Discovery of potent and selective spiroindolinone MDM2 inhibitor, RO8994, for cancer therapy.

The field of small-molecule inhibitors of protein-protein interactions is rapidly advancing and the specific area of inhibitors of the p53/MDM2 interaction is a prime example. Several groups have published on this topic and multiple compounds are in various stages of clinical development. Building on the strength of the discovery of RG7112, a Nutlin imidazoline-based compound, and RG7388, a pyrrolidine-based compound, we have developed additional scaffolds that provide opportunities for future development. Here, we report the discovery and optimization of a highly potent and selective series of spiroindolinone small-molecule MDM2 inhibitors, culminating in RO8994.

Preclinical evaluation of the novel multi-targeted agent R1530.

PURPOSE: This study describes the antiproliferative activity of the multikinase inhibitor R1530 in vitro and its antitumor and anti-angiogenic activity, pharmacokinetics, and tolerability in vivo. METHODS: The antiproliferative activity of R1530 was investigated in a range of human tumor, endothelial and fibroblast cell lines. Tolerability and antitumor activity were assessed in mice bearing a range of human tumor xenografts, and anti-angiogenic properties were established in the murine corneal pocket assay. R1530 pharmacokinetics in mice were established. RESULTS: R1530 strongly inhibited human tumor cell proliferation. Growth factor-driven proliferation of endothelial and fibroblast cells was also inhibited. Significant tumor growth inhibition was demonstrated in a lung cancer xenograft model with a range of once daily, weekly and twice-weekly doses of R1530 (3.125-50 mg/kg qd, 100 mg/kg qw, 100 mg/kg biw). Daily doses were most effective in the lung cancer model and also had significant growth inhibitory effects in models of colorectal, prostate, and breast tumors. Tumor regression occurred in all models treated with the maximum tolerated daily dose (50 mg/kg). The doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg qd resulted in biologically significant increased survival in all tested models. After oral administration in nude mice, R1530 showed good tissue penetration. Exposure was dose dependent up to 100 mg/kg with oral administration. CONCLUSIONS: R1530 has demonstrated activity against a range of tumor models in vitro and in vivo and is an effective inhibitor of angiogenesis. These findings support the approach of targeting multiple pathways in the search for potential agents with improved anticancer properties.