RJW-58

RJW-58 is a small molecule inhibitor of Cathepsin S (CTSS), a lysosomal cysteine protease that plays a critical role in antigen presentation and tumor progression. Developed by the National Health Research Institutes (NHRI) in Taiwan, RJW-58 is being investigated for its ability to reshape the tumor immune microenvironment, particularly in head and neck cancer. The compound works by preventing CTSS-mediated downregulation of the interleukin-7 (IL-7) receptor, thereby increasing IL-7 secretion and promoting the proliferation and infiltration of CD8+ T cells. Preclinical studies suggest that RJW-58 can enhance anti-tumor cytokine release and overcome immune suppression within the tumor microenvironment.