Neurocrine Biosciences Begins Phase 1 Study of NBI-1076986 in Healthy Adults

Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. has announced the commencement of its Phase 1 clinical trial to assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of its investigational compound, NBI-1076986. This compound is aimed at treating movement disorders, and the study will be conducted on healthy adult participants.

NBI-1076986 is an oral, muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist that selectively targets the M4 subtype. It was discovered and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences and holds potential for treating movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease tremor and dystonia. According to Eiry W. Roberts, M.D., the Chief Medical Officer at Neurocrine Biosciences, targeting M4 receptors specifically could benefit a wide range of motor coordination disorders.

Muscarinic receptors play a critical role in activating signaling pathways in the brain. There are five types of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (M1–M5). The M4 receptors are associated with motor coordination and certain central nervous system disorders, while M1 receptors are involved in cognitive functions such as learning and memory. Non-selective antimuscarinic agents often have side effects related to memory and cognition, which are thought to be linked to M1 receptors.

NBI-1076986's selective targeting of M4 receptors is hypothesized to help regulate motor symptoms and movements with minimal off-target effects. This specificity could lead to more effective treatments for movement disorders while reducing unwanted side effects.

Neurocrine Biosciences has a broad portfolio of programs that focus on selectively targeting muscarinic receptors. In addition to NBI-1076986, the company’s portfolio includes several small molecule M1, M1/M4, and M4 agonists. These compounds were acquired from Nxera Pharma (formerly Sosei Heptares) and are in various stages of development for treating different neurological conditions.

Neurocrine Biosciences is recognized as a neuroscience-focused biopharmaceutical company with a mission to alleviate suffering for individuals with significant unmet medical needs. The company is committed to discovering and developing life-changing treatments for patients afflicted by neurological, neuroendocrine, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Their diverse portfolio includes FDA-approved treatments for conditions like tardive dyskinesia, Huntington's disease-associated chorea, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. Additionally, Neurocrine Biosciences has a robust pipeline with multiple compounds in mid- to late-phase clinical development across their core therapeutic areas.

For over three decades, Neurocrine Biosciences has leveraged its deep understanding of neuroscience and the interplay between brain and body systems to address complex medical conditions. Their relentless pursuit of innovative medicines aims to ease the burden of debilitating diseases and disorders, driven by a commitment to “brave science.”

Neurocrine Biosciences continues to be a pioneering force in the biopharmaceutical industry, aiming to deliver transformative treatments to patients with severe and often overlooked medical conditions. Their ongoing research and development efforts, particularly in the area of selective muscarinic receptor targeting, underscore their dedication to advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes.