NCIt definition : An orally bioavailable, small molecule inhibitor of SMO and the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway,
with potential antineoplastic activity. Upon oral administration, vismodegib targets,
binds to and inhibits the cell membrane-spanning G-protein coupled receptor SMO, which
may result in the suppression of Hh pathway signaling and a decrease in tumor cell
proliferation and survival. SMO is activated upon binding of Hh ligand to the cell
surface receptor Patched (PTCH); inappropriate activation of Hh signaling and uncontrolled
cellular proliferation may be associated with SMO mutations.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: A substance being studied in the treatment of cancer. It blocks a type
of protein involved in tissue growth and repair and may block the growth of cancer
cells. It is a type of Hedgehog signaling pathway antagonist.;