KS-25

KS-25 is a novel synthetic verbenone derivative and small molecule inhibitor of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/Smad3 signaling pathway [556]. Developed by researchers at Korea University Anam Hospital, KS-25 is designed to target obesity-induced inflammation in visceral adipose tissue (VAT), which is a key driver of systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) [556]. In preclinical studies of high-fat diet-induced obese mice, daily oral administration of KS-25 effectively suppressed TGF-β/Smad3 signaling, leading to reduced VAT and systemic inflammation, improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced glucose homeostasis, and alleviated hepatic steatosis [556]. These findings suggest that KS-25 holds therapeutic potential for the treatment of obesity, insulin resistance, and associated metabolic liver diseases [556].