MPDZ Inhibitors

MPDZ inhibitors are chemical compounds designed to specifically target and inhibit the activity of the multi-PDZ domain protein (MPDZ), a scaffolding protein that contains multiple PDZ (PSD-95/Dlg/ZO-1) domains. MPDZ plays a critical role in organizing protein-protein interactions at cellular junctions, particularly in tight junctions and synaptic sites. This protein is essential for maintaining cellular polarity and proper communication between cells, especially in tissues where barrier function and selective permeability are crucial, such as epithelial and endothelial tissues. MPDZ interacts with a variety of membrane-associated proteins, helping to coordinate the assembly and localization of proteins involved in signaling pathways, cell adhesion, and maintaining the structural integrity of junctional complexes.

Inhibitors of MPDZ work by binding to one or more of its PDZ domains, disrupting its ability to interact with target proteins. This inhibition interferes with the scaffolding function of MPDZ, potentially leading to destabilization of protein complexes at cell junctions and impairing their regulatory roles in cell adhesion and signaling. The inhibition of MPDZ provides researchers with valuable tools for studying the structural and functional roles of scaffolding proteins in maintaining cellular architecture and communication. By blocking MPDZ activity, scientists can explore the consequences of disrupted protein-protein interactions in various contexts, such as changes in barrier function, cellular polarity, and the organization of synaptic or junctional components. MPDZ inhibitors help unravel the complex interactions at play in maintaining the integrity of tight junctions and other cellular contact points, providing insights into the regulation of these essential cellular processes.