Sorafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor used as a targeted cancer therapy. It works by blocking several enzymes (kinases) involved in tumor cell growth and angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels).
Key targets:
- RAF kinases (part of the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway)
- VEGFR (vascular endothelial growth factor receptor)
- PDGFR (platelet-derived growth factor receptor)
- Other kinases involved in tumor proliferation and angiogenesis
Clinical uses:
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) – primary use
- Renal cell carcinoma (RCC)
- Thyroid cancer (differentiated, refractory to radioactive iodine)
- Investigated in some types of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with FLT3 mutations
Mechanism:
By inhibiting these kinases, Sorafenib slows tumor growth and reduces blood supply to the tumor.
Common side effects
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Hand-foot skin reaction
- Hypertension
Summary
Sorafenib is a targeted anti-cancer drug that interferes with both tumor cell signaling and tumor blood vessel formation, making it effective in certain advanced cancers.