Lurbinectedin is a medication used to treat a type of lung cancer called small cell lung cancer (SCLC) [2]. It works by blocking the activity of an enzyme called RNA polymerase II, which is responsible for the transcription of DNA into RNA. By inhibiting this enzyme, lurbinectedin prevents cancer cells from dividing and multiplying [3].
RNA polymerase II is essential for the growth and survival of cancer cells, and its inhibition can lead to cell death. Lurbinectedin also induces DNA damage, which further contributes to cancer cell death [3].
According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, lurbinectedin demonstrated significant antitumor activity in patients with SCLC who had previously been treated with chemotherapy [1]. The study found that lurbinectedin was well-tolerated and had a manageable safety profile.
In conclusion, lurbinectedin is a medication used to treat small cell lung cancer by inhibiting the activity of RNA polymerase II, preventing cancer cells from dividing and multiplying. It also induces DNA damage, which contributes to cancer cell death. It has been shown to be effective in patients with SCLC who have previously been treated with chemotherapy and has a manageable safety profile.
Sources:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8165873/
[2] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a620049.html
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/LURBINECTEDIN