Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Modified asperigimycins exploit a key SLC46A3 gene gateway to rival FDA-approved leukemia treatments ahead of animal-model studies

Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • University of Pennsylvania scientists isolated four novel RiPPs from Aspergillus flavus, naming them asperigimycins for their unique interlocking-ring structures
  • In vitro tests showed two unmodified asperigimycin variants killed leukemia cells and a lipid-conjugated compound matched the efficacy of cytarabine and daunorubicin
  • Mechanistic studies revealed asperigimycins disrupt microtubule formation to halt leukemia cell division and depend on the SLC46A3 transporter for cellular entry
  • Analysis of fungal genomes uncovered similar biosynthetic gene clusters in other Aspergillus species, suggesting a broader pool of anticancer RiPPs
  • The research team will evaluate pharmacokinetics and toxicity in animal models to define dosing parameters before advancing to human clinical trials

Articles 20

Publisher Logo
The Hill2w
Researchers turn a toxic fungus into cancer-fighting drug
Publisher Logo
News182w
Can Tutankhamun’s Tomb Fungus Fight Cancer? New Study Reveals Clues
Publisher Logo
The Sun2w
How ‘Pharaoh’s curse’ may help fight CANCER after leukaemia-battling chemical found in fungus linked to King Tut deaths
Publisher Logo
The Independent2w
Fungus dubbed ‘mummy’s curse’ could make a powerful cancer drug, new study reveals
Publisher Logo
Dexerto2w
Ancient Egyptian “curse” may actually be a cure for cancer
Publisher Logo
New York Post2w
Ancient 'pharaoh's curse' could be used to fight cancer: 'It's up to us to uncover its secrets'