Talniflumate is an orally available, potent and selective inhibitor of core mucin-synthesizing enzyme GCNT3 (core 2 b-1,6 N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase). Talniflumate decreases GCNT3 expression and production of mucins in vivo and in vitro. Talniflumate improves responsiveness of pancreatic tumors to gefitinib. Talniflumate is a potent calcium-activated chloride channel (CaCC) blocker.
Talniflumate is a phthalidyl ester of niflumic acid. It acts as an anti-inflammatory molecule and a mucoregulator. Talniflumate is used as a potent therapeutic for cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. Talniflumate also inhibits the calcium-activated chloride channel hCLCA function, which is involved in mucus overproduction.