K-196

K-196 is a gut-restricted, small molecule P2X3 receptor antagonist developed by Kallyope, Inc. for the treatment and prevention of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced small bowel injury, also known as NSAID enteropathy. NSAIDs are widely used for pain and inflammation but are known to cause significant damage to the gastrointestinal tract; while proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) protect the stomach, there are currently no approved therapies to prevent injury to the small intestine. K-196 is designed to act locally within the gut to inhibit P2X3 receptors, which are involved in mediating inflammatory signaling and mucosal damage. By remaining gut-restricted, K-196 minimizes systemic absorption and avoids common side effects associated with systemic P2X3 inhibitors, such as taste disturbances (dysgeusia). The compound has been evaluated in Phase 1 clinical trials using an indomethacin-induced injury model in healthy volunteers to demonstrate its protective effects on the small bowel mucosa.