MQD1-8C

MQD1-8C is a first-in-class, orally active non-saccharide glycosaminoglycan mimetic (NSGM) designed to target colorectal cancer stem cells (CSCs). It is a cholesterol-modified analog of MQD1, which was rationally designed based on the heparin hexasaccharide mimetic G2.2. MQD1-8C selectively inhibits key tyrosine kinase receptors, specifically the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Receptor (IGF-1R), which results in the activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). This dual action leads to the inhibition of CSC self-renewal and tumor growth. In preclinical models of colorectal cancer, MQD1-8C demonstrated potent efficacy when administered both intraperitoneally and orally, while maintaining a favorable safety profile with minimal toxicity to normal intestinal stem cells.

Other names

cholesterol-modified MQD1