nab-Sirolimus for Patients With Malignant Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumors

Andrew J Wagner1, Vinod Ravi2, Richard F Riedel3

  • 1Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston MA.

Abstract

Insights

This study shows nab-sirolimus is an effective treatment for malignant perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComa), demonstrating significant response rates and durable outcomes in a rare sarcoma. The drug is well-tolerated, offering a new therapeutic option.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Medical Research
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Malignant perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa) is a rare and aggressive sarcoma lacking approved treatments.
  • This study addresses the unmet need for effective therapies in malignant PEComa.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the safety and efficacy of nab-sirolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor, in patients with malignant PEComa.
  • This represents the first prospective clinical trial for this rare disease.

Main Methods:

  • A phase II, single-arm, registration trial (AMPECT, NCT02494570) was conducted.
  • Patients received nab-sirolimus intravenously weekly for two weeks in 3-week cycles.
  • Objective response rate, duration of response, progression-free survival, safety, and tumor biomarkers were assessed.

Main Results:

  • An overall response rate of 39% was observed in 31 efficacy-evaluable patients, with durable responses.
  • Median progression-free survival was 10.6 months and median overall survival was 40.8 months.
  • Patients with TSC2 mutations showed significantly higher response rates (89%) compared to those without (13%).
  • Nab-sirolimus was generally well-tolerated with manageable adverse events.

Conclusions:

  • Nab-sirolimus demonstrates significant activity in malignant PEComa patients.
  • The drug's efficacy, response durability, and safety profile establish it as a promising new treatment option.
  • Tumor biomarker analysis, particularly TSC2 mutations, may predict treatment response.

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