SM16

SM16 is a potent, orally active small molecule inhibitor of the Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) receptor type I (ALK5) kinase. Developed by Biogen, SM16 has been primarily utilized in preclinical research to investigate the role of TGF-β signaling in tumor progression and immune evasion. By blocking TGF-β signaling, SM16 promotes the polarization of tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) from a pro-tumor (N2) to an anti-tumor (N1) phenotype and enhances the recruitment and activity of CD8+ T cells. It has demonstrated efficacy in various murine models, including mesothelioma and non-small cell lung cancer, often showing synergistic effects when combined with other immunotherapies or vaccines.