November 13, 2024 - 🧬 [nGram] Today’s News Scoop: Longboard & BioXcel Phase 3 Trials, Trace Neuroscience $101M Launch


  1. Longboard Pharmaceuticals initiates Phase 3 DEEp OCEAN study evaluating bexicaserin in developmental and epileptic encephalopathies
    • Longboard Pharmaceuticals has started the global Phase 3 DEEp OCEAN study for bexicaserin, targeting seizures in developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs).
    • The trial is a double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving approximately 320 participants aged 2 to 65 years.
    • Participants will undergo a 3-week dose titration followed by a 12-week maintenance period, with an option to join a 52-week open-label extension.
    • The study is part of the broader DEEp Program, which includes around 480 participants with various DEEs.
    Read more

  2. BioXcel Therapeutics advances pivotal phase 3 trials of BXCL501 for acute treatment of agitation
    • BioXcel Therapeutics is progressing with Phase 3 trials for BXCL501 targeting agitation in bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's dementia.
    • The SERENITY At-Home trial will assess a 120 mcg dose of BXCL501 for at-home treatment of agitation in bipolar and schizophrenia patients.
    • The TRANQUILITY In-Care trial will evaluate a 60 mcg dose for Alzheimer's dementia-related agitation, with FDA feedback on the protocol.
    • Both trials are double-blind, placebo-controlled, and aim to enroll a total of 350 patients across different settings.
    Read more

  3. Trace Neuroscience launches with $101 million series A financing to expand genomic medicine for neurodegenerative diseases
    • Trace Neuroscience, a biopharmaceutical company, has launched with $101 million in Series A financing led by Third Rock Ventures.
    • The company is developing genomic therapies targeting UNC13A protein to improve nerve-muscle communication in neurodegenerative diseases.
    • Their lead program focuses on an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) for ALS, aiming to preserve and enhance muscle function.
    • Trace Neuroscience aims to advance their lead program to clinical trials, with potential applications in ALS, frontotemporal dementia, and Alzheimer's.
    Read more

  4. Nxera Pharma’s partner Centessa initiates phase 2 trial with ORX750, a novel orexin receptor 2 (OX2R) agonist
    • Centessa Pharmaceuticals has started a Phase 2 trial for ORX750, targeting narcolepsy type 1, type 2, and idiopathic hypersomnia.
    • The trial initiation triggers a US$3.5 million milestone payment to Nxera Pharma.
    • ORX750 is designed to address orexin neuron loss, with potential applications in various sleep-wake disorders.
    • Nxera benefits from equity in Centessa and potential future milestone payments and royalties.
    Read more

  5. Alpha Cognition announces $50 million upsized public offering and Nasdaq listing
    • Alpha Cognition priced its upsized public offering at $5.75 per share, aiming to raise approximately $50 million.
    • The company has granted underwriters a 30-day option to purchase additional shares to cover over-allotments.
    • Proceeds will support the commercialization of ZUNVEYL for Alzheimer's, R&D, and general corporate purposes.
    • Alpha Cognition's shares are now listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol 'ACOG'.
    Read more