Proof-of-Concept for α5-GABAAR PAMs in the treatment of psychosis

This project aims to validate the hypothesis that a small molecule that is a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of α5-subunit-containing GABAARs (α5-GABAARs) can attenuate striatal dopaminergic hyperfunction in the methylazoxymethanol (MAM) rat model of schizophrenia.

If successful, this project will then form the platform to secure additional funding for the further preclinical drug discovery and development activities required to identify a first-in-human-ready drug.

At that point, we will seek the additional funding (either by partnering with a pharma company or securing VC investment to form a spin-out company) required for the clinical development of a novel, first-in-class antipsychotic with a mechanism that is clearly differentiated from existing dopamine D2 receptor antagonist-based antipsychotics.

Such a drug is expected to deliver patient benefit for those individuals with psychoses in whom existing antipsychotics are either poorly tolerated and/or have significant side effects or have limited efficacy.