Repurposed drug against metastasis? A potential pan-cancer approach

[Maxone73]

Scientists identified a 177-gene “pan-cancer” signature that drives or suppresses metastasis in multiple tumor types.

Among these genes are SP1, which promotes metastasis, and KLF5, which inhibits it.

This challenges the belief that cancer spread depends solely on each tumor’s tissue of origin.

The discovery allows earlier prediction of metastatic risk and potentially more targeted therapies.

Repurposing drugs like Vorinostat, already FDA-approved, could accelerate their use in blocking metastasis.

Researchers used single-cell RNA sequencing on over 200 tumors and confirmed key gene functions in lab and animal models.

Human trials remain essential before this strategy can reach patients, but it could reshape how metastasis is prevented and treated.

prostatewarriors.com/2025/0...

[KocoPr]

repurposed drugs don’t make much money especially after patent is over. Sooo don’t expect to see clinical trials on it.

Vorinostat, marketed under the brand name Zolinza, is protected by several patents with varying expiration dates. As of January 11, 2025, the status of these patents is as follows:

• Expired Patents:

• U.S. Patent No. 7,851,509: Expired on February 21, 2024.

• U.S. Patent No. 7,399,787: Expired on February 9, 2025.

• Active Patents:

• U.S. Patent No. 7,456,219: Expires on March 11, 2027.

• U.S. Patent No. 8,093,295: Expires on May 16, 2026.

• U.S. Patent No. 8,450,372: Expires on March 18, 2028.

These patents cover various aspects of vorinostat, including its formulations and methods of production. The expiration of these patents may influence the availability of generic versions of the drug. According to DrugPatentWatch, Zolinza was eligible for patent challenges on October 6, 2010, and the earliest anticipated date for generic entry is March 11, 2027. 

It’s important to note that the availability of generic versions can be affected by factors such as patent challenges, new patent filings, and regulatory exclusivities. As of now, there is no therapeutically equivalent generic version of Zolinza available in the United States. 

For the most current information, consulting the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Orange Book or seeking legal advice is recommended.

[Azores1]

thank you