Saniona AB has initiated preclinical development of SAN-2355, a potential best-in-class and new-generation Kv7.2/Kv7.3 activator for the treatment of focal onset seizures.

Based on its analysis of a large cohort of individuals homozygous for the ε4 variant of apolipoprotein E (APOE4), a multinational team of researchers is arguing that homozygosity for APOE4 should be considered a genetic form of Alzheimer’s disease. However, not everyone agrees that the findings warrant reclassifying APOE from risk factor to causal gene. Currently, APOE4 is classified as the strongest risk factor for developing AD. Another variant, the APOE2 variant, is protective, while APOE3 is neutral.

Irlab Therapeutics AB has obtained clearance from the Swedish Medical Products Agency to initiate a phase I study of IRL-757, which is being developed as a treatment to counteract apathy in Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions.

Latus Bio Inc. has launched with a focus on developing novel gene therapy candidates for central nervous system (CNS) disorders. An initial close of $54 million in series A financing will support the company.

Cerevance Inc. has announced the achievement of the first milestone in its research collaboration with Merck & Co.