votucalis

**Votucalis** is an investigational recombinant biologic protein being developed by Akari Therapeutics for chronic pain and itch disorders. It is derived from a histamine-binding protein originally identified in the saliva of the brown-ear tick *Rhipicephalus appendiculatus* and is designed to neutralize histamine with high affinity. By sequestering histamine extracellularly, votucalis is intended to suppress signaling through all four histamine G-protein coupled receptors, providing broader histamine pathway inhibition than conventional antihistamines that mainly block H1 or H2 receptors. The program has been discussed for indications including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, neuropathic pain, and other chronic pruritic or pain conditions, with preclinical evidence suggesting peripheral activity without brain penetration and therefore a potentially low risk of central nervous system adverse effects or addiction liability. Human exposure has reportedly occurred previously in other settings such as conjunctivitis, and topical delivery has been explored.

Other names

histamine-binding proteintick-derived histamine-binding protein