Elesclomol

Elesclomol is a small-molecule investigational drug that has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of cancer. It is known for its ability to induce oxidative stress in cancer cells, leading to apoptosis (programmed cell death).

Mechanism of Action

Elesclomol works by binding to copper ions and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cancer cells. This increase in ROS levels leads to oxidative stress, which can trigger apoptosis in cancer cells. The drug specifically targets cells with high metabolic activity, which is a characteristic of many cancer cells.

Clinical Development

Elesclomol has undergone various phases of clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy and safety in treating different types of cancer. It has been studied both as a monotherapy and in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents.

Phase I Trials

In Phase I clinical trials, the primary objective was to determine the safety, tolerability, and optimal dosing of elesclomol. These trials involved patients with advanced solid tumors and provided preliminary evidence of the drug's activity.

Phase II Trials

Phase II trials focused on assessing the efficacy of elesclomol in specific types of cancer, such as melanoma. These studies aimed to determine the drug's impact on tumor growth and patient survival rates.

Phase III Trials

Phase III trials are large-scale studies designed to confirm the efficacy and safety of elesclomol in a broader patient population. These trials compare the outcomes of patients receiving elesclomol with those receiving standard treatments.

Potential Side Effects

As with many cancer therapies, elesclomol can cause side effects. Common side effects observed in clinical trials include fatigue, nausea, and anemia. More severe side effects may occur, and patients undergoing treatment with elesclomol are closely monitored.

Research and Future Directions

Research on elesclomol continues, with ongoing studies exploring its potential use in combination with other therapies and in different types of cancer. The drug's ability to induce oxidative stress in cancer cells makes it a promising candidate for further investigation.

See Also

• Cancer
• Chemotherapy
• Oxidative stress
• Apoptosis
• Clinical trial

External Links

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