Target ValidationMarch 2026
Cancer Research: MIF/CD74+ Microglia Drive Brain Metastasis — Ibudilast Reduces Progression
A landmark study in Cancer Research (AACR) demonstrates that proliferating cancer cells produce high levels of MIF that binds CD74 on microglia/macrophages, activating NF-kB-dependent programs that promote brain metastasis. Ibudilast reduced brain metastasis in experimental models. The study also found the same MIF/CD74-induced myeloid reprogramming in Alzheimer's and MS.
JFInnova Perspective
Direct validation of JFInnova's third indication. Ibudilast (small molecule) shows partial effect but has selectivity limitations and PDE off-target effects. JFIN-0001 offers selective CD74 blockade with biologic precision, BBB penetration, and no PDE interference — the biologic successor the field needs.
References
1
MIF-Induced CD74+ Microglia and Macrophages Promote Brain Metastasis Progression
Cancer Research (AACR) · 2026
MIF CD74 brain metastasis microglia Cancer Research