NCX 4040

NCX 4040 is a **nitric oxide (NO)-donating aspirin derivative** developed primarily as an **anti-inflammatory and antitumor agent**. Its mechanism of action involves donating nitric oxide, which leads to inhibition of cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2), and blocks inflammatory mediator production, such as IL-1β, PGE2, IL-10, and TNF-α in human monocytes. NCX 4040 decreases COX-2 expression and disrupts proteasome-mediated degradation of IκB-α, thus affecting NF-κB signaling[1][3][4]. In cancer models, NCX 4040 exhibits **antiproliferative effects** and has been reported to sensitize drug-resistant tumor cells (including colon and ovarian cancer cells) to cisplatin and reverse resistance to anticancer drugs by inhibiting the ATPase functions of ABC transporters (such as ABCB1/P-gp and ABCG2/BCRP), interfering with drug efflux mechanisms[5]. Originally developed by NicOx, NCX 4040 reached preclinical and early research phases for indications such as **colorectal cancer**, but its highest R&D status is now **discontinued**[2][4]. No known approved indications.

Brand names

NCX 4040NCX4040NCX-4040

Other names

NCX 4040NCX4040NCX-4040NO-donating aspirinnitric oxide-releasing aspirin