FOXJ1 agonist 1 (compound 16c), an orally effective small molecule, effectively enhances FOXJ1 expression and acts on multiciliated cells (MCC) in the mammalian airway system to prevent chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Foxj1-IN-1 induces motile cilia production in the respiratory system of both zebrafish and mammals and inhibits elastase-induced COPD in mouse models. Additionally, Foxj1-IN-1 demonstrates good liver microsomal stability and favorable in vivo pharmacokinetic (PK) curves and area under the curve (AUC). It exhibits negligible inhibition of CYP and hERG and lacks significant cytotoxicity.