KJ16002

KJ16002 is a small molecule inhibitor of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) being developed by Kukje Pharm. mPGES-1 is a key enzyme in the arachidonic acid cascade that specifically catalyzes the conversion of prostaglandin H2 (PGH2) to prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a potent mediator of inflammation and pain. By targeting mPGES-1 rather than cyclooxygenases (COX-1/COX-2), KJ16002 aims to selectively reduce PGE2 levels while sparing other prostanoids like prostacyclin (PGI2), potentially offering a safer anti-inflammatory profile with reduced gastrointestinal and cardiovascular side effects compared to traditional NSAIDs. The drug is currently in the discovery research stage for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases.