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Mycophenylate mofetil

Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Mycophenolate mofetil inhibits inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), selectively suppressing T and B lymphocyte proliferation to prevent immune rejection.

Mycophenolate mofetil inhibits inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH), selectively suppressing T and B lymphocyte proliferation to prevent immune rejection. Used for Prevention of organ transplant rejection (renal, cardiac, hepatic), Autoimmune conditions including lupus nephritis and other systemic autoimmune diseases.

At a glance

Generic nameMycophenylate mofetil
Also known asMMF, MMF, Cellcept, CellCept
SponsorMasonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota
Drug classImmunosuppressant, IMPDH inhibitor
TargetInosine monophosphate dehydrogenase (IMPDH) type II
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaImmunology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

MMF is a prodrug that is rapidly hydrolyzed to mycophenolic acid (MPA), which preferentially inhibits IMPDH type II, the predominant form in activated lymphocytes. This blocks guanosine nucleotide synthesis required for lymphocyte DNA replication, thereby suppressing T cell and B cell proliferation while having minimal effects on other cell types. It is used as an immunosuppressant to prevent organ transplant rejection and in autoimmune conditions.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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