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The Oncology Portfolio
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ENKAM has a rich portfolio of compounds to treat a range of cancers. The mechanisms of action of these peptides involve direct induction of apoptosis, terminal differentiation and/or cell cycle arrest in the tumour cells. In addition several ENKAM peptides have a cell differentiation activity, which has implications not only for neurodegenerative diseases, but offers a novel approach in the treatment of many cancers.
Dekafin2. Dekafin2 is a peptide which targets the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR), derived from the Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF). It has demonstrated anti-cancer activity both in vivo and in vitro in several different types of tumour lines including breast, bladder, colon and prostate cancer. In particular, Dekafin2 is active against hormone insensitive prostate cancer. Dkafin2 is being prepared for testing in man.
EncaminC is a peptide which targets the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR), mimicking the activity of Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule (NCAM) on this receptor. It is a unique tyrosine kinase modulator that has demonstrated anti-tumour effects in vitro and in vivo in several different types of tumours, including rhabdomyosarcoma. EncaminC is being prepared for development.
Inherbins. The Inherbins are a family of peptides which target the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor family (HER, which is also the target of blockbuster drugs such as Herceptin® (trastuzumab) and Erbitux® (cetuximab). These peptides are currently being screened to identify a lead compound. ENKAM expects the Inherbins will be less prone to resistance development, and too have an improved side effect profile.