Collaborative
researchers at WSU and Duquesne University have developed a series of novel
folate analogs that show selective toxicity toward tumor cells expressing high
levels of the surface protein folate receptor. Typically, normal cells express
low levels of folate receptors or such receptors exhibit apical localization and
are not exposed to the blood. In additional to the folate receptor selectivity,
these compounds are potent inhibitors of glycinamide transformylase (GARTFase),
a purine nucleotide biosynthetic enzyme. This is the first description of a
compound exhibiting both characteristics of folate receptor and GARTFase
targeting. Studies are underway with human tumor xenografts in SCID mice to
assess toxicity toward non-tumor tissues.
Commercial
Applications
·
Development
of antitumor drugs that selectively target tumors
·
Treatments
for ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, breast cancer, and acute myeloid
leukemia
Competitive
Advantages
·
Our
analogs appear to be far more potent than other folate receptor
analogs
·
Our
analogs show greater uptake activity in FR expressing
cells
Publications
Duquesne
University is taking the commercialization lead on this technology. Potential
licensees will be put in contact with the appropriate individuals at Duquesne.
An inter-institutional agreement is in place between WSU and Duquesne
University.
Patent
Status
Patent
Pending.
Tech
ID
06-812