fufenidone

Fufenidone (AKF-PD) is a small molecule anti-fibrotic agent developed by Haikou Pharmaceutical Factory Co., Ltd., primarily for the treatment of liver fibrosis and chronic hepatitis B. As a fluorinated derivative of pirfenidone, fufenidone exhibits enhanced potency in inhibiting the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and reducing the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) components such as collagen. Its mechanism of action involves the downregulation of Transforming Growth Factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) expression and the modulation of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway, which are critical drivers of fibrogenesis. Additionally, fufenidone has demonstrated potential in preclinical models for treating diabetic nephropathy by reducing renal fibrosis. The drug has been evaluated in Phase 2 clinical trials in China to assess its efficacy in halting or reversing fibrotic progression in patients with chronic liver disease.

Other names

5-trifluoromethyl-2(1H)-pyridone