C15

C15 is a small molecule inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-12 (MMP12) identified as a lead compound for the treatment of lung cancer. It was selected from a library of 31 MMP12 inhibitors based on its ability to suppress MMP12 expression and activity in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, specifically the H1299 line. C15 demonstrates significant anti-tumor activity, including the inhibition of cell migration (antimigratory activity), reduction of clonogenic growth, perturbation of the cell cycle, and induction of apoptosis. Mechanistically, C15 modulates an eight-gene pharmacodynamic signature (comprising MMP12, CD44, ADAM9, NFKBIA, PSME3, SPARCL1, CCL15, and APOA1) and reduces AKT signaling. It is currently in the preclinical stage of development as a potential targeted therapy for disrupting extracellular matrix remodeling and immune evasion in lung tumors.