DKC2511

DKC2511 is a novel small molecule inhibitor of KITENIN (KAI1 COOH-terminal interacting tetraspanin), a metastasis-enhancing protein. KITENIN has been identified as a key factor in the progression of glioblastoma (GBM) and is associated with resistance to temozolomide (TMZ), particularly in patients with unmethylated MGMT promoters. DKC2511 works by inhibiting the KITENIN-mediated upregulation of cancer stem cell (CSC) markers, such as CD44 and ALDH1A1, potentially through the inhibition of AP-1 activation. Preclinical studies in mouse models have demonstrated that DKC2511 can reduce tumor progression and overcome TMZ resistance in GBM cells. The compound was developed through research collaborations involving Chonnam National University and Sunchon National University in South Korea.