AEBP1 inhibitor

AEBP1 inhibitors are a class of therapeutic candidates designed to target Adipocyte Enhancer-Binding Protein 1 (AEBP1), also known as Aortic Carboxypeptidase-Like Protein (ACLP). AEBP1 is a protein predominantly expressed in myofibroblasts and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), where it plays a critical role in extracellular matrix (ECM) organization and collagen remodeling. In the tumor microenvironment, AEBP1-expressing CAFs promote tumor progression and create an immunosuppressive environment that limits the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockades. Research, particularly by Merck & Co., has demonstrated that the inhibition or knockout of AEBP1 can reduce CAF proliferation, decrease collagen gel contractility, and mitigate CAF-mediated tumor cell proliferation. Furthermore, targeting AEBP1 has been shown to enhance the efficacy of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy by improving effector T-cell function and altering tumor cell phenotypes, such as reducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) signatures.

Other names

ACLP inhibitor