Association of temozolomide with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy: a disproportionality analysis integrated

Vipin Bhati1, Anoop Kumar1, Viney Lather2

  • 1Department of Pharmacology, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a novel safety signal associated with temozolomide (TMZ), an alkylating agent used for glioblastoma. This study analyzed FAERS data and network pharmacology to investigate the TMZ-PML association.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Temozolomide (TMZ) is a standard alkylating agent for glioblastoma treatment.
  • Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare, serious demyelinating disease.
  • A potential association between TMZ and PML has not been previously established.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between temozolomide (TMZ) and progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).
  • To identify potential pharmacological mechanisms linking TMZ and PML.

Main Methods:

  • Disproportionality analysis of FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) data.
  • Network pharmacological analysis using Cytoscape.
  • Molecular docking studies using Glide (Schrödinger Inc.).

Main Results:

  • A total of 3502 PML cases were reported in FAERS, with 10 cases involving TMZ.
  • Subgroup analysis indicated a higher incidence in females.
  • Network analysis implicated several key proteins, including MAPK, PDK1, mTOR, PI3K, and GSK-3β.
  • Docking studies revealed favorable interactions between TMZ and GSK-3β and MAPK1.

Conclusions:

  • Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is identified as a novel safety signal associated with temozolomide (TMZ).
  • The findings suggest potential molecular pathways underlying the TMZ-PML association.

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