Synendos Therapeutics’ drug against CNS disorders cleared for clinical trials

Synendos, a biopharmaceutical company from Basel, develops a new class of small molecules, so called selective endocannabinoid reuptake inhibitors (SERIs), aimed at restoring the natural functioning of the endocannabinoid system in the brain, which could be applied for a wide range of Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders. These SERIs act by influencing the balance of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in a novel mode of action. 

The ECS is a key neuromodulator system in the CNS which plays a significant role in how the body responds to stress.  By rebalancing and restoring endogenous cannabinoid levels that are dysregulated in certain pathological conditions, SERIs have the potential to rebalance brain function in a holistic and pro-homeostatic way to treat CNS disorders associated with anxiety, mood and stress-related disorders, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  

The startup has received approval from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to commence the Phase 1 'first-in-human' clinical trial of its lead SERI-molecule candidate, SYT-510, which was identified after many years of basic research on endocannabinoid biology and pharmacology and a thorough medicinal chemistry programme. The safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of single-ascending doses of SYT-510 will be tested in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy adult participants. 

Dr. Andrea Chicca, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Synendos, commented: "The transition to a clinical stage company marks a significant milestone and step forward for Synendos and for SYT-510, the first candidate in our new class of SERI molecules. More than a decade of research resulted in our identification of a completely new mechanism for treating complex neuropsychiatric conditions, and this has already demonstrated very promising pre-clinical results. With no new treatments available in this area for over 25 years, advances are desperately needed.  By addressing this unmet need with our novel technology, we have the potential to offer those struggling with anxiety, mood and stress-related disorders a differentiated, safe and effective way to alleviate symptoms through the holistic rebalancing of brain physiology." 


(Press release / SR)