EZN-4496

EZN-4496 is a locked nucleic acid (LNA)-based antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) designed to target GLI2 mRNA. Developed for the potential treatment of various cancers, including prostate and lung cancers, EZN-4496 acts by specifically binding to and down-modulating GLI2 mRNA, which encodes a zinc finger transcription factor that serves as a key downstream effector of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway. This down-modulation leads to a reduction in GLI2 protein levels and the inhibition of downstream Hh pathway effectors, such as GLI1 and PTCH1, ultimately suppressing tumor cell growth and survival. The drug was originally developed by Santaris Pharma in collaboration with Enzon Pharmaceuticals. In 2013, the rights to the program reverted to Santaris Pharma, which was subsequently acquired by Roche in 2014. Development of EZN-4496 has since been discontinued.

Other names

GLI2 LNA antisense oligonucleotideGLI-2 LNA antisense oligonucleotideGLI 2 LNA antisense oligonucleotideGLI2 RNA antagonistGLI-2 RNA antagonistGLI 2 RNA antagonistLNA-based GLI2 mRNA antagonist