Inhibitory Effect of M50054, a Novel Inhibitor of Apoptosis, on Anti-Fas-Antibody-Induced Hepatitis and Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia

M50054, a novel inhibitor of apoptosis, was found to inhibit cell death in human Fas-expressing WC8 cells and U937 leukemia cells by blocking caspase-3 activation. This compound effectively reduced apoptotic features such as DNA fragmentation and phosphatidylserine exposure. In animal models, M50054 significantly improved symptoms of anti-Fas-antibody-induced hepatitis and chemotherapy-induced alopecia. These findings suggested that M50054 could be a potential treatment for conditions like hepatitis and hair loss caused by chemotherapy.