EF-24

EF-24 is a synthetic diphenyldifluoroketone analog of curcumin, a compound found in the spice turmeric. EF-24 has been studied for its potential use in cancer treatment due to its ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death).

Chemistry

EF-24 is a small molecule with a molecular weight of 322.3 g/mol. It is a yellow solid at room temperature. The compound is soluble in DMSO and ethanol, but insoluble in water.

Mechanism of Action

EF-24's anti-cancer activity is believed to be due to its ability to inhibit the NF-kB pathway, which is often overactive in cancer cells. By inhibiting this pathway, EF-24 can prevent the transcription of genes that promote cell survival and proliferation, leading to apoptosis.

EF-24 also has anti-angiogenic properties, meaning it can inhibit the formation of new blood vessels. This is important in cancer treatment as tumors require a blood supply to grow and spread.

Pharmacokinetics

After administration, EF-24 is rapidly absorbed and distributed throughout the body. It is metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes and excreted in the urine.

Clinical Trials

Several preclinical studies have shown promising results with EF-24 in various types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. However, as of now, EF-24 has not yet been tested in human clinical trials.

Safety and Toxicity

In animal studies, EF-24 has been shown to be well-tolerated with low toxicity. However, the safety and toxicity of EF-24 in humans is not yet known.

Future Directions

Further research is needed to fully understand the potential of EF-24 as a cancer treatment. This includes determining the optimal dosing and administration method, as well as identifying any potential side effects or drug interactions.

See Also

• Curcumin
• Cancer
• Apoptosis
• Angiogenesis
• NF-kB