RNX-051

RNX-051 is a locally administered small molecule antibiotic being developed by Reponex Pharmaceuticals for the treatment of colorectal cancer and precancerous colon adenomas. It specifically targets *Fusobacterium nucleatum*, a bacterium frequently found in the colorectal tumor microenvironment that is associated with tumor progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance. RNX-051 acts by inhibiting the Fap2 lectin of *F. nucleatum*, which mediates the bacterium's binding to Gal-GalNAc carbohydrates overexpressed on colorectal cancer cells. By reducing the intratumoral bacterial load, RNX-051 aims to modulate the tumor microenvironment and improve clinical outcomes. The drug is designed for local or luminal administration to the colon to minimize systemic exposure and maximize local efficacy against the oncomicrobiome.