Researchers from Engrail Therapeutics Inc. recently described the pharmacological characterization of ENX-105, a new class of molecule that combines 5-HT1A/2A receptor agonism with D2/3 receptor antagonism, to be used for its antianhedonic and antipsychotic effects.

Bristol Myers Squibb Co. has selected the first novel target for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) that was identified and validated by Insitro Inc. under the companies’ 2020 collaboration agreement to discover new therapies for ALS. The selection triggers a milestone payment to Insitro.

Over the past few decades, drugs for Alzheimer’s disease development have predominantly focused on targeting β-amyloid but have shown limited clinical efficacy.

Biohaven Ltd.’s BHV-7000, a selective Kv7.2/7.3 potassium channel activator, is in phase II/III development for the treatment of focal epilepsy, generalized epilepsy, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. The company recently presented findings from preclinical testing assessing the candidate’s potential for the treatment of comorbidities associated with epilepsy.

Researchers form Shanghai Zhimeng Biopharma Inc. presented preclinical data for CB-03, a voltage-gated potassium channel-2/3 (Kv7.2/Kv7.3; KCNQ2/3) opener for the treatment of patients with refractory epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders.