Spinogenix, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has received Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its drug candidate SPG601, which is intended for the treatment of Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). This designation underscores the urgent need for new treatments for FXS, a condition for which there are currently no FDA-approved therapies.
Addressing Synaptic Dysfunction in FXS
Craig Erickson, M.D., Chief Medical Advisor at Spinogenix, highlighted the significance of this designation, noting the substantial challenges faced by individuals with FXS. Spinogenix's focus on FXS is driven by SPG601's potential to address synaptic dysfunctions through the modulation of BK channels, a type of potassium channel. This therapeutic approach is designed to ameliorate the core symptoms of FXS and significantly improve the quality of life for those affected.
The Burden of Fragile X Syndrome
Fragile X Syndrome is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability and a leading cause of autism. It is linked to the silencing of the Fmr1 gene and affects approximately 1 in 4,000 to 5,000 men and 1 in 6,000 to 8,000 women globally. Patients with FXS experience a range of debilitating symptoms, including severe anxiety, social withdrawal, hyperactivity, attention deficit, sensory hypersensitivity, aggression, and developmental seizures. Many of these symptoms are associated with impaired activity of BK channels. SPG601 is a novel small molecule designed to activate BK channels, thereby restoring synaptic function.
Spinogenix's Commitment to Synaptic Therapies
Stella Sarraf, Ph.D., Spinogenix’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the ODD for SPG601. She emphasized the increasing recognition of synapse loss and dysfunction as critical factors in various diseases. According to Sarraf, there is a pressing need for therapeutic options that target synaptic-level dysfunctions to address the wide array of symptoms experienced by individuals with FXS. She conveyed excitement over receiving this designation and the company's commitment to advancing small molecule therapies through clinical trials.
Benefits of Orphan Drug Designation
The FDA grants Orphan Drug Designation to investigational treatments targeting rare diseases that affect fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S. This designation provides developers with several benefits, including support in the drug development process, tax credits for clinical trial costs, exemptions from certain FDA fees, and seven years of post-approval marketing exclusivity.
Spinogenix is dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics for conditions involving synapse loss or dysfunction. Their lead candidate is a synaptic regenerative therapy aimed at reversing synapse loss and enhancing cognitive and motor functions in neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders such as ALS, Alzheimer’s disease, and schizophrenia. Additionally, the company is advancing a synaptic function therapeutic aimed at improving behavior in Fragile X Syndrome.
