Danicamtiv: A Cardiovascular Drug Development Case Study

1. Introduction to Danicamtiv

Danicamtiv, an investigational small molecule, was developed as a therapeutic agent targeting specific cardiac conditions. It functions as a selective, allosteric activator of cardiac myosin, the motor protein responsible for heart muscle contraction.[1] The primary aim of Danicamtiv was to enhance cardiac systolic function, thereby improving the heart's pumping capability, while ideally preserving mechanical efficiency and minimizing adverse effects on diastolic relaxation or calcium homeostasis.[1]

Danicamtiv has been identified by several alternative names throughout its development, including MYK-491, BMS-986434, SAR440181, and DCM-1.[2] Its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number is 1970972-74-7.[1] Chemically, it is classified as a small molecule and belongs to several chemical classes including amides, fluorinated hydrocarbons, isoxazoles, organic sulfur compounds, piperidines, and pyrazoles.[6] For clinical administration, Danicamtiv was formulated for oral delivery, available as tablets or a suspension.[5]

Table 1: Danicamtiv - Key Drug Information

This table provides a foundational overview of Danicamtiv, consolidating key identifiers and information about its developmental origins, which are further elaborated in subsequent sections.

2. Development History and Sponsorship