imatinib + chlorambucil

Imatinib + chlorambucil is a combination of two small molecule chemotherapeutic agents used experimentally in the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), particularly in relapsed or refractory cases. Imatinib is a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor that targets BCR-ABL, c-KIT, and PDGFR kinases, disrupting signaling pathways essential for cancer cell proliferation and survival. Chlorambucil is an alkylating agent that cross-links DNA, leading to apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells. Preclinical and early clinical studies have shown that imatinib can sensitize CLL cells to the cytotoxic effects of chlorambucil by inhibiting c-Abl-mediated DNA repair mechanisms (notably Rad51 phosphorylation), resulting in increased apoptosis when both drugs are used together[4][5][6]. This combination has demonstrated tolerability and preliminary efficacy in phase I trials for CLL.

Other names

imatinib mesylateCLB