NCIt definition : An orally available sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1, S1P1) agonist that
acts as a functional antagonist, with potential immunomodulating activity. Upon oral
administration, ponesimod selectively binds to S1PR1 on lymphocytes and causes transient
receptor activation followed by S1PR1 internalization and degradation. This results
in the sequestration of lymphocytes in lymph nodes. By preventing egress of lymphocytes,
ponesimod reduces both the amount of circulating peripheral lymphocytes and the infiltration
of lymphocytes into target tissues. This prevents a lymphocyte-mediated immune response.
S1PR1, a G-protein coupled receptor, plays a key role in lymphocyte migration from
lymphoid tissues.;