IRGM (immunity-related GTPase family M) Inhibitors

The Immunity-Related GTPase Family M (IRGM) proteins are part of a larger family of immunity-related GTPases (IRGs) that play significant roles in the immune response, particularly in the context of host defense against intracellular pathogens. IRGM proteins are known to be involved in the autophagic process, which is a critical mechanism for eliminating intracellular bacteria and viruses. These proteins function by modulating autophagy through interactions with various autophagy-related proteins, thereby controlling the formation of autophagosomes around pathogens for their degradation. IRGM proteins are also implicated in the regulation of inflammation and immune signaling pathways, influencing the production of cytokines and other immune mediators. In humans, IRGM has been linked to a variety of diseases, including infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and even some forms of cancer, reflecting its broad role in regulating immune and inflammatory responses.

Targeting Immunity-Related GTPase Family M (IRGM) proteins with small molecules for disruption or inhibition is a valuable strategy for elucidating their mechanistic roles in cellular processes, particularly in immune responses and autophagy. By selectively inhibiting IRGM activity, researchers can observe the resultant effects on autophagic pathways, including the formation, maturation, and degradation of autophagosomes, thereby gaining insights into IRGM's functional mechanisms. This approach also allows for the exploration of IRGM's role in the immune system, especially its involvement in the host defense against intracellular pathogens, by assessing changes in pathogen clearance and immune signaling. The use of small molecules can reveal the interplay between IRGM and other cellular components, uncovering its interactions and regulatory networks within the cell.