1-ethyl-3-sulfanylidene-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-2H-isoquinoline-4-carbonitrile

1-ethyl-3-sulfanylidene-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-2H-isoquinoline-4-carbonitrile is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C₁₄H₁₆N₂S. It is a derivative of isoquinoline, a heterocyclic aromatic compound, with a sulfur atom replacing the oxygen in the typical isoquinoline structure.

**Importance for Research:**

This compound is important for research primarily because it is a **potent and selective inhibitor of Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK)**. ROCK is a serine/threonine kinase involved in various cellular processes, including:

* **Cytoskeletal regulation:** ROCK regulates the assembly and disassembly of actin filaments, which are crucial for cell motility, adhesion, and shape.
* **Smooth muscle contraction:** ROCK plays a key role in smooth muscle contraction, controlling blood vessel constriction and other functions.
* **Cell proliferation and apoptosis:** ROCK can influence cell growth, survival, and death.

**Research applications:**

* **Anti-cancer therapy:** ROCK inhibitors have shown potential in treating various cancers, including colon, breast, and prostate cancer.
* **Neuroprotection:** ROCK inhibition has been explored for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
* **Cardiovascular disease:** ROCK inhibitors are being investigated for the treatment of conditions like hypertension, stroke, and heart failure.
* **Other therapeutic applications:** ROCK inhibitors have also been explored for inflammatory diseases, fibrosis, and glaucoma.

**How it works:**

1-ethyl-3-sulfanylidene-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-2H-isoquinoline-4-carbonitrile binds to the active site of ROCK and blocks its enzymatic activity. This inhibition prevents ROCK from phosphorylating its downstream targets, leading to various biological effects depending on the specific context.

**Current research:**

Current research focuses on:

* **Optimizing the compound:** Researchers are working on synthesizing new derivatives with improved potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetic properties.
* **Developing clinical applications:** Researchers are conducting clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ROCK inhibitors for various diseases.

**Note:** It's crucial to remember that this compound is still under investigation, and its clinical applications are still being explored. Its eventual impact on research and medicine remains to be seen.