Caerulomycin A is a microbial metabolite isolated from marine actinomycetes. The chemical structure consists of a 2,2′-bypyridine core, which is similar to a biphenyl core. Because of this similarity, it is thought that it may bind well to tubulins and DNA topoisomerase, and thereby provide a potent anti-cancer affect.
In vitro and in vivo studies have shown caerulomycin A to be effective against paclitaxel-resistant cancer. In a study at Ohio University, several types of human tumor cell lines were prepared in vitro and treated with caerulomycin A and in combination with paclitaxel. The melanoma cells were also injected subcutaneously into a mouse model for in vivo study. The mice were then administered caerulomycin A by intraperitoneal injections.
The in vitro studies showed the growth of all cancer types was inhibited, including the paclitaxel-resistant cancer cells. The animal model was also effective and confirmed a significant reduction in tumor size.
The results of this study suggest a synergistic effect when used in combination with paclitaxel against several cancer types. Further work with caerulomycin A and related compounds may offer a new strategy for cancer treatment.
Tong L, Sun W, Wu S, et al. Characterization of caerulomycin A as a dual-targeting anticancer agent. Eur J Pharmacol. 2022 May 5:922:174914. PMID: 35337812