PNC-27
p53-MDM2 anticancer peptide · Penetratin-p53 chimera · Anticancer peptide 27
A chimeric anticancer peptide containing the MDM2-binding domain of p53 fused to a membrane-targeting sequence, studied for selective cancer cell killing via surface MDM2 binding and membrane disruption.
Half-Life
Unknown in vivo. Short in biological systems due to peptidase degradation.
MW
~3.5 kDa (estimated, chimeric 28-residue peptide)
Amino Acids
28 AA
Evidence
Preclinical
Regulatory Status
Research compound only. No IND or clinical trials in humans. Strictly experimental/preclinical stage.
In Plain English
An experimental anticancer peptide designed with a clever targeting trick: cancer cells often put the MDM2 protein on their outer surface, while normal cells keep it hidden inside. PNC-27 is engineered to recognize this surface MDM2, then punch holes in the cancer cell membrane to kill it — while leaving normal cells unharmed. Promising in lab studies, but strictly preclinical.
Overview
PNC-27 is a chimeric peptide composed of the HDM2-binding domain of p53 (residues 12-26) fused to a penetratin-derived hydrophobic membrane-targeting sequence. The rationale for its selective anticancer activity is that MDM2 (human homolog HDM2) — normally found in the nucleus and cytoplasm — is aberrantly expressed on the plasma membrane of many cancer cell types but not normal cells. PNC-27 is designed to bind this membrane-bound MDM2 on cancer cells, triggering insertion of its hydrophobic helix into the cell membrane, creating pores, and causing necrotic cancer cell death. In vitro and animal studies have shown selective killing of cancer cells overexpressing MDM2 without equivalent toxicity to normal cells. Studied in pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, leukemia, and other MDM2-overexpressing tumor models.
Common Formats
- Lyophilized powder (injectable, research)
- Dissolved in DMSO/buffer for in vitro research
Storage Notes
-20°C or -80°C lyophilized. Aliquot before freezing to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Limited stability in aqueous solution — prepare fresh or store short-term at 4°C.
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Related Compounds
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