TJ038

TJ038 is a small molecule inhibitor of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) currently under development by Tuojie Biotech (Shanghai Tuojie Biotech). RNA polymerase II is the central enzyme responsible for transcribing protein-coding genes into messenger RNA (mRNA). In many cancers, particularly those described as "transcription-addicted," tumor cell survival and proliferation are highly dependent on the continuous expression of short-lived oncogenic drivers and anti-apoptotic factors such as MYC and MCL-1. By inhibiting Pol II activity, TJ038 disrupts the synthesis of these critical survival proteins, leading to growth arrest and selective apoptosis in malignant cells. The drug is being investigated as a targeted therapy for various solid tumors.