Researchers explore possible uveal melanoma treatment

Scientists have reported on the potential of a molecule inhibitor that displayed positive effects in a mouse model of uveal melanoma.

Writing in Oncogene, researchers highlighted that the inhibitor, KCN1, limited primary disease in the eye and dampened metastatic tumour spread.

Mice that received treatment with the inhibitor survived for longer without obvious side effects.

Researchers noted that KCN1 was most effective in preventing metastases when it was administered early.

The authors wrote: “Our study suggests that KCN1 has desirable properties as a suppressor of metastasis: It is well tolerated, has excellent distribution to the eye and the liver, and is thus ideally suited for treating metastatic uveal melanoma.”

The authors note that the treatment needs further optimisation before clinical use.

At present, the overall mortality rate for uveal melanoma patients is 50% at five years. This rate has remained unchanged for the past 40 years.

“New therapies are urgently needed,” the authors emphasised.