KLS-13019 is a CBD (cannabidiol) analogue and GPR55 (G protein-coupled receptor 55) antagonist from Kannalife Sciences, which shows promise as a novel therapeutic for neuropathic pain, particularly chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain.

What is it? GB0139 is a selective, inhaled inhibitor of galectin-3 and galectin-1 in Ph. II for IPF and COVID-19 pneumonitis, and is Galecto’s ($GLTO) lead asset. Galecto was founded in 2011 with Lund University academic galectin research leaders Ulf Nilsson and Hakon Leffler, and has had a research focus on galectin-3 modulators to treat [...]

Zilucoplan is a macrocyclic peptide-containing drug with 15 amino acids in total, targeting the challenging-to-drug C5 complement protein and formulated for self-administered once-daily SC injection. In Sept. 2023, zilucoplan received its first global approval in Japan, followed in Oct. 2023 by FDA approval for gMG patients who are AChR antibody-positive, making zilucoplan the first drug derived from mRNA display for cyclic peptides to be approved. This case study discusses how zilucoplan was discovered and why it’s an important scientific milestone for the industry.

Zuranolone (ZURZUVAE™) is an oral positive allosteric modulator of CNS GABA signaling developed by Sage Therapeutics, in collaboration with Biogen, which was approved in August 2023 by the FDA for the treatment of postpartum depression (PPD). In 2019 Sage had received approval for brexanolone (ZULRESSO™), an IV formulation of the endogenous GABA PAM neurosteroid hormone for PPD, but an oral drug is expected to greatly increase access to treatment. Zuranolone was also investigated for major depressive disorder, although the FDA declined to extend approval for this indication.

Xanamem® is Actinogen Medical's cortisol-blocking drug targeting the 11β-HSD1 (11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) enzyme.