#USA #Philadelphia #SYN-001 #Synaptiq Therapeutics #Nobias Therapeutics

Synaptiq Therapeutics Launches with Acquisition of SYN-001 Program

On July 23, 2026, a new clinical-stage biotechnology company, Synaptiq Therapeutics, made headlines by announcing its formation and the acquisition of the clinical-stage SYN-001 program from Nobias Therapeutics. This launch, backed by a consortium of investors from Europe and the United States, signifies a strategic move to tackle neuropsychiatric issues associated with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (22q11DS), also known as DiGeorge syndrome.

Aiming for a Breakthrough in Treatment

Synaptiq Therapeutics plans to advance SYN-001 through a Phase IIb trial, further developing the treatment for neuropsychiatric symptoms linked to 22q11DS. This syndrome affects a significant number of children globally and presents various neuropsychiatric challenges, including anxiety and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Currently, there are no approved therapies specifically targeting these symptoms.

Patrick Dougherty has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the newly formed company. He expressed optimism about the future, stating, “The creation of Synaptiq Therapeutics marks an important milestone in the advancement of SYN-001.”

A Collaborative Effort

The founding investors include the Sanos Group, a clinical research organization (CRO) from Denmark, AxUM Securities from Iceland, and Arctic Therapeutics, which operates in Iceland and the US. These partnerships aim to enhance the clinical development capabilities of Synaptiq. Nobias Therapeutics will maintain an equity stake in the company, solidifying its ongoing involvement.

Clinical Development Plans

One crucial aspect of Synaptiq’s future involves leveraging Arctic Therapeutics’ established drug development framework. This includes experienced clinical operations teams and scientific collaborations, notably with the Center for Applied Genomics at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of its strategy, Synaptiq Therapeutics is preparing for the initiation of a Phase IIb clinical trial across major medical centers in North America and Europe, demonstrating a comprehensive international approach.

Positive Preliminary Data

SYN-001 is noted for its favorable safety and efficacy profiles based on previous clinical data obtained during a Phase II trial. Its development as a small molecule modulator of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) has shown promising results, which will be further evaluated in the Phase IIb study utilizing a specific clinical global impression scale tailored for 22q11DS.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recognized SYN-001’s potential by granting it both Orphan Drug Designation and Rare Pediatric Disease Designation in previous years. This recognition aims to expedite the availability of therapeutic options tailored for underserved pediatric populations.

Addressing Unmet Needs

With approximately one in every 2,000 to 3,300 live births affected by 22q11DS, the urgency for effective treatments is critical. Current estimates suggest thousands of new cases each year in both the US and Europe, highlighting the importance of accelerated drug development pathways for this condition.

Dougherty reiterated the mission of Synaptiq Therapeutics by saying, “We are continually inspired by the resilience of individuals living with 22q11DS. Their experiences motivate our commitment to advancing innovative treatment options for this underserved patient community.”

As Synaptiq Therapeutics steps into the spotlight, the biotechnology landscape is poised for significant developments, bringing hope to families and individuals grappling with the challenges of 22q11DS. By advancing SYN-001, the company aims to pioneer the first dedicated therapy for this complex and often debilitating disorder.