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Peptide

Balixafortide

Macrocyclic peptide that blocks the CXCR4 receptor. Tested alongside the chemotherapy eribulin in metastatic breast cancer, but the phase 3 failed.
Regulatory status
Not approved
Family
Peptide CXCR4 receptor antagonist
Scientific evidence
Moderate
Number of findings
1
Where it acts
Immunity and defense
Also known as
balixafortide, POL6326

Regulatory status

FDA (US): Not approved (phase 3 FORTRESS showed no benefit in 2021)

EMA (EU): Not approved

Dose

There is no established dose in humans.

Safety

In combination with eribulin: fatigue (79%), decreased neutrophils (57%), and infusion reactions (48%). Research only.

Differences between women and men

Studied in women with HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer. View the study →

Effect by goal · level of evidence

Tumor response with eribulin in breast cancer (phase 1)

improves Low clinical trial (A) in people
30% responses

Single-arm phase 1 study with 56 patients: 30% had a partial response with the combination.

View the study (clinical trial) →

In depth

Where it acts

Immunity and defense

Breast cancerCancer

How it works

CXCR4 is a receptor that tumor cells use to anchor themselves in protective niches such as the bone marrow and to metastasize. Blocking it was intended to drive those cells out of their refuge and make them more sensitive to chemotherapy.

What the evidence says

In people

  • Tumor response with eribulin in breast cancer (phase 1). Single-arm phase 1 study with 56 patients: 30% had a partial response with the combination. PubMed 29706375

References

  1. PubMed 29706375

Information, not medical advice. Prescription or unapproved peptides should only be used under medical supervision.

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