Transneural Therapeutics Appoints Renowned CNS Specialist to Lead Drug Development Efforts
Transneural Therapeutics, Inc., a pioneering preclinical-stage biotechnology firm, recently made headlines with its strategic appointment of Dr. Mark A. Demitrack, MD, as the new Chief Research and Development Officer. Dr. Demitrack is celebrated for his significant contributions in neuroscience and brings over three decades of extensive experience in the industry, specializing in the development of treatments for neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.
A Leader in CNS Development
As Transneural Therapeutics aims to revolutionize the treatment landscape for neuropsychiatric diseases, Dr. Demitrack's background seems perfectly aligned with the company's ambitious objectives. His distinguished career includes leading clinical development programs at both Trevena and Neuronetics, where he played a pivotal role in launching the NeuroStar TMS Therapy System specifically for patients battling treatment-resistant major depression. Prior to this, he served as the Medical Director for New Antidepressants at Lilly, leading to the successful development and submission for approval of duloxetine, marketed as Cymbalta, a key medication in treating major depressive disorder (MDD).
Charmaine Lykins, CEO of Transneural Therapeutics, expressed her enthusiasm in welcoming Dr. Demitrack, stating, "Mark is a highly accomplished leader with unparalleled scientific and clinical development expertise specific to neuropsychiatry. His proven track record in overseeing drug development from conception to market approval is invaluable to us as we seek to progress our pipeline assets, especially TN-001 for depression and PTSD."
Focus on Innovation
Dr. Demitrack is poised to leverage his extensive command of all phases of drug development to advance the company’s innovative candidate, TN-001, targeting conditions such as MDD and PTSD. In his own words, Dr. Demitrack reflects on his joining Transneural at a crucial time, stating, "It’s an exciting time to join Transneural as we advance our lead candidate, TN-001, a novel therapeutic that could provide meaningful relief to people living with MDD and PTSD."
Academic Foundation and Publications
Dr. Demitrack's academic credentials include a BA in Physics from Columbia University and an MD from the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. He completed his psychiatry residency training at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), followed by a research fellowship at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). His dedication to research is reflected in his robust publication record, with over 100 articles, book chapters, and reviews in prominent journals. He is also recognized as a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and a member of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology.
About Transneural Therapeutics
Transneural Therapeutics is at the forefront of biotechnology innovation, developing novel neuroplastogens aimed at transforming the treatment of debilitating neuropsychiatric diseases. Their lead compound, TN-001, is a dual 5-HT2A partial agonist and 5-HT2B antagonist designed to provide rapid and lasting antidepressant effects without the psychedelic side effects commonly associated with some newer treatment modalities. As the company steps further into the realm of clinical trials, the appointment of an industry veteran like Dr. Demitrack signals its commitment to scientific rigor and therapeutic innovation.
With the expertise of Dr. Demitrack at the helm of research and development, Transneural Therapeutics is well-positioned to make significant strides in delivering new treatments that could radically change the lives of individuals struggling with major depressive disorder and PTSD.