PNC-28 (20mg)

What is PNC-28?

PNC-28 is a synthetic peptide derived from the p53 protein's mdm-2 binding domain, specifically residues 17–26. It incorporates a cell-penetrating sequence, facilitating its entry into cells. Upon internalization, PNC-28 binds to the HDM-2 protein located on the plasma membrane of cancer cells, leading to the formation of membrane pores and subsequent necrosis of the tumor cells. This mechanism allows PNC-28 to selectively target and eliminate cancer cells without affecting normal, healthy cells.

Chemical Structure of PNC-28

PNC-28 is a synthetic peptide derived from the p53 protein, specifically incorporating residues 17–26 of the mdm-2 binding domain. To enhance cellular uptake, it features a penetratin sequence at the N-terminus, allowing efficient entry into cells. The peptide consists of approximately 10 amino acids and adopts an alpha-helical conformation, which facilitates its interaction with HDM-2 and insertion into the plasma membrane of cancer cells. With a molecular weight of around 1,500 Da, this structure enables PNC-28 to selectively target cancer cells while minimizing effects on normal cells.

What Are the Effects of PNC-28?

• Selective Cytotoxicity: Induces necrosis in cancer cells by binding to HDM-2 on the plasma membrane, forming pores that disrupt cellular integrity. [2]
• Targeted Action: Spares normal cells due to the low expression of membrane-bound HDM-2, ensuring minimal off-target effects. [2]
• In Vivo Efficacy: Demonstrated inhibition of pancreatic cancer cell growth in animal models, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent. [1]

Citations

1. Michl, J., Scharf, B., Schmidt, A., Huynh, C., Hannan, R., von Gizycki, H., Friedman, F.K., Brandt-Rauf, P.W., Fine, R.L., & Pincus, M.R. (2006). PNC-28, a p53-derived peptide that is cytotoxic to cancer cells, blocks pancreatic cancer cell growth in vivo. International Journal of Cancer
2. Sarafraz-Yazdi, E., Bowne, W.B., & Pincus, M.R. (2009). Abstract 884: Mechanism of action of PNC-27/-28 anti-cancer peptides. Cancer Research, 69(9 Supplement), 884