Norucholic acid for treating primary sclerosing cholangitis

Norucholic acid (NCA), (previously known as norursodeoxycholic acid (norUDCA) is in clinical development for treating primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). PSC is a rare and progressive chronic liver disease. In PSC the bile ducts (tubes which allow the liquid produced by the liver (bile) to flow from the liver to the small intestine where it helps with digestion of fat) become inflamed and scarred, causing them to narrow and block. This causes bile to build up in the liver which slowly damages and scars the liver. The cause of PSC is unknown but potential causes may originate from genetics, immune system problems and bacteria or viruses. The main symptoms of PSC include itching, tiredness and yellowing of the skin and eyes. There is no cure for PSC and there are few treatments available.