Parkinson's UK invests in developing potential new drug with Acurex Biosciences

We’re partnering with US-based company Acurex Biosciences to support the final stages of testing and development of their molecule, CU-13001, in preparation for its progress into clinical trials.

What is CU-13001?

CU-13001 is a molecule that has shown exciting potential for protecting the brain cells that are lost in Parkinson’s in laboratory-based tests.

It targets an enzyme called 15-lipoxygenase, which emerging research suggests may play an important role in the death of dopamine-producing cells in the condition.

Mark Kaufmann, CEO of Acurex, explains:

"We are beginning to understand that 4-HNE, a toxic byproduct of lipid metabolism, might be a central cause of Parkinson’s. Inhibitors of 15-lipoxygenase could stop the production of 4-HNE and potentially halt the disease. We aim to test this hypothesis in human trials soon, and partnering with Parkinson’s UK is a critical step in this process."

What are the next steps?

The team at Acurex has developed a molecule with the properties needed to get into the brain and protect brain cells.

To move CU-13001 forward, essential preclinical tests are needed to meet regulatory requirements before it can be given to patients for the first time in clinical trials.

These tests will assess potential side effects, potential interactions with other common medications, and how the molecule is distributed and processed in the body.

Before going into human trials, regulatory guidelines require new drugs to be tested for safety in 2 animal species: a rodent (rat or mouse) and a non-rodent (dog, pig or non-human primate).

If successful, CU-13001 will be ready for clinical trials.

An exciting new approach to slow or stop Parkinson’s

Arthur Roach, Virtual Biotech Director at Parkinson's UK, said:

"We’re delighted to partner with Acurex Biosciences to accelerate this exciting new potential treatment for Parkinson’s through our pioneering Virtual Biotech programme.

"CU-13001 targets a novel mechanism for Parkinson’s and represents an exciting new approach to slowing or stopping the death of brain cells in the condition.

"This is what we created the Virtual Biotech programme to do, apply support from the Parkinson’s community to accelerate bold new research to create potentially life-changing new therapies. We look forward to working with Acurex to advance CU-13001 towards clinical trials."