Why should we target MDM2 with small molecule inhibitor KRT-232 in patients with MF?

During the 25th Congress of the European Hematology Association (EHA), the MPN Hub spoke to Haifa Kathrin Al-Ali, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Halle (Saale), DE. We asked: Why should we target murine double minute 2 (MDM2) with the small molecule inhibitor KRT-232 in patients with myelofibrosis (MF)?

Approximately 50% of patients with MF discontinue treatment with Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors within 3 years. Resistance to JAK inhibitors, such as ruxolitinib, is the primary reason for treatment termination, after which, patient prognosis is poor. Novel therapeutic approaches are therefore critical to improve patient survival in this setting. As a negative modulator of p53, MDM2 overexpression has been associated with malignancy.

KRT-232 is a potent, selective and, importantly, orally available MDM2 inhibitor, which may be successful in targeting malignant stem cells and hematopoietic cells. This interview provides insight into the phase IIa trial investigating KRT-232 for the treatment of patients with MF who have been previously treated with a JAK inhibitor.