New Compound SB-216 Shows Promise Against Pancreatic Cancer in Preclinical Study
- Published in Oncoscience, Volume 13
- January 28, 2026
- Lead Researchers: Michael W. Spinrad and Evan S. Glazer, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center
A new research paper has unveiled promising findings in the fight against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), an aggressive cancer notorious for its resistance to current treatments and high rate of metastasis. The study, published in Volume 13 of Oncoscience, details how an experimental compound, SB-216, significantly reduced the growth of PDAC cells.
Investigating a Dual-Targeting Approach
The research explored a novel strategy: whether simultaneously targeting two critical cellular systems—microtubules (essential for cell division) and mitochondria (responsible for energy production)—could more effectively hinder PDAC cell growth. SB-216 was designed with this dual approach in mind, aiming to disrupt processes vital for cancer cell survival.
The study investigated whether targeting two cellular systems—microtubules (involved in cell division) and mitochondria (involved in energy production)—could more effectively slow PDAC cell growth.
Targeting Microtubules for Growth Inhibition
SB-216, which is designed to bind to tubulin (a key component of microtubules), effectively suppressed the expression of specific microtubule-associated proteins. Notably, it reduced levels of βIII- and βIVb-tubulin, proteins frequently overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and linked to drug resistance. This suppression was directly associated with a reduction in both cell viability and overall cell proliferation.
Disrupting Mitochondrial Energy Production
Beyond its impact on microtubules, the compound also disrupted mitochondrial function. SB-216 achieved this by lowering the expression of BRD4, a protein crucial for energy regulation. PDAC cells treated with SB-216 exhibited decreased oxygen consumption, a clear indicator of mitochondrial dysfunction. This energy disruption was further linked to an increase in markers of mitophagy and autophagy, cellular processes involved in managing components and survival.
Promising Results Compared to Existing Compounds
In this specific model, SB-216 demonstrated a stronger and more sustained effect in reducing PDAC cell viability when compared to Veru-111, another compound in development. The researchers propose that by acting on these two critical systems simultaneously, SB-216 may decrease the likelihood of cancer cells adapting and surviving the treatment.
Looking Ahead: Preclinical Success Paves the Way
These significant findings represent early-stage preclinical research conducted entirely in vitro. Further studies are now essential, specifically in animal models, to rigorously evaluate the compound's safety, biological activity, and its full therapeutic potential in vivo. This research marks a crucial contribution to the ongoing global efforts aimed at developing more effective and durable treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer.
These findings represent early-stage preclinical research conducted in vitro. Further studies in animal models will be necessary to evaluate the compound's safety, biological activity, and therapeutic potential in vivo.