FL118

FL118 is a novel small molecule anticancer agent derived from camptothecin, a compound found in the bark and stem of a tree native to China and used in traditional Chinese medicine. Discovered by Dr. Fengzhi Li at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, FL118 is structurally similar to irinotecan and topotecan but exhibits distinct mechanisms of action. It binds to DDX5 (DEAD-box helicase 5), an oncogenic protein implicated in cancer cell survival and proliferation[1][5]. Preclinical studies have shown that FL118 eliminates pancreatic and colorectal tumor cells by targeting DDX5[1][5], inhibits proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cells via upregulation of cytoglobin (CYGB)[2], overcomes resistance associated with ABCG2/MDR1 efflux pumps[4], induces p53 accumulation while depleting MdmX[4], and downregulates anti-apoptotic proteins such as survivin, Mcl-1, XIAP, and cIAP2[4]. Unlike other camptothecins (irinotecan/topotecan), it is not a substrate for common drug resistance transporters. The drug has received FDA Orphan Drug Designation for pancreatic cancer treatment development[1][5].

Other names

IL-18 cytokine fusion proteinIL18 cytokine fusion proteinIL 18 cytokine fusion protein