EPHA2 TARGETING AGENTS AND USES THEREOF

Abstract

EphA2 targeting agents developed herein are potent peptide-mimetics with high affinity (Kds 8-20 nanomolar) for the ligand binding domain, called targefrin. Monomeric versions of targefrin act as antagonists while dimeric versions (targefrin-dimer) of the agent cause receptor internalization and degradation via a lysosomal pathway. Hence, targefrin-dimer agents are effective in reducing pro-oncogenic EphA2 levels in cancer cells when used as single agents or in combination with standards of care. Targefrin-dimers can also sensitive cancer cells that developed resistance to EGER or BRAE inhibitors, and potentially other anti-cancer agents. In addition, the dimeric agents can be conjugated with chemotherapy such as paclitaxel to deliver selectively cytotoxic agent to EphA2 expressing cancer cells. Monomeric agents can be linked to chemotherapy via a stable cleavable linker, accumulate the cytotoxic at the tumor, that then would enter the tumor. Novel composition and examples of these applications are reported.

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