MIR020

MIR020 is a novel retinoid-related molecule (RRM) that functions as an inhibitor of DNA polymerase alpha 1 (POLA1). It belongs to a class of compounds, including CD437 and ST1926, that exhibit potent anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic activity independent of traditional retinoid receptor-mediated transcription. Developed by Biogem in collaboration with the University of Milan and other institutions, MIR020 has demonstrated significant antitumor efficacy in preclinical models, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma. Mechanistically, it induces G1/S phase arrest and activates pro-apoptotic pathways. Preclinical data also suggest that MIR020 is not a substrate for P-glycoprotein (Pgp), indicating potential for oral administration.