MECHANISM OF ACTION
Stress as an ally
RM-581 works by selectively accumulating in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), a key cell organelle, causing fatal stress to cancer cells. These cells are already under considerable stress, as they are growing in a challenging tumour microenvironment with a reduced supply of nutrients and oxygen. As a result, their tolerance to an additional stress factor (e.g., RM-581) is lower than that of normal cells. The introduction of the RM-581 aminosteroid into the intracellular environment could thus lead to increased cancer cell mortality.
EXPECTED BENEFITS
- Active oral formulation
- Fewer anticipated side effects than of conventional chemotherapeutic agents (thanks to selective action)
- Innovative mechanism of action offering additive or synergistic combination possibilities with other cancer drugs
- Low molecule production costs (short, effective chemical synthesis)
SCIENTIFIC PAPERS ON RM-581
EXPLAINER VIDEO (french only)
Despite considerable progress in prostate cancer research and the fact that several treatments often provide a lasting response, too many patients still experience tumour progression and die of metastases. The discovery that the RM-581 aminosteroid shows potent anti-proliferative effects both in vitro and in xenograft models is very promising. This is because the drug does not appear to induce conventional antiandrogenic effects, but acts synergistically with antiandrogen drugs. RM-581 has already been tested for tolerance in mice, and further research could lead to clinical trials.
- Comment from the editor of Cancers
- Editor commentary of the Cancers journal on RM-581 and its potential against prostate cancer.
RM-581 EFFECTS
Promising results
Effect of RM-581 on tumour growth in a murine xenograft model:
Pancreatic tumour
Breast tumour (ER+)
Prostate tumour (AR+)
Prostate tumour (AR-)
