K-312

K-312 is a synthetic small molecule developed by Kowa Pharmaceutical as a novel cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitor. It functions primarily by inhibiting CETP, which pharmacologically increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and decreases low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Additionally, K-312 suppresses the expression of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a protein that regulates LDL receptor degradation and thus influences LDL cholesterol levels. This suppression occurs via transcriptional regulation mechanisms involving inhibition of sterol-regulatory element-binding proteins SREBP1 and SREBP2, which are key transcription factors for PCSK9 gene expression. The drug has shown efficacy in reducing LDL-C and increasing HDL-C in animal models, as well as attenuating progression of atherosclerosis. It is being developed primarily for dyslipidemias including hyperlipidemia.

Other names

K 312K312K-312