D-methyldopa

IMT-002 (D-methyldopa) is an oral small molecule drug developed by IM Therapeutics for the treatment of type 1 diabetes in patients who carry the HLA-DQ8 gene. The drug works by selectively occupying the peptide binding groove of HLA-DQ8 on antigen-presenting cells, thereby blocking the presentation of self-antigens such as insulin and other beta-cell proteins to CD4 T-cells. This mechanism prevents activation of autoreactive T-cells, aiming to halt or slow down autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells and preserve endogenous insulin production. IMT-002 has demonstrated safety and tolerability in Phase 1a and 1b clinical trials, with no serious adverse events reported. It has also shown engagement with its target (HLA-DQ8) in ex vivo assays, inhibiting self-peptide presentation relevant to both type 1 diabetes and celiac disease. The drug has been granted Orphan Drug status by the U.S. FDA but is not yet approved for any indication[1][2][5][6][7][8].

Other names

D-methyldopa