Merck Suspends Enrollment in MK-0457 Trials

Merck has suspended enrollment in clinical trials of the lead investigational Aurora kinase inhibitor MK-0457, a potential therapy for leukemias, pending a full analysis of all efficacy and safety data.

Merck and Vertex have collaborated to test Aurora kinase inhibitors to treat cancers. The decision was based on preliminary safety data that showed one patient experienced QTc prolongation, Vertex said.

The inhibitor is in Phase II trials for treatment-refractory chronic myelogenous leukemia or Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia and Phase I trials for advanced leukemias.