Synthetic lysophospholipid analog that selectively inhibits phosphatidylinositol phospholipase C. Also acts as an agonist at platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptors. Antitumor lipid; selectively induces apoptosis in tumor cells, sparing normal cells.
Edelfosine acts as a precursor for alkyl-lysophospholipids. It possesses apoptotic action against several cancer cells such as prostate, leukemia, brain and lung tumors. It is associated with cellular transport system, signaling transducing systems, cytokine synthesis and lipid metabolism. Edelfosine is known to control intracellularcalcium levels. It is not mutagenic and its anti-tumor action requires its incorporation into the cell. Edelfosine is also found to block the replication of human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-I).
