Addex Announces Publication of Preclinical Data Supporting Potential of mGlu7 Negative Allosteric Modulators to Transform Anxiety and Fear-Related Disorder Treatment

Core Insights - Addex Therapeutics announced the publication of data in Molecular Psychiatry indicating that targeting metabotropic glutamate receptor 7 (mGlu7) with negative allosteric modulators (NAM) could significantly improve treatment for anxiety and fear-related disorders, including PTSD [2][3] Company Overview - Addex Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel small molecule allosteric modulators for neurological disorders [9] - The company's lead drug candidate, dipraglurant, is being evaluated for brain injury recovery, including post-stroke and traumatic brain injury [9] - Addex has a 20% equity interest in Neurosterix LLC, which is advancing a portfolio of allosteric modulator programs, including mGlu7 NAM for mood disorders [9] Research Findings - The study conducted by scientists from the Center for Psychiatric Neurosciences demonstrated that ADX71743, a selective mGlu7 NAM, can disrupt the reconsolidation of fear memories, which is a critical process in the treatment of anxiety and trauma-related conditions [3][4] - Administration of ADX71743 in rat models showed a significant decrease in the reinstatement of fear, indicating its potential as a therapeutic intervention [4][5] - Electrophysiological analyses revealed that ADX71743 modulated glutamatergic transmission at thalamus-to-amygdala synapses, which are essential for fear learning, providing mechanistic support for its effects [5][6] Market Context - Anxiety and stress-related disorders are among the most prevalent neuropsychiatric conditions globally, with many patients experiencing inadequate responses to existing therapies [4] - Current treatments often target symptoms and require continuous use, leading to risks of tolerance and dependence, highlighting the need for innovative therapeutic approaches [4][6] Future Implications - The research suggests that targeting memory reconsolidation with mGlu7 NAMs could offer a time-limited pharmacological intervention, potentially providing a more durable solution for pathological fear compared to continuous symptom-suppressing medications [6] - The findings support the long-term belief of Addex in the differentiated mechanism of targeting mGlu7 for treating anxiety and fear-related disorders [4][6]