NRL972

NRL972 is an investigational diagnostic drug developed by Norgine, primarily consisting of 13C-labeled methacetin. It is utilized in the Liver Maximum Capacity (LiMAx) test to assess functional liver reserve. The drug is metabolized specifically by the cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) enzyme in hepatocytes, producing 13CO2 which is then measured in the patient's breath. In the context of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), NRL972 is being evaluated for its ability to distinguish between simple steatosis and the more severe inflammatory state of NASH by measuring the metabolic capacity of the liver. The rate of 13CO2 excretion serves as a non-invasive biomarker for functional hepatocyte mass and enzymatic activity, potentially offering a diagnostic alternative to liver biopsy.

Other names

13C-methacetin[13C]-methacetin13C-labeled methacetin