Phase I and pharmacokinetic study of YM155, a small-molecule inhibitor of survivin

Anthony W Tolcher1, Alain Mita, Lionel D Lewis

  • 1Institute for Drug Development, Cancer Therapy and Research Center, San Antonio, TX, USA. atolcher@start.stoh.com

Abstract

Insights

The maximum-tolerated dose of YM155, a survivin inhibitor, was determined to be 4.8 mg/m(2)/d. This dose showed promising antitumor activity and a manageable safety profile in patients with advanced cancers.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Survivin is a key protein in cancer cell survival.
  • YM155 is a novel small-molecule inhibitor targeting survivin.
  • Understanding YM155's MTD and safety is crucial for further development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) of YM155.
  • Assess the safety and tolerability of YM155.
  • Evaluate pharmacokinetics and preliminary antitumor activity of YM155.

Main Methods:

  • Phase I clinical trial with escalating doses of YM155.
  • 168-hour continuous intravenous infusion (CIVI) every 3 weeks.
  • Pharmacokinetic analysis of plasma and urine samples.

Main Results:

  • MTD established at 4.8 mg/m(2)/d.
  • Common toxicities included stomatitis, pyrexia, and nausea; severe toxicities were rare.
  • Observed responses in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, prostate cancer, and non-small-cell lung cancer.

Conclusions:

  • YM155 is safely administered at 4.8 mg/m(2)/d via 168-hour CIVI.
  • Achieved preclinical effective plasma concentrations.
  • Warrants further investigation in disease-directed studies, alone or in combination therapy.

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