The proof of concept trial is designed to evaluate the analgesic effects of TC-2696 following dental surgery. Targacept has previously conducted a phase I single ascending dose trial of TC-2696. A phase I multiple ascending dose trial is ongoing.
TC-2696, a novel compound discovered using Targacept’s proprietary drug design platform known as Pentad, modulates specific neuronal nicotinic receptors (NNRs), a class of receptors found in the central nervous system that play a critical role in regulating nervous system activity. TC-2696 binds selectively to the alpha4beta2 NNR and is believed to act by blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
“A number of studies in the scientific literature have shown the analgesic effects of compounds that act on the alpha4beta2 NNR,” said Donald deBethizy, Targacept’s president and CEO.
“TC-2696 is one of several NNR-selective product candidates in our product pipeline with potential to be a first-in-class therapeutic to address a significant unmet need.”