The Preparation of Polymeric Prodrug of Disulfiram and its Application

Description:

 

Reference #: 01145

The University of South Carolina is offering licensing opportunities for a polymeric prodrug that is able to kill a broad-spectrum of cancer cells, including drug resistant cancer cells and cancer stem cells, without damaging normal cells.

Invention Description:

The present invention describes the preparation of a polymeric prodrug of disulfiram combined with copper ions that can effectively kill a broad-spectrum of cancer cells, including drug resistant cancer cells and cancer stem cells, at the nano-molar level.

Potential Applications:

Treatment of various cancers, as well as rheumatoid arthritis, cataracts atherosclerosis, and other cardiovascular diseases

Advantages and Benefits:

1.    Enhanced efficacy and targeting

2.    Minimal side effects as a result of specific cancer cell selectivity

3.    Longer half-life

4.    Broad-spectrum of anticancer activity, including drug resistant and cancer stem cells

Background:

While disulfiram (i.e. DSF or Antabuse) has been used for the treatment of chronic alcoholism for several decades, recent research discovered that disulfiram is able to effectively kill a wide variety of cancer cell concentrations of sub-micromolar levels when combined with copper ions. However, the application of disulfiram is limited due to its extremely low bioavailability, short half-life, as well as side effects, such as headaches, decreased sexual ability in males, skin rashes, and mood changes.  This invention uses a disulfiram nano-prodrug fabricated from polymer to specifically target cancer cells without causing side effects.

Experimental Validation:

The disulfiram polymer prodrug has been synthesized and its therapeutic efficacy has been validated in vitro.

Patent Information:
For Information, Contact:
Lacie Cottrill
Technology Associate
University of South Carolina
lacie@mailbox.sc.edu
Inventors:
Peisheng Xu
Huacheng He
Keywords:
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