volasertib

Volasertib is an investigational small molecule inhibitor of polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1), a serine/threonine-protein kinase that plays a critical role in cell cycle progression and mitosis. By competitively binding to the ATP-binding pocket of PLK1, volasertib blocks its activity, leading to cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase and induction of apoptosis in cancer cells. Volasertib has demonstrated potent anti-tumor activity in preclinical models and has been evaluated clinically for various hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Originally developed by Boehringer Ingelheim, it is now being further developed by Oncoheroes Biosciences for pediatric cancers such as rhabdomyosarcoma[3][4][5]. The drug has received orphan drug designation for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and rhabdomyosarcoma[3][5].

Other names

volasertib