Use of PLK1 inhibitor and paclitaxel in treating small cell lung cancer

Abstract

Provided include methods, compositions and kits for treating cancer (e.g., small cell lung cancer) in a subject. The method can comprise administrating a PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) or a combination of a PLK1 inhibitor and a chemotherapeutic agent (e.g., paclitaxel) to the subject in a manner sufficient to inhibit progression of the cancer.

Description

USE OF PLK1 INHIBITOR AND PACLITAXEL IN TREATING SMALL CELL LUNGCANCERRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 561,214, filed March 4, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 575,168, filed April 5, 2024, the content of these related applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of treating cancer, more specifically, treatment of small cell lung cancer.Description of the Related Art

[0003] In Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), key transcription factors: ASCL1, NEURODI, YAP1, POU2F3 drive SCLC molecular subtypes (A, N, Y, P, respectively). SCLC- A (40%-50%) and SCLC-N (25%-30%) constitute the main patient populations, both exhibiting significant neuroendocrine features. With previous treatments, prognosis is less than 7% five-year survival rate. Previous treatments are typically platinum-based chemotherapy in frontline, and paclitaxel is used in relapsed / refractory setting (typically a less than 30% response rate).

[0004] There is a need for therapeutic advancements to improve clinical outcomes.SUMMARY

[0005] Disclosed herein include methods of treating small cell lung cancer (SCLC). In some embodiments, the method comprises: administering a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to a subject with the SCLC, thereby inhibiting or reducing progression of the SCLC in the subject. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

[0006] In some embodiments, the SCLC is SCLC-A, SCLC-N, SCLC-Y, or SCLC-P. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC is resistant to or does not respond effectively to a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC has stable disease or progressive disease when treated with the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent, or develops resistance to the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC is resistant to cisplatin. In some embodiments, the resistance is acquired resistance or intrinsic resistance.

[0007] In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC has received a prior G2 / Mcell cycle inhibitor treatment. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC did not respond to the treatment with the prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC has stable or progressive disease following the treatment with the prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC is known to be resistant to the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor are co-administered simultaneously. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor are administered sequentially. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, or both are administered to the subject in a cycle of 7 days, 14 days, 28 days, 35 days, 42 days, or 49 days. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered to the subject about once a week and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered to the subject about 5 days a week. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is at least about 14 days. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is from about 14 days to about 28 days. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered on at least five days, at least ten days, or at least fifteen days in a cycle. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is not administered on at least one day, at least three days, or at least seven days in a cycle. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered daily. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered once or twice weekly. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered once weekly for two, three, four, five, six or seven consecutive weeks in a cycle. In some embodiments, the subject undergoes at least two cycles of the administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a microtubule targeting agent (MTA). In some embodiments, the MTA is paclitaxel, docetaxel, acetyltaxol, 7- hexanoyltaxol, cabazitaxel, larotaxel, milataxel, ortataxel, tesetaxel, taxoprexin, opaxio, taxoprexin (DHA-paclitaxel), Poly(L-glutamic acid)-paclitaxel, abraxane, SB-T-1214, SB-T1216, SB-T121602, SB-T-12854, DHA-SB-T1214, abeo-taxane; wherein the abeo-taxane is optionally abeo-taxane 15a.2, docetaxl-d9-t-Boc, docetaxel -f3-t-Boc, cabazitaxel-7,10-de, Poly (glutamyl - glutamate)-taxane conjugates; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, solvate or prodrug thereof, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is paclitaxel. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a PLK1 inhibitor. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor is onvansertib (NMS-P937), BI2536, volasertib (BI 6727), GSK461364, adavosertib (AZDI 775), CYC 140, HMN-176, HMN-214, rigosertib (ON-01910), MLN0905, TKM-080301, TAK-960, GTPL10072, Ro3280; or a pharmaceutically acceptablesalt, hydrate, solvate or prodrug thereof; and any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is onvansertib.

[0010] In some embodiments, the subject has received at least one prior cancer treatment. In some embodiments, prior treatment does not comprise the use of an MT A, a PLK1 inhibitor, or both. In some embodiments, the PLKl inhibitor is onvansertib. In some embodiments, the subject was in remission for cancer. In some embodiments, the subject in remission for cancer was in complete remission (CR) or in partial remission (PR). The method can comprise determining cancer status of the subject. The method can comprise determining responsiveness of the subject to the treatment with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. The method can comprise administering one or more additional cancer therapeutics or therapies for the cancer. In some embodiments, the subject is human. In some embodiments, the subject achieves a complete response. In some embodiments, the administration results in tumor growth inhibition of at least 70%, following at least one cycle of treatment.

[0011] Disclosed herein include kits. In some embodiments, the kit comprises: a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor; a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor; and a manual providing instructions for co-administering the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to a subject in need thereof for treating SCLC. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor

[0012] In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is an MTA. In some embodiments, the MTA is paclitaxel, docetaxel, acetyltaxol, tetraxetan, 7-hexanoyltaxol, cabazitaxel, larotaxel, milataxel, ortataxel, tesetaxel, taxoprexin, opaxio, taxoprexin (DHA- paclitaxel), Poly(L-glutamic acid)-paclitaxel, abraxane, SB-T-1214, SB-T1216, SB-T121602, SB-T-12854, DHA-SB-T1214, abeo-taxane; wherein the abeo-taxane is optionally abeo-taxane 15a.2, docetaxl-d9-t-Boc, docetaxel-f3-t-Boc, cabazitaxel -7, 10-de, Poly(glutamyl-glutamate)- taxane conjugates; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, solvate or prodrug thereof, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a PLK1 inhibitor. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor is onvansertib (NMS-P937), BI2536, volasertib (BI 6727), GSK461364, adavosertib (AZDI 775), CYC 140, HMN-176, HMN-214, rigosertib (ON-01910), MLN0905, TKM-080301, TAK-960, GTPL10072, Ro3280; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, solvate or prodrug thereof; and any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is paclitaxel and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is onvansertib. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for co-administrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor simultaneously. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitorsequentially. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering to a subject that did not respond to treatment with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering to a subject resistant to a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent is cisplatin.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1A-FIG. ID display non-limiting exemplary data related to synergistic effects of treatment of SCLC cell lines with onvansertib (Onv) and paclitaxel (Ptxl). Synergy was determined using the combination index (CI) calculations with CompuSyn. CI <1.0 indicates synergy, categorized into strong (CI < 0.3), moderate (CI 0.3-0.7), or slight (CI 0.7-0.9). CI graphs for 4 cell lines (DMS53, FIG. 1 A; DMS114, FIG. IB, DMS273, FIG. 1C; and KPI 1, FIG. ID) are shown. Also, see Table 1.

[0014] FIG. 2A-FIG. 2C display non-limiting exemplary data for TKO2 (FIG. 2A), TKO8 (FIG. 2B), and TKO5 (FIG. 2C) PDX models treated with vehicle, onvansertib (50 mg / kg, orally, 4 times / week), paclitaxel (15 mg / kg, intraperitoneally, weekly), or their combination over set periods (n=8 / group), with tumor growth and body weight monitored. Tumor growth inhibition (TGI) was calculated as 100% x ((Vcontrol-Vtreated) / Vcontrol), with regression indicated by TGI > 100% and complete response (CR) by a tumor size of 0 mm3. Statistical tumor volume differences were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA, significant at **p<0.01 and ****p<0.0001. Kaplan-Meier curves for event-free survival (time to reach tumor volumes of 1400 or 1500 mm3) was analyzed by Log-rank Mantel Cox test (****p<0.0001). Day (d); Not reached (NR).

[0015] FIG. 3 A-FIG. 3B display non-limiting exemplary data related to mitotic arrest and apoptosis following combination treatment. TKO2 patient-derived xenografts were treated for four days with Onv and Ptxl (n=4 per group). As shown in FIG. 3A, tumor samples underwent H&E staining, with mitotic figures highlighted in dark blue and apoptotic figures in sea green as exemplar morphologies. Quantification is shown in FIG. 3B. Cells displaying mitotic and apoptotic characteristics were manually counted for each tumor (5 fields per tumor) by board- certified pathologists. Data are presented as means ± SEM and were subjected to One-way ANOVA analysis. *p<0.05, **p<0.01, ***p<0.001, ****p<0.0001.

[0016] FIG. 4A-FIG. 4J display non-limiting exemplary data related to PLK1 signaling and apoptotic markers following combination treatment. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4F display the Western blot showing expression of apoptotic markers in TKO8 (FIG. 4A) and TKO2 (FIG. 4F) patient-derived xenografts were treated for four days, and tumor samples were subjected to ProteinSimple immunoblotting. FIG. 4B displays the quantification of phospho-TCTP (p-TCTP) (FIG. 4B) shown in FIG. 4A, normalized against total TCTP. FIG. 4C-FIG. 4E display thequantification of cleaved caspase-3 (cl-Casp3) (FIG. 4C), cleaved PARP (cl-PARP) (FIG. 4D), and c-Myc (FIG. 4E) shown in FIG. 4A, standardized to P-actin. FIG. 4G displays the quantification of phospho-histone H3 (p-HH3) (FIG. 4G) shown in FIG. 4F, normalized against total HH3. FIG. 4H-FIG. 4J display the quantification of cleaved PARP (cl-PARP) (FIG. 4H), cleaved caspase-3 (cl-Casp3) (FIG. 41), and c-Myc (FIG. 4J) shown in FIG. 4F, standardized to P-actin. Statistical differences between treatment groups were evaluated using One-Way ANOVA, *p<0.05, **p<0.01, ***p<0.001, ****p<0.0001.

[0017] FIG. 5A-FIG. 5C display non-limiting exemplary data related to the induction of G2 / M arrest and apoptosis in SCLC cell lines by onvansertib and paclitaxel combination. FIG. 5 A displays the percentage of cell population in stages Gl, S and D2 / M of three SCLC cell lines (DMS273, DMS114 and DMS53) treated with DMSO (Ctrl), paclitaxel (Ptx), onvansertib (Onv), or the combination (Ptx+Onv) for 24-72 h. Cells were then subjected to cell cycle analysis via flow cytometry with DNA stained using DAPI. Bar graphs show cell cycle distribution (mean ± SEM). FIG. 5B displays the percentage of apoptotic cells (mean ± SEM) of the three SCLC cell lines. Cells were treated for 72h with the indicated drugs and analyzed by flow cytometry for apoptosis using the TUNEL assay. The apoptotic cells were positively stained. Statistical significance between combination treatment and single agents was assessed by one-way ANOVA. *p < 0.05, **p < 0.01. FIG. 5C displays the results of Western blot showing the expression of apoptotic marker cleaved-PARP in SCLC cell lines (DMS273 and DMS114). Cells were treated for 24h with the indicated drugs and expression of apoptotic marker cleaved-PARP was analyzed by Simple Western. Representative images of cleaved-PARP and total PARP protein expression are shown.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated herein and made part of the disclosure herein.

[0019] All patents, published patent applications, other publications, and sequences from GenBank, and other databases referred to herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety with respect to the related technology.

[0020] Disclosed herein include methods of treating small cell lung cancer (SCLC). In some embodiments, the method comprises: administering a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to a subject with the SCLC, thereby inhibiting or reducing progression of the SCLC in the subject.

[0021] Disclosed herein include kits. In some embodiments, the kit comprises: a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor; a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor; and a manual providing instructions for co-administering the G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to a subject in need thereof for treating SCLC. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor Definitions

[0022] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. See, e.g. Singleton et al., Dictionary of Microbiology and Molecular Biology 2nd ed., J. Wiley & Sons (New York, NY 1994); Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning, A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Press (Cold Spring Harbor, NY 1989). For purposes of the present disclosure, the following terms are defined below.

[0023] As used herein, a “subject” refers to an animal that is the object of treatment, observation or experiment. “Animals” include cold- and warm-blooded vertebrates and invertebrates such as fish, shellfish, reptiles and, in particular, mammals. “Mammal” includes, without limitation, mice; rats; rabbits; guinea pigs; dogs; cats; sheep; goats; cows; horses; primates, such as monkeys, chimpanzees, and apes, and, in particular, humans.

[0024] As used herein, a “patient” refers to a subject that is being treated by a medical professional, such as a Medical Doctor (z.e., oncologist) or a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, to attempt to cure, or at least ameliorate the effects of, a particular disease or disorder or to prevent the disease or disorder from occurring in the first place. In some embodiments, the patient is a human or an animal. In some embodiments, the patient is a mammal.

[0025] As used herein, “administration” or “administering” refers to a method of giving a dosage of a pharmaceutically active ingredient to a vertebrate.

[0026] As used herein, a “dosage” refers to the combined amount of the active ingredients (e.g., paclitaxel and onvansertib).

[0027] As used herein, a “unit dosage” refers to an amount of therapeutic agent administered to a patient in a single dose.

[0028] As used herein, the term “daily dose” or “daily dosage” refers to a total amount of a pharmaceutical composition or a therapeutic agent that is to be taken within 24 hours.

[0029] As used herein, the term “delivery” refers to approaches, formulations,technologies, and systems for transporting a pharmaceutical composition or a therapeutic agent into the body of a patient as needed to safely achieve its desired therapeutic effect. In some embodiments, an effective amount of the composition or agent is formulated for delivery into the blood stream of a patient.

[0030] As used herein, the term “formulated” or “formulation” refers to the process in which different chemical substances, including one or more pharmaceutically active ingredients, are combined to produce a dosage form. In some embodiments, two or more pharmaceutically active ingredients can be co-formulated into a single dosage form or combined dosage unit, or formulated separately and subsequently combined into a combined dosage unit. A sustained release formulation is a formulation which is designed to slowly release a therapeutic agent in the body over an extended period of time, whereas an immediate release formulation is a formulation which is designed to quickly release a therapeutic agent in the body over a shortened period of time.

[0031] As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable” indicates that the indicated material does not have properties that would cause a reasonably prudent medical practitioner to avoid administration of the material to a patient, taking into consideration the disease or conditions to be treated and the respective route of administration. For example, it is commonly required that such a material be essentially sterile.

[0032] As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” refers to pharmaceutically acceptable materials, compositions or vehicles, such as a liquid or solid filler, diluent, excipient, solvent or encapsulating material, involved in carrying or transporting any supplement or composition, or component thereof, from one organ, or portion of the body, to another organ, or portion of the body, or to deliver an agent to a diseased tissue or a tissue adjacent to the diseased tissue. Carriers or excipients can be used to produce compositions. The carriers or excipients can be chosen to facilitate administration of a drug or pro-drug. Examples of carriers include calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, various sugars such as lactose, glucose, or sucrose, or types of starch, cellulose derivatives, gelatin, vegetable oils, polyethylene glycols and physiologically compatible solvents. Examples of physiologically compatible solvents include sterile solutions of water for injection (WFI), saline solution, and dextrose.

[0033] As used herein, the term “pharmaceutically acceptable salt” refers to any acid or base addition salt whose counter-ions are non-toxic to the patient in pharmaceutical doses of the salts. A host of pharmaceutically acceptable salts are well known in the pharmaceutical field. If pharmaceutically acceptable salts of the compounds of this disclosure are utilized in these compositions, those salts are preferably derived from inorganic or organic acids and bases. Included among such acid salts are the following: acetate, adipate, alginate, aspartate, benzoate,benzene sulfonate, bisulfate, butyrate, citrate, camphorate, camphor sulfonate, cyclopentanepropionate, digluconate, dodecyl sulfate, ethanesulfonate, fumarate, lucoheptanoate, glycerophosphate, hemisulfate, heptanoate, hexanoate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, 2-hydroxyethanesulfonate, lactate, maleate, methanesulfonate, 2- naphthalenesulfonate, nicotinate, oxalate, pamoate, pectinate, persulfate, 3-phenyl-propionate, picrate, pivalate, propionate, succinate, tartrate, thiocyanate, tosylate, undecanoate, hydrohalides (e.g., hydrochlorides and hydrobromides), sulphates, phosphates, nitrates, sulphamates, malonates, salicylates, methylene-bis-b-hydroxynaphthoates, gentisates, isethionates, di-p- toluoyltartrates, ethanesulphonates, cyclohexylsulphamates, quinates, and the like. Pharmaceutically acceptable base addition salts include, without limitation, those derived from alkali or alkaline earth metal bases or conventional organic bases, such as triethylamine, pyridine, piperidine, morpholine, N-methylmorpholine, ammonium salts, alkali metal salts, such as sodium and potassium salts, alkaline earth metal salts, such as calcium and magnesium salts, salts with organic bases, such as dicyclohexylamine salts, N-methyl-D-glucamine, and salts with amino acids such as arginine, lysine, and so forth.

[0034] As used herein, the term “hydrate” refers to a complex formed by combination of water molecules with molecules or ions of the solute. As used herein, the term “solvate” refers to a complex formed by combination of solvent molecules with molecules or ions of the solute. The solvent can be an organic compound, an inorganic compound, or a mixture of both. Solvate is meant to include hydrate, hemi-hydrate, channel hydrate and the likes. Some examples of solvents include, but are not limited to, methanol, / f, / f-di methyl form am ide, tetrahydrofuran, dimethylsulfoxide, and water.

[0035] As used herein, “therapeutically effective amount” or “pharmaceutically effective amount” refers to an amount of therapeutic agent, which has a therapeutic effect. The dosages of a pharmaceutically active ingredient which are useful in treatment when administered alone or in combination with one or more additional therapeutic agents are therapeutically effective amounts. Thus, as used herein, a therapeutically effective amount refers to an amount of therapeutic agent which produces the desired therapeutic effect as judged by clinical trial results and / or model animal studies. The therapeutically effective amount will vary depending on the compound, the disease, disorder or condition and its severity and the age, weight, etc., of the mammal to be treated. The dosage can be conveniently administered, e.g., in divided doses up to four times a day or in sustained-release form.

[0036] As used herein, the term “treat,” “treatment,” or “treating,” refers to administering a therapeutic agent or pharmaceutical composition to a subject for prophylactic and / or therapeutic purposes. The term “prophylactic treatment” refers to treating a subject whodoes not yet exhibit symptoms of a disease or condition, but who is susceptible to, or otherwise at risk of, a particular disease or condition, whereby the treatment reduces the likelihood that the patient will develop the disease or condition. The term “therapeutic treatment” refers to administering treatment to a subject already suffering from a disease or condition. As used herein, a “therapeutic effect” relieves, to some extent, one or more of the symptoms of a disease or disorder. For example, a therapeutic effect may be observed by a reduction of the subjective discomfort that is communicated by a subject (e.g., reduced discomfort noted in self-administered patient questionnaire).

[0037] As used herein, the term “prophylaxis,” “prevent,” “preventing,” “prevention,” and grammatical variations thereof as used herein refers the preventive treatment of a subclinical disease-state in a subject, e.g., a mammal (including a human), for reducing the probability of the occurrence of a clinical disease-state. The method can partially or completely delay or preclude the onset or recurrence of a disorder or condition and / or one or more of its attendant symptoms or barring a subject from acquiring or reacquiring a disorder or condition or reducing a subject’s risk of acquiring or requiring a disorder or condition or one or more of its attendant symptoms. The subject is selected for preventative therapy based on factors that are known to increase risk of suffering a clinical disease state compared to the general population. “Prophylaxis” therapies can be divided into (a) primary prevention and (b) secondary prevention. Primary prevention is defined as treatment in a subject that has not yet presented with a clinical disease state, whereas secondary prevention is defined as preventing a second occurrence of the same or similar clinical disease state.

[0038] As used herein, each of the terms “partial response,” “partial remission” and “PR” refers to the amelioration of a cancerous state, as measured by, for example, tumor size and / or cancer marker levels, in response to a treatment. In some embodiments, a “partial response” means that a tumor or tumor-indicating blood marker has decreased in size or level by about 50% in response to a treatment. The treatment can be any treatment directed against cancer, including but not limited to, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, surgery, cell or bone marrow transplantation, and immunotherapy. The size of a tumor can be detected by clinical or by radiological means. Tumor-indicating markers can be detected by means well known to those of skill, e.g., ELISA or other antibody-based tests. A partial response of the target lesion can refer to at least a 30% decrease in the sum of the diameters of target lesions, taking as reference the baseline sum diameters.

[0039] As used herein, each of the terms “complete response” or “complete remission” or “CR” means that a cancerous state, as measured by, for example, tumor size and / or cancer marker levels, has disappeared following a treatment, including but are not limited to,chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, surgery, cell or bone marrow transplantation, and immunotherapy. The presence of a tumor can be detected by clinical or by radiological means. Tumor-indicating markers can be detected by means well known to those of skill, e.g., ELISA or other antibody-based tests. A “complete response” does not necessarily indicate that the cancer has been cured, however, a complete response may be followed by a relapse. A complete response of a target lesion includes disappearance of all target lesions and any pathological lymph nodes (whether target or non-target) having reduction in short axis to <10 mm. A complete response of a non-target lesion includes disappearance of all non-target lesions and normalization of tumor marker level (all lymph nodes must be non-pathological in size (<10 mm short axis)). If tumor markers are initially above the upper normal limit, they need to normalize for a patient to be considered in complete clinical response of a nontarget lesion. The duration of overall CR is measured from the time measurement criteria are first met for CR until the first date that progressive disease is objectively documented, or death due to any cause. Participants without events reported are censored at the last disease evaluation.

[0040] As used herein, the term “stable disease” or “SD” means neither sufficient shrinkage to qualify for PR nor sufficient increase to qualify for PD, taking as reference the smallest sum diameters while on study. Duration of stable disease is measured from the start of the treatment until the criteria for progression are met, taking as reference the smallest measurements recorded since the treatment started, including the baseline measurements.

[0041] As used herein, the term “progressive disease” or “PD” when refers to a target lesion means at least a 20% increase in the sum of the diameters of target lesions, taking as reference the smallest sum on study (this includes the baseline sum if that is the smallest on study). In addition to the relative increase of 20%, the sum must also demonstrate an absolute increase of at least 5 mm. (Note: the appearance of one or more new lesions is also considered progressions). When progressive disease or PD refers to a non-target lesion, it means the appearance of one or more new lesions and / or unequivocal progression of existing non-target lesions. Unequivocal progression should not normally trump target lesion status. It must be representative of overall disease status change, not a single lesion increase.

[0042] As used herein, the term “best overall response” means the best response recorded from the start of the treatment until disease progression / recurrence (taking as reference for progressive disease the smallest measurements recorded since the treatment started). The patient's best response assignment depends on the achievement of both measurement and confirmation criteria. The duration of an overall response is measured from the time measurement criteria are met for CR or PR (whichever is first recorded) until the first date that recurrent or progressive disease is objectively documented (taking as reference for progressive disease thesmallest measurements recorded since the treatment started, or death due to any cause. Participants without events reported are censored at the last disease evaluation).

[0043] As used herein, the term “DLT rate” means dose-limiting toxicity rate.

[0044] As used herein, the term “ICso” means inhibitory drug concentration that produces 50% of the maximal effect.

[0045] As used herein, the term “SEM” means standard error of mean.

[0046] As used herein, the term “AUC(x-y)” means area under the curve, wherein “x” is the starting time in hours and “y” is the ending time in hours.

[0047] As used herein, the term “Cavg” means average concentration. As used herein, the term “Cmax” means maximum concentration.

[0048] As used herein, the term “ANC” means absolute neutrophil count.

[0049] As used herein, the term “CT” means computed tomography.

[0050] As used herein, the term “ctDNA” means circulating tumor DNA.

[0051] As used herein, the term “MRI” means magnetic resonance imaging.

[0052] As used herein, the term “PK” means pharmacokinetic.

[0053] As used herein, the term “PBMC” means peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

[0054] As used herein, the term “tolerable” means a dose level where < 1 / 6 participants have experienced a DLT, or the dose level that is declared the RP2D.

[0055] As used herein, the term “adverse event” or “AE” means an untoward medical occurrence in a subject administered a medicinal product that does not necessarily have a causal relationship with this treatment. An AE can be an unfavorable and unintended sign (including an abnormal laboratory finding), symptom, or disease temporally associated with the use of an investigational product, whether or not related to the investigational medicinal product. An adverse events may include worsening or exacerbation of the disease under study; worsening or exacerbation of pre-existing conditions or events; intercurrent illnesses; or drug interactions. Anticipated fluctuations of pre-existing conditions that do not represent a clinically significant exacerbation or worsening are not considered AEs. Surgical procedures are not adverse events; they are therapeutic measures for conditions that require surgery. The condition, provided it develops or is a worsening of a pre-existing condition for which the surgery is required, is the AE. Disease progression is an efficacy endpoint and is not an AE. A clinical event in the setting of disease progression would be considered an AE if it could not be unequivocally attributed to or consistent with expected disease progression.

[0056] As used herein, the term “expected adverse event” means an adverse event that are listed or characterized in the current adverse event list, the Package Insert, the Investigator Brochure or is included in the informed consent document as a potential risk.

[0057] As used herein, the term “unexpected adverse event” means an adverse event that is not listed in the Package Insert (P.I.) or current Investigator Brochure (LB.) or not identified. This includes adverse events for which the specificity or severity is not consistent with the description in the P.I. or I.B. For example, under this definition, hepatic necrosis would be unexpected.

[0058] As used herein, the term “severe adverse event” or “SAE” means an AE that (1) results in death (i.e., the AE actually causes or leads to death); (2) is life threatening (z.e., the AE, in the view of the investigator, places the subject at immediate risk of death, but does not include an AE that, had it occurred in a more severe form, might have caused death.); (3) requires or prolongs inpatient hospitalization; (4) results in persistent or significant disability / incapacity (i.e., the AE results in substantial disruption of the subject’s ability to conduct normal life functions); or (5) results in a congenital anomaly / birth defect in a neonate / infant born to a mother exposed to the IMP.

[0059] As used herein, the term “definite AE” means the AE is clearly related to the study treatment.

[0060] As used herein, the term “probable AE” means the AE is likely related to the study treatment.

[0061] As used herein, the term “possible AE” means the AE may be related to the study treatment.

[0062] As used herein, the term “unlikely AE” means the AE is doubtfully related to the study treatment.

[0063] As used herein, the term “unrelated AE” means the AE is clearly not related to the study treatment.

[0064] As used herein, the term “expected disease progression” means an event that is unequivocally related to disease progression, and that the clinical course is consistent with what would be expected for the patient’s disease.

[0065] As used herein, the term “measurable lesion” means a lesion that can be accurately measured in at least one dimension (longest diameter to be recorded) as > 20 mm by chest x-ray or >10 mm with CT scan, MRI, or calipers by clinical exam. Tumor lesions that are situated in a previously irradiated area might or might not be considered measurable. Cystic lesion thought to represent cystic metastases are measurable lesions if they meet the definition of measurability described above. However, they are target lesions if non-cystic lesions are also present in the same participant. Clinical lesions are measurable when they are superficial (e.g., skin nodules and palpable lymph nodes) and >10 mm in diameter as assessed using calipers (e.g., skin nodules).

[0066] As used herein, the term “malignant lymph node” means a pathologically enlarged and measurable lymph node with >15 mm in short axis when assessed by CT scan.

[0067] As used herein, the term “non-measurable disease” means a small lesion (or a site of disease) where the longest diameter <10 mm or pathological lymph nodes with >10 to <15 mm short axis. Bone lesions, leptomeningeal disease, ascites, pleural / pericardial effusions, lymphangitis cutis / pulmonitis, inflammatory breast disease, abdominal masses (not followed by CT or MRI), and cystic lesions are examples of non-measurable disease. Cystic lesions that meet the criteria for radiographically defined simple cysts are not malignant lesions (neither measurable nor non-measurable) and are simple cysts.

[0068] As used herein, the term “target lesion” means all measurable lesions up to a maximum of 2 lesions per organ and 5 lesions in total, that is representative of all involved organs. Target lesions are selected on the basis of their size (lesions with the longest diameter), be representative of all involved organs, but in addition should be those that lend themselves to reproducible repeated measurements. When the largest lesion does not lend itself to reproducible measurement, the next largest lesion that can be measured reproducibly is the target lesion.

[0069] As used herein, the term “non-target lesions” means all lesions (or sites of disease) that are not target lesions. Non-target lesions include any measurable lesions over and above the 5 target lesions.

[0070] As used herein, the term “overall survival” or “OS” means the time from randomization (or registration) to death due to any cause, or censored at date last known alive.

[0071] As used herein, the term “progression-free survival” or “PFS” means the time from randomization (or registration) to the earlier of progression or death due to any cause. Participants alive without disease progression are censored at date of last disease evaluation.

[0072] As used herein, the term “time to progression” or “TTP” means the time from randomization (or registration) to progression, or censored at date of last disease evaluation for those without progression reported.

[0073] As used herein, the term “metastasis” refers to a process in which cancer cells travel from one organ or tissue to another non-adjacent organ or tissue. Cancer cells in the lung can spread to tissues and organs of a subject, and conversely, cancer cells from other organs or tissue can invade or metastasize to the lung. Cancerous cells from the lung may invade or metastasize to any other organ or tissue of the body. Lung cancer cells often invade lymph node cells and / or metastasize to the liver, brain and / or bone and spread cancer in these tissues and organs. The term “invasion”, in some embodiments, refers to the spread of cancerous cells to adjacent surrounding tissues.

[0074] As used herein, the term “about” can mean plus or minus 5% of the providedvalue.

[0075] Disclosed herein include methods of treating small cell lung cancer (SCLC). In some embodiments, the method comprises: administering a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to a subject with the SCLC, thereby inhibiting or reducing progression of the SCLC in the subject. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

[0076] Polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) is a serine / threonine protein kinase and is crucial for mitosis, centrosome maturation, chromosome segregation, cytokinesis, and DNA repair. SCLC exhibits dependency on PLK1, especially in p53 and RBI loss contexts. Onvansertib is an oral, selective PLK1 inhibitor and Phase 1 studies have identified maximum tolerated dose and evaluated toxicities. Provided herein is data and methods regarding the effectiveness of onvansertib in combination with paclitaxel in treating cancer (e.g., SCLC).Small Cell Lung Cancer

[0077] Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine malignancy with dismal long-term survival rates. Despite recent advancements in the standard of care, the absolute improvements in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) are modest.

[0078] SCLC was once characterized as a molecularly homogeneous tumor due to the near-universal loss of TP53 and RBI and neuroendocrine / epithelial differentiation. The identification of subsets of MYC-driven SCLC that possess unique therapeutic vulnerabilities suggested the need to refine this characterization to accommodate inter-tumoral heterogeneity. More recently, unique molecular subtypes in SCLC have been identified. The consensus definition of these molecular subtypes has evolved from classic and variant to neuroendocrine and non- neuroendocrine to, increasingly, transcription factor defined molecular subsets. These latter subsets are centered on the expression of neuroendocrine transcription factors ASCL1 (SCLC-A), NEURODI (SCLC-N), YAP1 (SCLC-Y), and POU2F3 (SCLC-P). However, it is not known to what extent specific subtype classification may predict responses to most chemo-, targeted-, or immune-based therapies. In some embodiments, platinum-based chemotherapy is frontline treatment for SCLC. In some embodiments, the platinum-containing chemotherapeutic agent is cisplatin, carboplatin, oxaliplatin, nedaplatin, picoplatin, or satraplatin. In some embodiments, refractory / resistant SCLC is treated with, e.g., paclitaxel.Cell Cycle Inhibitors

[0079] Methods, compositions and kits disclosed herein can be used for treating small cell lung cancer (SCLC). In some embodiments, a method for treating SCLC comprises administrating two different cell cycle inhibitors to a subject with SCLC. In some embodiments,a method for treating SCLC comprises administering a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a microtubule targeting agent, MTA), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, stereoisomer thereof, and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a PLK1 inhibitor), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, stereoisomer thereof, to a subject with SCLC. In some embodiments, a method for treating SCLC comprises administering a G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, stereoisomer thereof, to a subject (e.g., a patient) with SCLC. In some embodiments, a method for treating SCLC comprises administering a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, stereoisomer thereof, and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, stereoisomer thereof, to a subject (e.g., a patient) with SCLC, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

[0080] Cell cycle inhibitors such as G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can inhibit or damage cell cycle events. The cell cycle comprises a set of coordinated events that culminate in the formation of two daughter cells from one mother cell. A cell cycle is composed of four major phases or stages: G1 (growth phase 1), S (DNA synthesis phase), G2 (growth phase 2), and M (mitosis), which function to integrate environment sensing signaling pathways with cell growth and proliferation. Cancer cells often deregulate the cell cycle and undergo unscheduled cell divisions, therefore inhibition of the cell cycle represents an opportunity for therapeutic intervention in treating proliferative diseases such as cancer. The cell cycle inhibitors described herein can perturb the proliferation cycle of tumor cells by inhibiting / damaging cell cycle events, activate checkpoints, arrest cells and induce apoptosis of cancer cells. In some embodiments, the cell cycle inhibitor blocks the G2 / M transition. For example, some inhibitors can target cell division such as microtubule-stabilizing paclitaxel. In some embodiments, the cell cycle inhibitors described herein are G2 / M cell cycle inhibitors. G2 / M cell cycle inhibitors refer to a range of cell cycle inhibitors that can inhibit or damage cell cycle events and arrest cells in G2-phase or M- phase of a cell cycle. Methods of identifying cell cycle specific inhibitors are known to a person skilled in the art. For example, a cancer cell-based high-throughput chemical screening method for cell cycle modulators is described in Senese et al., “Chemical dissection of the cell cycle: probes for cell biology and anti-cancer drug development” Cell Death & Disease volume 5, page el462 (2014), the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Senese identified Gl, S, G2, and M-phase specific inhibitors with drug-like properties and diverse chemotypes likely targeting a broad array of processes in a cell cycle.

[0081] In some embodiments, a G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor described herein can comprise inhibitors of tubule polymerization such as microtubule depolymerization inhibitors (MTAs). In mitotic cells, MTAs such as taxanes (e.g., paclitaxel) can prevent microtubuleattachment to the kinetochores. The unattached kinetochores cause mitotic arrest followed by mitotic catastrophe, and ultimately cell death, which can occur by different mechanisms. Taxanes can trigger several molecular pathways including: (i) phosphorylation of the anti-apoptotic factor B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), (ii) increase in production of the cellular tumor antigen p53 (p53) even at very low concentrations not affecting the cell cycle, and (iii) induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress. In connection to (iii), increased levels of certain factors, such as caspase 3 and 4 or CZEBP homologous protein, have been described in paclitaxel -treated cells.

[0082] Microtubules are highly dynamic polymers of tubulins that make up the cytoskeleton and are crucial for cell shape, intracellular trafficking, cell division and cancer. Microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) are compounds that suppress microtubule dynamics (including spindle-microtubule dynamics), microtubule depolymerization inhibitors, and microtubule polymerization inhibitors. MTAs are an important group of antimitotic compounds with anticancer properties and can be used as a first-line cancer therapeutic. A suppression of microtubule dynamics, and in particular, a suppression of the spindle-microtubule dynamics, can prevent a cell from completing mitosis. A cell that is blocked in a prometaphase / metaphase-liked state can eventually undergo apoptosis.

[0083] Tubulin targeting agents can be used as a first-line cancer therapeutic. In general, tubulin targeting agents interfere with microtubule dynamics by stabilizing or destabilizing microtubules, making them a suitable first-line cancer therapeutic. However, tubulin targeting agents also suffer from tissue specificity, innate and / or acquired drug resistance, and systemic toxicity. Moreover, some tubulin targeting agents induce changes in microtubule dynamics which can be detrimental to cancer treatment. For example, tubulin targeting agents can alter microtubule chromosome attachment and chromosome mis-segregation causing chromosome instability and aneuploidy. In some cases, tubulin targeting agents can drive tumorigenesis, cancer development, drug resistance, therapy failure, metastasis, poor prognosis, polyploid cell formation (including polyploid giant cells), migratory capabilities, and invasive phenotypes.

[0084] Binding to the taxane site, located at the P tubulin monomer in the lumen of microtubules, can stabilize the microtubule lattice. For example, binding of paclitaxel or epothilone to the taxane site can stabilize the microtubule lattice, albeit by different mechanisms. Other examples of agents that bind to the taxane site includes PM060184 (plocabulin) and the covalent tubulin inhibitor, zampanolide. Binding to the laulimalide or peloruside site, located at a P tubulin pocket facing the outside of the microtubule, inhibits microtubule disassembly. For example, binding of laulimalide and peloruside to this site clamps protofilaments and prevents microtubule disassembly. Binding to the Vinca domain, located at the inter-dimer interfacebetween two longitudinally aligned tubulin dimers, can inhibit tubulin polymerization. For example, binding of vincristine to the Vinca domain can inhibit tubulin assembly by sequestering tubulin into paracrystalline aggregates. Binding to the colchicine site, located in a deep pocket between the tubulin dimer, inhibits microtubule formation. For example, binding of colchicine, benzimidazoles such as nocodazole, or combretastatins to the colchicine site can inhibit microtubule polymerization by preventing the conformation changes in tubulin necessary for polymerization. Binding to the maytansine domain, located on an exposed P tubulin pocket proximal to the Vinca site, inhibits polymerization at the plus end. For example, binding of maytansine and spongistatin new tubulins from being added to the plus end. Binding to the pironetin site, located on the a tubulin, destabilizes microtubules. For example, binding of pironetin to this site can inhibit longitudinal tubulin interactions and prevent heterodimer formation. Binding to the gatorbulin site, located on the a tubulin proximal to the colchicine site, inhibits tubulin polymerization. For example, binding of Cevipabulin to the gatorbulin site can create wedge through two longitudinally aligned tubulin dimers at the tip of the microtubules.

[0085] MTAs include, but are not limited to, diterpenoid; taxanes; taxane-derived diterpenoids; taxoids; and the derivatives, analogues, precursors, and conjugates thereof. In some embodiments, the MTAs include paclitaxel, docetaxel, acetyltaxol, paclitaxel; 7-hexanoyltaxol; cabazitaxel; larotaxel; milataxel; ortataxel; tesetaxel; taxoprexin; opaxio; taxoprexin (DHA- paclitaxel); Poly(L-glutamic acid)-paclitaxel; abraxane; SB-T-1214; SB-T1216; SB-T121602; SB-T-12854; DHA-SB-T1214; and abeo-taxanes. The abeo-taxanes can be abeo-taxane 15a.2; docetaxl-d9-t-Boc; docetaxel-f3-t-Boc; cabazitaxel-7,10-d6; or Poly(glutamyl-glutamate)-taxane conjugates.

[0086] Non-limiting examples of microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) include compounds that target the taxane site of the microtubules (e.g., paclitaxel); compounds that target the Vinca domain of the microtubules (e.g., vinflunine); compounds that target the colchicine domain (e.g., cyclohexanediones with a distal 2-substituted benzofurane, heterocyclic nitrogen compound such as Plinabulin, verubulin, and ABT-751, combretastatin such as ombrabulin and fosbretabulin); and compounds that target other microtubule binding sites (e.g., estramustine). Microtubule targeting agents also include other microtubule-destabilizing agents, such as anti- tussive noscapine; maytansine and / or maytansine / auri statin conjugate (e.g., TDM1, brentuximab vedotin, and SAR33419); rhizoxin; spongi statins; podophyllotoxin; steganacins; curacins; antimitotic herbicides that inhibit microtubule polymerization; antifungal and antihelmintic agents; and certain psychoactive drugs (e.g., dilantin, vinblastine, chlorpromazine). Microtubule targeting agents also include other microtubule-stabilizing agents, such as the eleutherobins, sarcodictyins, laulimalide, rhazinalam, steroids, and polyisoprenyl benzophenones.

[0087] Many microtubule-targeted compounds are tissue specific. For example, it has been suggested that paclitaxel is very effective against ovarian tumors, breast tumors, and lung tumors, but has little efficacy against many other solid tumors, such as kidney carcinoma, colon carcinoma, and some sarcomas. As another example, Vinca alkaloids were found frequently most effective against haematological cancers, but often ineffective against many solid tumors.

[0088] Drug resistance of microtubule-targeted compounds is a complex and largely unsolved problem. In some cases, drug resistance is correlated with overexpression of ATP- dependent drug efflux pumps or ATP -binding cassettes, a class of membrane transporter proteins. The membrane pumps remove the drug at the intracellular level and can lead to resistance to drugs having different chemical structures (e.g., both paclitaxel and Vinca alkaloids). Tissue specific differences in regulatory factors (e.g., differences in regulatory protein expression, post- translational modification of tubulin, and expression of different tubulin isotype) can contribute to tissue specific sensitivity and / or resistance to microtubule-targeted compounds.

[0089] In some embodiments, compounds that target the taxane site of the microtubules includes paclitaxel, TL00139, and paclitaxel analogues, docetaxel (taxotere), epothilone (e.g., BMS-247550, epothilones B and D), ixabepilone, discodermolide, and other similar depolymerization inhibitors. In some embodiments, compounds that target near the taxane site of microtubule include sarcodictyins and eleutherobin.

[0090] MTAs that bind to the taxane site of tubulin, unlike Vinca alkaloids, stimulate microtubule polymerization and is a group of important compounds to treat, for example, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, non-small-cell lung cancer, and Kaposi’s sarcoma. However, side effects include neurotoxicity and myelosuppression. The MTAs that target the taxane site in the P-subunit bind to the surface of a polymerized microtubule. This stabilizes the microtubule and increases microtubule polymerization and increases its affinity for neighboring tubulin molecules. In addition, at low paclitaxel concentrations, polymerization does not increase but microtubule dynamics can be fully stabilized. For example, the binding of a small number of paclitaxel molecules (e.g., one paclitaxel per several hundred tubulin molecules) can stabilize the dynamics of the microtubules (e.g., reduce the rate or extent of microtubule shortening by approximately 50%). In HeLa cells, about 8 nM to about 10 nM of paclitaxel can half-maximally block mitosis without increasing microtubule-polymer mass. In general, inhibitor mediated suppression of microtubule dynamics ultimately blocks mitosis and leads to apoptosis.

[0091] In some embodiments, the MTA is paclitaxel, a paclitaxel derivative or analog (e.g., docetaxel), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Paclitaxel, also known as (5p,20- Epoxy-l,2a,4,7p,10p,13a-hexahydroxytax-l l-en-9-one 4,10-diacetate 2-benzoate 13-ester with (2R,3S)-N-benzoyl-3-phenylisoserine), has the empirical formula C47H51NO14 and a molecularweight of 853.9, is a tricyclic diterpenoid with a taxane ring (Formula 1). The paclitaxel structures essential for antitumor activity include the taxane ring, the C13 side chain, the oxetane ring, the 2’ position of the hydroxy group, and the homochiral ester chain. The paclitaxel structures not essential for antitumor activity include the hydroxyl group at C7 and acetylation of the CIO hydroxyl group.

[0092] Paclitaxel is generally obtained via a semi -synthetic process from Taxus baccata, is highly lipophilic, is insoluble in water, and melts at around 216°C-217°C. In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is administered by intravenous injection. In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is administered orally. In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is combined with additives. For example, in some embodiments, paclitaxel is formulated with a surfactant, including heterogeneous non-ionic surfactants such as Cremophor EL (a polyoxy ethylated castor oil) and / or dehydrated alcohol.

[0093] Paclitaxel can be formulated as a nanomedicine. In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is bound to albumin, to form a 130 nm nanomedicine (e.g., nab-PTX). In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is formulated in a polymeric micelle such as with mPEG-PDLLA to form a 25 nm nanomedicine, with PVP-bPNIPAAM to form a 80 nm - 100 nm nanomedicine, with N-tr-Lc methyl ester and N.13cr-Lc methyl ester to form a 20 nm to 60 nm nanomedicine. In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is formulated in a liposome such as with lecithin and cholesterol to form a 400 nm nanomedicine. In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is formulated in polymeric lipid-nanoparticles such as with polyvinyl-pyrrolidone, cholesteryl sulfate, andcaprylic to form a 100 nm nanomedicine. In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is formulated in an emulsion with monoolein, tricaprylin, and Tween 80. In some embodiments, the paclitaxel is formulated in a dimer.

[0094] In some embodiments, the paclitaxel can be administered orally. For example, the paclitaxel can be conjugated to a chitosan, a lipid derivative, a nanocochleate, a hyaluronic acid-octadecylamine micelle, or an oil based nanocarrier. As another example, the paclitaxel can be loaded into a milk derived exosome.

[0095] Paclitaxel has been approved for use in, for example, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, bladder cancer, AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma, and gastric cancer. Weekly paclitaxel has demonstrated to have better activity and less myelosuppression compared to the every-3 weeks schedule. Neuropathy, when present, is usually of mild or moderate severity and generally reversible. In a large phase 2 trial of paclitaxel 80 mg / m2weekly for 4 weeks per 4-week cycle including 212 metastatic breast cancer patients, therapy was generally well tolerated. Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia occurred in 31 patients (15%). All but two patients who developed grade 3 or 4 neutropenia had received prior chemotherapy, and five of these patients had received prior high-dose chemotherapy. Grade 3 anemia was encountered in 18 patients (9%), and one patient each experienced grades 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia. There were 30 patients (14%) enrolled with preexisting grade 1 neuropathy. Two of these patients eventually developed grade 3 neuropathy after five and 11 courses of therapy. Overall, the incidence of any grade of neuropathy was 69%; however, grade 3 neuropathy was encountered in only 20 patients (9%), and no patient experienced grade 4 neuropathy. The median number of courses of therapy until development of grade 2 or 3 neuropathy, including patients with preexisting grade 1 toxicity, was five courses (20 weeks) for either and ranged from one to 13 courses. In the 177 assessable patients, overall response rate was 21.5% (95% confidence interval, 15.4% to 27.5%). Responses occurred in 23 (17.6%) of the 131 assessable patients who had received prior anthracy cline therapy and in seven (15.6%) of the 45 assessable patients who had received prior taxane therapy. The median time to progression for assessable patients was 142 days (4.7 months). Median times to progression for patients who had received no prior chemotherapy for metastatic disease, one prior regimen, and two prior regimens were 174 days (5.7 months), 140 days (4.6 months), and 85 days (2.7 months), respectively.

[0096] In some embodiments, the MTA is docetaxel, a derivative of paclitaxel. Docetaxel is an antineoplastic agent used in the management of multiple metastatic and non- resectable tumor types. Docetaxel has been used to treat breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer. For example, Docetaxel is generally first-line therapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancers and poor performance status.

[0097] Docetaxel is a second-generation chemotherapeutic agent of the taxane family. Docetaxel’s primary mechanism of action is to bind beta-tubulin, enhancing its proliferation and stabilizing its conformation. Doing so inhibits the proper assembly of microtubules into the mitotic spindle, arresting the cell cycling during G2 / M. Docetaxel also reduces the expression of the BCL2 gene, an anti-apoptotic gene often overexpressed by cancer cells conferring enhanced survival. By downregulating this gene, tumor cells can more readily undergo apoptosis.

[0098] Administration of docetaxel can be a one-time single dose or as regular doses given at increments varying from once weekly to once every five weeks. The dosing regimen depends on the cancer type and level of treatment aggressiveness. Weekly administration is generally mainly restricted to the palliation of patients with metastatic disease. The mechanism of administration of docetaxel plays a role in minimizing potential toxicity. Administering the drug by loading it onto liposomes or micelles can enhance the selective uptake by cancer cells expressing specific cellular markers, optimizing intracellular concentration.

[0099] Exemplary dosing guidelines for treating cancer with docetaxel include, for example, 75 mg / m2IV for a single dose on day 1 of a 21 -day cycle for six cycles as part of a multi-drug chemotherapy regimen. For locally advanced or metastatic disease, monotherapy treatment with docetaxel includes 60 to 100 mg / m2on the first day of a 21-day cycle. For metastatic disease in combination therapy with, for example, capecitabine, the dosing can be 75 mg / m2IV for a single dose on day 1 of a 21-day cycle (for anthracy cline-resistant disease).

[0100] A cell cycle inhibitor such as an MTA (e.g., paclitaxel or docetaxel) can be administered by any suitable routes, including but not limited to oral, topical (including buccal and sublingual), rectal, vaginal, transdermal, parenteral, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, intrapulmonary, intradermal, intrathecal, epidural, and intranasal administration. Parenteral administration (e.g., injection) can include intramuscular, intravenous, intraarterial, intraperitoneal, or subcutaneous administration.

[0101] In some embodiments, the G2 / M cell cycle inhibitors used in the methods, compositions and kits described herein are polo-like kinase (PLK) inhibitors (e.g., PLK1 inhibitors). Polo-like kinases (PLK) are a family of five highly conserved serine / threonine protein kinases. PLK1 is a master regulator of mitosis and is involved in several steps of the cell cycle, including mitosis entry, centrosome maturation, bipolar spindle formation, chromosome separation, and cytokinesis. It is also critical for the entry and progression through mitosis, regulates progression of cells through the G2 phase of the cell cycle by phosphorylating forkhead box protein Ml (F0XM1), which then regulates the expression of cyclins and other genes necessary for cells to progress through the cell cycle. PLK1 has been shown to be overexpressed in solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. PLK1 inhibition induces G2-M-phase arrest withsubsequent apoptosis in cancer cells, and has emerged as a promising targeted therapy. Several PLK inhibitors have been studied in clinical trials. In the early pre-clinical development of PLK1 targeted drugs, cancer cells with TP53 mutation (mutp53) were more responsive and had lower IC50 than cell lines with wild type (wtp53), which are consistent with the lack of checkpoint control and genomic instability associated with mutp53 and increases the importance of PLK1 function for progression through G2 and M phases of the cell cycle. Pyruvate dehydrogenases kinase 1 (PDK1), PLK1, and MYC have also been suggested to be important in driving the expression of a set of genes associated with cancer stem cell self-renewal. Thus, it is possible that blocking PLK1 function and affecting the ability of cancer cells with unstable genomes to progress through mitosis can increase the overall sensitivity of cells to taxanes, such as paclitaxel. PLK1 has been identified as a therapeutic target for TNBC through siRNA-mediated screen and inhibition of PLK1 by siRNA-mediated knockdown or a chemical inhibitor promoted cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in multiple TNBC lines. The lack of a druggable target is the problem for poor prognosis of TNBC, and the effectiveness and unique action profile of PLK1 inhibition, in addition to relatively specific expression to TNBC tissue, suggest that PLK1 is a promising molecular target for TNBC.

[0102] In a randomized phase II study of patients with AML who were treatment naive yet unsuitable for induction therapy, the pan-PLK inhibitor, volasertib (BI6727), administered intravenously in combination with LDAC showed a significant increase in OS when compared with LDAC alone. A subsequent randomized phase III study identified no benefit of the combination and described an increased risk of severe infections. PLK1 facilitates HR during Double Strand DNA Break (DSB) Repair. PLK1 phosphorylates Rad51 and BRCA1, facilitating their recruitment to DSB sites and thereby HR-mediated DNA repair.

[0103] Onvansertib (also known as PCM-075, NMS-1286937, NMS-937, “compound of formula (I)” in U.S. Patent No. 8,927,530; IUPAC name l-(2-hydroxyethyl)-8-{[5-(4- methylpiperazin-l-yl)-2-(trifluorom ethoxy) phenyl] amino}-4,5-dihydro-lH-pyrazolo[4,3-h] quinazoline-3-carboxamide), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, is a selective ATP- competitive PLK1 inhibitor. Onvansertib can be formulated, for example, with an additive such as free base, lactose monohydrate, pregelatinized starch and glyceryl beneate. In some embodiments, the onvansertib is formulated for oral administration, such as in a hard gelatin capsule

[0104] Biochemical assays demonstrated high specificity of onvansertib for PLK1 among a panel of 296 kinases, including other PLK members. Onvansertib has potent in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity in models of both solid and hematologic malignancies. Onvansertib is the first PLK1 specific ATP competitive inhibitor administered by oral route to enter clinical trialswith proven antitumor activity in different preclinical models. Onvansertib has shown a promising safety profile in a phase 1 clinical trial as single agent. In addition, clinical investigations of onvansertib includes onvansertib in combination with abiraterone and prednisone in adult patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, onvansertib in combination with FOLFIRI and bevacizumab in adult patients with KRAS-mutated metastatic colorectal cancer, and onvansertib in combination with nanoliposomal irinotecan and 5-FU in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. As described herein, in presence of genomic instability, onvansertib can synergize with paclitaxel, and thereafter achieve good anti-tumor activity at a lower dose compared to single agent, and without drug specific toxicity.

[0105] Onvansertib also inhibited cell proliferation at nanomolar concentrations in AML cell lines and tumor growth in xenograft models of AML. In addition, onvansertib significantly increased cytarabine antitumor activity in disseminated models of AML.Onvansertib

[0106] Onvansertib shows high potency in proliferation assays having low nanomolar activity on a large number of cell lines, both from solid as well as hematologic tumors. Onvansertib has a relative short half-life of 24 h and is highly potent against the PLK1 enzyme ([ICso] = 2 nM). In comparison, low or no activity was observed on a panel of 63 kinases (ICso > 500 nM), including the PLK members PLK2 and PLK3 (ICso > 10 pM). Onvansertib potently causes a mitotic cell-cycle arrest followed by apoptosis in cancer cell lines and inhibits xenograft tumor growth with a clear PLKl-related mechanism of action at well tolerated doses in mice after oral administration. In addition, onvansertib shows activity in combination therapy with approved cytotoxic drugs, such as irinotecan, in which there is enhanced tumor regression in HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma xenografts compared to each agent alone, and shows prolonged survival of animals in a disseminated model of AML in combination therapy with cytarabine. Onvansertib has favorable pharmacologic parameters and good oral bioavailability in rodent and nonrodent species, as well as proven antitumor activity in different nonclinical models using a variety ofdosing regimens, which may potentially provide a high degree of flexibility in dosing schedules, warranting investigation in clinical settings. Onvansertib has several advantages over volasertib (BI6727, another PLK1 inhibitor), including a higher degree of potency and specificity for the PLK1 isozyme, and oral bioavailability. In addition, onvansertib has proven antitumor activity in different nonclinical models using a variety of dosing regimens, which can provide flexibility in dosing schedules, and therefore, warrants investigation in clinical settings.

[0107] A phase I, first-in-human, dose-escalation study of onvansertib in patients with advanced / metastatic solid tumors identified neutropenia and thrombocytopenia as the primary dose-limiting toxicities. These hematologic toxicities were anticipated on the basis of the mechanism of action of the drug and were reversible, with recovery occurring within 3 weeks. The half-life of onvansertib was established between 20 and 30 hours. The oral bioavailability of onvansertib plus its short half-life provide the opportunity for convenient, controlled, and flexible dosing schedules with the potential to minimize toxicities and improve the therapeutic window. Pharmacodynamics and biomarker studies, including baseline genomic profiling, serial monitoring of mutant allele fractions in plasma, and the extent of PLK1 inhibition in circulating blasts, have been performed to identify biomarkers associated with clinical response and are described in WO2021 / 146322, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0108] The major metabolic pathways found in the different animal species were N- oxidation of the N methyl -piperazine ring to give N-oxide M2 and hydroxylation on an aliphatic carbon atom of the methylene bridge of the pyrazoloquinazoline moiety to give metabolite Ml. Qualitatively, no marked differences in the metabolism of onvansertib were observed between species and, quantitatively, some differences were observed cross-species.

[0109] The potential inhibitory capacity of onvansertib towards the major human cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms that are responsible for hepatic drug metabolism in human (CYP1A2, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4) was investigated using human liver microsomes. Onvansertib was able to inhibit the metabolic activities of CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4 isoforms to different extents, with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values ranging from 20 pM to 66 pM. No significant inhibitory effects against CYP1 A2 were detected. Considering that the concentrations relevant to achieve significant anti-tumoral activity of the compound in mice were in the order of 1 pM, the likelihood that onvansertib would show clinically relevant metabolic drug-drug interactions is considered low.

[0110] In a Phase 1 safety study with onvansertib completed in adult patients with advanced / metastatic solid tumors at a single study site in the US, and first cycle dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) and the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of onvansertib administered orally for5 consecutive days every 3 weeks (z.e., a 21 day treatment cycle) was conducted. Safety profile of onvansertib, to determine the pharmacokinetics (PK) of onvansertib in plasma (at the MTD), and to document any antitumor activity has been determined. In one study, a total of 21 patients were enrolled, and 19 patients were treated. No DLTs occurred at the first 3 dose levels (doses of 6, 12, and 24 mg / m2 / day). At the subsequent dose level (dose of 48 mg / m2 / day), 2 of 3 patients developed DLTs. An intermediate dose level of 36 mg / m2 / day was investigated. At the intermediate dose level, 4 patients were treated and 2 DLTs were observed. After further cohort expansion, the MTD was determined to be 24 mg / m2 / day. The best observed treatment response was stable disease (SD); SD occurred in 5 of the 16 evaluable patients. The study identified thrombocytopenia and neutropenia as the primary toxicities; this is consistent with the expected mechanism of action of onvansertib and with results from the preclinical studies. These hematologic toxicities were reversible, with recovery usually occurring within 3 weeks. No other clinically relevant safety findings emerged with treatment with onvansertib as a single agent. Other mechanism-related, possibly expected events such as gastrointestinal disorders, mucositis, and alopecia were not observed, confirming that with this schedule, the bone marrow is the most sensitive target of onvansertib in humans.Treating SCLC with Cell Cycle Inhibitors[OHl] Provided herein include methods, compositions and kits for treating cancer in a subject, for example, a human patient suffering from SCLC. The method comprises administrating two cell cycle inhibitors, such as a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, to a subject with the SCLC, thereby inhibiting or reducing progression of the SCLC in the subject. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a first G2 / M inhibitor different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered to the subject with the SCLC in a manner sufficient to inhibit or reduce progression of the cancer. For example, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administrated to a subject with cancer simultaneously, separately, or sequentially. The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitors can be administered in any suitable order. For example, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered followed by the second G2 / M cell cycle. Alternatively or in combination, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered followed by the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. It is expected that the combination treatment using two different cell cycle inhibitors can result in significantly enhanced efficacy against SCLC, causing tumor regression and cancer survival. The resulted tumor regression and cancer survival rate / duration by the combination can be surprisingly synergistic (z.e., more than additive, superiorto the cumulated anti-tumor efficacy caused by the first G2 / M cell phase inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor separately). In an exemplary embodiment, as described herein, onvansertib in combination of paclitaxel showed synergy in SCLC models that are resistant to treatment with, e.g., platinum-based chemotherapeutic agents, relative to a G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor treatment alone. Without being bound to any particular theory, it is believed that a second cell cycle inhibitor can increase the responsiveness of the cancer cells that may have escaped from the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor treatment. It is also believed that in some instances one cell cycle inhibitor can sensitize cancer cells to the other cell cycle inhibitor to achieve enhanced effective cancer treatment. In some embodiments, the two cell cycle inhibitors can arrest cancer cells by inhibiting different cell cycle events in a same cell cycle or different cell cycles of a cell cycle, thus resulting in enhanced tumor suppressing activity and more effective cancer treatment.

[0112] In some embodiments, the inhibition or reduction of cancer progression is not merely additive, but is enhanced or synergistic (that is, the inhibition is greater than the combined inhibition of progression caused by the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone). The enhanced or synergistic efficacy or inhibition of any combination of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor of the present disclosure can be different in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the enhanced or synergistic efficacy or inhibition of any combination of a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor of the present disclosure is, is about, is at least, is at least about, is at most, or is at most about, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, 110%, 120%, 130%, 140%, 150%, 160%, 170%, 180%, 190%, 200%, 210%, 220%, 230%, 240%, 250%, 260%, 270%, 280%, 290%, 300%, or a number or a range between any two of these values, higher than the combined inhibition of progression caused by the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone.

[0113] The molar ratio of the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) to the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., paclitaxel) can be, for example, about 1 :200, 1 :100, 1 :90, 1 :80, 1 :70, 1 :60, 1 :50, 1 :40, 1 :30, 1 :20, 1 : 10, 1 : 1, 10: 1, 20: 1, 30: 1, 40: 1, 50: 1, 100: 1, 1000: 1, or 2000: 1, or a number or a range between any two of these values. In some embodiments, the enhanced or synergistic efficacy or inhibition of cancer progression caused by a combination of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., paclitaxel) to the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is, is about, is at least, is at least about, is at most, or is at most about 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, 110%, 120%, 130%, 140%, 150%, 160%, 170%, 180%, 190%, 200%, 250%, 300%, or a number or a range between any two of these values, higher than the combined inhibition of progression caused by the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g.,paclitaxel) alone plus the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) alone. For example, a combination of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., paclitaxel) and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (onvansertib) can cause a 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or more, inhibition of cancer progression (cancer cell viability of 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or less), whereas under the same conditions the combined inhibition of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., paclitaxel) alone plus the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) alone can be 10%, 20%, 25%, 30%, or less) inhibition of cancer progression (cancer cell viability of 90%, 80%, 75%, 70%, or more). Thus, the enhanced or synergistic efficacy or inhibition of cancer progression caused by the combination of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., paclitaxel) and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is, for example, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%, or more higher than the combined inhibition of progression caused by the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., paclitaxel) alone plus the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (onvansertib) alone. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is paclitaxel and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is onvansertib.

[0114] As described herein, the patient can achieve complete response or partial response after treatment with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. In some embodiments, the patient achieves a complete response. In some embodiments, the patient achieves a partial response. In some embodiments, the patient did not respond to or developed stable or progressive disease following treatment with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (without the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor).

[0115] The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered to the patient in any manner deemed effective to treat the cancer. The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered together with, or separately from, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. When administered separately, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered before or after the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, or in different administration cycles.

[0116] The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can each be administered in any schedule, e.g., once or multiple times per day or week; once, twice, three times, four times, five times, six times or seven times (daily) per week; for one or multiple weeks etc. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is, or is only, administered to a patient daily for 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, or 28 consecutive days during a cycle, for example, on the first 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, or 28 consecutive days of the cycle; and the MTA (e.g., paclitaxel) is, or is only, administered to the patient once in each of the weeks that onvansertib is administered. The cycle can be, for example, 21-28 days in length. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor isadministered to a patient daily for the first 21 consecutive days during a 28-day cycle, and the patient is administered with the MTA once a week for the first three weeks in the 28-day cycle. In some embodiments, no PLK1 inhibitor nor MTA is administered to the patient in the last 7 days of the 28-day cycle. The patient can undergo one or more cycles of treatment / administration, for example at least two cycles of treatment / administration. The administration schedule of the MTA and the PLK1 inhibitor can be the same or different in each of the cycles of treatment / admini strati on .

[0117] In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered in a cycle of 14-28 days of administration. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered in a cycle of 14 days, 15 days, 16 days, 17 days, 18 days, 19 days, 20 days, 21 days, 22 days, 23 days, 24 days, 25 days, 26 days, 27 days, 28 days, 29 days, 30 days, 31 days, 32 days, 33 days, 34 days, 35 days, 36 days, 37 days, 38 days, 39 days, 40 days, 41 days, 42 days, 43 days, 44 days, 45 days, 46 days, 47 days, 48 days, 49 days, or 50 days. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 7 days, 8 days, 9 days, 10 days, 11 days, 12 days, 13 days, 14 days, 15 days, 16 days, 17 days, 18 days, 19 days, 20 days, 21 days, 22 days, 23 days, 24 days,25 days, 26 days, 27 days, 28 days, 29 days, 30 days, 31 days, 32 days, 33 days, 34 days, 35 days,36 days, 37 days, 38 days, 39 days, 40 days, 41 days, 42 days, 43 days, 44 days, 45 days, 46 days,47 days, 48 days, 49 days, or 50 days of a cycle. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered in day 1, day 2, day 3, day4, day 5, day 6, day 7, day 8, day 9, day 10, day 11, day 12, day 13, day 14, day 15, day 16, day17, day 18, day 19, day 20, day 21, day 22, day 23, day 24, day 25, day 26, day 27, day 28, day29, day 30, day 31, day 32, day 33, day 34, day 35, day 36, day 37, day 38, day 39, day 40, day41, day 42, day 43, day 44, day 45, day 46, day 47, day 48, day 49, and / or day 50. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is not administered in day 1, day 2, day 3, day 4, day 5, day 6, day 7, day 8, day 9, day 10, day 11, day 12, day 13, day 14, day 15, day 16, day 17, day 18, day 19, day 20, day 21, day 22, day 23, day 24, day 25, day 26, day 27, day 28, day 29, day 30, day 31, day 32, day 33, day 34, day 35, day 36, day 37, day 38, day 39, day 40, day 41, day 42, day 43, day 44, day 45, day 46, day 47, day 48, day 49, and / or day 50. For example, paclitaxel and / or onvansertib can be administered in a cycle of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29,30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, or 49 days.

[0118] The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MTA) can be administrated to the patient once weekly or twice weekly. In some embodiments, the MTA (e.g., Paclitaxel) isadministrated weekly on each week or on selected weeks of the administration cycle. In some embodiments, paclitaxel is administered in a cycle of 28 days with a weekly administration for three weeks (e.g., on Day 1, 8 and 15) and no administration for the remaining days of the cycle, including Days 16-28. In some embodiments, paclitaxel is administered in a cycle of 18 days with a weekly administration for three weeks (e.g., on Day 1, 8 and 15) and no administration for the remaining days of the cycle. In some embodiments, paclitaxel is administered in a cycle of 32 days with a weekly administration for five weeks (e.g., on Day 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29) and no administration for the remaining days of the cycle. In some embodiments, paclitaxel is administered in a cycle of 39 days with a weekly administration for six weeks (e.g., on Day 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, and 36) and no administration for the remaining days of the cycle. In some embodiments, there is no administration of paclitaxel in one or more weeks of a cycle.

[0119] The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor such as the MTA can be administered to the patient at any appropriate dosage in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., MTA) can be administered to the patient at a dosage of about, at least or at most 5 mg / m2, 10 mg / m2, 15 mg / m2, 20 mg / m2, 25 mg / m2, 30 mg / m2, 35 mg / m2, 40 mg / m2, 45 mg / m2, 50 mg / m2, 55 mg / m2, 60 mg / m2, 65 mg / m2, 70 mg / m2, 75 mg / m2, 80 mg / m2, 85 mg / m2, 90 mg / m2, 95 mg / m2, 100 mg / m2, 105 mg / m2, 110 mg / m2, 115 mg / m2, 120 mg / m2, 125 mg / m2, 130 mg / m2, 135 mg / m2, 140 mg / m2, 145 mg / m2, 150 mg / m2, 155 mg / m2, 160 mg / m2, 165 mg / m2,170 mg / m2, 175 mg / m2, 180 mg / m2, 185 mg / m2, 190 mg / m2, 195 mg / m2, 200 mg / m2, 205 mg / m2,210 mg / m2, 215 mg / m2, 220 mg / m2, 225 mg / m2, 230 mg / m2, 235 mg / m2, 240 mg / m2, 245 mg / m2,250 mg / m2, 255 mg / m2, 260 mg / m2, 265 mg / m2, 270 mg / m2, 275 mg / m2, 280 mg / m2, 285 mg / m2, or a number between any two of these values. The dosage unit based on the body surface area (e.g., mg / m2) can be converted to the dosage unit based on body weight (mg / kg) using a conversion chart such as the body surface area (BSA) conversion chart as will be understood by a person of skill in the art. In some embodiments, the MTA is paclitaxel. Paclitaxel can be administered at a dosage of about, at least or at most 38 mg / m2, 39 mg / m2, 40 mg / m2, 41 mg / m2, 42 mg / m2, 43 mg / m2, 44 mg / m2, 45 mg / m2, 46 mg / m2, 47 mg / m2, 48 mg / m2, 49 mg / m2, 50 mg / m2, 51 mg / m2, 52 mg / m2, 53 mg / m2, 54 mg / m2, 55 mg / m2, 56 mg / m2, 57 mg / m2, 58 mg / m2, 59 mg / m2, 60 mg / m2, 61 mg / m2, 62 mg / m2, 63 mg / m2, 64 mg / m2, 65 mg / m2, 66 mg / m2, 67 mg / m2, 68 mg / m2, 69 mg / m2, 70 mg / m2, 71 mg / m2, 72 mg / m2, 73 mg / m2, 74 mg / m2, 75 mg / m2, 76 mg / m2, 77 mg / m2, 78 mg / m2, 79 mg / m2, 80 mg / m2, 81 mg / m2, 82 mg / m2, 83 mg / m2, 84 mg / m2, 88 mg / m2, 86 mg / m2, 87 mg / m2, 88 mg / m2, 89 mg / m2, 90 mg / m2, or a number between any two of these values. In some embodiments, paclitaxel is administered at a dosage of about, at least or at most 5 mg / kg, 10 mg / kg, 15 mg / kg, 20 mg / kg, 25 mg / kg, 30 mg / kg, 35 mg / kg, 40 mg / kg, 45 mg / kg, 50 mg / kg, or a number between any two of these values. In some embodiments, paclitaxel is be administered ata dosage from about 10 mg / kg of body weight to about 30 mg / kg of body weight, optionally at a dose from about 15 mg / kg of body weight to about 25 mg / kg of body weight. In some embodiments, paclitaxel is administered at a fixed flat dose. For example, paclitaxel can be administered at a dosage of about, at least or at most 38 mg, 39 mg, 40 mg, 41 mg, 42 mg, 43 mg,44 mg, 45 mg, 46 mg, 47 mg, 48 mg, 49 mg, 50 mg, 51 mg, 52 mg, 53 mg, 54 mg, 55 mg, 56 mg,57 mg, 58 mg, 59 mg, 60 mg, 61 mg, 62 mg, 63 mg, 64 mg, 65 mg, 66 mg, 67 mg, 68 mg, 69 mg,70 mg, 71 mg, 72 mg, 73 mg, 74 mg, 75 mg, 76 mg, 77 mg, 78 mg, 79 mg, 80 mg, 81 mg, 82 mg,83 mg, 84 mg, 88 mg, 86 mg, 87 mg, 88 mg, 89 mg, 90 mg, or a number between any two of these values.

[0120] Similarly, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor such as the PLK1 inhibitor can be administered to the patient at any appropriate dosage in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., PLK1 inhibitor) can be administered to the patient at a dosage of about, at least or at most 5 mg / kg, 10 mg / kg, 15 mg / kg, 20 mg / kg, 25 mg / kg, 30 mg / kg, 35 mg / kg, 40 mg / kg, 45 mg / kg, 50 mg / kg, 55 mg / kg, 60 mg / kg, 65 mg / kg, 70 mg / kg, 75 mg / kg, 80 mg / kg, 85 mg / kg, 90 mg / kg, 95 mg / kg, 100 mg / kg, 105 mg / kg, 110 mg / kg, 115 mg / kg, 125 mg / kg, 130 mg / kg, 135 mg / kg, 140 mg / kg, 145 mg / kg, 150 mg / kg, 155 mg / kg, 160 mg / kg, 165 mg / kg, 170 mg / kg, 175 mg / kg, 180 mg / kg, 185 mg / kg, 190 mg / kg, 195 mg / kg, 200 mg / kg or a number between any two of these values. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., PLK1 inhibitor) can be administered to the patient at a dosage of about, at least or at most 5 mg, 10 mg / kg, 15 mg, 20 mg, 25 mg, 30 mg, 35 mg, 40 mg, 45 mg, 50 mg, 55 mg, 60 mg, 65 mg, 70 mg, 75 mg, 80 mg, 85 mg, 90 mg, 95 mg, 100 mg, 105 mg, 110 mg, 115 mg, 125 mg, 130 mg, 135 mg, 140 mg, 145 mg, 150 mg, 155 mg, 160 mg, 165 mg, 170 mg, 175 mg, 180 mg, 185 mg, 190 mg, 195 mg, 200 mg or a number between any two of these values.

[0121] In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor is onvansertib. The onvansertib can be administered to the patient at any appropriate dosage, e.g., a dosage of less than 12 mg / m2, less than or equal to 24 mg / m2, or greater than 24 mg / m2. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is be administered at a dosage from about 10 mg / kg of body weight to about 80 mg / kg of body weight, optionally at a dose from about 20 mg / kg of body weight to about 60 mg / kg of body weight, optionally at a dose from about 30 mg / kg of body weight to about 50 mg / kg of body weight. In some embodiments, onvansertib is administered to the patient daily. In some embodiments, onvansertib is administered in a cycle of 5-14 days of daily onvansertib administration with 2-16 days with no onvansertib administration. For example, in some embodiments, onvansertib is administered daily for 21 consecutive days followed by no onvansertib administration for 7 days in a cycle. In some embodiments, onvansertib is administered for 5 consecutive days a week followed by no onvansertib administration for 2 dayseach week or on selected weeks of an administration cycle.

[0122] In some embodiments, the combination treatment with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered at the same dose as single treatment with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

[0123] As can be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the amount of co-administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, and the timing of co-administration, can depend on the type (species, gender, age, weight, etc.) and condition of the subject being treated and the severity of the disease or condition being treated. The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can formulated into a single pharmaceutical composition, or two separate pharmaceutical compositions. The active ingredients may also be entrapped in microcapsules prepared, for example, by coacervation techniques or by interracial polymerization, for example, hydroxymethylcellulose or gelatin-microcapsules and poly-(methylmethacylate) microcapsules, respectively, in colloidal drug delivery systems (for example, liposomes, albumin microspheres, microemulsions, nanoparticles and nanocapsules) or in macroemulsions.

[0124] The first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered by any suitable routes, including but not limited to oral, topical (including buccal and sublingual), rectal, vaginal, transdermal, parenteral, subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, intrapulmonary, intradermal, intrathecal, epidural, and intranasal administration. Parenteral administration (e.g., injection) can include intramuscular, intravenous, intraarterial, intraperitoneal, or subcutaneous administration. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., paclitaxel) can be, for example, administered by intravenous infusion (e.g., over about 30 minutes) and the G2 / MS cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) can be, for example, administered orally.

[0125] Methods, compositions, kits and systems disclosed herein can be applied to different types of subjects. For example, the subject can be a subject receiving a cancer treatment, a subject at cancer remission, a subject has received one or more cancer treatment, or a subject suspected of having cancer. The subject can have a stage I cancer, a stage II cancer, a stage III cancer, and / or a stage IV cancer. The methods can further comprise administering an additional therapeutic intervention to the subject. The additional therapeutic intervention can comprise a different therapeutic intervention than administering the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, such as an antibody, an adoptive T cell therapy, a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, an antibody-drug conjugate, a cytokine therapy, a cancer vaccine, a checkpoint inhibitor, a radiation therapy, surgery, a chemotherapeutic agent, or any combination thereof. The therapeutic intervention can be administered at any time of thetreatment, for example at a time when the subject has an early-stage cancer, and wherein the therapeutic intervention is more effective that if the therapeutic intervention were to be administered to the subject at a later time.

[0126] The SCLC can be SCLC-A, SCLC-N, SCLC-Y, or SCLC-P. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC is resistant to or does not respond effectively to a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC has stable disease or progressive disease when treated with the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent, or develops resistance to the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent. Examples of platinum-based chemotherapeutic agents include, but are not limited to, cisplatin, carboplatin, oxaliplatin, nedaplatin, triplatin tetranitrate, phenanthriplatin, picoplatin, and satraplatin. These drugs induce DNA-damage through cross-linking, ultimately resulting in apoptosis in rapidly proliferating tumor cells. The subject with the SCLC can be resistant to cisplatin. The resistance can be acquired resistance or intrinsic resistance.

[0127] In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC has received a prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor treatment. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC did not respond to the treatment with the prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC has stable or progressive disease following the treatment with the prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. In some embodiments, the subject with the SCLC is known to be resistant to the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone.Dosing and Pharmacokinetics

[0128] The treatment described in the present disclosure can comprise administration of a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) for a desired duration in one or more cycles of treatment. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

[0129] Daily or weekly administration of a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor such as an MTA (e.g., intravenous administration) can be at, or be about, 0.01 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.1 mg, 0.15 mg, 0.2 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.3 mg, 0.35 mg, 0.4 mg, 0.45 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.55 mg, 0.6 mg, 0.65 mg, 0.7 mg, 0.75 mg, 0.8 mg, 0.85 mg, 0.9 mg, 0.95 mg, 1 mg, 5mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, 400 mg, 500 mg, 600 mg, 700 mg, 800 mg, 900 mg, 1000 mg, 1100 mg, 1200 mg, or a number or a range between any two of these values. The daily or weekly dose of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be adjusted (e.g., increased or decreased with the range) during the treatment of the subject. The daily or weekly administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be at different amounts on different days or during different weeks. For example, the treatment can comprise daily or weekly administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor at 0.1 mg to 20mg during week 1, 0.25 mg to 50 mg during week 2, 0.5 mg to 100 mg during week 3, 1 mg to 200 mg during week 4, and 2 mg to 400 mg during week 5 and beyond. For example, the treatment can comprise daily or weekly administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor at 0.1 mg to 100 mg on day 1, 0.2 mg to 200 mg on day 2, 0.4 mg to 400 mg on day 3, and 0.4 mg to 400 mg or 0.6 mg to 600 mg on day 4 and beyond. For example, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is paclitaxel and is administered at a daily or weekly dose of about 0.01 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.1 mg, 0.15 mg, 0.2 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.3 mg, 0.35 mg, 0.4 mg, 0.45 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.55 mg, 0.6 mg, 0.65 mg, 0.7 mg, 0.75 mg, 0.8 mg, 0.85 mg, 0.9 mg, 0.95 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, or a number or a range between any two of these values.

[0130] In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor can be administered daily or weekly at a drug / body surface area unit dose of about 15 mg / m2to about 275 mg / m2. For example, in some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is an MT A, and the MTA (e.g., paclitaxel) can be administered at, or at about 5 mg / m2, 10 mg / m2, 15 mg / m2, 20 mg / m2, 25 mg / m2, 30 mg / m2, 35 mg / m2, 40 mg / m2, 45 mg / m2, 50 mg / m2, 55 mg / m2, 60 mg / m2, 65 mg / m2, 70 mg / m2, 75 mg / m2, 80 mg / m2, 85 mg / m2, 90 mg / m2, 95 mg / m2, 100 mg / m2, 105 mg / m2, 110 mg / m2, 115 mg / m2, 120 mg / m2, 125 mg / m2, 130 mg / m2, 135 mg / m2, 140 mg / m2, 145 mg / m2, 150 mg / m2, 155 mg / m2, 160 mg / m2, 165 mg / m2, 170 mg / m2, 175 mg / m2, 180 mg / m2, 185 mg / m2, 190 mg / m2, 195 mg / m2, 200 mg / m2, 205 mg / m2, 210 mg / m2, 215 mg / m2, 220 mg / m2, 225 mg / m2, 230 mg / m2, 235 mg / m2, 240 mg / m2, 245 mg / m2, 250 mg / m2, 255 mg / m2, 260 mg / m2, 265 mg / m2, 270 mg / m2, 275 mg / m2, 280 mg / m2, 285 mg / m2, or a number or a range between any two of these values. In some embodiments, the MTA can be administered daily or weekly at a drug / body surface area unit dose of at, or at about, 38 mg / m2, 39 mg / m2, 40 mg / m2, 41 mg / m2, 42 mg / m2, 43 mg / m2, 44 mg / m2, 45 mg / m2, 46 mg / m2, 47 mg / m2, 48 mg / m2, 49 mg / m2, 50 mg / m2, 51 mg / m2, 52 mg / m2, 53 mg / m2, 54 mg / m2, 55 mg / m2, 56 mg / m2, 57 mg / m2, 58 mg / m2, 59 mg / m2, 60 mg / m2, 61 mg / m2, 62 mg / m2, 63 mg / m2, 64 mg / m2, 65 mg / m2, 66 mg / m2, 67 mg / m2, 68 mg / m2, 69 mg / m2, 70 mg / m2, 71 mg / m2, 72 mg / m2, 73 mg / m2, 74 mg / m2, 75 mg / m2, 76 mg / m2, 77 mg / m2, 78 mg / m2, 79 mg / m2, 80 mg / m2, 81 mg / m2, 82 mg / m2, 83 mg / m2, 84 mg / m2, 88 mg / m2, 86 mg / m2, 87 mg / m2, 88 mg / m2, 89 mg / m2, 90 mg / m2or a number or a range between any two of these values.

[0131] Each cycle of treatment / administration can have various lengths, for example, at least 14 days, 15 days, 16 days, 17 days, 18 days, 19 days, 20 days, 21 days, 22 days, 23 days, 24 days, 25 days, 26 days, 27 days, 28 days, or more. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., MTA) is administered daily, semi-weekly, or weekly for three weeks in a 28- day cycle. In exemplary embodiments, the MTA is administered for 1 to 10 cycles, for example, 1 to 9 cycles, 1 to 8 cycles, 1 to 7 cycles, 1 to 6 cycles, 1 to 5 cycles, 1 to 4 cycles, 1 to 3 cycles, 1 to 2 cycles, or 1 cycle. The administration of the MTA (and / or the one or more chemotherapeuticagents) can be daily or weekly and / or with break(s) between the administrations. The break can be, for example, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 7 days, 8 days, 9 days, 10 days, 11 days, 12 days, 13 days, 14 days, or more. In some embodiments, the breaks can be 6 days and / or 13 days. In some embodiments, the daily or weekly dose of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., MTA) can be adjusted (e.g., increased or decreased with the range) during the treatment of the subject. The daily or weekly administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., MTA) can be at different amounts on different days or during different weeks. For example, the treatment can comprise weekly administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., MTA) at 80 mg / m2on day 1, 64 mg / m2on day 8, and 48 mg / m2on day 15. For example, the treatment can comprise daily or weekly administration of the MTA at 0.1 mg to 20 mg during week 1, 0.25 mg to 50 mg during week 2, 0.5 mg to 100 mg during week 3, 1 mg to 200 mg during week 4, and 2 mg to 400 mg during week 5 and beyond. For example, the treatment can comprise daily or weekly administration of the MTA at 0.1 mg to 100 mg on day 1, 0.2 mg to 200 mg on day 2, 0.4 mg to 400 mg on day 3, and 0.4 mg to 400 mg or 0.6 mg to 600 mg on day 4 and beyond. For example, the MTA can be administered at a daily or weekly dose of about 0.01 mg, 0.05 mg, 0.1 mg, 0.15 mg, 0.2 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.3 mg, 0.35 mg, 0.4 mg, 0.45 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.55 mg, 0.6 mg, 0.65 mg, 0.7 mg, 0.75 mg, 0.8 mg, 0.85 mg, 0.9 mg, 0.95 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, or a number or a range between any two of these values. In some embodiments, the daily or weekly dose of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., MTA) can be, or be about, 0.005 mg / m2, 0.01 mg / m2, 0.05 mg / m2, 0.1 mg / m2, 0.15 mg / m2, 0.2 mg / m2, 0.25 mg / m2, 0.3 mg / m2, 0.35 mg / m2, 0.4 mg / m2, 0.45 mg / m2, 0.5 mg / m2, 0.55 mg / m2, 0.6 mg / m2, 0.65 mg / m2, 0.7 mg / m2, 0.75 mg / m2, 0.8 mg / m2, 0.85 mg / m2, 0.9 mg / m2, 0.95 mg / m2, 1 mg / m2, 2 mg / m2, 3 mg / m2, 4 mg / m2, 5 mg / m2, 6 mg / m2, 7 mg / m2, 8 mg / m2, 9 mg / m2, 10 mg / m2, or a number or a range between any two of these values. In some embodiments, the daily or weekly dose of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., MTA) can be, or be about, 0.005 mg / kg, 0.01 mg / kg, 0.05 mg / kg, 0.1 mg / kg, 0.15 mg / kg, 0.2 mg / kg, 0.25 mg / kg, 0.3 mg / kg, 0.35 mg / kg, 0.4 mg / kg, 0.45 mg / kg, 0.5 mg / kg, 0.55 mg / kg, 0.6 mg / kg, 0.65 mg / kg, 0.7 mg / kg, 0.75 mg / kg, 0.8 mg / kg, 0.85 mg / kg, 0.9 mg / kg, 0.95 mg / kg, 1 mg / kg, 2 mg / kg, 3 mg / kg, 4 mg / kg, 5 mg / kg, 6 mg / kg, 7 mg / kg, 8 mg / kg, 9 mg / kg, 10 mg / kg, or a number or a range between any two of these values. In some embodiments, a patient is administered an effective dose of a corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone), a diphenhydramine, and / or H2 antagonists (e.g., cimetidine or famotidine) prior to administering the MTA.

[0132] In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is an MTA. A maximum concentration (Cmax) of the MTA in a blood of the subject (during the treatment or after the treatment) when the MTA is administered alone or in combination with the second G2 / M cellcycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) can be from about 1 pg / mL (picogram per mL) to about 10 pg / mL (microgram per mL). For example, the Cmaxof the MTA in a blood of the subject when the MTA is administered alone or in combination with the PLK1 inhibitor can be, or be about, 1 pg / mL, 5 pg / mL, 10 pg / mL, 20 pg / mL, 30 pg / mL, 40 pg / mL, 50 pg / mL, 60 pg / mL, 70 pg / mL, 80 pg / mL, 90 pg / mL, 100 pg / mL, 150 pg / mL, 200 pg / mL, 250 pg / mL, 300 pg / mL, 350 pg / mL, 400 pg / mL, 450 pg / mL, 500 pg / mL, 1000 pg / mL, 5000 pg / mL, 10000 pg / mL, 50000 pg / mL, 100000 pg / mL (0.1 pg / mL), 0.2 pg / mL, 0.3 pg / mL, 0.4 pg / mL, 0.5 pg / mL, 0.6 pg / mL, 0.7 pg / mL, 0.8 pg / mL, 0.9 pg / mL, 1 pg / mL, 1.1 pg / mL, 1.2 pg / mL, 1.3 pg / mL, 1.4 pg / mL, 1.5 pg / mL, 1.6 pg / mL, 1.7 pg / mL, 1.8 pg / mL, 1.9 pg / mL, 2 pg / mL, 2.1 pg / mL, 2.2 pg / mL, 2.3 pg / mL, 2.4 pg / mL, 2.5 pg / mL, 2.6 pg / mL, 2.7 pg / mL, 2.8 pg / mL, 2.9 pg / mL, 3 pg / mL, 3.1 pg / mL, 3.2 pg / mL, 3.3 pg / mL, 3.4 pg / mL, 3.5 pg / mL, 3.6 pg / mL, 3.7 pg / mL, 3.8 pg / mL, 3.9 pg / mL, 4 pg / mL, 4.1 pg / mL, 4.2 pg / mL, 4.3 pg / mL, 4.4 pg / mL, 4.5 pg / mL, 4.6 pg / mL, 4.7 pg / mL, 4.8 pg / mL, 4.9 pg / mL, 5 pg / mL, 5.1 pg / mL, 5.2 pg / mL, 5.3 pg / mL, 5.4 pg / mL, 5.5 pg / mL, 5.6 pg / mL, 5.7 pg / mL, 5.8 pg / mL, 5.9 pg / mL, 6 pg / mL, 6.1 pg / mL, 6.2 pg / mL, 6.3 pg / mL, 6.4 pg / mL, 6.5 pg / mL, 6.6 pg / mL, 6.7 pg / mL, 6.8 pg / mL, 6.9 pg / mL, 7 pg / mL, 7.1 pg / mL, 7.2 pg / mL, 7.3 pg / mL, 7.4 pg / mL, 7.5 pg / mL, 7.6 pg / mL, 7.7 pg / mL, 7.8 pg / mL, 7.9 pg / mL, 8 pg / mL, 8.1 pg / mL, 8.2 pg / mL, 8.3 pg / mL, 8.4 pg / mL, 8.5 pg / mL, 8.6 pg / mL, 8.7 pg / mL, 8.8 pg / mL, 8.9 pg / mL, 9 pg / mL, 9.1 pg / mL, 9.2 pg / mL, 9.3 pg / mL, 9.4 pg / mL, 9.5 pg / mL, 9.6 pg / mL, 9.7 pg / mL, 9.8 pg / mL, 9.9 pg / mL, 10 pg / mL, a range between any two of these values, or any value between 1 pg / mL to 10 pg / mL.

[0133] The treatment of the present disclosure can comprise administration of a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor such as a PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) for a desired duration in one or more cycles. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered for 1 to 10 cycles, for example, 1 to 9 cycles, 1 to 8 cycles, 1 to 7 cycles, 1 to 6 cycles, 1 to 5 cycles, 1 to 4 cycles, 1 to 3 cycles, 1 to 2 cycles, or 1 cycle. Each cycle of treatment can have various lengths, for example, at least 14 days, 15 days, 16 days, 17 days, 18 days, 19 days, 20 days, 21 days, 22 days, 23 days, 24 days, 25 days, 26 days, 27 days, 28 days, or more.

[0134] In some embodiments, the administration of the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) can be daily or with break(s) between days of administrations. The break can be, for example, 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 6 days, 7 days, 8 days, 9 days, 10 days, 11 days, 12 days, 13 days, 14 days, or more. The administration can be once, twice, three times, four times, or more on a day when the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) is administered to the patient. The administration can be, for example, once every two days, every three days, every four days, every five days, every six days, or every seven days. The length of the desired duration can vary, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14,15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, or more days. Each cycle of treatment can have various lengths, for example, at least 14 days, 15 days, 16 days, 17 days, 18 days, 19 days,20 days, 21 days, 22 days, 23 days, 24 days, 25 days, 26 days, 27 days, 28 days, or more. For example, a single cycle of the treatment can comprise administration of the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) for four days, five days, six days, seven days, eight days, nine days, ten days, eleven days, twelve days, thirteen days, fourteen days, fifteen days, sixteen days, seventeen days, eighteen days, nineteen days, twenty days, twenty-one days, twenty-two days, twenty -three days, twenty-four days, twenty -five days, twenty-six days, twenty-seven days, twenty-eight days, or more in a cycle (e.g., in a cycle of at least 21 days (e.g., 21 to 28 days)). In some embodiments, the treatment can comprise administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) and / or one or more chemotherapeutic agents for, or for at least, four days, five days, six days, seven days, eight days, nine days, ten days, eleven days, twelve days, thirteen days, fourteen days, fifteen days, sixteen days, seventeen days, eighteen days, nineteen days, twenty days, or a range between any two of these values, in a cycle (e.g., a cycle of at least 21 days (e.g.,21 to 28 days)). The administration of the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) in a single cycle of the treatment can be continuous or with one or more intervals (e.g., one day or two days of break). In some embodiments, the treatment comprises administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) for five days in a cycle of 14 to 28 days. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered daily for about 14 days, followed by a 7-day off. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered orally. In some embodiments the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered without any catch-up doses.

[0135] In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib). The PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) can be administered to the subject in need thereof on twenty days (e.g., Days 1-10 and 15-24) during a 28-day cycle. The twenty days can be, for example, a continuous daily administration for ten days (e.g., Days 1-10) and another continuous daily administration (e.g., Days 15-24) for ten days, or a continuous daily administration for four sets of five days (e.g., Days 1-5, 8-12, 15-19, and 22-26). In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered to the subject in need thereof on twenty-one days (e.g., Days 1-21) during a 28-day cycle. In some embodiments, for example when the patient is identified to have low tolerance to the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib), the PLK1 inhibitor is administered to the subject in need thereof on ten days (e.g., Days 1-5 and 15- 19) during a 28-day cycle. The ten days can be, for example, a continuous daily administration for ten days (e.g., Days 1-10) or two continuous daily admiration for five days each (e.g., Days 1-5 and Days 15-19). In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered tothe subject in need thereof daily throughout the whole cycle (e.g., daily for 28 days in a cycle of 28 days). Depending on the needs of inhibition / reversion of cancer progression in the subject, the subject can receive one, two, three, four, five, six, or more cycles of treatment. For combination treatment, the administration cycles, dosing schedules, and / or dosage amounts of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MTA) and the PLK1 inhibitor can be the same or different. For combination treatment, the administration cycle, dosing schedule, and / or dosage amount of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MTA) can be adjusted according to the administration cycle, dosing schedule, and / or dosage amount of the PLK1 inhibitor. For example, the MTA (e.g., paclitaxel) can be administered three times in a 28-day cycles (e.g., daily dose on Days 1, 8 and 15), which corresponds to a 28-day cycle for administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib).

[0136] The treatment can comprise administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) at, or at about, 6 mg / m2- 90 mg / m2drug / body surface area, for example, as a daily dose. For example, the treatment can comprise daily administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) at, or at about, 6 mg / m2, 8 mg / m2, 10 mg / m2, 12 mg / m2, 14 mg / m2, 16 mg / m2, 18 mg / m2, 20 mg / m2, 23 mg / m2, 27 mg / m2, 30 mg / m2, 35 mg / m2, 40 mg / m2, 45 mg / m2, 50 mg / m2, 55 mg / m2, 60 mg / m2, 65 mg / m2, 70 mg / m2, 80 mg / m2, 85 mg / m2, 90 mg / m2, a number or a range between any two of these values, or any value between 8 mg / m2- 90 mg / m2. In some embodiments, the daily dose of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) can be adjusted (e.g., increased or decreased with the range) during the treatment, or during a single cycle (e.g., the first cycle, the second cycle, the third cycle, and a subsequent cycle) of the treatment, for the subject. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 12 mg / m2on twenty days (e.g., Days 1-10 and 15-24) during a 28-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 15 mg / m2on ten days (e.g., Days 1-5 and 15-19) during a 28-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 8 mg / m2or 10 mg / m2everyday (e.g., Days 11-28) during a 28-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / m25 days a week during a 18-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / m25 days a week during a 32-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / m25 days a week during a 39-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / m25 days a week during a 45-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / m25 days a week during a cycle (e.g., 30-day, 31-day, 32-day, 33-day, 34- day, 35-day, 36-day, 37-day, 38-day, 39-day or 40-day cycle) with no administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) for one week.

[0137] The treatment can comprise administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) at, or at about, 5 mg - 200 mg, for example, as a daily dose. For example, the treatment can comprise daily administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) at, or at about, 5 mg, 6 mg, 8 mg, 10 mg, 12 mg, 14 mg, 16 mg, 18 mg, 20 mg, 23 mg, 27 mg, 30 mg, 35 mg, 40 mg, 45 mg, 50 mg, 55 mg, 60 mg, 65 mg, 70 mg, 80 mg, 85 mg, 90 mg, 100 mg, 110 mg, 120 mg, 130 mg, 140 mg, 150 mg, 160 mg, 170 mg, 180 mg, 190 mg, 200 mg, a number or a range between any two of these values, or any value between 5 mg - 200 mg. In some embodiments, the daily dose of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) can be adjusted (e.g., increased or decreased with the range) during the treatment, or during a single cycle (e.g., the first cycle, the second cycle, the third cycle, and a subsequent cycle) of the treatment, for the subject. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 12 mg on twenty days (e.g., Days 1-10 and 15-24) during a 28-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 15 mg on ten days (e.g., Days 1-5 and 15-19) during a 28- day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 8 mg or 10 mg everyday (e.g., Days 11-28) during a 28-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg 5 days a week during a 18-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg 5 days a week during a 32-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg 5 days a week during a 39-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg 5 days a week during a 45-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg 5 days a week during a cycle (e.g., 30-day, 31-day, 32-day, 33-day, 34-day, 35-day, 36-day, 37-day, 38-day, 39- day or 40-day cycle) with no administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) for one week. Besides body surface area based dosing and flat-fixed dosing, other dosing unit (mg / kg) can be used. The treatment can comprise administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) at, or at about, 5 mg / kg - 200 mg / kg, for example, as a daily dose. For example, the treatment can comprise daily administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) at, or at about, 5 mg / kg, 6 mg / kg, 8 mg / kg, 10 mg / kg, 12 mg / kg, 14 mg / kg, 16 mg / kg, 18 mg / kg, 20 mg / kg, 23 mg / kg, 27 mg / kg, 30 mg / kg, 35 mg / kg, 40 mg / kg, 45 mg / kg, 50 mg / kg, 55 mg / kg, 60 mg / kg, 65 mg / kg, 70 mg / kg, 80 mg / kg, 85 mg / kg, 90 mg / kg, 100 mg / kg, 110 mg / kg, 120 mg / kg, 130 mg / kg, 140 mg / kg, 150 mg / kg, 160 mg / kg, 170 mg / kg, 180 mg / kg, 190 mg / kg, 200 mg / kg, a number or a range between any two of these values, or any value between 5 mg / kg - 200 mg / kg. The treatment can comprise administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) at, or at about, 0.05 mg / kg - 50 mg / kg, for example, as a daily dose. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / kg 5 days a week during a 18-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / kg 5 days a week during a 32-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / kg 5 days a week during a 39-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / kg 5 days a week during a 45-day cycle. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) is administered at 45 mg / kg 5 days a week during a cycle (e.g., 30- day, 31-day, 32-day, 33-day, 34-day, 35-day, 36-day, 37-day, 38-day, 39-day or 40-day cycle) with no administration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) for one week.

[0138] In some embodiments, the daily dose of the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., PLK1 inhibitor) can be adjusted (e.g., increased or decreased with the range) during the treatment, or during a single cycle (e.g., the first cycle, the second cycle, the third cycle, and a subsequent cycle) of the treatment, for the subject.

[0139] In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a PLK1 inhibitor. A maximum concentration (Cmax) of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) in a blood of the subject (during the treatment or after the treatment) when the PLK1 inhibitor is administered alone or in combination with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MTA) can be from about 100 nmol / L to about 1500 nmol / L. For example, the Cmax of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) in a blood of the subject when the PLK1 inhibitor is administered alone or in combination with the MTA can be, or be about, 100 nmol / L, 200 nmol / L, 300 nmol / L, 400 nmol / L, 500 nmol / L, 600 nmol / L, 700 nmol / L, 800 nmol / L, 900 nmol / L, 1000 nmol / L, 1100 nmol / L, 1200 nmol / L, 1300 nmol / L, 1400 nmol / L, 1500 nmol / L, a range between any two of these values, or any value between 200 nmol / L to 1500 nmol / L.

[0140] An area under curve (AUC) of a plot of a concentration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) in a blood of the subject over time (e.g., AUC0-24 for the first 24 hours after administration) when the PLK1 inhibitor is administered alone or in combination with the MTA can be from about 1000 nmol / L. hour to about 400000 nmol / L. hour. For example, the AUC of a plot of a concentration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) in a blood of the subject over time (e.g., AUCo-24 for the first 24 hours after administration) when the PLK1 inhibitor is administered alone or in combination with the MTA can be, or be about, 1000 nmol / L. hour, 5000 nmol / L. hour, 10000 nmol / L. hour, 15000 nmol / L. hour, 20000 nmol / L. hour, 25000 nmol / L. hour, 30000 nmol / L. hour, 35000 nmol / L. hour, 40000 nmol / L. hour, a range between any two of these values, or any value between 1000 nmol / L. hour and 400000 nmol / L. hour.

[0141] A time (T max ) to reach a maximum concentration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) in a blood of the subject when the PLK1 inhibitor is administered alone or in combination with the MTA can be from about 1 hour to about 5 hours. For example, the time (Tmax) to reach a maximum concentration of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) in a blood ofthe subject when the PLK1 inhibitor is administered alone or in combination with the MTA can be, or be about, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, 2 hours, 2.5 hours, 3 hours, 3.5 hours, 4 hours, 4.5 hours, 5 hours, a range between any two of these values, or any value between 1 hour and 5 hours.

[0142] An elimination half-life (T1 / 2) of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) in a blood of the subject when the PLK1 inhibitor is administered alone or in combination with the MTA can be from about 10 hours to about 60 hours. For example, the elimination half-life (T1 / 2) of the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) in a blood of the subject when the PLK1 inhibitor is administered alone or in combination with the MTA can be, or be about, 10 hours, 15 hours, 20 hours, 25 hours, 30 hours, 35 hours, 40 hours, 45 hours, 50 hours, 55 hours, 60 hours, a range between any two of these values, or any value between 10 hours and 60 hours.

[0143] Patients administered one or more dose cycles of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MTA) in combination with one or more dose cycles of the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) can exhibit very tolerable AE, including in some cases undetectable definite AE or definite SAE. A remarkable, but unlikely result is the finding that the patient has no probable or even possible AE or SAE. In some embodiments, treated with the combined therapy of MTA and PLK1 inhibitor can lead to remarkable therapeutic effect. A therapeutic effect greater than the therapeutic effect predicted from in vitro or in silico is indicative of a surprising result. A therapeutic dose lower than the therapeutic dose predicted from in vitro or in silico is indicative of a surprising result. It is expected that the combination treatment can mitigate disease progression in patients. A highly positive result is the finding that the combination therapy can lead to stable disease. A remarkable, but unlikely result is the finding of a complete response or complete remission of the cancer, a progression-free survival, an overall survival rate exceeding values predicted from in vitro or in silico analysis, is free of any measurable lesion, free of any target lesion, or free of any malignant lymph nodes.Additional Cancer Therapeutics or Therapy

[0144] Methods, compositions and kits disclosed herein can be used for treating cancer, for example SCLC. In some embodiments, a method for treating cancer comprises administrating a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a PLK1 inhibitor such as onvansertib) to a subject (e.g., a patient) in need thereof. The method can comprise administering a therapeutically effective amount of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., an MTA) and a therapeutically effective amount of the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a PLK1 inhibitor). The treatment can comprise administration of at least one additional cancer therapeutics or cancer therapy. The treatment can comprise administration a therapeutically effective amount of at least one additional cancer therapeutics or cancer therapy. The first G2 / Mcell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MT A) and the cancer therapeutics or cancer therapy can, for example, co-administered simultaneously or sequentially. The second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) and the cancer therapeutics or cancer therapy can, for example, co-administered simultaneously or sequentially. Additional cancer therapeutics or therapies in treating cancer (e.g., SCLC) are identifiable to a person skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the at least one additional cancer therapeutics or cancer therapy is not administered to the subject (e.g., the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor only are administered to the subject). Exemplary additional cancer therapeutics or therapies in treating cancer include, but are not limited to, surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and neoadjuvant systemic therapy.Methods for Predicting / Determining Treatment Efficacy and Status of Cancer

[0145] Also disclosed herein include methods, compositions, kits, and systems for predicting / determining clinical outcome for a combination treatment of cancer of the present disclosure, monitoring of the combination treatment, predicting / determining responsiveness of a subject to the combination treatment, determining the status of the cancer in a subject, and improving combination treatment outcome. The methods, compositions, kits and systems can be used to guide the combination treatment, provide combination treatment recommendations, reduce or avoid unnecessary ineffective combination treatment for patients. ctDNA can be analyzed to predict / determine clinical outcome for cancer treatment using a combination of a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., an MTA) and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a PLK1 inhibitor) of the present disclosure, monitor the combination treatment, predict / determine responsiveness of a subject to the combination treatment, determine cancer status in a subject, improve combination treatment outcome, guide combination treatment, provide combination treatment recommendations, and / or to reduce or avoid ineffective combination treatment. ctDNA can be analyzed to predict / determine clinical outcome for cancer treatment, monitor cancer treatment, predict / determine responsiveness of a subject to a cancer treatment, determine cancer status in a subject, improve cancer treatment outcome, guide cancer treatment, provide treatment recommendations, and / or to reduce or avoid ineffective cancer treatment. Such analysis of ctDNA has been described in WO2021 / 146322, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0146] A method of determining responsiveness of a subject to a combination treatment comprising a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., an MTA) and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a PLK1 inhibitor) of the disclosure can comprise, for example, analyzing circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) of a subject with cancer, the subject is undergoing a treatmentand / or has received the combination treatment, thereby determining the responsiveness of the subject to the combination treatment. In some embodiments, determining the responsiveness of the subject comprises determining if the subject is a responder of the treatment, if the subject is or is going to be in CR, or if the subject is or is going to be in partial remission (PR). For example, analyzing ctDNA can comprise detecting variant allele frequency in the ctDNA in a first sample obtained from the subject at a first time point, detecting variant allele frequency in the ctDNA obtained from the subject at one or more additional time points in one or more additional samples, and determining the difference of the variant allele frequency in ctDNA between the first and at least one of the one or more additional samples, a decrease in the variant allele frequency in at least one of the additional samples relative to the first sample indicates the subject as responsive to the cancer treatment.

[0147] In some embodiments, the first time point is prior to or immediately prior to the combination treatment, and at least one of the one or more additional time points are at the end of or after at least a cycle of the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the cycle of the combination treatment is the first cycle of the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the first time point is prior or immediately prior to a first cycle of the combination treatment, and the one or more additional time points are at the end of or after a second cycle of the combination treatment.

[0148] In some embodiments, the first cycle of the combination treatment is immediately prior to the second cycle of the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the method comprises continuing the combination treatment to the subject if the subject is indicated as responsive to the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the method comprises discontinuing the combination treatment to the subject and / or starting a different combination treatment to the subject if the subject is not indicated as responsive to the combination treatment.

[0149] Disclosed herein include methods of determining cancer status of a subject, comprising analyzing circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) of a subject, thereby determining cancer status of the subject. The subject can be a subject undergoing a current combination treatment comprising a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., an MTA) and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a PLK1 inhibitor) of the present disclosure, a subject that has received a prior combination treatment of the present disclosure, and / or a subject that is in remission for the cancer. The subject in remission for cancer can be in complete remission (CR), or in partial remission (PR).

[0150] In some embodiments, analyzing the ctDNA comprises detecting variant allele frequency in the ctDNA. In some embodiments, analyzing the ctDNA comprises detecting variant allele frequency in the ctDNA obtained from the subject at a first time point in a first sample, detecting variant allele frequency in the ctDNA obtained from the subject at one or more additionaltime points in one or more additional samples, and determining the difference of the variant allele frequency in ctDNA between the first and at least one of the one or more additional samples, an increase in the variant allele frequency at the additional sample(s) relative to the first sample indicates that the subject is at risk of cancer relapse or is in cancer relapse.

[0151] In some embodiments, the first time point is prior or immediately prior to the combination treatment, and the one or more additional time points are at the end of or after at least a cycle of the combination treatment, optionally the cycle of the combination treatment is the first cycle of the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the first time point is prior or immediately prior to a first cycle of the combination treatment, and the one or more additional time points are at the end of or after a second cycle of the combination treatment, optionally the first cycle of the combination treatment is immediately prior to the second cycle of the combination treatment.

[0152] In some embodiments, the method comprises starting an additional treatment to the subject if the subject is indicated as in cancer relapse. The additional treatment can be the same or different from the current or prior combination treatment.

[0153] The variant allele frequency in ctDNA can be determined, for example, by total mutation count in the ctDNA in each of the first sample and one or more additional samples, or by the mean variant allele frequency in each of the first sample and one or more additional samples. In some embodiments, the variant allele frequency is mutant allelic frequency (MAF) for a driver mutation of the cancer (e.g., ovarian cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, or a combination thereof). In some embodiments, the variant allele frequency is MAF for one or more driver mutations of the cancer (e.g., ovarian cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, or a combination thereof). In some embodiments, Log2(Ci / Co) < a MAF threshold indicates a decrease in ctDNA MAF Co is ctDNA MAF in the first sample and Ci is ctDNA MAF in one of the additional samples. In some embodiments, the MAF threshold is, or is about, 0.01 to -0.10. In some embodiments, the MAF threshold is, or is about, 0.06. In some embodiments, the MAF threshold is, or is about, 0.05.

[0154] In some embodiments, the first sample comprises ctDNA from the subject before treatment, and the one of additional samples comprises ctDNA from the subject after treatment. In some embodiments, the driver mutation is a mutation in one of the below 75 genes: ABL1, ANKRD26, ASXL1, ATRX, BCOR, BCORL1, BRAF, BTK, CALR, CBL, CBLB, CBLC, CCND2, CDC25C, CDKN2A, CEBPA, CSF3R, CUX1, CXCR4, DCK, DDX41, DHX15, DNMT3A, ETNK1, ETV6, EZH2, FBXW7, FLT3, GATA1, GATA2, GNAS, HRAS, IDH1, IDH2, IKZF1, JAK2, JAK3, KDM6A, KIT, KMT2A, KRAS, LUC7L2, MAP2K1, MPL, MYC, MYD88, NF1, NOTCH1, NPM1, NRAS, PDGFRA, PHF6, PPM1D, PTEN, PTPN11, RAD21,RBBP6, RPS14, RUNX1, SETBP1, SF3B1, SH2B3, SLC29A1, SMC1A, SMC3, SRSF2, STAG2, STAT3, TET2, TP53, U2AF1, U2AF2, WT1, XP01, and ZRSR2. In some embodiments, at least one of the one or more the driver mutations is a mutation in in the 75 genes. In some embodiments, one or more the driver mutations are mutations in the 75 genes.

[0155] The driver mutation or at least one of the one or more driver mutations can be in a gene selected from the group consisting of TP53, ASXL1, DNMT3A, NRAS, SRSF2, TET2, SF3B1, FLT3, FLT3 ITD, IDH2, NPM1, RUNX1, CDKN2A, KRAS, STAG2, CALR, CBL, CSF3R, DDX41, GATA2, JAK2, PHF6, and SETBP1. In some embodiments, the driver mutation or at least one of the one or more driver mutations is in a gene selected from the group consisting of DNMT3A, TET2, NPM1, SRSF2, NRAS, CDKN2A, SF3B1, FLT3, ASXL1, SRSF2, IDH2, NRAS, and SF3B1. In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining variant allele frequency in one or more of the ctDNA, PBMCs and BMMCs of the subject.

[0156] The ctDNA can be analyzed using, for example, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), next generation sequencing (NGS), and / or droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). The sample disclosed herein can be derived from, for example, whole blood of the subject, plasma of the subject, serum of the subject, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the ctDNA is from whole blood of the subject, plasma of the subject, serum of the subject, or a combination thereof.

[0157] In some embodiments, the method comprises analyzing ctDNA of the subject before the treatment. In some embodiments, the treatment comprises one or more cycles, and the ctDNA is analyzed before, during and after each cycle of the treatment. Each cycle of treatment can be at least 21 days. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is from about 21 days to about 28 days. In some embodiments, the subject is human.

[0158] Disclosed herein include methods of improving treatment outcome for the cancer. The method can comprise: detecting variant allele frequency in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) obtained from a subject at a first time point in a first sample before the subject undergoes a combination treatment comprising a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., an MTA) and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a PLK1 inhibitor) of the present disclosure; detecting variant allele frequency in ctDNA obtained from the subject at one or more additional time points in one or more additional samples after the subject undergoes the combination treatment; determining the difference of the variant allele frequency in ctDNA between the first and at least one of the one or more additional samples, a decrease in the variant allele frequency in at least one of the additional samples relative to the first sample indicates the subject as responsive to the combination treatment; and continuing the combination treatment to the subject if the subject is indicated as responsive to the combination treatment, or discontinuing the combination treatment to the subject and / or starting a different cancer treatment to the subject if the subject is not indicated asresponsive to the combination treatment.

[0159] Also disclosed herein include methods of treating cancer (e.g., SCLC). The method can comprise: administering a combination treatment comprising a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., an MTA) and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., a PLK1 inhibitor) of the present disclosure to a subject in need thereof; determining a decrease, relative to a variant allele frequency in a first sample of the subject obtained at a first time point before the subject receives the combination treatment, in a variant allele frequency in a second sample of the subject obtained at a second time point after the subject receives the combination treatment; and continuing with the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the subject is a subject newly diagnosed with cancer, for example a subject that has not received any prior cancer treatment before the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the subject has received prior cancer treatment and was in remission for the cancer, for example a subject in complete remission (CR), or in partial remission (PR) after receiving the prior combination treatment.

[0160] The first time point can be, for example, prior or immediately prior to the combination treatment. The at least one of the one or more additional time points can be, for example, at the end of or after at least a cycle of the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the cycle of the combination treatment is the first cycle of the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the first time point is prior or immediately prior to a first cycle of the combination treatment, and the one or more additional time points are at the end of or after a second cycle of the combination treatment. In some embodiments, the first cycle of the combination treatment is immediately prior to the second cycle of the combination treatment.

[0161] The variant allele frequency in ctDNA can be determined, for example, by total mutation count in the ctDNA in each of the first sample and one or more additional samples, and / or by the mean variant allele frequency in each of the first sample and one or more additional samples. In some embodiments, the variant allele frequency is mutant allelic frequency (MAF) for a driver mutation of the cancer (e.g., ovarian cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, or a combination thereof). In some embodiments, the variant allele frequency is mutant allelic frequency (MAF) for one or more driver mutations of the cancer (e.g., ovarian cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, or a combination thereof). In some embodiments, Log2(Ci / Co) < a MAF threshold indicates a decrease in ctDNA MAF Co is ctDNA MAF in the first sample and Ci is ctDNA MAF in one of the additional samples. In some embodiments, the MAF threshold is -0.05.

[0162] The driver mutation can be, for example, a mutation in one of the following 75 genes: ABL1, ANKRD26, ASXL1, ATRX, BCOR, BCORL1, BRAF, BTK, CALR, CBL, CBLB, CBLC, CCND2, CDC25C, CDKN2A, CEBPA, CSF3R, CUX1, CXCR4, DCK, DDX41, DHX15,DNMT3A, ETNK1, ETV6, EZH2, FBXW7, FLT3, GATA1, GATA2, GNAS, HRAS, IDH1, IDH2, IKZF1, JAK2, JAK3, KDM6A, KIT, KMT2A, KRAS, LUC7L2, MAP2K1, MPL, MYC, MYD88, NF1, N0TCH1, NPM1, NRAS, PDGFRA, PHF6, PPM1D, PTEN, PTPN11, RAD21, RBBP6, RPS14, RUNX1, SETBP1, SF3B1, SH2B3, SLC29A1, SMC1A, SMC3, SRSF2, STAG2, STAT3, TET2, TP53, U2AF1, U2AF2, WT1, XPO1, and ZRSR2, and / or one or more the driver mutations are mutations in the 75 genes. In some embodiments, the driver mutation or at least one of the one or more driver mutations is in a gene selected from the group consisting of TP53, ASXL1, DNMT3A, NRAS, SRSF2, TET2, SF3B1, FLT3, FLT3 ITD, IDH2, NPM1, RUNX1, CDKN2A, KRAS, STAG2, CALR, CBL, CSF3R, DDX41, GATA2, JAK2, PHF6, and SETBP 1. In some embodiments, the driver mutation or at least one of the one or more driver mutations is in a gene selected from the group consisting of DNMT3A, TET2, NPM1, SRSF2, NRAS, CDKN2A, SF3B1, FLT3, ASXL1, SRSF2, IDH2, NRAS, and SF3B1.

[0163] In some embodiments, the method further comprises determining variant allele frequency in one or more of the ctDNA, PBMCs and BMMCs of the subject. The variant allele frequency in ctDNA can be detected, for example, using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or next generation sequencing (NGS). In some embodiments, the variant allele frequency in ctDNA is detected using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR).

[0164] At least one of the first sample, the one or more additional samples, and the second sample can be derived from whole blood of the subject, plasma of the subject, serum of the subject, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the ctDNA is from whole blood of the subject, plasma of the subject, serum of the subject, or a combination thereof.

[0165] In some embodiments, the subject whose ctDNA is analyzed is undergoing or will be undergoing treatment for the cancer. The method can comprise analyzing ctDNA of the subject before the treatment. The treatment can comprise one or more cycles, and the ctDNA is analyzed before, during and after one or more cycles of the treatment. For example, the ctDNA can be analyzed before, during and after two or more cycle of the treatment, three or more cycle of the treatment, or each cycle of the treatment. Each cycle of treatment can be at least 21 days, for example, 21 days, 22 days, 23 days, 24 days, 25 days, 26 days, 27 days, 28 days, 29 days, 30 days, or more, or a range between any two of these values. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is from about 21 days to about 28 days. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is from 21 days to 28 days. In some embodiments, the subject is human.

[0166] In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in an increase in apoptosis and / or induction of mitotic arrest of cancer cells in the subject, relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycleinhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold decrease in phosphorylated translationally-controlled tumor protein (p-TCTP) levels, relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold decrease in c-Myc levels, relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in cleaved caspase-3 (cl- casp3) levels, relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in cleaved Poly (ADP -ribose) polymerase (cl -P ARP) levels, relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5- fold decrease in c-Myc protein levels, relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in phosphorylated histone H3 (p-HH3) relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in the population of cells arrested in G2 / M stage of cell cycle, relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in the population of apoptotic cells, relative to the cancer cells prior to the administration.

[0167] In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold decrease in phosphorylated translationally-controlled tumor protein (pTCTP) levels, relative to administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold decrease in c-Myc levels, relative to administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in cleaved caspase-3 (cl-casp3) levels, relative to administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in cleaved Poly (ADP- ribose) polymerase (cl-PARP) levels, relative to administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitorresults in at least a 0.5-fold decrease in c-Myc protein levels, relative to administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in phosphorylated histone H3 (p-HH3), relative to administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in the population of cells arrested in G2 / M stage of cell cycle, relative to administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor results in at least a 0.5-fold increase in the population of apoptotic cells, relative to administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone.Compositions and Kits

[0168] Disclosed herein include compositions and kits for treating cancer (e.g., SCLC). In some embodiments, a kit comprises: a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, and a manual providing instructions for co-administering the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to a subject in need thereof for treating SCLC. In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell phase inhibitor is an MTA (e.g., paclitaxel). In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell phase inhibitor is a PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib). In some embodiments, the first G2 / M inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

[0169] In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for coadministrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell phase inhibitor simultaneously. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for coadministrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor sequentially. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor orally. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administrating the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor orally. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor intravenously. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MTA) intravenously and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) orally.

[0170] In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for subjects who have received a prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor treatment. In some embodiments, the instructionscomprise instructions for subjects who did not respond to treatment with the G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for subjects who are known to be resistant to a G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor therapy.

[0171] The instructions can comprise instructions for administering to a subject resistant to a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent. The platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent can be cisplatin. In some embodiments, the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent comprises cisplatin, carboplatin, oxaliplatin, nedaplatin, triplatin tetranitrate, phenanthriplatin, picoplatin, or satraplatin.

[0172] In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions the subject has received at least one prior treatment for the cancer. In some embodiments, the prior treatment does not comprise the use of an MT A, a PLK inhibitor, or both. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions the subject was in remission for the cancer. In some embodiments, the subject in remission for cancer was in complete remission (CR), or in partial remission (PR).

[0173] The instructions can comprise instructions for administering each of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to the subject in a cycle of at least once or twice within a week. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering each of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to the subject in a cycle of at least five times within a week In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the first G2 / M cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, or both are in a cycle of at least 7 days. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is at least about 14 days to about 21 days. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is from about 21 days to about 28 days. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is from about 28 days to about 35 days. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is from about 35 days to about 42 days. In some embodiments, each cycle of treatment is from about 42 days to about 49 days. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) on at least four days in the cycle. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for not administering the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) on at least one day in the cycle. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor daily. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MTA) once or twice a week. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the MTA) and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor (e.g., the PLK1 inhibitor) for at least two cycles.

[0174] In some embodiments, the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is an MTA. In someembodiments, the MTA is a compound targeting the taxane site of the microtubules includes paclitaxel, TL00139, and paclitaxel analogues, docetaxel (taxotere), epothilone (e.g., BMS- 247550, epothilones B and D), ixabepilone, discodermolide, and other similar depolymerization inhibitors. The MTA can be paclitaxel, a derivative of paclitaxel (e.g., docetaxel), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In some embodiments, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a PLK1 inhibitor. The PLK1 inhibitor can be selective and / or specific for PLK1. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor is a dihydropteridinone, a pyridopyrimidine, a aminopyrimidine, a substituted thiazolidinone, a pteridine derivative, a dihydroimidazo[l,5- f]pteridine, a metasubstituted thiazolidinone, a benzyl styryl sulfone analogue, a stilbene derivative, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor is onvansertib, BI2536, Volasertib (BI 6727), GSK461364, AZD1775, CYC140, HMN-176, HMN-214, rigosertib (ON-01910), MLN0905, TKM-080301, TAK-960 or Ro3280. In some embodiments, the PLK1 inhibitor is onvansertib.

[0175] In some embodiments, the instructions comprise dosing guidelines for administering the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the PLK1 inhibitor at 8 mg / m2- 90 mg / m2. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the PLK1 inhibitor (e.g., onvansertib) at a dose from about 10 mg / kg of body weight to about 80 mg / kg of body weight, optionally at a dose from about 20 mg / kg of body weight to about 60 mg / kg of body weight, optionally at a dose from about 30 mg / kg of body weight to about 50 mg / kg of body weight. In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the MTA at 0.01 mg - 1200 mg (e.g., daily dose of at 0.01 mg - 10 mg administered orally). In some embodiments, the instructions comprise instructions for administering the MTA (e.g., paclitaxel) at a dose from about 5 mg / kg of body weight to about 40 mg / kg of body weight, optionally at a dose from about 10 mg / kg of body weight to about 30 mg / kg of body weight, optionally at a dose from about 15 mg / kg of body weight to about 25 mg / kg of body weight.EXAMPLES

[0176] Some aspects of the embodiments discussed above are disclosed in further detail in the following examples, which are not in any way intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.Example 1The PLK1 inhibitor, onvansertib, synergizes with paclitaxel in small cell lung cancer

[0177] Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine tumor with rapid disease progression and poor patient survival. Therapeutic options for SCLC remain a challenge due to limited understanding of both the biology of the disease and the majordeterminants of treatment response. Key transcription factors associated with unique biological phenotypes of SCLC include ASCL1, NEURODI, YAP1, and POU2F3. Described in this Example are strategies to enhance onvansertib activity by assessing its in vitro and in vivo activity in combination treatments.

[0178] Human SCLC cell lines were treated for 72 h with onvansertib in combination with paclitaxel, lurbinectedin or the ATR inhibitors BAY1895344 and AZD6738. Effect on cell proliferation was analyzed by WST1 assay. In vivo activity of onvansertib in combination with paclitaxel was tested in 3 SCLC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models either cisplatin-sensitive (TKO5-ASCL1 subtype) or cisplatin-resistant (TKO2-ASCL1 subtype, TKO8-NEUROD1 subtype). Tumor-bearing nude mice were treated with vehicle, onvansertib (50 mg / kg, oral, 4 times / week), paclitaxel (15 mg / kg, IP, once a week) or the combination for 5 weeks. Mice were followed for tumor growth and survival (defined as time to reach tumor volume >2000 mm3).

[0179] The combination of onvansertib and paclitaxel inhibited cell proliferation synergistically in cell lines from 3 SCLC subtypes (ASCL1, NEURODI, and YAP1), while the combinations with lurbinectedin or ATR inhibitors were not synergistic. The combination of onvansertib and paclitaxel in SCLC PDXs was examined next. The combination exhibited potent anti-tumor activity, resulting in significantly greater tumor growth inhibition and increase in survival compared to the monotherapies in all 3 PDXs. The combination was well tolerated with no observed body weight loss. While onvansertib and paclitaxel had negligible single agent activity in cisplatin-resistant TK02 PDX and TKO8 PDX models, the combination induced durable complete responses in 25% and 100% of treated mice respectively.

[0180] The PLK1 inhibitor onvansertib in combination with paclitaxel showed synergy in multiple SCLC cell lines in vitro and potent anti-tumor activity in cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant SCLC PDX models in vivo.Example 2Methods and data related to treatment of small cell lung cancer with Onvansertib and paclitaxel

[0181] Provided in this Example are methods and data related to the combination treatments of the disclosure.

[0182] Combination treatment of onvansertib (Onv) and paclitaxel (Ptxl) synergistically inhibited cell growth in SCLC cell lines across different molecular subtypes (FIG. 1A-FIG. ID). Shown in Table 1 are details on biological phenotypes and RPP (RB, p53, and PTEN) mutation statuses for 7 human and 1 murine SCLC cell lines, across ASCL1 (A), NEURODI (N), YAP1 (Y), POU2F3 (P) subtypes. WST1 assay was used to assess ICso and synergy in cell lines treated for 72 h with onvansertib (Onv) and paclitaxel (Ptxl). In table 1, the abbreviations are wild-type (WT); mutation (MUT); loss-of-function (LOF); not specified in theavailable information (NA).TABLE 1 : ICso AND SYNERGISTIC EFFECTS OF ONVANSERTIBAND PACLITAXEL IN SCLC CELL LINESCombined Onvansertib and Paclitaxel Treatment Demonstrates Robust Anti-Tumor Efficacy andExtends Effectiveness in Both Cisplatin-Sensitive and -Resistant SCLC Patient Derived Xenograft (PDX) Models

[0183] All treatments were well-tolerated by all animals throughout the entire study duration. The combination therapy demonstrated superior efficacy over monotherapies in cisplatin-sensitive and resistant PDX xenografts. All mice in the combination groups of the two cisplatin-resistant PDX models exhibited tumor regression or stasis from day 10 onwards. These mice showed sustained tumor regression beyond treatment interruption on day 32 or 35. All TKO8 mice in the combination group had complete responses (CR), with 6 / 8 maintaining this response by day 92 (56 days post-treatment interruption). 60 days post-treatment interruption, all mice in the TKO2 combination group were still event-free (TV<1500mm3); those achieving CR maintained it. Data are shown in Table 2-Table 5 and FIG. 2A-FIG. 2C.TABLE 2: SUMMARY OF RESULTS IN TKO2 MODELTABLE 3: SUMMARY OF RESULTS IN TKO8 MODELTABLE 4: SUMMARY OF RESULTS IN TKO5 MODELTABLE 5: summary of model characteristicsOnvansertib-Paclitaxel Combination Induces Mitotic Arrest and Apoptosis in PDX Models

[0184] Both onvansertib monotherapy and onvansertib plus paclitaxel groups exhibited increased mitotic figures (FIG. 3A-FIG. 3B). Monotherapies triggered apoptosis and onvansertib plus paclitaxel combination therapy induced significantly more apoptotic cells than either monotherapy alone (FIG. 3 A-FIG. 3B). These findings were corroborated through Western- Blot analyses of mitotic and apoptotic markers, as shown in FIG. 4A-FIG. 4J. Compared to single agents, onvansertib plus paclitaxel combination therapy induced G2 / M arrest to greater extent in 2 out of 3 SCLC cell lines (DMS273, DMS114 and DMA53) and induced apoptosis in more cells in all the three cell lines.Onvansertib-Paclitaxel Combination Inhibits PLK1 Signaling and Disease Targets, and Induces Apoptotic Markers in PDX Models

[0185] PLK1 phosphorylates TCTP (Translationally-Controlled Tumor Protein) on Serine 46. Onvansertib alone or with paclitaxel significantly decreased p-TCTP, confirming PLK1 inhibition. Both treatments notably induced p-HH3 in TKO2, indicating mitotic arrest. The combination treatment activated apoptotic markers, cleaved PARP and cleaved caspase-3. Moreover, the combination therapy induced higher expression of apoptotic marker cleaved PARP in the tested cell lines (DMS273 and DMS114), compared to single agents. The combination treatment significantly decreased the expression of c-Myc, an oncogene frequently overexpressed in SCLC and linked to aggressive tumor behavior and poor prognosis (see, FIG. 4A-FIG. 4J).

[0186] Onvansertib plus paclitaxel combination treatment synergistically inhibited cell proliferation in SCLC cell lines. The combination was well-tolerated, and highly effective in cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant SCLC PDX models. In cisplatin-resistant models, the combination led to tumor regression, with effects lasting 2 months post-treatment. The combination treatment resulted in increased mitotic arrest and apoptosis, along with decreased c-Myc levels in SCLC patient-derived tumors.

[0187] These findings support combination therapy of onvansertib with paclitaxel as a strategy for relapsed / refractory SCLC patients.

[0188] In at least some of the previously described embodiments, one or more elements used in an embodiment can interchangeably be used in another embodiment unless such a replacement is not technically feasible. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various other omissions, additions and modifications may be made to the methods and structures described above without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. All such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the subject matter, as defined by the appended claims.

[0189] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and / or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and / or application. The various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to “or” herein is intended to encompass “and / or” unless otherwise stated.

[0190] It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and / or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or twoor more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “ a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “ a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms.

[0191] In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

[0192] As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all purposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, all ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible sub-ranges and combinations of sub-ranges thereof. Any listed range can be easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being broken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upper third, etc. As will also be understood by one skilled in the art all language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” and the like include the number recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken down into sub-ranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by one skilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, for example, a group having 1-3 articles refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3 articles. Similarly, a group having 1-5 articles refers to groups having 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 articles, and so forth.

[0193] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method of treating small cell lung cancer (SCLC), the method comprising: administering a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to a subject with the SCLC, thereby inhibiting or reducing progression of the SCLC in the subject, wherein the first G2 / M inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the SCLC is SCLC-A, SCLC-N, SCLC-Y, or SCLC-P.

3. The method of any one of claims 1-2, wherein the subject with the SCLC is resistant to or does not respond effectively to a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the subject with the SCLC has stable disease or progressive disease when treated with the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent, or develops resistance to the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent.

5. The method of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the subject with the SCLC is resistant to cisplatin.

6. The method of any one of claims 3-5, wherein the resistance is acquired resistance or intrinsic resistance.

7. The method of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the subject with the SCLC has received a prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor treatment.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the subject with the SCLC did not respond to the treatment with the prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the subject with the SCLC has stable or progressive disease following the treatment with the prior G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

10. The method of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the subject with the SCLC is known to be resistant to the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone.

11. The method of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor are co-administered simultaneously.

12. The method of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor are administered sequentially.

13. The method of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, or both are administered to the subject in a cycle of 7 days, 14 days, 28 days, 35 days, 42 days, or 49 days.

14. The method of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered to the subject about once a week and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered to the subject about 5 days a week.

15. The method of any one of claims 1-14, wherein each cycle of treatment is at least about 14 days.

16. The method of any one of claims 1-15, wherein each cycle of treatment is from about 14 days to about 28 days.

17. The method of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered on at least five days, at least ten days, or at least fifteen days in a cycle.

18. The method of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is not administered on at least one day, at least three days, or at least seven days in a cycle.

19. The method of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered daily.

20. The method of any one of claims 1-19, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered once or twice weekly.

21. The method of any one of claims 1-20, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is administered once weekly for two, three, four, five, six or seven consecutive weeks in a cycle.

22. The method of any one of claims 1-21, wherein the subject undergoes at least two cycles of the administration of the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

23. The method of any one of claims 1-22, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a microtubule targeting agent (MTA); optionally the MTA is paclitaxel, docetaxel, acetyltaxol, 7-hexanoyltaxol, cabazitaxel, larotaxel, milataxel, ortataxel, tesetaxel, taxoprexin, opaxio, taxoprexin (DHA-paclitaxel), Poly(L-glutamic acid)-paclitaxel, abraxane, SB-T-1214, SB-T1216, SB-T121602, SB-T-12854, DHA-SB-T1214, abeo-taxane; wherein the abeo-taxane is optionally abeo-taxane 15a.2, docetaxl-d9-t-Boc, docetaxel -f3-t-Boc, cabazitaxel-7,10-de, Poly(glutamyl- glutamate)-taxane conjugates; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, solvate or prodrug thereof, or any combinations thereof.

24. The method of any one of claims 1-23, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is paclitaxel.

25. The method of any one of claims 1-24, wherein the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a PLK1 inhibitor, optionally the PLK1 inhibitor is onvansertib (NMS-P937), BI2536, volasertib (BI 6727), GSK461364, adavosertib (AZDI 775), CYC 140, HMN-176, HMN-214, rigosertib (ON-01910), MLN0905, TKM-080301, TAK-960, GTPL10072, Ro3280; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, solvate or prodrug thereof; and any combinations thereof.

26. The method of any one of claims 1-25, wherein the second G2 / M cell cycleinhibitor is onvansertib.

27. The method of any one of claims 1-26, wherein the subject has received at least one prior cancer treatment.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the prior treatment does not comprise the use of an MT A, a PLK1 inhibitor, or both; and optionally the PLK1 inhibitor is onvansertib.

29. The method of any one of claims 1-28, wherein the subject was in remission for cancer.

30. The method of any one of claims 1-29, wherein the subject in remission for cancer was in complete remission (CR) or in partial remission (PR).

31. The method of any one of claims 1-30, further comprising determining cancer status of the subject.

32. The method of any one of claims 1-31, further comprising determining responsiveness of the subject to the treatment with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor.

33. The method of any one of claims 1-32, further comprising administering one or more additional cancer therapeutics or therapies for the cancer.

34. The method of any one of claims 1-33, wherein the subject is human.

35. The method of any one of claims 1-34, wherein the subject achieves a complete response.

36. The method of any one of claims 1-35, wherein the administration results in tumor growth inhibition of at least 70%, following at least one cycle of treatment.

37. A kit, comprising: a first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor; a second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor, wherein the first G2 / M inhibitor is different from the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor; and a manual providing instructions for co-administering the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor to a subject in need thereof for treating SCLC.

38. The kit of claim 37, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is an MTA; optionally the MTA is paclitaxel, docetaxel, acetyltaxol, 7-hexanoyltaxol, cabazitaxel, larotaxel, milataxel, ortataxel, tesetaxel, taxoprexin, opaxio, taxoprexin (DHA-paclitaxel), Poly(L-glutamic acid)-paclitaxel, abraxane, SB-T-1214, SB-T1216, SB-T121602, SB-T-12854, DHA-SB-T1214, abeo-taxane; wherein the abeo-taxane is optionally abeo-taxane 15a.2, docetaxl-d9-t-Boc, docetaxel-f3-t-Boc, cabazitaxel-7,10-de, Poly(glutamyl-glutamate)-taxane conjugates; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, solvate or prodrug thereof, or any combinations thereof.

39. The kit of any one of claims 37-38, wherein the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is a PLK1 inhibitor, optionally the PLK1 inhibitor is onvansertib (NMS-P937), BI2536, volasertib (BI 6727), GSK461364, adavosertib (AZDI 775), CYC 140, HMN-176, HMN-214, rigosertib (ON-01910), MLN0905, TKM-080301, TAK-960, GTPL10072, Ro3280; or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, solvate or prodrug thereof; and any combinations thereof.

40. The kit of any one of claims 37-39, wherein the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is paclitaxel and / or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor is onvansertib.

41. The kit of any one of claims 37-40, wherein the instructions comprise instructions for co-administrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor simultaneously.

42. The kit of any one of claims 37-41, wherein the instructions comprise instructions for administrating the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor and the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor sequentially.

43. The kit of any one of claims 37-42, wherein the instructions comprise instructions for administering to a subject that did not respond to treatment with the first G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor or the second G2 / M cell cycle inhibitor alone.

44. The kit of any one of claims 37-43, wherein the instructions comprise instructions for administering to a subject resistant to a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent.

45. The kit of claim 44, wherein the platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent is cisplatin.

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