DiFiD

DiFiD is a novel curcumin derivative and small molecule inhibitor developed for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. It exerts its anti-tumor effects primarily by suppressing the Notch-1 signaling pathway. DiFiD inhibits the activation of Notch-1 by downregulating key components of the gamma-secretase complex, specifically Presenilin-1 and Nicastrin. This leads to a reduction in the Notch-1 intracellular domain (NICD) and its downstream targets, such as Hes-1 and Hey1. Additionally, DiFiD induces G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, while suppressing the expression of pro-angiogenic and inflammatory factors including VEGF, COX-2, and IL-8. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that DiFiD significantly inhibits pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and reduces tumor growth in mouse xenograft models.