Background
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a key downstream protein activated via PI3K-AKT pathway and inhibition of mTOR in addition to EGFR may overcome upstream resistance to EGFR inhibitors. This is a phase Ib study to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of the PIE.

Methods
Patients with KRAS WT mCRC following failure of first line fluoropyrimidine based therapy received IV irinotecan and panitumumab every 2 weeks, and everolimus orally throughout a 14 day cycle. Dose finding used a standard 3+3 design with the MTD defined as the dose with dose limiting toxicity (DLT) in ≤1/6 patients. A DLT is any of the following in the first 28 days; febrile neutropenia, G3/G4 neutropenia > 14 days, any G4 thrombocytopenia, any non-haematologic event of G4 or of G3 for >7 days, treatment delays of >14 days. Dose level 1; irinotecan 200mg/m2, panitumumab 6mg/kg, everolimus 5mg alternate days. Dose level 2; irinotecan 200mg/m2, panitumumab 6mg/kg, and everolimus 5mg daily.

Results
15 patients have been enrolled, 2 withdrew prior to therapy. Five patients were enrolled at level 1. Two patients were NE. Of the three evaluable patients there was no DLT. Three patients were then treated at level 2. Following one DLT (grade 3 mucositis >7 days), the cohort was expanded to 5 evaluable patients but suspended after a further DLT (grade 3 mucositis). Other grade 3 toxicities were anorexia, rash, vomiting, and hypersensitivity. There were no grade 4 toxicities. Dose level 1 was expanded by 4, to a total of 7 evaluable patients. Grade 3 toxicities were mucositis (14%), fatigue (14%), diarrhoea (29%), rash (14%), hypomagnesemia (14%), and neutropenia (14%). There was no DLT. RR is 29%.

Conclusions
Dose level 2 exceeded the MTD. Dose level 1 appears tolerable and warrants further investigation. The phase II component of the study is ongoing.