Pralnacasan (VX-740) is a potent, selective, non-peptide and orally active interleukin-1β converting enzyme (ICE, caspase 1) inhibitor with a Ki of 1.4 nM. Pralnacasan inhibits proinflammatory cytokines IL-18, IL-1β , and IFN-γ. Pralnacasan has the potential for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis treatment[1][2].
Pralnacasan (0 -50 mg/kg; oral gavage; twice a day; for 6 weeks; female Balb/c mice) treatment reduces joint damage. Pralnacasan treatment does not appear to affect the weight of the animals[1].
[1]. Rudolphi K, et al. Pralnacasan, an inhibitor of interleukin-1beta converting enzyme, reduces joint damage in two murine models of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2003 Oct;11(10):738-46.
[2]. Loher F, et al. The interleukin-1 beta-converting enzyme inhibitor pralnacasan reduces dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine colitis and T helper 1 T-cell activation. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2004 Feb;308(2):583-90.