Therapeutic Focus Areas
MIRA1a is under evaluation for three key therapeutic areas with high disease burden and significant unmet needs:
Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic Pain is a complex pain condition that arises from dysfunction or damage to the nervous system. It is a pain state that can continue even when the initial cause of the pain, such as an injury or disease, has healed or been treated. It represents a malfunction in the nerve's signaling rather than a response to continued harm.
Affecting approximately 7-10% of the general population. Examples include diabetic peripheral neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, and multiple sclerosis related neuropathy.
Existing treatments may involve medications like anticonvulsants, which can reduce the excitability of nerves, thereby dampening abnormal electrical activity, or antidepressants, which increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels that modulate the way the brain perceives pain. However, their effectiveness can be limited, and they might carry side effects. Opiates are used less frequently due to addiction risks.
Developing targeted and efficient therapies for neuropathic pain stands as a priority for numerous pharmaceutical companies to address this common source of suffering and morbidity for treatment-resistant cases. Innovative strategies, including cann-a-binoid therapies, are under exploration to tackle the distinctive challenges posed by this type of pain.
Anxiety and Cognitive Decline in the Elderly
Anxiety disorders are chronic conditions marked by an excessive & persistent sense of apprehension, with physical symptoms such as sweating, palpitations, and feelings of stress.
~40 million U.S. adults have an anxiety disorder, including phobias, Social Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder.
Standard treatment leverages cognitive-behavioral therapy, though pharmacological options include. SSRIs, SNRIs, and TCAs.
Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive Impairment encompasses conditions marked by notable decline in one's cognitive abilities including Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
~16 million people in the US are living with cognitive impairment.
Current treatments for cognitive impairment do not temporarily restore lost function and are only capable of delaying the progression of the disease.
Anticipated Timeline
Pre-clinical work is underway and expected to be completed by Q1’24.
Positioning MIRA for an initial IND filing in Q3 2024.