John Hopkins New Mebendazole Patient
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CU1QfHe5u/ Johns Hopkins’ New Mebendazole Patent and Its Significance for Cancer Therapeutics A recent public news article has highlighted a development that deserves serious attention within oncology and drug-repurposing research: Johns Hopkins scientists have patented a new crystalline form of mebendazole—referred to as polymorph C—designed to enhance its anti-cancer properties. Background: Why Mebendazole Matters Mebendazole is a benzimidazole-class anthelmintic with a well-characterised safety profile accumulated over ~40 years of clinical use. Beyond its antiparasitic activity, numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated: Microtubule inhibition in cancer cells Disruption of glucose metabolism in malignant tissues Interference with multiple signalling pathways (Hh, Wnt/β-catenin, Bcl-2) Selective cytotoxicity to tumour cells at concentrations tolerated by normal cells Despite these properties, clinical adoption has been limited largely because the original molecule is off-patent, making large-scale commercial trials financially unviable. What Johns Hopkins Has Patented The new patent centers on: Polymorph C — a redesigned crystalline form This form appears to demonstrate: Improved oral absorption Higher plasma concentrations Prolonged systemic exposure Greater potency in killing cancer cells in vitro compared with existing polymorphs This is scientifically notable, because mebendazole traditionally suffers from: Poor gastrointestinal absorption High inter-individual variability Low bioavailability unless taken with high-fat meals A more bioavailable crystalline form directly addresses these limitations. Synergy Through Transporter Inhibition The Johns Hopkins team also referenced co-administration with elacridar, a potent inhibitor of: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (BCRP) These efflux pumps are responsible for removing chemotherapeutic agents from cancer cells.