DJ-4

DJ-4 is a first-in-class small molecule inhibitor of Dual-Specificity Phosphatase 4 (DUSP4), identified through high-throughput screening. DUSP4 is a member of the type I cysteine-based dual-specificity phosphatase family that specifically inactivates mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) such as JNK, p38, and ERK1/2 by dephosphorylating critical residues. In triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), DUSP4 is frequently overexpressed, leading to the suppression of pro-apoptotic MAPK signaling and contributing to resistance against taxane-based chemotherapies. By selectively inhibiting DUSP4, DJ-4 restores the activation of JNK and p38 pathways, thereby promoting apoptosis and enhancing the efficacy of cytotoxic agents. Developed primarily at the University of Michigan, DJ-4 serves as a critical tool for validating DUSP4 as a therapeutic target in oncology, particularly for overcoming chemoresistance in aggressive breast cancer subtypes.

Other names

DUSP4 inhibitor DJ-4DUSP-4 inhibitor DJ-4DUSP 4 inhibitor DJ-4