Research & Development
Harnessing powerful molecules for powerful therapies
Research and development is vital for professionals and patients in the critical care community. The unmet needs of critically ill patients are a powerful motivator for the scientists of Ikaria. Investigating the potential additional benefits of INOmax® (nitric oxide) for inhalation is an ongoing journey. And, we are pursuing the development of new critical care therapies across the spectrum of drugs and drug-delivery system combinations.
Where it all begins
We are equipped and staffed to conduct state-of-the-art synthetic chemistry, analytical and bioanalytical chemistry, formulation, pharmacology, and toxicology studies. This is where ideas are born.
Molecules that are critical to critical care
Our drug development program runs deep. Endogenous signaling molecules, such as nitric oxide (NO), are naturally produced by the body and are powerful influencers of many cellular functions.1-4 Recent discoveries show that NO—when delivered properly in low doses—may demonstrate several essential critical care benefits.
New on the horizon
We are also investigating the therapeutic potential of terlipressin, a special modified form of another endogenous molecule, the vasoconstrictor hormone vasopressin.5 We have also acquired the exclusive worldwide license to IK-5001,* a potential treatment for preventing cardiac remodeling and subsequent congestive heart failure following acute myocardial infarction.†6
* IK-5001 – Licensed from BiolineRx (BL-1040).† In animal disease models.
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Toxicological profile for hydrogen sulfide. Atlanta, GA: US Department of Health and Human Services; 2006. CAS 7783-06-4.
- Blakemore C, Jennett S. Nitric oxide. Encyclopedia.com Web site. http://www.encyclopedia.com/printable.aspx?id=10128.nitricoxide. Accessed May 27, 2009.
- INOmax® Australian Approved Product Information.
- Lee DC, Ferguson KL. Methemoglobinemia. eMedicine Web site. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/815613-overview. Accessed May 29, 2009.
- Westphal M, Rehberg S, Ertmer C, Morelli A. Terlipressin — more than just a prodrug of lysine vasopressin? Crit Care Med. 2009;37(3):1135-1136.
- Landa N, Miller L, Feinberg MS, et al. Effect of injectable alginate implant on cardiac remodeling and function after recent and old infarcts in rat. Circulation. 2008;117(11):1388-1396.
- Gröger M, Pasteiner W, Ignatyev G, et al. Peptide Bß15-42 preserves endothelial barrier function in shock. PLoS One. 2009;4(4):e5391.


