Overview

• The compound targets the interface between 14-3-3ζ and Ser28-phosphorylated histone H3, blocking expression of genes that drive treatment resistance and epithelial-to-mesenchymal plasticity.
• In cell cultures, benzaldehyde halted growth of pancreatic cancer cells resistant to radiation and the tyrosine kinase inhibitor osimertinib and enhanced the effects of radiotherapy.
• In mouse models, a benzaldehyde derivative reduced tumor size and prevented lung metastases by suppressing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.
• Dr. Hideyuki Saya and colleagues at Fujita Health University detailed the molecular mechanism in a study published May 2 in the British Journal of Cancer.
• Researchers propose developing benzaldehyde-based agents alongside existing targeted therapies to overcome clinical resistance in pancreatic cancer.