The biopharmaceutical company, Akarna Therapeutics, is focused on developing novel small molecule therapeutics that target inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. Their lead program is a potential best-in-class therapeutic for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a progressive form of fatty-liver disease. Currently in preclinical studies, Akarna's lead candidate is expected to move into first-in-human studies in early 2017. In August 2016, Akarna was acquired by Allergan for an upfront cash payment of USD 50 million, along with success-based milestone payments for development, approval, and sales.