Ispronicline

Ispronicline (also known as AZD-3480 and TC-1734) is a drug that was under development by AstraZeneca and Targacept. It is a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist, with a particular affinity for the α4β2 subtype of this receptor. Ispronicline was being developed as a treatment for cognitive deficits in schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

History

Ispronicline was first synthesized by Targacept, a biopharmaceutical company specializing in the design and development of neuronal nicotinic receptor (NNR) therapeutics. In 2002, Targacept entered into a collaboration with AstraZeneca for the development and commercialization of NNR Therapeutics, including Ispronicline.

Mechanism of Action

Ispronicline acts as a partial agonist at the α4β2 subtype of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. This receptor subtype is thought to be involved in cognitive processes, and drugs that modulate its activity have been investigated as potential treatments for cognitive deficits in a variety of disorders.

Clinical Trials

Ispronicline has undergone several phases of clinical trials. In Phase II trials, it was found to improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease and ADHD. However, in a Phase IIb trial for Alzheimer's disease, Ispronicline did not meet its primary endpoint of improving cognitive function. The development of Ispronicline was subsequently discontinued.

Side Effects

The most common side effects reported in clinical trials of Ispronicline were nausea, headache, and dizziness. These side effects were generally mild and transient.

See Also

• Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
• AstraZeneca
• Targacept
• Alzheimer's disease
• Schizophrenia
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder