Oleylphosphocholine

Oleylphosphocholine (OLPC) is a phosphocholine derivative with significant therapeutic potential, particularly for treating parasitic diseases like leishmaniasis. Based on the search results, I can provide comprehensive information about this investigational drug. ## Chemical Structure and Properties Oleylphosphocholine has the molecular formula C23H48NO4P with a molecular weight of approximately 433.61 g/mol[3]. It contains a cis double bond in its alkyl chain, which distinguishes it from similar compounds like hexadecylphosphocholine (miltefosine)[6]. This structural modification gives OLPC improved therapeutic properties, including lower toxicity compared to miltefosine[6]. ## Mechanism of Action and Therapeutic Applications OLPC belongs to the alkylphosphocholine class of substances with pronounced antiproliferative properties[6]. It demonstrates excellent activity against protozoa, particularly against leishmaniasis-causing parasites[5]. The drug has shown superior performance against Leishmania parasites in both visceral organs and skin compared to miltefosine[8]. The antiproliferative properties of OLPC make it potentially useful for treating: 1. Parasitic diseases (particularly leishmaniasis) 2. Cancer 3. Bacterial infections 4. Fungal diseases 5. Multiple sclerosis 6. Psoriasis[5] ## Development Status Oleylphosphocholine is currently an investigational drug. It has received orphan drug designation from both the FDA (designation number 410313) and the European Union (EU/3/12/964) for the treatment of leishmaniasis[3][4]. ## Pharmaceutical Development The development of OLPC as a pharmaceutical product faces challenges due to its physicochemical properties: - Low melting point (approximately 55°C) - Hygroscopic nature - Susceptibility to oxidation due to the double bond in the alkyl chain[8] Various formulations have been developed to address these challenges, including: - Formulations with lactose (OLH.200511) - Formulations with microcrystalline cellulose (OLH.200616) - Encapsulation in mesoporous silica particles using either solvent-based loading or extrusion-type milling[8] ## Comparison to Related Compounds OLPC shows several advantages over hexadecylphosphocholine (miltefosine): - Improved therapeutic index - Lower toxicity - Can be administered both orally and intravenously[6] According to comparative data, OLPC has a significantly better safety profile in various species: | Compound | Species | Tolerated Dose | |----------|---------|----------------| | HePC (miltefosine) | Rat | 8.0-30.0 mg | | HePC (miltefosine) | Dog | 3.0 mg | | HePC (miltefosine) | Human | 1.5-2.5 mg | | OLPC | Rat | 4.0-65.0 mg | | OLPC | Dog | 0.3-4.5 mg | | OLPC | Human | 0.3-4.5 mg (estimated)[6] | Oleylphosphocholine represents a promising advancement in the treatment of leishmaniasis and potentially other serious diseases, offering improved efficacy and safety compared to existing treatments.

Other names

OLPC