Selinexor's Alternative Names
Selinexor is the generic drug name, but it is known under various other names. Understanding these is important for identification and prescription.
- Brand Names: In the United States, it is primarily known as Xpovio. In the European Union, the brand name is Nexpovio. Both refer to the same active ingredient.
- Code Name: During development and testing, it was called KPT-330.
- Pharmacological Class: Selinexor is the first drug in the Selective Inhibitors of Nuclear Export (SINE) class.
The Mechanism of Action: A Targeted Approach
Selinexor is a targeted therapy that focuses on the protein Exportin 1 (XPO1), also known as CRM1.
The Role of Exportin 1 (XPO1)
XPO1 transports proteins, including tumor suppressors, from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. In many cancers, XPO1 is overexpressed, removing these essential proteins from the nucleus and allowing cancer cells to grow.
Selinexor inhibits XPO1, causing tumor suppressor proteins to build up in the nucleus. This leads to:
- Cell Cycle Arrest: Trapped tumor suppressors halt the cell cycle.
- Apoptosis Induction: The accumulation triggers programmed cell death in cancer cells.
- Selective Effect: This primarily affects cancer cells with high XPO1, largely sparing healthy cells.
Indications and Approved Uses
Selinexor is approved for specific blood cancers, often for patients who have not responded to other treatments. It is used for:
Multiple Myeloma Treatment
Selinexor is approved for adults with multiple myeloma, typically in combination with other drugs. Selinexor is also used for adults with relapsed or refractory DLBCL after at least two lines of systemic therapy. This indication received accelerated approval based on response rate.
Administration and Common Side Effects
Selinexor is an oral tablet, with dosage varying by cancer type and combination therapy.
For more details on common side effects, consult {Link: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selinexor}.
Selinexor vs. Traditional Chemotherapy
Selinexor differs from traditional chemotherapy in its mechanism and selectivity. Details are available on {Link: Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selinexor}.
Conclusion
Understanding what is selinexor also known as and its mechanism provides insight into this targeted therapy for advanced blood cancers. Known as Xpovio and Nexpovio, and by the code KPT-330, selinexor is a SINE inhibitor that traps tumor-suppressing proteins in the nucleus, leading to cancer cell death. It offers a unique approach, especially for patients with multiple myeloma and DLBCL who have exhausted other options. While side effects occur, its targeted nature represents a significant advancement in oncology. More technical details are available from resources like the {Link: National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-drug/def/selinexor}.