Plitidepsin (Aplidin)
Overview
Plitidepsin is a cyclic depsipeptide originally isolated from the Mediterranean tunicate Aplidium albicans and now produced synthetically. It targets the eukaryotic elongation factor 1A2 (eEF1A2), leading to oxidative stress, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in malignant cells.
Mechanism of Action
The compound has demonstrated activity against multiple myeloma and other hematologic malignancies in preclinical models. Its unique mechanism distinguishes it from conventional chemotherapeutic agents.
Research Summary & Key Findings
Phase III trials in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma did not meet primary endpoints for progression-free survival compared to standard therapies. Plitidepsin received conditional approval in Australia in 2018 for multiple myeloma but has not achieved FDA approval. It has also been investigated for antiviral activity, including preliminary studies in COVID-19.
Clinical Status
Plitidepsin (Aplidin) is currently undergoing clinical trials. It is not yet FDA-approved and is available only through clinical research settings or investigational protocols.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed — "Plitidepsin"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov — "Plitidepsin"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem — "Plitidepsin"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
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