Ep 46: Cemiplimab + Fianlimab (first report)

Summary*Warning* with apologies! There is a change in sound at 11:11 mark that might necessitate a lower volume output. Hosts James Larkin has a beef with the first word of the cemiplimab + fianlimab JCO publication. He's living vicariously through Sapna's snowboarding plans for the season (if the record high temps ever stop). They continue to struggle with Farenheit to Centrigrade conversion. In this episode of Melanoma Matters, James and Sapna discuss the recent publication on cemiplimab and fianlimab, focusing on their efficacy in various patient cohorts, particularly those who are PD-1 naive. They discuss if all LAG-3 antibodies are created equal, and one host is busted for not reading the Supplementary Appendix to the publication. Keywordsmelanoma, cemiplimab, fianlimab, LAG-3, PD-1, cancer therapy, clinical trials, efficacy, adverse events, immunotherapyTakeaways Objective response rates are promising in various cohorts. Semiplimab and Thiamlimab show efficacy in PD-1 naive patients. The study highlights the need for larger randomized trials. Comparative efficacy of LAG-3 therapies remains to be seen. Adverse events like infusion reactions are noteworthy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of ongoing research. Understanding patient selection criteria is crucial for interpreting results. The hosts discuss the implications of the findings for future treatments. There is excitement about the potential of these new therapies. The episode underscores the evolving landscape of melanoma treatment. ALWAYS READ THE SUPPLEMENTARY APPENDIXTitlesUnderstanding LAG-3 Therapies in MelanomaThe Promise of LAG-3 in Advanced MelanomaSound Bites"Objective response rate in all these cohorts looks good""This is a paper about a novel (anti) LAG- 3 + PD-1 combination""The objective response rate is topping 50%"Chapters00:00 Introduction 04:56 Discussion on Cemiplimab and Fianlimab07:48 Exploring Phase One Trial Data10:56 Comparative Analysis of LAG-3 Therapies11:11 *Warning* Volume / Sound Change14:16 Understanding Patient Cohorts and Response Rates16:50 Comparative Analysis of Treatment Options20:10 Safety and Adverse Effects of New Combinations23:11 Future Trials with This Combination