Neurology

Mouse studies suggest inhibiting P2RX7 could help treat autism. In a mouse model of autism, systemic knockout of P2RX7 or a tool compound P2RX7 inhibitor tool decreased social deficits, sensorimotor coordination impairment and repetitive behaviors compared with normal P2RX7 expression or vehicle, respectively. Next steps could include testing P2RX7 inhibitors in other models of autism.

Evotec AG and Zhejiang Conba Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. have EVT401, an oral small molecule P2RX7 antagonist, in Phase II testing for inflammation and Phase I testing for rheumatoid arthritis (RA)...