What is "tivantinib"

Tivantinib (ARQ197; by Arqule, Inc.) is an experimental anti-cancer drug. It is a bisindolylmaleimide that binds to the dephosphorylated MET kinase in vitro. Tivantinib is being tested clinically as a highly selective MET inhibitor. However, the mechanism of action of tivantinib is still unclear.

Tivantinib displays cytotoxic activity via molecular mechanisms that are independent from its ability to bind MET.

Possible applications include non-small-cell lung carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and oesophageal cancer.