New Molecule Shows Promise Against Aggressive Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have developed an experimental molecule that targets triple-negative breast cancer — one of the most aggressive forms of the disease with few effective treatment options.

The compound, called SU212, blocks an enzyme called enolase 1 (ENO1) that cancer cells rely on for metabolism and growth. In humanized mouse models of triple-negative breast cancer, the molecule caused tumors to shrink and limited metastasis, according to findings published in Cell Reports Medicine.

"It's an important step forward to treat triple-negative breast cancer," said senior author Sanjay V. Malhotra, PhD, co-director of the Center for Experimental Therapeutics at OHSU Knight Cancer Institute. "Triple-negative breast cancer is an aggressive form of cancer and there are no effective drugs available right now."

The enzyme ENO1 helps regulate glucose metabolism in cells and is produced in unusually high amounts by many cancer cells. When SU212 binds to ENO1, it triggers the enzyme's degradation, disrupting a critical pathway that tumors use to survive and spread.

Malhotra noted the mechanism may be particularly relevant for patients who also have metabolic disorders like diabetes. The same strategy could potentially be used to treat other cancers influenced by ENO1, including glioma, pancreatic cancer, and thyroid carcinoma.

The next step involves moving toward human clinical trials, a process requiring FDA approval and significant resources.