EVP-6124

EVP-6124‏‎ (also known as Encenicline) is a novel pharmaceutical drug candidate that was under development for the treatment of schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. It is a selective partial agonist of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, a type of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor.

History

EVP-6124 was developed by EnVivo Pharmaceuticals, a biopharmaceutical company based in the United States. The drug entered clinical trials in 2006, with the aim of treating cognitive impairment in schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.

Mechanism of Action

EVP-6124 works by selectively binding to and activating the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. This receptor is involved in cognitive processes such as memory and attention, which are often impaired in conditions like schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.

Clinical Trials

Several clinical trials have been conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of EVP-6124. In Phase II trials, the drug showed promise in improving cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. However, the development of the drug was halted in 2015 due to safety concerns raised during Phase III trials.

Future Prospects

Despite the halt in development, research into the therapeutic potential of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonists like EVP-6124 continues. These drugs may still hold promise for the treatment of cognitive impairment associated with various neurological and psychiatric disorders.

See Also

• Schizophrenia
• Alzheimer's disease
• Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
• Clinical trial
• EnVivo Pharmaceuticals