vunogant

Vunogant (JTE-061) is a topical small-molecule antagonist of the retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor gamma (RORγ), specifically the RORγt isoform. Developed by Japan Tobacco, it is designed for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. RORγt is a master transcription factor that regulates the differentiation of Th17 cells and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-22, which play a central role in the inflammatory cascade of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. By inhibiting RORγt activity, vunogant suppresses the Th17-mediated immune response in the skin. In clinical trials, a 1% cream formulation applied once daily demonstrated efficacy in improving skin lesions and pruritus with a favorable safety profile. Japan Tobacco filed for manufacturing and marketing approval of vunogant in Japan in October 2023.