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Dual-Action Compound Slows Pancreatic Cancer Growth
Experimental drug SB-216 targets both microtubules and mitochondria to inhibit PDAC cell proliferation.
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Researchers have found that an experimental compound called SB-216 can effectively slow the growth of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells. The compound works by simultaneously targeting two critical cellular systems: microtubules, which support cell division, and mitochondria, which produce energy. In cell-based assays, SB-216 was shown to suppress the expression of microtubule-associated proteins and interfere with mitochondrial function, leading to reduced cell viability and proliferation.
Why it matters
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is an aggressive cancer that is often resistant to existing treatments, making the development of new therapeutic approaches a critical need. By targeting two key cancer-related pathways at once, SB-216 may reduce the chance for PDAC cells to adapt and survive, potentially improving treatment outcomes.
The details
The study, led by researchers from The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, investigated the effects of SB-216 and another compound, Veru-111, on PDAC cells. SB-216 was found to be more effective than Veru-111 in reducing PDAC cell viability. The compound suppressed the expression of microtubule-associated proteins, particularly βIII- and βIVb-tubulin, which are often overexpressed in pancreatic cancer and associated with drug resistance. SB-216 also interfered with mitochondrial function by lowering the expression of BRD4, a protein involved in energy regulation and gene expression. This energy disruption was associated with increased markers of mitophagy and autophagy, cellular processes that help clear damaged components and regulate cell survival.
- The research paper was published in Volume 13 of Oncoscience on January 28, 2026.
The players
Michael W. Spinrad
First author of the research paper.
Evan S. Glazer
Corresponding author of the research paper and from The University of Tennessee Health Science Center.
SB-216
An experimental compound that was found to effectively inhibit PDAC cell growth through its dual-targeting of oncogenic microtubules and mitochondrial function.
Veru-111
Another compound investigated in the study, which acts on similar targets as SB-216 but was less effective in reducing PDAC cell viability.
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)
An aggressive form of pancreatic cancer that is often resistant to existing treatments.
What’s next
Further studies in animal models will be needed to evaluate the compound's safety, biological activity, and therapeutic potential in vivo.
The takeaway
The development of SB-216, a compound that targets both microtubules and mitochondria, represents a promising new approach to treating the aggressive and often treatment-resistant pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. By addressing multiple cancer-related pathways simultaneously, this dual-action compound may help overcome the adaptability of PDAC cells and improve treatment outcomes for patients.
