Background: SM-88 (tyrosine derivative, mTOR inhibitor, CYP3a4 inducer and oxidative stress catalyst) is a relatively non-toxic, targeted therapy that utilizes the Warburg Effect in combination with oxidative stress to cause tumor cell death. Previously reported results (Phase I and preliminary Phase II) showed safety and efficacy for SM-88 in metastatic and recurrent cancers. Pancreatic cancer continues to have a poor prognosis with toxic standard of care (SOC) therapies, associated serious adverse events (SAEs), and QOL degradation. SM-88 is being evaluated as a minimally toxic alternative treatment. Methods: Retrospective chart review between 2012-17 of 12 patients with advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer treated with SM-88 through a Phase 1 study (3/12) or compassionate use (9/12) with 10/12 evaluable. Although treatment regimens specifics varied, all were provided SM-88 therapy five days a week, administered by clinicians, orally or through subcutaneous injection; 7/10 patients received SM-88 mono therapy; and 3/10 received combination therapy (5FU-based). Results: 40% (4/10) of patients achieved survival benefit of greater than one year (mean 12.2 mo) (see table). Monotherapy patients maintained or improved ECOG PS and did not experience drug-related SAEs during treatment. 2/10 patients achieved partial responses. One patient maintained rPFS for 13 months despite positive margins post-surgery and elevated CA19.9 levels. Conclusions: SM-88 appears well tolerated and demonstrated notable survival times in comparison to expected SOC therapies. In addition, several of the patients demonstrating benefit had baseline ECOG PSs of 2, for which current SOC is palliative care only. For further evaluation, a North American Phase II trial in recurrent pancreatic cancer has been initiated.

* S = surgery, R = radiotherapy, C = chemotherapy (Number of lines), Comb = SM88 combined with SOC chemotherapy