Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (None)

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a multifunctional protein with key roles in immunity, inflammation, and disease pathogenesis. It acts as both an immunoregulatory cytokine and proinflammatory mediator, promoting the production/release of other proinflammatory cytokines and counteracting the anti-inflammatory effects of glucocorticoids. It also possesses enzymatic activity and promotes tumorigenesis through several mechanisms, including sustained ERK1/2 activation, antagonism of p53-mediated apoptosis, activation of HIF‑1α under hypoxic conditions, and downregulation of NK cell receptor NKG2D. Elevated levels are associated with various cancers and inflammatory diseases, making it a promising biomarker candidate and therapeutic target.

Inhibition of MIF activity; modulation of cytokine secretion; counteraction of glucocorticoid effects; antagonism of p53-mediated apoptosis; inhibition of NK cell receptor NKG2D impairing tumor surveillance by NK cells