AuPhos

AuPhos is a novel, first-in-class oral gold-based small molecule designed to correct metabolic dysfunction in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It acts by enhancing mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OxPHOS) and respiration in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). By restoring mitochondrial function, AuPhos promotes mucosal repair and ulcer healing, as evidenced by increased crypt fissioning and induction of intestinal stem cell markers such as Lgr5 and Lrig1. The compound exhibits limited systemic absorption, primarily targeting the small intestine and colon, thereby minimizing potential systemic side effects while maximizing local therapeutic efficacy in the gut.