Bisindolylmaleimides

Enzastaurin is a synthetic bisindolylmaleimide with potential antineoplastic activity. Binding to the ATP-binding site, enzastaurin selectively inhibits protein kinase C beta, an enzyme involved in the induction of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-stimulated neo-angiogenesis. This agent may decrease tumor blood supply, preventing growth.

Ruboxistaurin (proposed brand name Arxxant) is an investigational drug for diabetic retinopathy being investigated by Eli Lilly and Company. It is a member of the bisindolylmaleimide family.

BIM-1 (GF 109203X) and the related compounds BIM-2, BIM-3, and BIM-8 are bisindolylmaleimide-based protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors. These inhibitors also inhibit PDK1 explaining the higher inhibitory potential of LY33331 compared to the other BIM compounds a bisindolylmaleimide inhibitor toward PDK1.