Novel MOA: REL-1017 works as an NMDAR channel blocker with preferential activity at hyperactive GluN1-GluN2D channels.

REL-1017 is a novel N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) channel blocker in phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). REL-1017 works with a MOA markedly different from standard serotoninergic antidepressants.

REL-1017 has been shown to preferentially block hyperactive GluN1-GluN2D NMDARs¹. These channels are situated within the membrane of neurons and receive signals via glutamate, a neurotransmitter. NMDA stands for N-methyl-D-aspartate, a chemical able to open the channel similarly to the physiological neurotransmitter glutamate.

NMDARs are known to have a role in depression, as well as in normal physiological functions. Blocking hyperactive NMDAR channels represents a novel approach to rapidly treating depression with a mechanism that is different from standard serotoninergic antidepressants.

REL-1017 works as an NMDA receptor (NMDAR) channel blocker that preferentially targets GluN1-GluN2D hyperactive channels. More specifically, REL-1017 shows preferential blocking of NMDAR subtypes that may be of particular importance in MDD, while avoiding channels with normal physiological functions. REL-1017 appears to provide antidepressant effects without causing psychotomimetic effects typically associated with drugs that work on the same receptors².

As stated by the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), esmethadone lacks significant respiratory depressant action and addiction liability³. In addition to blocking hyperactive open NMDAR channels, REL-1017 has been shown to potentially increase plasma levels of BDNF in humans⁴ and induce neural plasticity in animal models of depression⁵.

Relmada has built a strong intellectual property position around REL-1017, with key patent protections extending into the mid-2030s. The Reliance Clinical Research Program is ongoing, and is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of REL-1017 as a treatment for MDD. If you are a physician or a person living with depression who would like to learn more about the Reliance program, please contact: clinicaltrials@relmada.com

REL-1017 preferentially targets hyperactive GluN1-GluN2D NMDAR channels.

(1) Presynaptic release of glutamate causes neuronal membrane depolarization and release of the physiologic magnesium block (2). Sodium and calcium flow into the neuron. Calcium is especially relevant because if the channel remains open too long it can cause functional impairment and even death of the neuron (apoptosis).

(3) REL-1017 enters the NMDAR channel only when the NMDAR channel is hyperactive. By positioning itself in the center of the open channel, REL-1017 effectively blocks the entry of excessive amounts of calcium into the neuron (4).

As soon as excess calcium entry is stopped, the functions of the neuron are re-instituted, including the production of BDNF and synaptic proteins (neural plasticity) ^3,4, potentially restoring neuronal circuits essential for mental health².

References

1) Bettini E, Nola S, De Martin S, et al. Esmethadone (REL-1017) reduces glutamate-induced currents in NMDA receptors with the GluN2D subunit. Biological Psychiatry. 2021; 89(9), S198-S199. doi:10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.02.503.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.02.503

2) Fava M, Stahl S, Pani L, et al. REL-1017 (Esmethadone) as adjunctive treatment in patients with major depressive disorder: a phase2a randomized double-blind trial. Am J Psychiatry. 2022 Feb;179(2):122-131.
doi: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2021.21020197 Epub 2021 Dec 22

3) Drug Enforcement Administration. Diversion Control Division: Drug & Chemical Information Section. Methadone. December 2019. Available at: https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/methadone/methadone.pdf. Accessed October 11, 2021.

4) De Martin S, Gabbia D, Folli F, et al. REL-1017 (Esmethadone) increases circulating BDNF levels in healthy subjects of a Phase 1 clinical study. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2021;12:973‒978.
https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.671859

5) Fogaça M, Fukumoto K, Franklin T, et al. N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist d-methadone produces rapid, mTORC1-dependent antidepressant effects. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2019;44:2230–2238.
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-019-0501-x

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Novel MOA: REL-1017 works as an NMDAR channel blocker with preferential activity at hyperactive GluN1-GluN2D channels.

REL-1017 is thought to work through a selective, preferential block of hyperactive channels that may be associated with MDD.

REL-1017 preferentially targets hyperactive GluN1-GluN2D NMDAR channels.

References