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Technology
Scientists at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) have designed
a unique approach to identify biologically active compounds and combining
them within a platinum-based framework for treating cancer. This platform
technology provides an opportunity to commercialize a new series of
anti-tumor agents with selectivity to liver cancers.
Background
There are currently only two platinum-based compounds that are
marketed and clinically used worldwide as anti-tumor drugs: cisplatin
and carboplatin. Platinum-based compounds are among the most active
chemotherapeutic agents available. They are effective against a multitude of
cancers. However, their clinical usage is hindered by toxic side effects,
and by the emergence of drug resistance.
CUHK has adopted an "East meets West" approach to develop
new compounds which are expected to:
- Eliminate cross-resistance;
- Possess high potency;
- Induce minimal side effects; and
- Possess good aqueous solubility.
Design Objectives: A new drug with selectivity
against liver cancer.
Design Philosophy: Mechanism-based approach to cellular targets.
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Methodology
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Integrate a biologically active
compound (BAC) together with a well-established anticancer drug entity to
resemble a cisplatin framework for the treatment of cancer; can also serve
as a releasing agent in delivering the active compound.
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Identify BAC with known therapeutic value in the treatment of liver
cancer.
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The BAC is a single entity that can be properly characterized using
modern analytical techniques.
-
Resulting platinum-compound containing the BAC remains a single
chemical entity that can also be readily characterized.
Mechanism
Features of the mechanism for activity include:
- The BAC has been identified as demethylcantharidin, a chemically
modified form of cantharidin, which was originally isolated from
Mylabris or blister beetle.
- Cisplatin framework interferes with DNA alkylating action by blocking
DNA replication upon binding.
- Demethylcantharidin is known to inhibit protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A),
rich in the liver cytosol, and disrupts the cell growth cycle and the
mechanism of the nucleotide excision repair (NER) proteins.
Benefits
Blending the properties of demethylcantharidin into a novel platinum complex
has led to a series of compounds with anti-tumor activity towards cancers of
the liver, lung, and colon, as well as leukemia, lymphoma, naso-pharyngeal
carcinoma, and cervical tumors. The approach forges the dual
mechanism of cytotoxic action, thereby creating a role to overcome platinum
resistance. (All other platinum drugs operate with a single cytotoxic action
mechanism). The compounds also exhibit the following properties:
- Excellent in vitro anti-tumor activity.
- Selectivity towards liver cancer in vivo (nude mice).
- Lower acute toxicity.
- Improved solubility (favors easier formulation).
- Demonstrated & favorable pharmacokinetics.
Intellectual Property
- US Patent
6,110,907.
- Chinese Patent No.: ZL 97 1 02796.X.
- Chinese Patent No. ZL 97 1 02797.8.
- PCT WO02/096413.
The inventors have also published several papers in
various scientific journals and additional patent filings are underway.
Contact:
Mike Allan
First Principals, Inc.
1768 East 25th Street
Cleveland, Ohio 44114
216-881-8526 - Phone
216-881-8522 - Fax
Email:
info@firstprincipals.com
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