ataciguat

Ataciguat (HMR-1766) is an orally bioavailable small molecule that acts as a heme-independent activator of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC). Unlike sGC stimulators, which require the enzyme's heme group to be in a reduced state (Fe2+), ataciguat specifically targets and activates sGC when the heme group is oxidized (Fe3+) or entirely absent—conditions typically found in tissues under high oxidative stress. By bypassing the requirement for nitric oxide (NO) and a functional heme group, ataciguat restores the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), thereby promoting vasodilation and inhibiting platelet aggregation and vascular smooth muscle proliferation. Developed by Sanofi, it was investigated in Phase 2 clinical trials for conditions such as peripheral arterial disease, neuropathic pain, and calcific aortic valve stenosis, but development was ultimately halted due to insufficient efficacy.

Brand names

ataciguat

Other names

Ataciguat sodium