ZNF281 Interfering Molecule

ZNF281 Interfering Molecule (ZIM) is a first-of-its-kind, orally bioavailable, rhodanine-based small-molecule inhibitor of the Krüppel-type zinc-finger transcription factor ZNF281. Developed by researchers at the University of Alberta, ZIM binds to a unique DNA-exposed pocket on the ZNF281 DNA-binding domain, disrupting its interaction with DNA and its protein-protein interaction with the androgen receptor (AR). ZNF281 acts as a transcriptional coactivator for AR and promotes both AR-dependent and AR-independent tumor-promoting pathways (such as upregulating SMURF1 and SNAIL). In preclinical models, ZIM has demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in advanced/metastatic prostate cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma. Additionally, ZIM acts as a cardio-protective agent, preventing chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (such as anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity) by blocking stress-induced ZNF281-mediated cardiomyocyte death.

Other names

(5Z)-5-(4-((3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyl)oxy)-3-methoxybenzylidene)-2-thioxo-1,3-thiazolidin-4-oneOral ZIMorally bioavailable ZNF281 Interfering Moleculerhodanine-based ZNF281 inhibitorZIMZNF281 inhibitorZNF-281 inhibitorZNF 281 inhibitor