caspase-11 Inhibitors

The chemical class of caspase-11 inhibitors encompasses compounds that influence the function of caspase-11 indirectly. These inhibitors primarily act by modulating various signaling pathways and cellular processes associated with inflammation and pyroptosis, where caspase-11 plays a significant role. Compounds such as VX-765, Z-VAD-FMK, and Ac-YVAD-CMK, while targeting other caspases (especially caspase-1), can indirectly influence caspase-11 due to the interconnected nature of inflammatory signaling pathways. For example, VX-765's inhibition of caspase-1 may have a downstream effect on caspase-11 activity, given their collaborative roles in inflammasome signaling.Other molecules, such as Parthenolide, PDTC, and Bay 11-7085, target NF-κB signaling, a key pathway in regulating inflammation and immune responses. By inhibiting NF-κB, these compounds may indirectly reduce caspase-11 activation, which is often involved in inflammatory cascades. Inhibitors like TAK-242, MCC950, and Glyburide influence Toll-like receptor signaling and NLRP3 inflammasome activity, respectively. These pathways are closely associated with caspase-11 activation, thus their modulation can have indirect effects on caspase-11 activity. Additionally, Anakinra, Infliximab, and Ruxolitinib, which target cytokine signaling pathways, can also indirectly modulate caspase-11 activity. For instance, Infliximab's inhibition of TNF-α can influence the inflammatory response in which caspase-11 is involved, reducing its activity. In summary, these caspase-11 inhibitors represent a diverse range of compounds that modulate caspase-11 function through indirect effects on inflammatory signaling pathways, inflammasome activity, and cytokine signaling. Their actions highlight the complex interplay between these pathways and underscore the importance of modulating specific regulatory proteins like caspase-11 to influence immune and inflammatory responses.