RCI001

RCI001 is a novel topical drug candidate composed primarily of **8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxo-dG)**, a DNA repair byproduct with demonstrated **anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects**. RCI001 acts by selectively inhibiting **Rac1**, a small GTPase, thereby downregulating inflammation-associated pathways including the **NLRP3 inflammasome/IL-1β axis**. This inhibition results in suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, reduction of oxidative stress markers (such as NOX2 and NOX4), and improved tissue healing in models of ocular surface injury, dry eye disease, and Sjögren's syndrome. The main applications investigated are **ocular surface diseases (OSDs)**, especially **dry eye disease (DED)** and **primary Sjögren's syndrome**. RCI001 is under development as an eye drop and has been shown in preclinical studies to restore corneal epithelial integrity more efficiently than corticosteroids with a favorable safety profile[1][2][3][5].

Brand names

RCI001RCI-001RCI 001

Other names

8-oxo-2'-deoxyguanosine