INITIAL CLINICAL-TRIALS OF MAYTANSINE, AN ANTI-TUMOR PLANT ALKALOID

  • 1 January 1978
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 62  (3) , 429-433
Abstract
A phase I clinical trial of maytansine [Maytenus ovatus], a plant alkaloid with potent tubulin-binding activity, was conducted. For evaluation of toxicity, the schedule of drug administration consisted of a single i.v. infusion given every 3 wk. Dose-limiting toxicity was observed at 2 mg/m2 and was manifested as profound weakness, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms persisted 3-14 days after drug administration. No consistent myelosuppression occurred at any dose level. Responses were observed in 2 patients (1 each with non-Hodgkin''s lymphoma and ovarian cancer) who were treated on the every 3 wk schedule, as well as in 2 patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia treated with single weekly doses. Three of the 4 responding patients had received extensive prior treatment with vincristine, and 2 were clearly resistant to vincristine.

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