
PARP inhibitors sometimes work beyond BRCA-mutations, researchers may finally know why
A class of potent cancer treatments could shine brighter than previously thought in a broader array of patients, new research suggests.
PARP inhibitors, including AstraZeneca’s $AZN pioneering Lynparza, Clovis’ $CLVS Rubraca and GSK’s $GSK Zejula — work by thwarting PARP proteins that help repair damaged DNA in cell — thereby steering cancer cells onto a path of annihilation. So far, their use has primarily been in ovarian cancers containing BRCA mutations, rare genetic mutations that disable a DNA repair pathway in cancer cells, as well as BRCA-mutated breast cancer. (Although last month, Zejula was granted priority review to expand its use in late-stage ovarian cancer patients with or without BRCA mutations).
Unlock this article instantly by becoming a free subscriber.
You’ll get access to free articles each month, plus you can customize what newsletters get delivered to your inbox each week, including breaking news.