UNI-494

UNI-494 is a novel, orally available small molecule and a nicotinamide ester derivative that acts as a selective activator of ATP-sensitive mitochondrial potassium channels (KATP channels), specifically targeting the SUR2 subunit. It is designed as a prodrug of nicorandil, releasing nicorandil upon metabolism. The drug’s mechanism restores mitochondrial function by reducing oxidative stress and improving cellular energy homeostasis, which may be beneficial in conditions characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction such as acute kidney injury (AKI) and delayed graft function (DGF) after kidney transplantation. UNI-494 has completed Phase 1 clinical trials in healthy volunteers, demonstrating good tolerability at single doses up to 160 mg and multiple doses up to 80 mg twice daily. The U.S. FDA has granted orphan drug designation for UNI-494 for the prevention of DGF in kidney transplant patients[1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

nicorandil prodrug