Synaptic Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing novel therapeutics that protect and restore synaptic function in neurodegenerative diseases. Founded in 2021 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the company's mission is to address synaptic loss, the strongest pathological correlate of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease[1].
The company's lead program, ST-101, is a first-in-class small molecule that targets the sigma-2 receptor to protect synapses from amyloid-beta toxicity. Unlike amyloid-targeting antibodies that aim to reduce amyloid burden, ST-101 directly protects the synaptic connections that are essential for memory and cognition.
| Program | Target/Mechanism | Indication | Phase | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ST-101 | Sigma-2 receptor agonist | Alzheimer's disease | Phase 1 | Active (2024) |
| ST-202 | Sigma-2 receptor agonist | Parkinson's disease | Preclinical | Research |
| ST-303 | Synaptic stabilizer | Dementia with Lewy Bodies | Discovery | Research |
Synaptic Therapeutics focuses on the sigma-2 receptor:
Receptor Function:
Therapeutic Approach:
ST-101 protects synapses through multiple pathways:
Prevents Synaptic Loss:
Enhances Cellular Resilience:
Supports Neural Function:
Phase 1 Study (2024):
ST-101 entered Phase 1 clinical trials in 2024, evaluating:
Phase 1b/2a Plans:
ST-101 represents a novel approach:
| Feature | ST-101 | Anti-Amyloid Antibodies |
|---|---|---|
| Target | Sigma-2 receptor | Amyloid-beta |
| Mechanism | Synaptic protection | Amyloid reduction |
| Approach | Downstream | Upstream |
| Stage | Phase 1 | Approved |
Synaptic loss is the key correlate of cognitive decline:
The sigma-2 receptor is a unique target:
ST-101 has demonstrated:
Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
Founded: 2021
Funding:
Investors:
Leadership:
| Company | Program | Mechanism | Stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synaptic Therapeutics | ST-101 | Sigma-2 agonist | Phase 1 |
| Cognition/Novartis | CT1812 | Sigma-2 antagonist | Phase 2 |
| Vigil Neuroscience | VIG-106 | TREM2 agonist | Phase 1 |
| Lyterian | LYT-100 | NLRP3 inhibitor | Phase 1b/2a |
Synaptic Dysfunction
Sigma-2 Receptor
Amyloid Cascade Hypothesis
Synaptic Plasticity Deficits