InMed’s INM-901 is a drug candidate being developed as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. Promising early studies demonstrate INM-901’s neuroprotective effects and an ability to extend neurite length, signifying improved neuronal function, a unique therapeutic effect not shown in any current Alzheimer’s disease treatments.
Why are cannabinoids a promising pharmaceutical target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease?
Several published in vitro and in vivo studies have been conducted to understand the effects of different cannabinoids in neuronal disorders.
There are a number of cannabinoid receptors or endocannabinoids that are expressed in the brain.
Cannabinoids are highly lipophilic (dissolves in fats, oils and lipids) and can cross the blood brain barrier, making them potential pharmaceutical targets for neurodegenerative disease.
Newly-approved Alzheimer’s disease medications primarily address symptoms related to memory and cognitive function via the reduction of beta-amyloid plaques.
Some may slow the rate of cognitive decline, but no treatment has shown to reverse its effects. These medications are aimed at removing amyloid plaque build-up between the neurons in the brain; however, they do not restore or rebuild deteriorating neurons and thus do not reverse Alzheimer’s disease progression.
Cannabinoid analogs are novel cannabinoid compounds that are slightly modified from the naturally occurring cannabinoids in the plant.
Based on the results from several preclinical studies, INM-901 has been selected as InMed’s lead drug candidate for continued pharmaceutical R&D studies in Alzheimer’s disease.
Promising early studies demonstrate INM-901’s neuroprotective effects and an ability to extend neurite length, signifying improved neuronal function, a potential breakthrough in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
