DRB18

DRB18 is a second-generation, small-molecule pan-class I glucose transporter (GLUT) inhibitor. Developed as an optimized derivative of the first-generation inhibitor WZB117, DRB18 exhibits significantly improved chemical stability and increased potency in suppressing glucose uptake. It specifically targets the Class I facilitated glucose transporters, including GLUT1, GLUT2, GLUT3, and GLUT4, which are frequently upregulated in various malignancies to support increased glycolytic flux and biomass synthesis. By blocking the primary gateway for glucose entry into cancer cells, DRB18 disrupts metabolic homeostasis, inhibits cell proliferation, and can overcome certain mechanisms of drug resistance. Preclinical studies in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) models have demonstrated its efficacy as both a monotherapy and a sensitizing agent when used in combination with chemotherapy drugs like paclitaxel.