vacquinol-1

Vacquinol-1 is an experimental small molecule that induces a unique form of non-apoptotic cell death known as methuosis, specifically targeting glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cells. It functions by triggering uncontrolled macropinocytosis, which leads to the catastrophic accumulation of fluid-filled cytoplasmic vacuoles that eventually cause cell membrane rupture and death. Identified through phenotypic screening at the Karolinska Institutet, vacquinol-1 has demonstrated the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and significantly prolong survival in animal models of GBM. Its mechanism of action involves the activation of the MKK4 signaling pathway and has also been associated with the blockade of TRPM7 channels and the induction of mitophagy-related cell death.

Other names

4-(2,2-diphenylethyl)-6-(morpholin-4-yl)-1,3,5-triazin-2-amine