CeNeRx is developing a series of innovative preclinical cannabinoid compounds that work via a novel, yet well-described mechanism of action, have excellent selectivity and could potentially be applied to large indications with significant unmet need. To avoid the central side effects associated with existing cannabinoid agents, CeNeRx sought compounds that are peripherally restricted with minimal or no CNS activity. Cannabinoid-associated CNS side effects include negative mood and depression effects seen with CB1 antagonists being developed for obesity, as well as the potential abuse liability associated with CB1 agonists being developed for pain relief. By acting at the periphery rather than the CNS, the CeNeRx cannabinoid compounds have the potential for good therapeutic efficacy without the adverse effects that have limited the clinical utility of this potentially important class.
The CeNeRx cannabinoid portfolio includes more than a dozen preclinical compounds that selectively target the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors, including compounds acting on peripheral cannabinoid receptors rather than on receptors in the brain. It includes cannabinoid agonists with demonstrated utility in the treatment of pain, glaucoma, spasticity and other CNS-related disorders.
CeNeRx is initially pursuing cannabinoid CB1 agonists for the treatment of pain (peripheral neuropathy), glaucoma and spasticity and has already demonstrated encouraging proof-of-concept results in a number of well-accepted preclinical models.
CeNeRx obtained exclusive worldwide rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize our cannabinoid compounds from PharmaNess Neuroscience in Italy. The collaboration between CeNeRx and PharmaNess also includes drug discovery efforts aimed at further expanding the cannabinoid portfolio.
CeNeRx has market exclusivity for the cannabinoid series compounds beyond 2025.