KS-01

KS-01 is a cyclic amylose oligomer composed of glucose units, currently in preclinical development as a novel anticancer agent. Its primary mechanism of action involves depleting intracellular cholesterol, which is crucial for cancer cell membrane integrity and proliferation. This cholesterol depletion leads to significant growth inhibition and apoptosis in cancer cells, including both estrogen-positive (ER+) and estrogen-negative (ER-) breast cancer cell lines. The compound has been shown to be toxicologically benign in humans in other contexts, suggesting a favorable safety profile for further development. It is being investigated by the University of the Witwatersrand and CarboHyde.