Abstract
Quadruplex nucleic acids (G4s) are higher-order formed by the folding of short G-tracts in DNA or RNA. They are non-randomly distributed in the human genome, occurring disproportionally in cancer-related genes, notably in promoter regions. When stabilized by a suitable small-molecule ligand, they can impede the transcription, translation or replication of a gene, depending on the location of the G4(s) within the gene. This can ultimately lead to apoptosis, DNA damage and an anti-cancer effect. Many G4 ligands have been studied: there are currently over 4500 in the literature. This review focusses on the background to, and the current status as of mid-2024, of the two such compounds that have progressed to clinical trials, CX-5461 and QN-302. Their very different chemical structures have resulted in distinct pre-clinical and (as far as is known) clinical profiles. Prospects for their future development and potential as approved anti-cancer drugs are discussed, together with possible directions for the more general G4-drug field.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Similar Papers
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.