Our Approach
Innovative and targeted strategy with potential for life-changing treatment.
At Macrobian Biotech, our approach is grounded in the latest advances in neuroscience research, including new technologies in genetics and transcriptomics. Through fundamental research, we’ve gained unprecedented insight into the molecular pathways that regulate dopamine production in midbrain neurons, which are crucial in the development of neuro-psychiatric and neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease. Our founders have been at the forefront of these efforts, and are dedicated to translating this knowledge into clinical trial-ready compounds and innovative and targeted treatments for Parkinson’s disease.
Background
Current treatment strategies for Parkinson's disease are failing those who need long-term relief.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating movement, motivation, and reward in the brain. In Parkinson’s disease, there is a progressive degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra. This results in a reduction in dopamine levels, leading to characteristic symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and slowness of movement. The imbalance between dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain caused by the reduced dopamine levels can further contribute to the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
The current treatment strategies for Parkinson’s disease involve dopamine replacement therapy, which administers medications like levodopa and dopamine agonists to increase dopamine levels and restore dopaminergic neurotransmission. Although initially effective, the medications’ effectiveness decreases over time, leading to side effects such as dyskinesia and motor fluctuations. As a result, dopamine replacement therapies are typically used for a limited time.
Our Strategy
A Unique and Targeted Approach To Boost Dopamine Biosynthesis.
At Macrobian Biotech, we offer a novel approach to treating Parkinson’s disease that sets us apart from current treatment strategies. Our targeted method involves boosting the endogenous dopamine biosynthesis machinery, providing a sustainable way to increase dopamine production. By restoring the balance between dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain, our approach can ameliorate both the motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Our unique approach is supported by two key programs, each with the potential to provide a new treatment approach for Parkinson’s disease. The first program focuses on activating GUCY2C, a transmembrane receptor present in human midbrain dopaminergic neurons. The second program aims to inhibit phosphodiesterase (PDE) type 11A (PDE11A), which is relatively enriched in human midbrain dopamine neurons. Both programs offer a targeted method to sustainably increase dopamine production and boost the endogenous dopamine biosynthesis machinery. We have obtained in vivo proof of concept for both research pathways, and they are patent protected.
tHE bIOLOGY
Unlocking the On-Off Switch of Dopamine Production.
At Macrobian Biotech, we have developed a unique strategy to treating Parkinson’s disease by targeting specific biological mechanisms. Our approach involves boosting the natural production of dopamine in the brain, which plays a crucial role in regulating movement and other essential functions. By activating a specific receptor called GUCY2C or by inhibiting an enzyme known as PDE11A, we can increase dopamine production in a targeted manner.
Both GUCY2C activation and PDE11A inhibition result in the activation of tyrosine hydroxylase, an enzyme considered the “on-off switch” for dopamine production. Specifically, by inducing tyrosine hydroxylase Ser40 phosphorylation, we can activate the dopamine biosynthesis machinery. This unique activation mechanism allows us to address the underlying dopamine deficiency that contributes to the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. By boosting dopamine production through targeted Ser40 phosphorylation, our approach offers a promising avenue for developing innovative and effective treatments.
Help us bring innovative treatments to those in need.