Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Trabectidin (Yondelis)

Trabectedin binds to DNA and interferes with transcription and DNA repair, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells.

Trabectedin binds to DNA and interferes with transcription and DNA repair, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. Used for Soft tissue sarcoma (liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma), Relapsed platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer (in combination with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Trabectedin is a marine-derived alkaloid that covalently binds to the minor groove of DNA, disrupting transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (TC-NER) and blocking cell cycle progression. This mechanism is particularly effective against certain soft tissue sarcomas and ovarian cancers, where it induces apoptosis and also modulates the tumor microenvironment by reducing monocyte infiltration.

Approved indications

• Soft tissue sarcoma (liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma)
• Relapsed platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer (in combination with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin)

Common side effects

• Neutropenia
• Thrombocytopenia
• Anemia
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue
• Hepatotoxicity (elevated transaminases)
• Rhabdomyolysis

Key clinical trials

• tTF-NGR Randomized Study - STS (PHASE3)
• QoL-Comparison Between Trabectedin/PLD and Pt-based Therapy in Patients With Pt-sensitive Recurrent Ovarian Cancer (PHASE4)
• Pharmacometabolomic of Trabectedin in Soft Tissue Patients
• A Study to Assess Treatment With 2 Different Dosing Schedules of Trabectidin Administered to Patients With Advanced Cancer (PHASE2)

Primary sources

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