Emalex Biosciences Acquires Psyadon Pharmaceuticals to Develop Novel Treatment for Pediatric Tourette Syndrome
CHICAGO, Aug. 14, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Biopharmaceutical company Emalex Biosciences (Emalex), the newest member of the Paragon Biosciences (Paragon) portfolio of companies, today announced it acquired Psyadon Pharmaceuticals and the exclusive rights to develop, register and market ecopipam, a new chemical entity with orphan drug designation for the treatment of pediatric Tourette Syndrome (TS) in patients under 16 years of age.
Ecopipam is a potent, selective antagonist of the human D1 receptor family being developed for the treatment of pediatric TS. TS is a childhood-onset neurodevelopmental condition, characterized by motor and vocal tics, for which there exists an unmet need for new therapies.
Dopamine "D1" antagonism represents a novel approach to reducing the severity of symptoms in children with TS. Dopamine D1 receptor super-sensitivity may be a mechanism for the repetitive and compulsive behaviors associated with this disease.
Emalex will be led by CEO Eric Messner, a veteran pharmaceutical executive and entrepreneur with experience in the development and commercialization of treatments for rare and orphan diseases.
"The Tourette's patient community needs new, safe and effective treatments for children. We're inspired by the tenacity of these children, and their parents and caregivers," Messner said. "We want to thank Dr. Richard Chipkin and the team at Psyadon for their early development work. Emalex is excited to move this work forward and is uniquely positioned to bring ecopipam to market with the support of our partners at Paragon."
Early phase 2 studies of ecopipam, conducted by Psyadon, support the continued development for pediatric TS. Emalex will initiate a larger clinical study of ecopipam in approximately 150 pediatric TS patients in early 2019, with results expected in 2020.
"This new treatment provides hope for pediatric patients with TS and their families in working to reduce both their vocal and motor tics," said Amanda Talty, CEO of the Tourette Association of America. "We are proud to have provided the initial seed funding to support the work that Emalex is doing to improve the lives of those affected by Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders."
"Paragon's focus is to accelerate medical breakthroughs where patient need is critical, yet current treatment options are inadequate. Emalex is a key addition to our portfolio companies," said Jeff Aronin, chairman and CEO of Paragon Biosciences.
About Emalex
Emalex Biosciences, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the development of new treatments for rare and orphan neurological conditions. Ecopipam, its first development candidate, is a novel compound that has been studied as a potential treatment for many central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including pediatric Tourette Syndrome. The latter is a childhood-onset neurodevelopmental condition characterized by motor and vocal tics for which very few safe and effective therapies exist. Emalex is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. For more information visit: www.emalexbiosciences.com.
About Ecopipam
Ecopipam is a first-in-class drug that selectively blocks the actions of the neurotransmitter dopamine at its receptor. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, and its receptors have been classified into two "families" based on their genetic structure: "D1" (including subtypes D1 and D5) and "D2" (including subtypes D2, D3 and D4). D1-receptor super-sensitivity may be a mechanism for the repetitive and compulsive behaviors associated with Tourette Syndrome. Ecopipam is a selective antagonist of the D1-receptor family and has been investigated in patients with Tourette Syndrome. In contrast, currently approved therapies for the treatment of TS act at D2 dopamine receptors.
About Paragon Biosciences
Paragon Biosciences, LLC improves the lives of patients suffering from debilitating diseases by building innovative biotechnology companies that bring important treatments to the market. Paragon's portfolio companies are managed by healthcare industry leaders and biotech entrepreneurs committed to improving outcomes for patients. Paragon's leadership and management team leverage their entrepreneurial experiences and their expertise to develop and finance biotechnology companies and accelerate their advancements. Paragon Biosciences is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. For more information visit: www.paragonbiosci.com.
About The Tourette Association of America
The Tourette Association of America, founded in 1972, is dedicated to making life better for all individuals affected by Tourette and Tic Disorders. The premier nationwide organization serving this community, the Association works to raise awareness, advance research and provide on-going support. The TAA directs a network of 32 Chapters and support groups across the country. For more information on Tourette and Tic Disorders, call 1-888-4-TOURET and visit us at tourette.org, and on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
About Psyadon Pharmaceuticals
Psyadon Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to the discovery and development of new treatments for serious neurological and psychiatric diseases. Ecopipam was the company's first development candidate.
Contact:
Susan Brophy
[email protected]
312-729-4359
SOURCE Emalex Biosciences
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