Metrion Biosciences and LifeArc extend ion channel drug discovery collaboration to accelerate neuroscience-focused research

Initial twelve month collaboration successfully identifies hit compounds and progresses into hit-to-lead optimisation phase

Written byMetrion Biosciences
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Metrion Biosciences Limited (Metrion), the specialist ion channel CRO and drug discovery company, and LifeArc, a leading UK independent medical research charity, today announced an extension of their neuroscience-focused ion channel drug discovery collaboration, following the success of the initial twelve-month agreement.

The collaboration is focused on novel selective small molecular modulators of a specific two-pore domain potassium ion channel target, identified as likely to be involved in neurological pathogenesis. Having commenced in January 2019, both companies have exercised the option to extend the programme for a further 12 months following the achievement of mutually agreed criteria. As a result of successes during the initial phase, where potent and efficacious hit compounds have been identified through a robust screening cascade (using a fluorescence assay, automated electrophysiology and manual patch clamp technique), the collaboration has now progressed into the hit-to-lead optimisation phase.

Under the terms of the agreement LifeArc is responsible ...

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