IMP-1088

IMP-1088

IMP-1088 is a potent and selective enzyme inhibitor that targets N-myristoyltransferase (NMT), an enzyme involved in the post-translational modification of proteins. IMP-1088 was developed by researchers at the Imperial College London and the Francis Crick Institute.

Mechanism of Action

IMP-1088 works by inhibiting the function of NMT. NMT is responsible for the addition of a 14-carbon fatty acid, myristate, to the N-terminal glycine of a subset of proteins, a process known as N-myristoylation. This modification is crucial for the function of these proteins, many of which are involved in cellular signaling and the life cycle of viruses.

IMP-1088 is a dual inhibitor of both NMT1 and NMT2, the two isoforms of NMT found in humans. By inhibiting these enzymes, IMP-1088 prevents the myristoylation of proteins, disrupting their function and leading to the death of cells dependent on these proteins.

Applications

The primary application of IMP-1088 is in the field of virology. Many viruses, including the human rhinovirus, the cause of the common cold, rely on host NMT for replication. By inhibiting NMT, IMP-1088 can prevent the replication of these viruses, potentially providing a new approach to antiviral therapy.

In addition to its antiviral properties, IMP-1088 has potential applications in cancer therapy. Many cancers are driven by proteins that rely on N-myristoylation for their function. By inhibiting NMT, IMP-1088 could potentially disrupt the function of these proteins, providing a new approach to cancer therapy.

Research

Research into IMP-1088 is ongoing. Early studies have shown that it is a potent inhibitor of NMT and has potential as an antiviral and anticancer agent. However, further research is needed to fully understand its mechanism of action and potential applications.

See Also

• Enzyme inhibitor
• N-myristoyltransferase
• N-myristoylation
• Virology
• Cancer therapy