etacalin

Etacalin is a small molecule ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP) opener developed by Beijing Enhua Pharmaceutical Research Institute for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). By activating KATP channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, etacalin promotes potassium efflux, leading to membrane hyperpolarization and the subsequent inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels. This cascade results in potent vasodilation, reduced pulmonary vascular resistance, and the inhibition of vascular remodeling. The drug is currently being evaluated in Phase II clinical trials in China for various forms of PAH, including idiopathic, heritable, and connective tissue disease-associated types, where it aims to improve exercise capacity and hemodynamic parameters.

Other names

etacalin hydrochloride