Background:

DM4 is is an antitubulin agent that inhibit cell division. DM4 can be used in the preparation of antibody drug conjugate.

DM4, a structural analogue of maytansine, is a new thiol-containing and potent maytansinoid. DM4 is a cytotoxic maytansinoid drug. It is synthesized in order to link maytansinoids to antibodies via disulfide bonds. Maytansinoids inhibit tubulin polymerization and microtubule assembly and enhance microtubule destabilization, so there is potent suppression of microtubule dynamics resulting in a mitotic block and subsequent apoptotic cell death[1].

[1]. Tang R, et al. P-gp activity is a critical resistance factor against AVE9633 and DM4 cytotoxicity in leukaemia cell lines, but not a major mechanism of chemoresistance in cells from acute myeloid leukaemia patients. BMC Cancer. 2009 Jun 23;9:199.