VTP-38543

VTP-38543 is a topical small molecule drug that acts as a selective agonist of the liver X receptor beta (LXRβ). It was originally developed by Vitae Pharmaceuticals and later acquired by Allergan, which has since merged into AbbVie. The drug was investigated for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, a common inflammatory skin disease characterized by both inflammation and impaired skin barrier function. By activating LXR in skin keratinocytes, VTP-38543 increases the formation of corneocytes and production of lamellar lipids, thereby enhancing barrier repair. Additionally, LXR activation exerts anti-inflammatory effects comparable to high-potency corticosteroids. Clinical trials demonstrated that topical application of VTP-38543 improved skin barrier differentiation and lipid content with good tolerability; however, development for atopic dermatitis was discontinued after phase 2 trials[1][3][5][7].