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Dichloroacetate (DCA)
Dichloroacetate inhibits pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, shifting cellular metabolism from glycolysis toward oxidative phosphorylation.
Dichloroacetate inhibits pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, shifting cellular metabolism from glycolysis toward oxidative phosphorylation. Used for Glioblastoma multiforme, Recurrent or progressive glioblastoma.
At a glance
| Generic name | Dichloroacetate (DCA) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | genotype, Sodium Dichloroacetate |
| Sponsor | University of Florida |
| Drug class | Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase inhibitor |
| Target | Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Oncology |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
DCA activates pyruvate dehydrogenase complex by inhibiting its inhibitory kinase, promoting the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA and increasing aerobic metabolism. This metabolic shift reduces lactate production and may enhance mitochondrial function, with potential anti-cancer effects by reducing the Warburg effect (cancer cells' reliance on glycolysis) and promoting apoptosis in tumor cells.
Approved indications
- Glioblastoma multiforme
- Recurrent or progressive glioblastoma
Common side effects
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Key clinical trials
- Trial of Dichloroacetate (DCA) in Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) (PHASE2)
- Regulation of Brain Glucose Metabolism in Type 1 Diabetes (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Expanded Access Treatment Protocol With DCA for Patients With PDCD
- Trial of Dichloroacetate in Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Complex Deficiency: (PHASE3)
- A Clinical Trial to Evaluate Dichloroacetate (DCA) as a Treatment for Endometriosis-associated Pain (NA)
- Metabolic Reprogramming Therapy for Treatment of Recurrent Head and Neck Cancers (PHASE1)
- Development of Agents to Diminish the Risk of Hypoglycemia-induced Brain Injury in Type 1 Diabetes (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Study of DCA (Dichloroacetate) in Combination With Cisplatin and Definitive Radiation in Head and Neck Carcinoma (PHASE2)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Dichloroacetate (DCA) CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Dichloroacetate (DCA) updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- University of Florida portfolio CI