AB-8939

AB-8939 is a novel, synthetic small molecule developed by AB Science for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and related hematologic malignancies. It acts as a microtubule destabilizer by binding to tubulin, leading to rapid disorganization of microtubules and induction of apoptosis in tumor cells at nanomolar concentrations. Unlike some standard chemotherapies, it is not deactivated by myeloperoxidase and demonstrates efficacy in cell lines resistant to doxorubicin or cytarabine, overcoming multidrug resistance. Additionally, it inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase enzymes ALDH1A1 and ALDH2, targeting cancer stem cells essential for disease persistence. Preclinical models show strong anti-leukemic activity—including in AML with unfavorable genetic features such as MECOM or TP53 mutations—and synergy with reference treatments like azacitidine (Vidaza) and venetoclax (Venclexta). The drug has received orphan drug designation from the EMA for AML and is currently being evaluated in phase 1/2 clinical trials as both monotherapy and combination therapy[3][5][6][7].

Other names

1-(4-(2-(5-ethoxymethyl-2-methylphenylamino)-oxazol-5-yl)-phenyl)-imidazolidin-2-oneTubulin Polymerization Inhibitor AB8939HY-171183HY171183HY 171183