Imatinib Update
A newly discovered cancer-causing protein has been found to lessen the effectivity of the drug is now the target of researchers who are trying to block the said protein. This enhances the ability of Imatinib to treat leukemia making the targeting drug’s work easier and better. Proven to be effective against chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), the drug’s efficacy was unknowingly suppressed by some agent which led to the discovery of the cancer causing protein which blocked the drug lessening its effectivity.
Affecting 15 to 20% of middle-aged leukemia sufferers, this form of leukemia is caused by heightened levels of cancer cells in the patient’s blood-stream leading to life-threatening effects. Blocking the enzyme enhances the drug’s ability to do it’s work increasing survival rates considerably. Studies are underway to continue monitoring of the ground-breaking research that should provide more options for people who continue to suffer from the debilitating effects of leukemia.