ATB-346

ATB-346 is a novel hydrogen sulphide-releasing derivative of naproxen with markedly reduced toxicity. IC50 value: Target: COX-2 ATB-346 suppressed gastric prostaglandin E(2) synthesis as effectively as naproxen, but produced negligible damage in the stomach and intestine, Unlike naproxen and celecoxib, ATB-346 accelerated healing of pre-existing gastric ulcers. In a mouse airpouch model, ATB-346 suppressed cyclooxygenase-2 activity and inhibited leukocyte infiltration more effectively than naproxen. ATB-346 was as effective as naproxen in adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats, with a more rapid onset of activity. Unlike naproxen, ATB-346 did not elevate blood pressure in hypertensive rats [1]. Treatement with ATB-346 exhibited a significantly more rapid and sustained recovery of motor function, achieving greater than double the increase in locomotion score of the naproxen group by the 10th day of treatment. ATB-346 also significantly reduced the severity of inflammation (proinflammatory cytokines, apoptosis of neural tissue, and nitrosative stress) that characterized the secondary effects of SCI [2].