Abstract
Sorafenib (BAY 43-9006) is a novel oral bis-aryl urea compound originally developed as an inhibitor to RAF kinase for its anti-proliferative property. It also inhibits receptor tyrosine kinases of multiple pro-angiogenic factors such as VEGFR-2/3, Flt-3/ and PDGFR-β. The combination of both its anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic properties makes sorafenib an attractive agent in cancer treatment. Phase I studies demonstrated that sorafenib was well tolerated, and the recommended phase II dose was 400 mg twice daily continuously. Common toxicities included skin toxicity (rash and hand-foot syndrome), gastrointestinal toxicities (nausea and diarrhea) and fatigue. Anti-tumor activities were observed in multiple tumors types including renal cell carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. Randomized phase III studies in these tumor types are ongoing, and results are eagerly waited.
Keywords: Sorafenib, RAF kinase inhibitor, VEGF inhibitor, clinical trials