PAN1021

PAN1021 is a novel, kidney-selective, small-molecule AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator being developed by Pano Therapeutics in collaboration with the University of Kansas Medical Center. Designed as a biguanide derivative, PAN1021 features enhanced potency for AMPK and organic cation transporters, specifically OCT2, OCTN1, and OCTN2, compared to metformin. This transporter-guided design optimizes renal uptake and reduces renal elimination, thereby potentially mitigating the risk of lactic acidosis—a serious side effect associated with systemic metformin use. In preclinical models of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), PAN1021 has demonstrated significant efficacy in inhibiting renal mTOR signaling, cell proliferation, cyst growth, tissue inflammation, and fibrosis.