Julia Jakusz, “Phenylboronic Acid Nitrogen Mustards induce P53 Upregulation Inhibiting Cell Migration and Invasion in Breast Cancers”
Mentor: Xiaohua Peng, Chemistry & Biochemistry
Poster #98

Breast cancers are renowned for their heterogeneity and aggressive nature. The limited treatment options and less favorable prognosis, particularly in Triple-negative breast cancers, position them as the most aggressive among various cancer types. The Peng group has pioneered the development of FAN-NM-CH3, a ROS-activated prodrug that surpasses others in its category, including the FDA-approved chlorambucil and melphalan, by multiple folds. This prodrug exhibits selectivity for H2O2, upon encountering it, activation occurs. The potent activated drug then proceeds to Alkylate DNA strands, hindering cancer cell replication and leading to their death. Gene expression evaluation revealed an upregulation of the tumor suppressor gene P53, supporting a transcriptional mechanism that induces tumor shrinkage. The tumor suppressor P53 protein plays a crucial role in maintaining genomic stability and regulating cell division, preventing uncontrolled and rapid proliferation. The observed increase in P53 expression in cancer cells treated with the prodrug suggests its role as an upregulator of the P53 protein, which, in turn, suppresses tumors. These findings provide valuable insights into the prodrug’s function within cellular pathways, shedding light on its regulatory role over other genes that contribute to tumor suppression.