Pasireotide (SOM230): Development, mechanism of action and potential applications

Pasireotide (SOM230) is a multi-receptor ligand somatostatin analogue with high binding affinity for somatostatin receptor subtypes sst1,2,3 and sst5. Pasireotide potently suppresses GH, IGF-I and ACTH secretion, indicating potential efficacy in acromegaly and Cushing's disease. The prolonged inhibition of hormone secretion by pasireotide in animal models and expression of multiple sst receptors in carcinoid tumors suggests that pasireotide may...