BCN077

BCN077 is a first-in-class small-molecule activator of the human single-stranded DNA binding complex hSSB2/1 (comprising hSSB2 and hSSB1), which are critical regulators of the replication stress response and DNA repair. The drug employs a dual mechanism of action: in cancer cells characterized by high replication stress and compromised cell-cycle checkpoints, BCN077 promotes excessive replication fork processing and the accumulation of double-strand breaks, leading to mitotic catastrophe. In contrast, it acts as a cytoprotectant for normal stem and progenitor cells with intact checkpoints, enhancing their ability to repair DNA damage and survive cytotoxic treatments like radiation and chemotherapy. This profile makes BCN077 a candidate for treating aggressive, treatment-resistant tumors, including those with RAS or BRAF mutations, while mitigating the side effects of standard-of-care therapies.