PKHB1

PKHB1 is a synthetic peptide that mimics the C-terminal binding domain of thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) and functions as a CD47 agonist. It induces immunogenic cell death (ICD) in various cancer cells, including hematological malignancies such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and solid tumors like breast cancer, particularly triple-negative subtypes[2][5][6]. The mechanism of action involves caspase-independent, calcium-dependent cell death associated with mitochondrial alterations, reactive oxygen species production, intracellular Ca2+ accumulation, and exposure/release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) such as calreticulin, HSP70/90, ATP, and HMGB1[2][4][5]. This leads to dendritic cell maturation and activation of antitumor T-cell responses. In vivo studies show that PKHB1 reduces tumor volume/weight and promotes intratumoral CD8+ T-cell infiltration in breast cancer models[2]. Additionally, it has demonstrated antiviral effects by inhibiting herpes simplex virus type 1 replication in preclinical models[4]. PKHB1 is currently under preclinical investigation for oncology indications.

Other names

thrombospondin-1 peptide mimicthrombospondin1 peptide mimicthrombospondin 1 peptide mimicTSP1-derived CD47 agonist peptideTSP-1-derived CD47 agonist peptideTSP 1-derived CD47 agonist peptide