imetelstat

Imetelstat is a novel therapeutic agent that acts as a telomerase inhibitor. Telomerase is an enzyme crucial for maintaining the telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. In many cancer cells, telomerase is reactivated, allowing them to divide indefinitely. By inhibiting telomerase, imetelstat aims to prevent cancer cells from replicating and thus halt tumor growth.

This drug is an oligonucleotide, meaning it is a short strand of nucleic acid. Its mechanism of action involves binding to the RNA component of telomerase, thereby blocking its enzymatic activity. Clinical trials have investigated imetelstat for the treatment of various hematologic malignancies, including myelofibrosis and essential thrombocythemia, and more recently, for certain solid tumors.

The development of imetelstat has been driven by the understanding of telomere biology and its role in cancer progression. While promising, like any therapeutic agent, it has potential side effects that are closely monitored during clinical evaluation. Research continues to explore its efficacy and safety profile across different cancer types and patient populations.