WSU and Duquesne
University scientist have isolated a unique series of pyrrolopyrimidine
antifolate analogs that show selective cytotoxicity toward solid tumors such as
ovarian, prostate or breast cancer cells that express the low pH “proton-coupled
folate transporter” (PCFT). The acidic pH optimum (pH 5.5-6.5) of PCFT makes it
an ideal target since many solid tumors exist in an acidic
environment.
Commercial
Applications
·
Antitumor
drugs that target tumors expressing PCFT
·
Treatments
for ovarian, prostate, and breast cancers
Competitive
Advantages
·
Cancer
treatments that are less toxic and target solid tumor cells
·
Our
analogs are similar to the clinically used antifolate pemetrexed (alitima) in
their transport activity for PCFT.
However, pemetrexed is also an excellent substrate for RFC which
compromises its potential tumor selectivity. Our technology is the only known
cytotoxic folate analogs that are selective for PCFT over RFC.
Patent
Status
A patent
application and PCT is on file.
Tech
ID
08-896