Argifin
Also known as: Argifin, GlcNAc-Arg cyclic pentapeptide
Summary
Argifin is a naturally occurring cyclic pentapeptide originally isolated from the fungus Gliocladium sp. It is a potent inhibitor of family 18 chitinases and is studied primarily as a lead compound for the development of anti-asthma, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic therapeutics. It has not advanced to clinical trials as of current knowledge.
Mechanism of Action
Argifin is a cyclic pentapeptide that acts as a selective, competitive inhibitor of family 18 chitinases, including human acidic mammalian chitinase (AMCase) and chitotriosidase (CHIT1). It mimics the transition state of chitin hydrolysis by occupying the active site of these enzymes, blocking substrate binding.
Routes of Administration
No administration routes recorded yet.
Goals & Uses
- Anti-parasitic drug developmentInfectious Disease / AntiparasiticLow
- Structural biology toolResearchHigh
- Anti-fungal drug developmentInfectious Disease / AntifungalLow
- Chitinase inhibition (family 18)Enzyme Inhibition / ResearchModerate
- Anti-asthma / allergic airway diseaseRespiratory / Anti InflammatoryLow
Contraindications
No contraindications recorded yet.
Adverse Effects
No adverse effects recorded yet.
Drug Interactions
No drug interactions recorded yet.
Population Constraints
No population constraints recorded yet.
Regulatory Status
- European UnionUnapprovedResearch compound only; no clinical approval.
- United StatesUnapprovedResearch compound only; no IND or clinical approval.
- United KingdomUnapprovedResearch compound only; no clinical approval.
Argifin has no approved clinical indications in any jurisdiction. It remains a research tool compound used in structural biology and drug discovery programs targeting chitinases.
Evidence & Sources
No sources recorded yet.