Drug Discovery Program

Based on the pioneering research of Neurovation Labs’ co-founders Drs. Michael Fanselow and Jennifer Perusini, we have launched a drug discovery program with a detailed understanding of fear learning and PTSD mechanisms.

Our portfolio of selective ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonists is being explored for the treatment of PTSD. Our candidates are intended to mitigate the hyperexcitability symptoms associated with PTSD. 

Unlike existing PTSD treatments, which are indirect and typically temporarily suppress symptoms, we target a biological underpinning of PTSD—an up-regulation of a glutamate receptor protein in the region of the brain responsible for fear, the amygdala. Our simple regimen will replace symptom band-aids, trial-and-error, and drug cocktails; our targeted approach will enhance tolerability and mitigate side-effects, making it the best possible treatment option.

NL-101, 103, and our follow-on compounds are potent and selective inhibitors of ionotropic glutamate receptors. Lead optimization is ongoing.