Pre-Clinical Study of New Drug Candidate LC978 for the Therapy of Human Leukemia, Sickle Cell Anemia and Beta-thalassemia
Date: 13 February 2008 (Wednesday)
Time: 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Venue: 126, C N Yang Reading Room, Science Centre North Block
Speaker: Prof. FUNG Ming Chiu, Department of Biology
Abstract: Leukemia, sickle cell anemia and thalassemias are among the most prevalent serious blood disorders affecting human populations and represent a major health burden worldwide. However, the search for future treatments aimed at either inhibition of cancer cell proliferation or reduction of globin chain imbalance has focused on the pharmacologic genetic manipulation. Previously, a rational strategy was established by discovering new lead compound from traditional Chinese herbal medicines (TCHM). One leading compound, namely LC978, was identified and purified from the TCHM. The preliminary in vitro and in vivo pharmacological assessment of LC978 indicates its predominant performance comparing with current clinical drugs, including Doxorubicin, Nocodazole and Hydroxyurea. In this project, we have determined the chemical structure of LC978, compared the potency of its derivatives, and studied the in vivo effect in mouse model. We have collaborated with Dr. Li Chi-kong of Pediatric Department for the ex vivo study, and with Prof. LEUNG Ping Chung and FUNG Kwok Pui of ICTCM in the clinical study of the crude extract of the herb. The molecular mechanisms of anti-leukemia and human gamma globin gene expression are now under investigation.
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