NV-5138 has been found to increase mTORC1 signaling within physiologic range and to stimulate synaptogenesis in the mPFC, and further to induce rapid antidepressant effects in multiple animal models of depression.[1][4] Like those of ketamine, these actions were demonstrated to require the signaling of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).[1] The antidepressant effects following a single dose of NV-5138 are long-lasting, with a duration of up to 7 days, and are similar to those of ketamine.[1][4]
Clinical trials
NV-5138 has undergone several clinical trials to assess its potential as a treatment for depression, with a particular focus on treatment-resistant depression (TRD). The clinical development program for NV-5138 began with a Phase 1 trial initiated by Navitor Pharmaceuticals in 2018.[1][7] This initial study was designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of the compound in both healthy volunteers and patients diagnosed with TRD.[8]
Following the Phase 1 trial,larger Phase 2 studes were launched to further investigate the efficacy and safety of NV-5138 as an adjunctive treatment for adults with TRD.[9][10][3] These more extensive trials involved a larger number of participants and was structured to provide more comprehensive data on the compound's potential therapeutic benefits.[11]
^Clinical trial number NCT03606395 for "Safety, Tolerability, PK and Efficacy of Single Doses of NV-5138 in Healthy Volunteers and Subjects With Treatment-Resistant Depression" at ClinicalTrials.gov