Neurotoxicity of CI-980, a novel mitotic inhibitor

CI-980 is a chemotherapeutic agent currently in Phase II trials that arrests cellular division by binding to tubulin. It is structurally and functionally similar to colchicine, a potent nonreversible neurotoxin, and is able to cross the blood-brain barrier. In Phase I studies, neurotoxicity was noted. The neurotoxicity of CI-980 was prospectively evaluated in two Phase II studies by neurological evaluation, quantitative sensory testing, and neuropsychological assessment of cognitive functioning. The results revealed a significant but reversible decline in recent memory functioning after each course of CI-980, with no effect on overall mental status or neurological function. Sixty-seven percent of patients performed in the impaired range on the memory test after their first infusion, whereas only one exhibited a decline on a brief cognitive screen. The results are consistent with the known effects of colchicine on the brain. Colchicine selectively blocks choline acetyltransferase in the hippocampus and basal forebrain, the area of the brain responsible for memory consolidation. Although the effect of CI-980 was reversible at the dose and schedule used, this study suggests that careful monitoring of cognitive function in patients receiving this agent should be performed if dose or schedule parameters are changed. In addition, this study demonstrates the feasibility of incorporating neuropsychological assessment in clinical trials of new anticancer agents having potential neurotoxic side effects.