AK-1

AK-1 is a small molecule inhibitor of Sirtuin 2 (Sirt2), an NAD+-dependent deacetylase implicated in various cellular processes, including oxidative stress and inflammation. Preclinical studies have shown that AK-1 alleviates acute liver injury (ALI) induced by carbon tetrachloride in mice, primarily by inhibiting Sirt2 activity. Mechanistically, AK-1 increases nuclear levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), which enhances antioxidant responses, and decreases phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK), thereby reducing oxidative stress and hepatocellular death. These findings suggest that Sirt2 inhibition via AK-1 may be a potential therapeutic approach for treating acute liver injury[1].