Mechanism of Action Dual Inhibitor of HIF-1α and NOX2, Two Pivotal Drivers of Lung Fibrosis

The company is developing a portfolio of oral or inhaled medicines that target underlying disease pathogenesis based on the lead compound’s mechanism of action.

The study showed that our lead compound is an inhibitor specifically targeting HIF-1α protein up-regulated during Hypoxia, which blocks fibrotic signaling pathways effectively. It also exhibits blocking activity of NOX2, suppressing inflammatory signaling pathways. In addition, growth factors and NF-κB (Both are HIF-1α driven transcripts) are down-regulated by its activities. Its mechanism has been evaluated in cellular and animal models.

Our Lead Compound Controls Fibrosis Signaling Pathways.

Receptors of growth factors and Src kinase are cysteine-sulfenylated by excessive NOX4-derived ROS generated by HIF-1α, which significantly increases their activities. They block the fibrosis signaling of growth factors by interfering with the activity of NOX4-derived ROS through inhibition of HIF-1α.