Inhibition of epithelial ovarian cancer by Minnelide, a water-soluble pro-drug

•Minnelide is an effective agent against epithelial ovarian cancer in preclinical models.•Given the promising in vitro and in vivo results, Minnelide should progress to further studies in epithelial ovarian cancer.

ObjectiveMinnelide is a water-soluble pro-drug of triptolide, a natural product. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Minnelide on ovarian cancer growth in vitro and in vivo.MethodsThe effect of Minnelide on ovarian cancer cell proliferation was determined by real time electrical impedance measurements. Multiple mouse models with C200 and A2780 epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines were used to assess the efficacy of Minnelide in inhibiting ovarian cancer growth.ResultsMinnelide decreased cell viability of both platinum sensitive and resistant epithelial ovarian cancer cells in vitro. Minnelide with carboplatin showed additive effects in vitro. Minnelide monotherapy increased the survival of mice bearing established ovarian tumors. Minnelide, in combination with carboplatin and paclitaxel, improved overall survival of mice.ConclusionsMinnelide is a promising pro-drug for the treatment of ovarian cancer, especially when combined with standard chemotherapy.