A promising new molecule in leukemia treatment: While targeting cancerous cells, it can protect healthy cells more effectively

A new molecule developed against chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) can effectively suppress cancerous cells while better protecting healthy cells. The findings have the potential to pave the way for safer treatment approaches.

A promising development has been made in the treatment of CML. In a new study, it was revealed that the developed molecule strongly suppresses leukemia cells while showing a more limited effect on healthy cells.

The study was conducted by Burdur Mehmet Akif Ersoy University faculty member Halilibrahim Çiftçi and Anadolu University faculty member Belgin Sever and was published in the journal Pharmaceuticals.

The compounds developed in the research were tested on K562 leukemia cells associated with CML. The molecule named “Compound A” gave the most remarkable result by strongly suppressing cell proliferation. Its effect was found to be at a similar level when compared to imatinib used in current treatment.

One of the standout findings of the study was the selectivity of the molecule. In experiments conducted with healthy peripheral blood cells, Compound A was determined to have a higher selectivity index compared to the existing drug. This indicates that healthy cells can be better protected during the treatment process.

The researchers also examined the mechanism of action of the molecule. The findings showed that Compound A triggers the apoptosis process instead of directly destroying the cells. This points to a more controlled and targeted mechanism of action.

On the other hand, it was found that the molecule exhibits an inhibitory effect on the ABL tyrosine kinase enzyme, which plays a critical role in the development of CML, but this effect is more limited compared to classical targeted drugs. This finding suggests that the molecule may be effective through multiple biological pathways.

The researchers state that the results obtained provide an important starting point for new generation leukemia treatments. If the molecule is developed with further studies, more effective and safer treatment options may be opened up.

Source:
Sever, B.; Ciftci, H. Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of N,N-Diphenylaniline-Based Derivatives as Antiproliferative Agents and ABL TK Inhibitors Against CML. Pharmaceuticals journal, 2026, 19, 416.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19030416