Daraxonrasib uniquely targets active KRAS in pancreatic cancer, says MD Anderson expert

Dr Shubham Pant, a professor in the Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center, explained the mechanism of daraxonrasib in a recent commentary.

The oral, potent RAS(ON) multi‑selective inhibitor binds KRAS mutations that are present in roughly 90% of pancreatic cancer patients. Unlike earlier KRAS inhibitors that bind the inactive "off" state, daraxonrasib targets the active "on" configuration where the protein is most functional.

Pant noted that this approach could enhance inhibition of the oncogenic driver and support use alongside chemotherapy. Daraxonrasib is among the first pan‑RAS inhibitors to enter the clinic and demonstrate activity in patients.