• Neuroblastoma cell lines are sensitive to this inhibitor.• The inhibitor was able to significantly induce apoptotic effects in an in vivo neuroblastoma mouse model.• This inhibitor in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitors effectively enhances growth inhibition, promotes cell cycle arrest and induces cell death.• Among patients with ALK-positive neuroblastoma, 20% achieved an overall response. Here, CDK4 is linked to neuroblastoma.