CORM-3

CORM-3 is a water-soluble **carbon monoxide-releasing molecule** (CORM), chemically described as [Ru(CO)3Cl(glycinate)] and widely used in preclinical research to study the biological effects of controlled, localized carbon monoxide (CO) delivery[5][9][13]. Upon administration, CORM-3 releases CO, which can act as a signaling molecule with **vasodilatory**, **anti-inflammatory**, **antioxidant**, **neuroprotective**, and **cardioprotective** effects[1][2][3][4][7][11][13]. Mechanistically, CORM-3 increases cGMP levels in vascular tissues by activating guanylate cyclase (via CO), contributing to vasorelaxation[1]. It also activates the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, reducing oxidative stress and limiting apoptosis and neuroinflammation in multiple models including post-cardiac arrest brain injury and cataract formation[2][4]. Additional effects include suppression of inflammatory adhesion molecules (e.g., VCAM-1, E-selectin), and modulation of NF-κB pathway signaling[3][11]. CORM-3 is used as an investigative compound and is not approved for clinical use.

Other names

Carbon monoxide-releasing molecule-3Ru(CO)3Cl(glycinate)