PKR-IN-C16

PKR-IN-C16, also known as C16 or Imoxin, is a selective, ATP-competitive small molecule inhibitor of the double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR), also known as eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2-alpha kinase 2 (EIF2AK2). It functions by binding to the ATP-binding site of PKR, which prevents the enzyme's autophosphorylation and subsequent activation. This inhibition modulates the integrated stress response, a cellular pathway often dysregulated in neurodegenerative and inflammatory conditions. Preclinical research has demonstrated that PKR-IN-C16 possesses neuroprotective properties, reducing neuroinflammation and apoptosis in models of Alzheimer's disease, neonatal hypoxia-ischemia, and excitotoxicity. Furthermore, it has been investigated for its potential to mitigate sepsis-induced acute kidney injury and for its in vitro antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. Currently, it is utilized primarily as a research tool and is typically administered via intraperitoneal injection in animal studies.

Brand names

Imoxin

Other names

Compound C16Imidazolo-oxindole PKR inhibitor C16PKR inhibitor C16