Q-122

Q-122 is a novel, non-hormonal, orally bioavailable small molecule developed by QUE Oncology for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms (hot flushes and night sweats) in women with breast cancer receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy, such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors. The drug acts by modulating estrogen-responsive neurons in the infundibular (arcuate) nucleus of the hypothalamus, specifically the KNDy (kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin) neurons, which are key regulators of body temperature. While early reports suggested it might act as a neurokinin 3 (NK3) receptor antagonist, more recent clinical data indicates it operates through a distinct mechanism, with some evidence identifying the CXCR4 chemokine receptor as its molecular target. In a Phase 2 proof-of-concept trial (NCT03518138), Q-122 demonstrated a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms compared to placebo and was well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile, offering a potential alternative to menopausal hormone therapy which is contraindicated in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer patients.

Other names

Que-122Que122Que 122