A First-in-Human Study of ATM Inhibitor Lartesertib as Monotherapy in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors

Lillian L Siu1, Timothy A Yap2, Sofia Genta1,3

  • 1Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.

Abstract

Insights

The first-in-human study of lartesertib, an ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase inhibitor, found it safe and well-tolerated up to 300 mg daily. Lartesertib achieved target engagement with promising molecular responses in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Trials

Background:

  • Ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) kinase is a key regulator of DNA damage response.
  • Targeting ATM is a promising strategy for cancer therapy.
  • Lartesertib is a novel, potent, and selective oral ATM kinase inhibitor.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of lartesertib in a first-in-human Phase 1 study.
  • Assess the anti-tumor activity of lartesertib in patients with advanced solid tumors.

Main Methods:

  • Open-label, dose-escalation study of oral lartesertib (100-400 mg QD) in 22 patients with advanced solid tumors.
  • Dose escalation guided by Bayesian logistic regression model using PK, PD, and safety data.
  • Molecular responses (MRs) assessed via circulating tumor DNA; PD markers included γ-H2AX levels.

Main Results:

  • Lartesertib was administered at doses up to 400 mg QD, with MTD determined as 300 mg QD.
  • Maculopapular rash was the most frequent dose-limiting toxicity; Grade ≥3 treatment-emergent adverse events included anemia and hypersensitivity.
  • Lartesertib achieved dose-related exposure, with mean half-life of 5-7 hours and target engagement (80%-100% γ-H2AX inhibition).
  • Molecular responses observed in 4/21 evaluable patients; best overall response was stable disease.

Conclusions:

  • Lartesertib demonstrated target exposure and engagement with an acceptable safety profile, with no significant hematological toxicity.
  • The MTD was established at 300 mg QD.
  • Further clinical evaluation of lartesertib, particularly in combination therapy, is warranted.