Acadia picks development candidate for testosterone deficiency, finds appetite-related mechanism

By Elaine Rigoli

Tampa, Fla., Feb. 21 - Acadia Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced Tuesday that it has nominated a non-steroidal and selective androgen receptor agonist, ACP-105, as a development candidate. It also announced it has advanced its program based on the discovery of novel compounds that selectively block the cannabinoid CB1 receptor into preclinical status.

ACP-105 has reversed endocrine and bone-related markers of testosterone deficiency in preclinical animal testing, with little effect on the prostrate, thereby demonstrating tissue specificity in its actions, according to a company release.

ACP-105 has exhibited promising pharmacological properties and a favorable safety profile in preclinical testing, the release stated.

Acadia has begun development of ACP-105 and intends to conduct toxicology and other testing in preparation for potential clinical trials.

Further, scientists have discovered structurally novel lead compounds that potently and selectively block the cannabinoid CB1 receptor. The CB1 receptor is predominantly expressed in the central nervous system and plays a key role in regulating appetite and other reward-based behaviors, the release stated.

Blockade of the CB1 receptors may lead to novel treatments for obesity and substance abuse. CB1 receptor antagonists may also be useful in the treatment of disorders associated with cognitive deficits.

"We are excited about the opportunity to drive forward the development of ACP-105, our first clinical candidate to target a nuclear hormone receptor, and by the rapid advancement of our CB1 preclinical program," said Mark R. Brann, PhD, Acadia's president and chief scientific officer, in a statement.

Acadia is currently in an advanced stage of lead optimization with proprietary compounds that are potent and selective for the CB1 receptor, active following oral dosing in preclinical models, and well tolerated at high doses.

San Diego-based Acadia is a biopharmaceutical company that develops treatments for central nervous system disorders.

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