Safety and Tumor Responses with Lambrolizumab (Anti–PD-1) in Melanoma

SUMMARY:Lambrolizumab (MK-3475) is a humanized anti–PD-1 monoclonal antibody. The programmed death 1 (PD-1) receptor is an inhibitory receptor expressed on activated T-cells in the tumor micro environment. The anti–PD-1 antibody by blocking the PD-1 receptor essentially unleashes the immune system to fight off cancer cells. One hundred and thirty five patients with advanced melanoma regardless of their prior therapy with YERVOY® (Ipilimumab) received IV Lambrolizumab every 2-3 weeks. There was no difference in the response rates between patients who had prior therapy with YERVOY® and those who did not (38%). Majority of these patients had a rapid and durable response. The median progression-free survival was more than 7 months. The most common adverse events, mostly low grade were, fatigue, rash, pruritus, and diarrhea. The authors concluded that Lambrolizumab can significantly benefit patients with advanced Malignant Melanoma, regardless of their prior therapy with anti-CTLA 4 antibody, YERVOY® and with minimal toxicity. Hamid O, Robert C, Daud A, et al. N Engl J Med 2013; 369:134-144