CORM-A1

CORM-A1 is a water-soluble carbon monoxide (CO) releasing molecule, chemically known as sodium boranocarbonate. It is widely used in biological research to deliver controlled amounts of CO to cells and tissues, enabling the study of CO’s physiological and pharmacological effects[1][2][4]. Unlike earlier transition metal-based CO-releasing molecules (CORMs), CORM-A1 does not contain a transition metal and releases CO at a slower, more controlled rate under physiological conditions (half-life ~21 minutes at 37°C, pH 7.4)[2]. Its mechanism involves pH- and temperature-dependent release of CO, which mediates vasorelaxation via activation of soluble guanylate cyclase[2]. CORM-A1 has been shown to modulate vascular tone, reduce inflammation, protect against oxidative stress-induced cell death, promote neuronal differentiation by preventing apoptosis through upregulation of Bcl-2 expression[5], and ameliorate disease models such as experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis[7]. Recent studies also highlight its redox activity—CORM-A1 can reduce NAD+ and NADP+, potentially affecting cellular metabolism independently from its role as a CO donor[4][6].

Other names

sodium boranocarbonate