AptaMnkQ2

AptaMnkQ2 (also known as apMNKQ2) is a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) aptamer developed by Aptus Biotech that specifically targets MAP kinase-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (MNK1, including the MNK1a and MNK1b isoforms). MNK1 is overexpressed in various cancers and plays a critical role in tumor progression, metastasis, and cell survival by phosphorylating eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E). By binding to MNK1, AptaMnkQ2 inhibits cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), while inducing caspase-mediated apoptosis. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing tumor growth and metastasis in mouse models of triple-negative breast cancer and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Additionally, Aptus Biotech is developing an RNA version of the aptamer for the treatment of anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) under the OLIGOFASTX consortium.