FCRL5

BASEL, Switzerland I April 14, 2025 I Roche (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) announced today that the European Commission has approved Columvi® (glofitamab) in combination with gemcitabine and oxaliplatin (GemOx) for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) not otherwise specified who are ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). With this approval, this Columvi combination is the first bispecific antibody regimen available for people with DLBCL in Europe whose cancer has returned or for those who did not respond to initial treatment. In July 2023, Columvi received a conditional marketing authorisation to treat people with R/R DLBCL after two or more lines of systemic therapy. In addition to today’s approval, a condition to convert the existing marketing authorisation to a regular approval has been fulfilled. “Columvi is the first treatment of its kind to improve survival outcomes for people with DLBCL whose cancer has returned after first-line therapy,” said Levi Garraway, MD, PhD, Roche’s Chief Medical Officer and Head of Global Product Development. “With this approval, Columvi can now benefit patients even earlier in their treatment, adding to its existing value as an important treatment for DLBCL.” “People with R/R DLBCL not eligible for ASCT represent a challenging population, especially those with primary refractory disease or early relapse whose need for a readily accessible and effective therapy is insufficiently addressed globally,” said Franck Morschhauser, MD, PhD, Professor of Haematology, University Hospital Lille and STARGLO study investigator. “This new Columvi combination is immediately available if a patient’s cancer returns or doesn’t respond to first-line therapy, which is a welcome addition to manage DLBCL.” Approval is based on results from the pivotal phase III STARGLO study, where Columvi in combination with GemOx demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful overall survival (OS) improvement versus MabThera®/Rituxan® (rituximab) and GemOx (R-GemOx) in people with R/R DLBCL. 1,2 In the primary analysis (conducted after a median follow-up of 11.3 months), there was a 41% reduction in the risk of death in patients treated with Columvi plus GemOx versus R-GemOx (hazard ratio [HR]=0.59, 95% CI: 0.40-0.89, p=0.011). The Columvi combination also met its key secondary endpoints, with a 63% reduction in risk of disease worsening or death (progression-free survival, PFS) compared to R-GemOx (HR=0.37; 95% CI: 0.25–0.55, p<0.0001). 1,2 Follow-up analyses were conducted after all patients had completed therapy (median follow-up of 20.7 months), showing a 25.5 month median OS for people treated with the Columvi combination, nearly double what was seen for people treated with R-GemOx at 12.9 months (HR=0.62, 95% CI: 0.43-0.88). 1,2 Additionally, more than twice as many patients experienced a complete response (58.5% versus 25.3% respectively, with a difference of 33.2% [95% CI: 20.9-45.5]). 1,2 Safety of the combination was consistent with the known safety profiles of the individual medicines. 1,2 DLBCL is an aggressive (fast-growing) type of lymphoma and is one of the most prevalent types of blood cancer among adults. In Europe, an estimated 38,000 people are diagnosed with DLBCL each year. 3,4 Approximately four out of ten DLBCL patients will relapse after first-line treatment and the majority of patients who require subsequent lines of therapy have poor outcomes. 5,6 Whilst second-line treatment advances have been made, challenges with the accessibility of existing medicines and the aggressive nature of DLBCL underscores the urgent need for immediately available treatment options that can control the disease and improve survival. 7 Columvi in combination with GemOx offers an ‘’off-the-shelf’’ treatment regimen, readily available for infusion in any setting, meaning patients can avoid delays in starting their next treatment. Columvi is also designed to be given for a fixed period offering a target end date for people’s course of therapy and the possibility of a treatment-free period after completion. Columvi, along with Lunsumio® (mosunetuzumab), is part of Roche’s industry-leading CD20xCD3 bispecific antibody programme. Together with the clinical development of off-the-shelf allogeneic CAR T-therapies, Roche aims to provide tailored treatment options that suit the diverse needs, preferences, and experiences of people with blood cancers and healthcare systems. About the STARGLO study The STARGLO study [GO41944; NCT04408638 ] is a phase III, multicentre, open-label, randomised study evaluating the efficacy and safety of Columvi® (glofitamab) in combination with gemcitabine plus oxaliplatin (GemOx) versus MabThera®/Rituxan® (rituximab) in combination with GemOx in patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma who have received at least one prior line of therapy and who are not candidates for autologous stem cell transplant, or who have received two or more prior lines of therapy. Preclinical research indicated an increased antitumour effect when combining Columvi with GemOx over GemOx alone, so the STARGLO study was initiated to further explore the potential complementary effects of the treatment combination. Outcome measures include overall survival (primary endpoint), progression-free survival, complete response rate, objective response rate, duration of objective response (secondary endpoints), and safety and tolerability. About Columvi® (glofitamab) Columvi is a CD20xCD3 T-cell engaging bispecific antibody designed to target CD3 on the surface of T cells and CD20 on the surface of B cells. Columvi was designed with a novel 2:1 structural format. This T-cell engaging bispecific antibody is engineered to have one region that binds to CD3, a protein on T cells, a type of immune cell, and two regions that bind to CD20, a protein on B cells, which can be healthy or malignant. This dual-targeting brings the T cell in close proximity to the B cell, activating the release of cancer cell-killing proteins from the T cell. Columvi is part of Roche’s broad and industry-leading CD20xCD3 T-cell-engaging bispecific antibody clinical development programme that also includes Lunsumio® (mosunetuzumab), which aims to provide tailored treatment options that suit the diverse needs, preferences, and experiences of people with blood cancers and healthcare systems. Roche is investigating Columvi as a monotherapy and in combination with other medicines for the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and mantle cell lymphoma. As part of Roche’s efforts to elevate treatment standards in the earlier stages of DLBCL, where there is the best opportunity to improve long-term outcomes and prevent relapse, Columvi is also being investigated in combination with Polivy® (polatuzumab vedotin) and MabThera®/Rituxan® (rituximab), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone (R-CHP) in previously untreated DLBCL in the phase III SKYGLO study [GO44145; NCT06047080 ]. About diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) DLBCL is an aggressive (fast-growing) type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and the most common form, accounting for about one in three cases of NHL. 3 Approximately 160,000 people worldwide are diagnosed with DLBCL each year. 3,8 While it is generally responsive to treatment in the frontline, as many as 40% of people will relapse or have refractory disease, at which time salvage therapy options are limited and survival is short. 5,6 Improving treatments earlier in the course of the disease and providing much needed alternative options could help to improve long-term outcomes. About Roche in haematology Roche has been developing medicines for people with malignant and non-malignant blood diseases for more than 25 years; our experience and knowledge in this therapeutic area runs deep. Today, we are investing more than ever in our effort to bring innovative treatment options to patients across a wide range of haematologic diseases. Our approved medicines include MabThera®/Rituxan® (rituximab), Gazyva®/Gazyvaro® (obinutuzumab), Polivy® (polatuzumab vedotin), Venclexta®/Venclyxto® (venetoclax) in collaboration with AbbVie, Hemlibra® (emicizumab), PiaSky® (crovalimab), Lunsumio® (mosunetuzumab) and Columvi® (glofitamab). Our pipeline of investigational haematology medicines includes T-cell engaging bispecific antibody cevostamab, targeting both FcRH5 and CD3 and Tecentriq® (atezolizumab). Our scientific expertise, combined with the breadth of our portfolio and pipeline, also provides a unique opportunity to develop combination regimens that aim to improve the lives of patients even further. About Roche Founded in 1896 in Basel, Switzerland, as one of the first industrial manufacturers of branded medicines, Roche has grown into the world’s largest biotechnology company and the global leader in in-vitro diagnostics. The company pursues scientific excellence to discover and develop medicines and diagnostics for improving and saving the lives of people around the world. We are a pioneer in personalised healthcare and want to further transform how healthcare is delivered to have an even greater impact. To provide the best care for each person we partner with many stakeholders and combine our strengths in Diagnostics and Pharma with data insights from the clinical practice. For over 125 years, sustainability has been an integral part of Roche’s business. As a science-driven company, our greatest contribution to society is developing innovative medicines and diagnostics that help people live healthier lives. Roche is committed to the Science Based Targets initiative and the Sustainable Markets Initiative to achieve net zero by 2045. Genentech, in the United States, is a wholly owned member of the Roche Group. Roche is the majority shareholder in Chugai Pharmaceutical, Japan. For more information, please visit www.roche.com . All trademarks used or mentioned in this release are protected by law. References [1] Abramson J, et al. Glofitamab plus Gemcitabine and Oxaliplatin (Glofit-GemOx) for Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL): Results of a Global Randomized Phase III trial (STARGLO). Presented at: EHA Hybrid Congress; 2024 Jun 3-16. Abstract #LB3438. [2] Abramson J, et al. Glofitamab plus gemcitabine and oxaliplatin (GemOx) versus rituximab-GemOx for relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (STARGLO): a global phase 3, randomised, open-label trial. Lancet 2024; 404 (10466): 1940-1954. [3] UpToDate. Patient education: Diffuse large B cell lymphoma in adults (Beyond the Basics). [Internet; cited 2025 April]. Available from: https://www-uptodate-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/contents/diffuse-large-b-cell-lymphoma-in-adults-beyond-the-basics . [4] World Health Organization. Numbers derived from GLOBOCAN 2022. Europe Factsheet [Internet; cited 2025 April]. Available from: https://gco-iarc-who-int.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/media/globocan/factsheets/populations/908-europe-fact-sheet.pdf . [5] Maurer MJ, Ghesquières H, Jais JP, et al. Event-free survival at 24 months is a robust end point for disease-related outcome in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated with immunochemotherapy. J Clin Oncol. 2014;32(10):1066-1073. [6] Sehn LH, et al. Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma. N Engl J Med. 2021;384(9):842-858. [7] Fabbri N, Mussetti A and Sureda A. Second-line treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: Evolution of options. Semin Hematol 2023; 60(5): 305–312. [8] World Health Organization. Numbers derived from GLOBOCAN 2022. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Factsheet [Internet; cited 2025 April]. Available from: https://gco-iarc-who-int.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/media/globocan/factsheets/cancers/34-non-hodgkin-lymphoma-fact-sheet.pdf . SOURCE: Roche

Long-term data confirm fixed-duration Columvi and Lunsumio achieve durable remissions beyond the end of treatment, with real-world data suggesting reduced treatment-related travel burden due to less frequent dosing1,2,3 First presentation of Lunsumio given subcutaneously showed non-inferiority to intravenous treatment with a consistent safety profile, potentially providing an additional outpatient option with a shorter administration time4 Positive results for Roche's two bispecifics antibodies validate the company's efforts to provide multiple treatment options that suit the diverse needs of lymphoma patients and healthcare providers5,6 10 December 2024 - Roche (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) announced today that new and updated data from its industry-leading CD20xCD3 T-cell-engaging bispecific antibody programme were presented at the 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting & Exposition, 7-10 December 2024. With more than 20 bispecific antibody abstracts accepted for presentation, data showcase the benefits of fixed-duration Columvi® (glofitamab) and Lunsumio® (mosunetuzumab) across different types of aggressive and indolent lymphomas. This research supports Roche’s efforts to continue innovating for patients by advancing treatment standards at earlier stages of disease while exploring additional forms of administration that could further improve the patient experience. “The data being presented at ASH offer further evidence that Columvi and Lunsumio can provide lasting remissions for people with advanced lymphoma,” said Levi Garraway, MD, PhD, Roche’s Chief Medical Officer and Head of Global Product Development. “The results underscore our ambition to transform the treatment of B-cell malignancies with a range of innovative therapeutic options.” “Lymphoma patients face challenges that extend well beyond the clinical manifestations of their disease, including the physical and emotional strain of frequent appointments and treatments,” said Elizabeth Budde, M.D., Ph.D., City of Hope’s executive medical director of its Enterprise Immune Effector Cell Program and associate professor in its Division of Lymphoma, Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation. “While Lunsumio’s fixed duration intravenous formulation has already offered a valuable treatment option, the introduction of a subcutaneous route could provide a shorter administration time. With both routes available, we can better tailor therapy to each patient’s needs, supporting a flexible and patient-centered approach to follicular lymphoma care.” Follow-up data reinforce benefits of fixed-duration therapies beyond the end of treatment Three-year follow-up from the pivotal phase II NP30179 study of Columvi in people with relapsed or refractory (R/R) large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) showed 40.0% of patients achieved a complete response (CR), with a median duration of CR of 29.8 months (95% CI: 22.0–not estimable [NE]). The majority of patients in complete remission at the end of therapy remained in remission two years after therapy completion. Safety appeared consistent with the previous analysis.1 Long-term data at four years from the pivotal phase II GO29781 study of Lunsumio in patients with R/R follicular lymphoma (FL) showed long-lasting remissions, with nearly two-thirds (64.0% [95% CI: 50.1-78.0]) of patients with a CR alive and without disease progression at 45 months. The overall response rate (ORR) and CR rates in the overall population were 77.8% and 60.0%, respectively. Consistent results were seen in patients with a history of disease progression within 24 months of frontline treatment (POD24), which is typically harder to treat. No new safety signals were observed since the previous analysis.2 Both studies also showed restoration of B-cell levels, starting from 12-18 months following Columvi treatment and after a median of 19 months following Lunsumio treatment, indicating immune system recovery and supporting the use of a fixed-duration treatment approach.1,2 Recovery of B cells following treatment for lymphoma is important so that patients can maintain immune system function. A US real-world data study and economic model evaluating R/R non-Hodgkin lymphoma patient treatment-related travel burden across different bispecific antibody therapies highlight the impact of travel distance, time and associated costs, an often-overlooked aspect of the patient experience beyond clinical efficacy and safety. These factors play a crucial role in treatment decision-making, further emphasising the importance of patient-centred treatment options. The study found fixed-duration therapies, such as Columvi and Lunsumio, reduce treatment-related travel burden due to less frequent dosing.3 Studies investigating subcutaneously-administered Lunsumio show positive results Data from a primary analysis of the phase II GO29781 study of investigational Lunsumio administered subcutaneously in patients with third-line or later FL were presented for the first time. Results show pharmacokinetic non-inferiority compared to intravenous (IV) administration, with fixed-duration Lunsumio achieving high rates of deep and durable remissions, with 76.6% of patients experiencing an ORR and a 61.7% CR rate, as evaluated by the independent review committee. The median progression-free survival was 23.7 months (95% CI: 14.6-NE), while the median overall survival was not reached. The most common all-grade adverse events (AEs) were injection-site reactions (60.6%; all Grade 1-2), fatigue (35.1%), and cytokine release syndrome (CRS; 29.8%). The rate and severity of CRS events were low (Grade 1-2, 27.6%; Grade 3, 2.1%); all occurred during cycle 1 and were resolved.4 Data has been submitted to health authorities with the aim of offering patients and healthcare providers an alternative treatment and more choice when it comes to administration options depending on their needs. New data from a randomised phase II cohort of the investigational GO40516 study showed improved efficacy and manageable safety with outpatient, subcutaneously administered, fixed-duration Lunsumio in combination with Polivy® (polatuzumab vedotin) versus MabThera®/Rituxan® (rituximab) in combination with Polivy, in people with R/R LBCL. In the Lunsumio-Polivy arm, the ORR was 77.5% (95% CI: 61.6-89.2) versus 50.0% (95% CI: 33.8–66.2) for MabThera/Rituxan-Polivy, and the CR rate was 57.5% (95% CI: 40.9-73.0) versus 35.0% (95% CI: 20.6-51.7). AEs of special interest occurring in ≥30% of patients in the Lunsumio-Polivy arm were injection-site reactions (55.0%) and neutropoenia (40.0%). CRS events occurred in four (10.0%) patients, all of which were Grade 1-2, occurred during cycle 1 and were resolved.5 These data support further exploration of this investigational treatment combination in the ongoing phase III SUNMO study, which could provide an alternative option in second-line DLBCL to meet diverse patient needs. Additional data support Roche’s goal to elevate treatment standards in earlier stages of LBCL Updated data from the phase I/Ib investigational NP39488 study showed high and durable response rates in people with R/R LBCL treated with Columvi in combination with Polivy, including those with high-grade disease and prior treatment with CAR T-cell therapy. Of the 128 efficacy-evaluable patients, the best ORR was 80.6%, with a CR rate of 62.0%, and the median duration of CR was 31.8 months (95% CI: 21.9-NE). Among patients previously treated with CAR T-cell therapy (n=28), the ORR was 75.0%, with a CR rate of 50.0%. The safety profile was manageable and consistent with the known profiles of the individual drugs. The most common AE was CRS (44.4%), which was mostly Grade 1-2.6 Results support ongoing development of this investigational combination in the phase III SKYGLO study investigating Columvi with Polivy-MabThera/Rituxan, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone (R-CHP) in previously untreated DLBCL. Columvi is a CD20xCD3 T-cell-engaging bispecific antibody designed to target CD3 on the surface of T cells and CD20 on the surface of B cells. Columvi was designed with a novel 2:1 structural format. This T-cell-engaging bispecific antibody is engineered to have one region that binds to CD3, a protein on T cells, a type of immune cell, and two regions that bind to CD20, a protein on B cells, which can be healthy or malignant. This dual-targeting brings the T cell in close proximity to the B cell, activating the release of cancer cell-killing proteins from the T cell. Roche is investigating Columvi as a monotherapy and in combination with other medicines for the treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and mantle cell lymphoma. Lunsumio is a first-in-class CD20xCD3 T-cell-engaging bispecific antibody designed to target CD3 on the surface of T cells and CD20 on the surface of B cells. This dual-targeting activates and redirects a patient’s existing T cells to engage and eliminate target B cells by releasing cytotoxic proteins into the B cells. A robust clinical development programme for Lunsumio is ongoing, investigating the molecule as a monotherapy and in combination with other medicines, for the treatment of people with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas, including follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and other blood cancers. Polivy is a first-in-class anti-CD79b antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). The CD79b protein is expressed in the majority of B cells, an immune cell impacted in some types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), making it a promising target for the development of new therapies. Polivy binds to cancer cells such as those expressing CD79b and destroys these B cells through the delivery of an anti-cancer agent, which is thought to minimise the effects on normal cells. Polivy is being developed by Roche using Pfizer ADC technology and is currently being investigated for the treatment of several types of NHL. Roche has been developing medicines for people with malignant and non-malignant blood diseases for more than 25 years; our experience and knowledge in this therapeutic area runs deep. Today, we are investing more than ever in our effort to bring innovative treatment options to patients across a wide range of haematologic diseases. Our approved medicines include MabThera®/Rituxan® (rituximab), Gazyva®/Gazyvaro® (obinutuzumab), Polivy® (polatuzumab vedotin), Venclexta®/Venclyxto® (venetoclax) in collaboration with AbbVie, Hemlibra® (emicizumab), PiaSky® (crovalimab), Lunsumio® (mosunetuzumab) and Columvi® (glofitamab). Our pipeline of investigational haematology medicines includes T-cell-engaging bispecific antibody cevostamab, targeting both FcRH5 and CD3 and Tecentriq® (atezolizumab). Our scientific expertise, combined with the breadth of our portfolio and pipeline, also provides a unique opportunity to develop combination regimens that aim to improve the lives of patients even further. Founded in 1896 in Basel, Switzerland, as one of the first industrial manufacturers of branded medicines, Roche has grown into the world’s largest biotechnology company and the global leader in in-vitro diagnostics. The company pursues scientific excellence to discover and develop medicines and diagnostics for improving and saving the lives of people around the world. We are a pioneer in personalised healthcare and want to further transform how healthcare is delivered to have an even greater impact. To provide the best care for each person we partner with many stakeholders and combine our strengths in Diagnostics and Pharma with data insights from the clinical practice. For over 125 years, sustainability has been an integral part of Roche’s business. As a science-driven company, our greatest contribution to society is developing innovative medicines and diagnostics that help people live healthier lives. Roche is committed to the Science Based Targets initiative and the Sustainable Markets Initiative to achieve net zero by 2045. Genentech, in the United States, is a wholly owned member of the Roche Group. Roche is the majority shareholder in Chugai Pharmaceutical, Japan. References [1] Dickinson MJ, et al. Fixed-duration Glofitamab Monotherapy Continues to Demonstrate Durable Responses in Patients with Relapsed or Refractory Large B-Cell Lymphoma: 3-year Follow-Up From a Pivotal Phase II Study. Presented at: ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition; 2024 Dec 7-10; San Diego, CA, USA. Abstract #865. [2] Shadman M, et al. Mosunetuzumab Continues to Demonstrate Clinically Meaningful Outcomes in Patients with Relapsed and/or Refractory Follicular Lymphoma after ≥2 Prior Therapies Including Those with a History of POD24: 4-Year Follow-up of a Pivotal Phase II Study. Presented at: ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition; 2024 Dec 7-10; San Diego, CA, USA. Abstract #4407. [3] Huntington SF, et al. Travel Burden and Travel Costs of Bispecific Antibodies in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma and Relapsed/Refractory Follicular Lymphoma. Presented at: ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition; 2024 Dec 7-10; San Diego, CA, USA. Abstract #782. [4] Bartlett NL, et al. Subcutaneous Mosunetuzumab Leads to High Rates of Durable Responses, Low Rates of Cytokine Release Syndrome, and Non-Inferior Exposure Compared with Intravenous Administration in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Follicular Lymphoma: Primary Analysis of a Pivotal Phase II. Presented at: ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition; 2024 Dec 7-10; San Diego, CA, USA. Abstract #1645. [5] Chavez JC, et al. A Randomized Phase II Study of Mosunetuzumab SC Plus Polatuzumab Vedotin Demonstrates Improved Outcomes Versus Rituximab Plus Polatuzumab Vedotin in Patients (Pts) with Relapsed or Refractory (R/R) Large B-Cell Lymphoma (LBCL). Presented at: ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition; 2024 Dec 7-10; San Diego, CA, USA. Abstract #989. [6] Hutchings M, et al. Glofitamab in Combination with Polatuzumab Vedotin Maintains Durable Responses and a Manageable Safety Profile in Patients with Heavily Pre-treated Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) Large B-Cell Lymphoma (LBCL) Including High-Grade B-Cell Lymphoma (HGBCL): Extended Follow-Up of a Phase Ib/II Study. Presented at: ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition; 2024 Dec 7-10; San Diego, CA, USA. Abstract #988. The content above comes from the network. if any infringement, please contact us to modify.

Exploratory long-term follow-up analysis of the phase III POLARIX study indicated a positive trend in overall survival in favour of Polivy in combination with R-CHP for people with first-line diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)1 Patients treated with Polivy in combination with R-CHP required fewer subsequent treatments, potentially reducing burdens on patients and healthcare systems1 These encouraging five-year results continue to highlight the potential of this Polivy combination to improve outcomes in first-line DLBCL, an area that previously had little advancement in nearly two decades 8 December 2024 - Roche (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY) announced today data from a five-year follow-up of the pivotal phase III POLARIX study evaluating Polivy® (polatuzumab vedotin) in combination with MabThera®/Rituxan® (rituximab), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and prednisone (R-CHP) in people with untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Data were presented in an oral session at the 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition, 7-10 December 2024 in San Diego, US. This latest analysis conducted after a median follow-up of 60.9 months, includes descriptive data on primary and secondary endpoints, as well as safety results.1 “POLARIX was the first trial to elevate treatment standards for frontline diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in 20 years and we are additionally encouraged by the five-year follow-up results,” said Levi Garraway, MD, PhD, Roche’s Chief Medical Officer and Head of Global Product Development. “More than 38,000 people worldwide have been treated with Polivy in combination with R-CHP and these data continue to underscore its potential to improve outcomes for people diagnosed with this aggressive lymphoma.” Follow-up exploratory analysis after five-years indicated a positive trend in overall survival (OS) in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population in favour of Polivy in combination with R-CHP compared to MabThera/Rituxan plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone (R-CHOP). Results showed a trend in reduction in the risk of death (HR 0.85; 95% CI: 0.63–1.15) for people with previously untreated DLBCL with the Polivy combination, an improvement on the three-year follow-up data (HR 0.94; 95% CI: 0.67–1.33). The five-year analysis of POLARIX indicates that the full difference in OS between treatment arms has yet to be observed and an additional two years of follow-up will continue.1 “Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is a notoriously challenging cancer to treat, however, Polivy in combination with R-CHP has shown to be a critical advance for patients by helping to reduce relapse and disease progression,” said Gilles Salles, MD, PhD, Chief of Lymphoma Service, Division of Hematological Malignancies, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, US. “The survival trend seen in this follow-up analysis reinforces the potential impact of frontline treatment with Polivy in combination with R-CHP and its role as a standard of care therapy.” In addition to the positive trend in OS, an observational analysis suggested nearly 25% fewer follow-up treatments such as radiation, systemic chemotherapy and CAR-T cell therapy were needed in patients receiving Polivy in combination with R-CHP compared to those treated with R-CHOP (38.3% vs 61.7%).1 Based on findings from a previous economic analysis which found that total healthcare costs increased with each additional line of treatment in relapsed or refractory DLBCL, a reduction in the number of subsequent therapies could potentially alleviate some of the burdens associated with relapse and disease progression.2 At five years of follow-up, benefits in progression-free survival and disease-free survival with Polivy in combination with R-CHP were maintained, consistent with the three-year follow-up data, reinforcing the potential of Polivy in combination with R-CHP to provide durable and lasting remissions. The latest follow-up data also showed a numerical reduction in death related to patients’ lymphoma in those treated with Polivy in combination with R-CHP compared to those treated with R-CHOP (9.0% vs 11.4%). The safety profile remains consistent with the known profiles of the individual study medicines with no new safety signals observed, reinforcing the positive benefit-risk profile of this Polivy combination.1 Results from an expanded cohort of 1,000 patients including global and Chinese patients demonstrated comparability to the global ITT population.1 Polivy in combination with R-CHP is currently approved for the treatment of first-line (1L) DLBCL in more than 90 countries worldwide including the US, countries throughout the EU, the UK, Japan, Canada and China. Roche continues to work with health authorities around the world to bring this treatment regimen to even more patients. Roche aims to offer various treatment options for DLBCL that meet the diverse needs of patients and healthcare systems. In an effort to elevate treatment standards even further, Roche is exploring Polivy in combination with other molecules including its bispecific antibodies. Studies include the phase III SUNMO trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of subcutaneously administered Lunsumio® (mosunetuzumab) in combination with intravenous (IV) Polivy versus IV MabThera/Rituxan plus gemcitabine and oxaliplatin (R-GemOx) in second-line or later DLBCL, and the phase III SKYGLO trial investigating the efficacy of Polivy in combination with R-CHP and Columvi® (glofitamab) versus Polivy in combination with R-CHP in 1L DLBCL. POLARIX [NCT03274492] is an international phase III, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating the efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of Polivy® (polatuzumab vedotin) plus MabThera®/Rituxan® (rituximab), cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone (R-CHP) versus rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone (R-CHOP) in people with previously untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Eight-hundred and seventy-nine patients were randomised 1:1 to receive either Polivy plus R-CHP plus a vincristine placebo for six cycles, followed by MabThera/Rituxan for two cycles; or R-CHOP plus a Polivy placebo for six cycles, followed by two cycles of MabThera/Rituxan. The primary outcome measure is progression-free survival (PFS) as assessed by the investigator using the Lugano Response Criteria for malignant lymphoma. PFS is a clinically meaningful disease-related outcome for patients with previously untreated DLBCL as it represents the goal of first-line therapy: decreasing the risk of disease worsening. Overall survival is a secondary endpoint in the POLARIX study. DLBCL is the most common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), accounting for about one in three cases of NHL.3 DLBCL is an aggressive (fast-growing) type of NHL. While it is generally responsive to treatment in the frontline, as many as 40% of people will relapse or have refractory disease, at which time salvage therapy options are limited and survival is short. 4,5 Improving treatments earlier in the course of the disease and providing much needed alternative options could help to improve long-term outcomes. Approximately 160,000 people worldwide are estimated to be diagnosed with DLBCL each year.1,6 Polivy is a first-in-class anti-CD79b antibody-drug conjugate (ADC). The CD79b protein is expressed specifically in the majority of B-cells, an immune cell impacted in some types of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), making it a promising target for the development of new therapies. Polivy binds to cancer cells such as CD79b and destroys these B-cells through the delivery of an anti-cancer agent, which is thought to minimise the effects on normal cells. Polivy is being developed by Roche using Pfizer ADC technology and is currently being investigated for the treatment of several types of NHL. Roche has been developing medicines for people with malignant and non-malignant blood diseases for more than 25 years; our experience and knowledge in this therapeutic area runs deep. Today, we are investing more than ever in our effort to bring innovative treatment options to patients across a wide range of haematologic diseases. Our approved medicines include MabThera/Rituxan, Gazyva®/Gazyvaro® (obinutuzumab), Polivy, Venclexta®/Venclyxto® (venetoclax) in collaboration with AbbVie, Hemlibra® (emicizumab), PiaSky® (crovalimab), Lunsumio® (mosunetuzumab) and Columvi® (glofitamab). Our pipeline of investigational haematology medicines includes T-cell engaging bispecific antibody cevostamab, targeting both FcRH5 and CD3 and Tecentriq® (atezolizumab). Our scientific expertise, combined with the breadth of our portfolio and pipeline, also provides a unique opportunity to develop combination regimens that aim to improve the lives of patients even further. Founded in 1896 in Basel, Switzerland, as one of the first industrial manufacturers of branded medicines, Roche has grown into the world’s largest biotechnology company and the global leader in in-vitro diagnostics. The company pursues scientific excellence to discover and develop medicines and diagnostics for improving and saving the lives of people around the world. We are a pioneer in personalised healthcare and want to further transform how healthcare is delivered to have an even greater impact. To provide the best care for each person we partner with many stakeholders and combine our strengths in Diagnostics and Pharma with data insights from the clinical practice. For over 125 years, sustainability has been an integral part of Roche’s business. As a science-driven company, our greatest contribution to society is developing innovative medicines and diagnostics that help people live healthier lives. Roche is committed to the Science Based Targets initiative and the Sustainable Markets Initiative to achieve net zero by 2045. Genentech, in the United States, is a wholly owned member of the Roche Group. Roche is the majority shareholder in Chugai Pharmaceutical, Japan. References [1] Gilles S, et al. Five-Year Analysis of the POLARIX Study: Prolonged Follow-up Confirms Positive Impact of Polatuzumab Vedotin Plus Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, and Prednisone (Pola-R-CHP) on Outcomes. Presented at: ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition; 2024 Dec 7-10; San Diego, CA, USA. Abstract #469. [2] Gatwood J, et al. Total cost of care in Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Presented at: ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition; 2022, Dec 10-13. Abstract #3527 [3] Cancer.Net. Lymphoma - Non-Hodgkin: Subtypes. [Internet; cited December 2024]. Available from: https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/lymphoma-non-hodgkin/subtypes [4] Sehn LH, et al. Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma. N Engl J Med. 2021;384(9):842-858. [5] Maurer MJ, et al. Event-free survival at 24 months is a robust end point for disease-related outcome in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated with immunochemotherapy. J Clin Oncol. 2014;32:1066-73. [6] World Health Organization. Numbers derived from GLOBOCAN 2022. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Factsheet [Internet; cited December 2024]. Available from: https://gco-iarc-who-int.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/media/globocan/factsheets/cancers/34-non-hodgkin-lymphoma-fact-sheet.pd. The content above comes from the network. if any infringement, please contact us to modify.