IM-54

IM-54 (CAS No.: 861891-50-1) is a small-molecule indolylmaleimide derivative classified as a selective inhibitor of oxidative stress-induced necrosis, widely used as a research tool in cell death and cytoprotection studies. It exerts its biological activity primarily by suppressing hydrogen peroxide-mediated necrotic signaling pathways, thereby attenuating cell death under conditions of oxidative stress without interfering with apoptosis induced by agents such as etoposide. Notably, IM-54 does not inhibit protein kinase C or S6 kinase 1, indicating a mechanism distinct from classical kinase-targeting indolylmaleimides and suggesting a more specific modulation of oxidative injury-associated pathways. In vitro, IM-54 demonstrates effective inhibition of necrotic cell death at low micromolar concentrations, including activity in leukemia-derived cell lines, supporting its utility in dissecting redox-dependent necrosis mechanisms. This compound is commonly applied in cellular models of oxidative damage and ischemia-reperfusion injury, as well as in cardiovascular research to evaluate potential cardioprotective strategies. Experimental concentrations and treatment regimens vary depending on the biological system and study design, but IM-54 remains a valuable probe for investigating the molecular basis of necrosis and for screening interventions aimed at mitigating oxidative stress-induced cellular injury.