Scripps Research spin-off BlackThorn Therapeutics advances lead clinical program for major depressive disorder

LA JOLLA, CA — The clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company BlackThorn Therapeutics Inc., a spin-off from Scripps Research, has begun patient enrollment for a phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the impact of its lead drug candidate in individuals with major depressive disorder. This follows last year’s successful phase 1 trial, which demonstrated favorable safety and tolerability in human subjects.

The compound, BTRX-335140, which was discovered in collaboration with Scripps Research faculty members Hugh Rosen, MD, PhD, and Edward Roberts, PhD, selectively blocks kappa opioid receptors. The brain’s kappa opioid system mediates many of the negative emotions that occur under conditions of stress. BTRX-335140 is intended to reduce these stress responses, thereby easing symptoms of depressed mood, anxiety and cognitive impairment.

“People are suffering from mental health disorders more than ever before, but the available therapies to combat them are still limited,” says Rosen, professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine at Scripps Research and co-founder of BlackThorn Therapeutics. “Intelligent interventions that are based on a better understanding of our behavioral circuits could really help restore the lives of patients and their loved ones.” The current proof-of-concept trial is expected to be completed by December 2020.

More than 16 million Americans are affected by major depressive disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, with a greater prevalence in women. Furthermore, depression often co-occurs with other serious conditions, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and substance use disorder.