#United States #Princeton, NJ #CNS disorders #iQure Pharma #University of Padova

iQure Pharma Collaborates with University of Padova

iQure Pharma, a dynamic clinical-stage biotech firm based in Princeton, New Jersey, has announced a promising research collaboration with Professor Laura Civiero from the University of Padova. This partnership is set to dive deeply into the mechanisms surrounding iQ-007, iQure's pioneering project which targets the EAAT2 transporter responsible for regulating glutamate uptake in the brain. The initiative aims to enhance the understanding of this therapeutic agent’s action and potentially identify patients who stand to gain the most from this cutting-edge treatment.

Context of the Collaboration

Glutamate is a crucial neurotransmitter that plays a key role in neuronal function, and its imbalance can lead to numerous central nervous system (CNS) disorders, including conditions like Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and chronic migraines. iQ-007 has displayed significant preclinical effectiveness in counteracting the adverse effects of glutamate excitotoxicity, thereby indicating its therapeutic potential in restoring synaptic balance and safeguarding neurons from overstimulation.

Insights from iQure’s Leadership

Henk de Wilde, the Chief Development and Operations Officer at iQure Pharma, expressed his optimism about the collaboration, stating, “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Professor Laura Civiero and her esteemed team. Her expertise in astroglial biology and its implications in Parkinson's pathways aligns perfectly with our mission to innovate CNS treatments.” De Wilde emphasized how Civiero’s experience over the past 15 years in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of Parkinson's disease will be invaluable for advancing iQ-007's development.

Professor Laura Civiero's Expertise

Professor Civiero has contributed significantly to our understanding of the astroglial system’s protective roles in the brain and has focused her recent research on the LRRK2 gene's involvement in Parkinson's disease pathology. Her thorough methods incorporate both biochemical techniques and complex biological systems, including human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and animal models, making her an asset to iQure's clinical endeavors.

iQure Pharma’s Mission

At the heart of iQure's approach is the ambition to address CNS disorders through the restoration of glutamate homeostasis. The company prides itself on its innovative strategies to optimize astrocyte functions, specifically in maintaining neurotransmitter balance, which is pivotal for neuronal health. By elevating the activity of key transporters like EAAT2, iQ-007 aims to disrupt the cycle of excitotoxicity— a cycle that leads to relentless neuronal damage and the progression of various neurological diseases.

Looking Ahead

Currently, iQ-007 is advancing through Phase 1 of clinical development, primarily aimed at treating resistant forms of epilepsy. In addition to this primary focus, iQure Pharma is also exploring other preclinical initiatives that target neurodegeneration and chronic pain syndromes. The insights gained from the ongoing collaboration with Professor Civiero's lab could drastically refine how these conditions are approached therapeutically.

iQure Pharma continues to lead the way in pioneering therapies that could reshape treatment paradigms for devastating CNS disorders. For more details about their research and advancements, please visit iQure Pharma’s website.