A first-in-class, first-in-human, phase I trial of CIGB-552, a synthetic peptide targeting COMMD1 to inhibit the oncogenic activity of NF-κB in patients with advanced solid tumors

Int J Cancer. 2021 Sep 15;149(6):1313-1321. doi: 10.1002/ijc.33695. Epub 2021 May 27.

Abstract

CIGB-552 is a synthetic peptide that interacts with COMMD1 and upregulates its protein levels. The objectives of this phase I study were safety, pharmacokinetic profile, evaluation of the lymphocytes CD4+ and CD8+ and preliminary activity in patients with advanced tumors. A 3 + 3 dose-escalation design with seven dose levels was implemented. Patients were included until a grade 3 related adverse event occurred and the maximum tolerated dose was reached. The patients received subcutaneous administration of CIGB-552 three times per week for 2 weeks. Single-dose plasma pharmacokinetics was characterized at two dose levels, and tumor responses were classified by RECIST 1.1. Twenty-four patients received CIGB-552. Dose-limiting toxicity was associated with a transient grade 3 pruritic maculopapular rash at a dose of 7.0 mg. The maximum tolerated dose was defined as 4.7 mg. Ten patients were assessable for immunological status. Seven patients had significant changes in the ratio CD4/CD8 in response to CIGB-552 treatment; three patients did not modify the immunological status. Stable disease was observed in five patients, including two metastatic soft sarcomas. We conclude that CIGB-552 at dose 4.7 mg was well tolerated with no significant adverse events and appeared to provide some clinical benefits.

Keywords: CIGB-552; COMMD1; NF-κB; phase I; solid tumors.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial, Phase I
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing / metabolism
  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacokinetics
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / drug effects
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / drug effects
  • Cell-Penetrating Peptides / administration & dosage*
  • Cell-Penetrating Peptides / adverse effects
  • Cell-Penetrating Peptides / pharmacokinetics
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections, Subcutaneous
  • Male
  • Maximum Tolerated Dose
  • Middle Aged
  • NF-kappa B / drug effects*
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Research Design
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • CIGB-552 peptide
  • COMMD1 protein, human
  • Cell-Penetrating Peptides
  • NF-kappa B