Phase 1 study of MLN8054, a selective inhibitor of Aurora A kinase in patients with advanced solid tumors

Aurora A kinase is critical in assembly and function of the mitotic spindle. It is overexpressed in various tumor types and implicated in oncogenesis and tumor progression. This trial evaluated the dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of MLN8054, a selective small-molecule inhibitor of Aurora A kinase. In this first-in-human, dose-escalation study, MLN8054 was given orally for 7, 14, or 21 days followed by a 14-day treatment-free period. Escalating cohorts of 3-6 patients with advanced solid tumors were treated until DLT was seen in a parts per thousand yen2 patients in a cohort. Serial blood samples were collected for pharmacokinetics and skin biopsies were collected for pharmacodynamics. Sixty-one patients received 5, 10, 20, 30, or 40 mg once daily for 7 days; 25, 35, 45, or 55 mg/day in four divided doses (QID) for 7 days; or 55, 60, 70, or 80 mg/day plus methylphenidate or modafinil with daytime doses (QID/M) for 7-21 days. DLTs of reversible grade 3 benzodiazepine-like effects defined the estimated MTD of 60 mg QID/M for 14 days. MLN8054 was absorbed rapidly, exposure was dose proportional, and terminal half-life was 30-40 h. Three patients had stable disease for > 6 cycles. MLN8054 dosing for up to 14 days of a 28-day cycle was feasible. Reversible somnolence was dose limiting and prevented achievement of plasma concentrations predicted necessary for target modulation. A recommended dose for investigation in phase 2 trials was not established. A second-generation Aurora A kinase inhibitor is in development.