NL-103 is a novel dual-targeted inhibitor of histone deacetylases and hedgehog pathway, effectively overcomes vismodegib resistance conferred by Smo mutations. NL-103 comprises structural elements of Hh pathway inhibitor vismodegib, and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor vorinostat. NL-103 simultaneously and significantly inhibited both HDACs and Hh pathway. Importantly, NL-103 effectively overcame vismodegib resistance induced by Smoothened point mutations. Moreover, NL-103 significantly downregulated the expression of Gli2 which plays an important role in Hh pathway. NL-103 may be a promising compound for clinical development as a more effective Hh pathway inhibitor.
