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Inhibition of SN-38 glucuronidation by gefitinib and its metabolite
1College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225001, China.
Abstract:
Drug combinations including irinotecan and gefitinib have been evaluated in clinical trials. SN-38 is the active metabolite of irinotecan, and the increase in its concentration due to drug interactions will result in increased clinical toxicity. We aimed to investigate the effects of gefitinib and its predominant metabolite observed in human plasma, O-desmethyl-gefitinib (DMG), on SN-38 glucuronidation. Our data indicated that both gefitinib and DMG are potent inhibitors of SN-38 glucuronidation via UGT1A1 inhibition. It is predicted from in vitro data that gefitinib administered at 700 mg/day may result in about 149 % increase in SN-38 AUC, but there is no significant effects on SN-38 AUC at lower concentrations. Our prediction study provides a basis for design of clinical studies for the development and optimization of this combination.
Insights
Gefitinib and its metabolite O-desmethyl-gefitinib inhibit SN-38 glucuronidation via UGT1A1. This drug interaction may increase SN-38 exposure, potentially leading to toxicity in clinical settings.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Drug Metabolism
- Clinical Toxicology
Background:
- Irinotecan is a chemotherapy agent with active metabolite SN-38.
- Drug interactions can increase SN-38 concentrations, leading to toxicity.
- Gefitinib is used in cancer treatment and its interactions require study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of gefitinib and O-desmethyl-gefitinib (DMG) on SN-38 glucuronidation.
- To assess the potential clinical implications of this drug interaction.
Main Methods:
- In vitro studies were conducted to assess SN-38 glucuronidation inhibition.
- UGT1A1 inhibition was a key focus.
- In silico prediction was used to estimate clinical effects.
Main Results:
- Both gefitinib and DMG were identified as potent inhibitors of SN-38 glucuronidation.
- UGT1A1 inhibition was confirmed as the mechanism.
- Predicted a 149% increase in SN-38 AUC at high gefitinib doses (700 mg/day).
Conclusions:
- Gefitinib and DMG significantly inhibit SN-38 glucuronidation.
- Clinical toxicity due to increased SN-38 exposure is a potential risk at higher gefitinib doses.
- Findings support the design of clinical studies for optimizing combination therapy.
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