In short
Entinostat, a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, is being extensively studied in clinical trials for its potential in treating various types of cancer. This article explores the ongoing research on entinostat, its mechanisms of action, and its potential benefits in cancer therapy. We'll examine its use in different cancer types, its combination with other drugs, and the current findings from clinical trials.
At a glance
- Drug Name
- Entinostat (also known as SNDX-275, MS-275, KHK2375)
- Drug Class
- Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Inhibitor
- Administration
- Oral tablet, typically taken on an empty stomach
- Cancer Types Studied
- Breast cancer, Hodgkin's lymphoma, cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, solid tumors
- Key Combinations
- Exemestane, Nivolumab, Enzalutamide
- Primary Outcomes
- Progression-Free Survival (PFS), Overall Survival (OS), Objective Response Rate (ORR)
- Safety Assessments
- Adverse events, changes in vital signs, ECG parameters, laboratory values
- Pharmacokinetics
- Studies on absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination
- Current Status
- Investigational, undergoing various phase clinical trials
What is Entinostat?
Entinostat is an investigational drug being studied for the treatment of various types of cancer. It is also known by several other names, including SNDX-275, MS-275, and KHK2375. Entinostat belongs to a class of drugs called histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, which work by affecting how genes are expressed in cancer cells.
How Entinostat Works
Entinostat works by inhibiting certain enzymes called histone deacetylases. These enzymes play a role in regulating gene expression. By inhibiting these enzymes, entinostat can potentially: Slow down or stop the growth of cancer cells Cause cancer cells to die Make cancer cells more sensitive to other treatments Enhance the body's immune response against cancer Research has shown that entinostat may also affect certain immune cells, potentially making cancer treatments that boost the immune system (immunotherapies) more effective.
Conditions Treated with Entinostat
Entinostat is being studied for the treatment of several types of cancer, including: Breast cancer: Particularly advanced or recurrent hormone receptor-positive breast cancer Lung cancer: Including non-small cell lung cancer Hodgkin's lymphoma: A type of blood cancer that affects the lymphatic system Cholangiocarcinoma: A type of bile duct cancer Pancreatic cancer Prostate cancer: Specifically, castration-resistant prostate cancer It's important to note that entinostat is still considered an investigational drug, which means it has not yet been approved by regulatory agencies like the FDA for widespread use in treating these conditions.
How Entinostat is Administered
Entinostat is typically administered orally in tablet form. The dosage and frequency can vary depending on the specific study or condition being treated. Some common dosing schedules include: 5 mg taken once weekly 5 mg taken on days 1, 8, 15, and 22 of a 28-day cycle It's important to note that entinostat should be taken on an empty stomach, usually at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. This is because food can affect how the drug is absorbed by the body.
Ongoing Clinical Trials
Entinostat is currently being studied in various clinical trials to determine its effectiveness and safety for different types of cancer. Some of these trials are: Combining entinostat with other cancer drugs, such as exemestane for breast cancer or nivolumab for cholangiocarcinoma and pancreatic cancer Studying the effects of entinostat on the immune system and its potential to enhance immunotherapy Investigating the safety and effectiveness of entinostat in specific populations, such as Chinese postmenopausal women with breast cancer These trials help researchers understand how well entinostat works, what side effects it may cause, and which patients might benefit most from this treatment.
Potential Side Effects
As with any medication, entinostat can cause side effects. Some of the potential side effects being monitored in clinical trials include: Changes in heart rate and other heart-related parameters Changes in blood cell counts Fatigue Nausea Changes in appetite It's important to note that the full range of potential side effects is still being studied, and the severity and frequency of these effects can vary from person to person. In clinical trials, patients are closely monitored for any adverse events to ensure their safety.