Non-Addictive. Non-sedative. Acute & Chronic Relief.
Kairu Therapeutics is developing a first-in-class, oral, non-opioid analgesic that delivers opioid-level efficacy in neuropathic pain — without sedation, addiction, or respiratory compromise. Forty years of validated human pharmacology. Validated with research from UCSF and DARPA.
Pain without compromise
Next generation non-opioid pain relief
About Kairu
Built on Science. Driven by Urgency.
Kairu Therapeutics was founded on a simple conviction: we should have painkillers that do not trade effectiveness for sedation or addiction.
Kairu is developing a pipeline of non-opioid therapeutics built around novel modulation of α2A adrenergic receptor signaling. Our lead program, a first-in-class oral analgesic for moderate-to-severe neuropathic pain, is advancing toward a 2027 IND filing and aims to address a significant unmet need for the tens of millions of patients under-served by existing therapies.
Beyond our lead asset, we are expanding a broader class of adrenergic therapeutics across multiple pain and neuro-biology applications, including next-generation analgesics and perioperative care programs. Together, these programs form the foundation of a growing pipeline designed to bring innovative treatment options to patients where current therapies remain inadequate.
The Kairu Team
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Michael Feasel, Ph.D.
CEO | CO-FOUNDER
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Aashish Manglik, M.D., Ph.D.
UCSF · PROFESSOR
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Brian K. Shoichet, Ph.D.
UCSF · PROFESSOR
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Allan I. Basbaum, Ph.D.
UCSF · CHAIR, ANATOMY
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Jarret Weinrich, Ph.D.
UCSF · ASST. ADJUNCT PROF.
Our Approach
Validated Biology
We focus on the α2A adrenergic receptor, a well-established target with demonstrated analgesic potential.
Precision Design
Our compounds are engineered to achieve selective receptor signaling, with the goal of enhancing therapeutic benefit while minimizing unwanted effects.
Non-Opioid Innovation
By targeting pain through a non-opioid mechanism, we aim to expand treatment options for patients in need of safer and more effective therapies.
Kairu is advancing a pipeline of next-generation pain therapeutics built on cutting-edge science and rigorous pre-clinical development.
Let's Build the Future of Pain Management Together
Kairu Therapeutics welcomes inquiries from investors, potential partners, scientific advisors, and clinical collaborators.
