed DLT (defined as any AE occurring 4–6 weeks after administration of study drug) in any patient enrolled in Part 1, the ongoing DLT period and all subsequent DLT periods will be extended to 42 days (or upon completion of three 14-day cycles) for the remaining patients enrolled in Part 1 and all subsequent patients. Additional treatments may be administered every 2 weeks in subsequent 14-day cycles (extended treatment period) if clinically indicated.
[0440] Part 2 consists of two expansion cohorts in patients with advanced gastric cancer. Enrollment in Part 2 of the study requires prospective IHC analysis of FGFR2b expression using a validated assay. Patients whose tumors are positive for FGFR2b by IHC will be allowed to enroll as long as they meet other eligibility criteria. The two cohorts in Part 2 of the study are defined by the IHC-positive level of FGFR2b in their tumors. Cohort 2a includes patients whose tumors stain with an intensity of 1+ or 2+ in at least 10% of tumor cells. Cohort 2b includes patients whose tumors stain with an intensity of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells. The opening of each of these cohorts will be at the sponsor's discretion. The Part 2 dose expansion portion of the study is open-label. Patients who meet all eligibility criteria will be treated every 2 weeks in a 14-day cycle with an anti-FGFR2 antibody in combination with nivolumab at 3 mg / kg, at the recommended dose (RD) selected after evaluation of data from Part 1. Patients will be enrolled in either Part 1 or Part 2 of the study, but not both.
[0441] In Part 1, two dose cohorts are expected, with a minimum of six patients with gastric cancer enrolled in each cohort. The planned dose levels are as follows; the first patients will be enrolled in dose level 1: Dose level-1: 6 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 antibody + 3 mg / kg nivolumab (q2w) Dose level 1: 10 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 antibody + 3 mg / kg nivolumab (q2w) Dose level 2: 15 mg / kg anti-FGFR2 antibody + 3 mg / kg nivolumab (q2w)
[0442] All dose escalation decisions will be based on assessment of DLTs, overall safety, and tolerability and will occur after the last patient enrolled in each cohort completes the designated DLT observation period. Dose escalation decisions will be agreed upon by a Cohort Review Committee (CRC) consisting of the sponsor and investigators. Verification of safety and PK parameters may inform decisions to add cohorts at alternative dose levels to reach optimal target exposure. Dose level -1 will be queried only if DLTs are observed at dose level 1, necessitating consideration of a lower dose of the anti-FGFR2 antibody. The highest dose level with ≤1 observed DLT will be considered the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D). An additional 8 patients will be enrolled in Part 1 of the study after identification of the RP2D. Therefore, Part 1 enrollment will be approximately 20 patients.
[0443] Upon completion of the DLT observation period, patients in Part 1 may enter an optional extension treatment period beginning on Day 1 of Cycle 2. The anti-FGFR2 antibody will continue to be administered in combination with nivolumab at the same dose level every 2 weeks in 4-week cycles until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, patient or physician request for discontinuation, death, or end of study.
[0444] To further characterize the safety and efficacy of anti-FGFR2 antibodies in combination with nivolumab, Part 2 will enroll approximately 40 patients with advanced gastric cancer, divided into two cohorts, with 20 patients per cohort. These two cohorts will differ in the degree of tumor IHC positivity for FGFR2b. Patients whose tumors are scored as 1+ or 2+ by central review (low or moderate overexpression) in ≥10% of tumor cells will be placed in Cohort 2A; patients whose tumors are scored as 3+ in ≥10% of tumor cells will be enrolled in Cohort 2B. Enrollment for Part 2 will begin once the recommended dose (RD) is identified by the CRC based on overall safety and tolerability. The RD may or may not be the same as the MTD identified in Part 1. The anti-FGFR2 antibody will be administered in combination with nivolumab at the RD every 2 weeks in 4-week cycles until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, patient or physician request for discontinuation, death, or end of study.
[0445] After enrollment and evaluation of the first 20 patients, if sufficient activity is observed to merit further exploration, enrollment of another 20 patients per cohort will be accepted. The opening of each cohort and the addition of 20 patients to any cohort will be at the discretion of the sponsor.
[0446] Patients enrolled in Part 2 will have tumor tissue (archived and / or recent) retrospectively tested for PD-L1 expression using a validated immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay. Biopsies at the primary tumor site or metastatic sites will be obtained before and during treatment (as feasible) to examine immune infiltration and expression of selected tumor markers. Optional biopsies may also be obtained at the time of treatment or after treatment for responding and / or progressive tumors to understand resistance mechanisms.
[0447] Dose reductions of the anti-FGFR2 antibody may be permitted for patients on treatment beyond the DLT period in Part 1 or for any patient in Part 2, per guidelines outlined in the protocol.
[0448] Up to approximately 60 subjects from North America and Europe are planned to be enrolled in the study, including 20 patients in Part 1 dose escalation and approximately 40 patients in Part 2 dose expansion.
[0449] Selection Criteria Patients enrolled in Part 1 or Part 2 must meet all of the following inclusion criteria: 1. Understand and sign an Institutional Review Board / Independent Ethics Committee approved informed consent form prior to any study-specific assessments 2. A life expectancy of at least 3 months ECOG performance status of 3.0–1 4. Age ≥ 18 years at the time of signing the informed consent form 5. Sexually active patients (i.e., women of childbearing potential who have not experienced...
Claims
1. A pharmaceutical for use in a method for treating gastric cancer or bladder cancer in a subject, said pharmaceutical comprising a nonfucosylated anti-fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2)-IIIb antibody and / or nivolumab or pembrolizumab, said method comprising administering said FGFR2-IIIb antibody in combination with nivolumab or pembrolizumab to said subject, said anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody comprising a heavy chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:2 and a light chain comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:
3.
2. The pharmaceutical composition described in claim 1, wherein 6 to 15 mg / kg of the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody is administered to the subject.
3. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1, wherein the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody is administered in combination with nivolumab for the treatment of gastric cancer.
4. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 3, wherein the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody and nivolumab are administered simultaneously or sequentially.
5. The pharmaceutical composition described in claim 3, wherein the subject has received a complete course of nivolumab therapy prior to administration of the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody.
6. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 3, wherein the nivolumab is administered at a dose of at least 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 mg / kg.
7. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 3, wherein the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody and nivolumab are administered once every two weeks.
8. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 3, wherein the gastric cancer is recurrent or progressive after surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination thereof.
9. The pharmaceutical described in claim 3, wherein (a) the gastric cancer is predetermined to overexpress FGFR2-IIIb either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 gene amplification, or (b) the method comprises the further step of determining whether the gastric cancer overexpresses FGFR2-IIIb, and optionally also the further step of determining whether the FGFR2 gene is amplified in tumor cells.
10. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody is administered in combination with pembrolizumab for the treatment of gastric cancer.
11. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 10, wherein the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody and pembrolizumab are administered simultaneously or sequentially.
12. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 10, wherein the subject has received a complete course of pembrolizumab therapy prior to administration of the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody.
13. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 10, wherein the pembrolizumab is administered at a dose of at least 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 10 mg / kg.
14. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 10, wherein the anti-FGFR2-IIIb antibody and pembrolizumab are administered once every 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 weeks.
15. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 10, wherein the gastric cancer is recurrent or progressive after surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination thereof.
16. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 10, wherein (a) the gastric cancer is predetermined to overexpress FGFR2-IIIb either in the presence or absence of FGFR2 gene amplification, or (b) the method comprises the further step of determining whether the gastric cancer overexpresses FGFR2IIIb, and optionally also the further step of determining whether the FGFR2 gene is amplified in tumor cells.
17. The pharmaceutical composition of claim 1, wherein the overexpression of FGFR2-IIIb is determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).
18. The method of claim 17, wherein: a) the gastric cancer has an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells; b) the gastric cancer has an IHC signal of 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells and the FGFR2 gene is amplified; or c) the gastric cancer has a 3+ IHC signal in at least 10% of tumor cells, and the FGFR2 gene is not amplified; The pharmaceutical composition of claim 17.
19. The pharmaceutical composition described in claim 17, wherein the cancer is gastric cancer having an IHC signal of 2+ or 3+ in at least 10% of tumor cells.
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