Neurology

Mouse studies suggest agonizing ESR2 could help treat enteric nerve damage. In a mouse model of chemical-induced damage to the ileal myenteric plexus, a subcutaneous ESR2 agonist tool compound decreased the neuron-depleted area in the muscularis layer of the intestine compared with vehicle. In a mouse model of obesity-associated enteric nerve damage, the agonist increased numbers of colonic myenteric plexus neurons. Next steps include testing undisclosed ESR2 agonists in models of gut motor abnormalities.

Ausio Pharmaceuticals LLC has S-equol (AUS-131), a nonsteroidal, non-hormonal ESR2 agonist, in Phase I/II testing to treat Alzheimer’s disease and Phase II testing to treat menopausal symptoms...