2-acetyl-4-(tetrahydroxybutyl)imidazole

2-acetyl-4-(tetrahydroxybutyl)imidazole (THI) is a small molecule inhibitor of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) lyase. It is a chemical constituent found in ammonia caramel food coloring (E 150c). THI exerts immunomodulatory effects by inhibiting the irreversible degradation of S1P, which increases S1P levels in lymphoid tissues and disrupts the S1P gradient between tissues and blood. This disruption leads to the sequestration of lymphocytes in non-lymphoid tissues and the thymus, resulting in peripheral lymphopenia. THI has been investigated in preclinical models for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, including type 1 diabetes and Crohn's-like ileitis. It has also been reported to inhibit pyridoxal kinase and has undergone Phase 2 clinical evaluation for rheumatoid arthritis.

Other names

2-acetyl-4-tetrahydroxybutylimidazole2-acetyl-4-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydroxybutyl)imidazole