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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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'.
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