M3TK

M3TK is a small molecule receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that was developed by M3 Therapeutics (now Athira Pharma). It primarily targets the **Met** (Hepatocyte Growth Factor Receptor) and **Trk** (Tropomyosin receptor kinase) families, including TrkA, TrkB, and TrkC. By binding to the ATP-binding site of these kinases, M3TK prevents their phosphorylation and subsequent activation of downstream signaling pathways that drive tumor cell proliferation, survival, and metastasis. Preclinical studies demonstrated that M3TK effectively inhibits the growth and invasive potential of various human cancer cell lines, particularly those dependent on Met or Trk signaling, such as neuroblastoma and certain solid tumors. Although it showed promise as an oncology candidate, the developer shifted its strategic focus toward positive allosteric modulators of the HGF/Met system for neurodegenerative diseases, leaving M3TK as a research tool or a discontinued preclinical asset.