Betulinic acid derivatives as a new agents for pediatric cancers

The aim of the project is to design and test different chemical derivatives of betulinic acid as a treatment for cancer. It is well known that betulinic acid is able to specifically kill cancer cells, and so we have developed several derivatives to improve biochemical properties such as solubility or biodistribution but maintaining the toxicity for cancer cells. We will test these different chemical structures on different cell lines (normal and cancerous) and try to elucidate the mechanism of action of those compounds. Once we will get promising results in vitro, we will determine the most powerful compound and we could continue with in vivo studies, which could lead to the development and commercialization of a new treatment for pediatric cancers.

Faculty Supervisor:

Poul Sorensen

Student:

Anne-Chloe Dhez

Partner:

Derm-Biome Pharmaceuticals

Discipline:

Medicine

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of British Columbia