Targeting biomolecular condensates, as a novel approach to ameliorate SYNGAP1-related synaptopathy
Awardee: Kristian Strømgaard
Institution: University of Copenhagen
Grant Amount: $74,851
Funding Period: February 1, 2025 - January 31, 2026
Summary:
Neurophase is a project hosted and funded by the BioInnovation Institute, a non-for-profit foundation in Denmark aiming to bridge the gap from academic research to company creation and real-life implementation of new ideas. Based on work from Professor Strømgaard from the University of Copenhagen, Neurophase has a team of talented scientists and experienced drug developers aiming to develop new drugs to help patients suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders. Neurophase is focused on diseases caused by mutations in proteins of the post-synaptic density (PSD), in particular SynGAP1 and PSD-95. The PSD is formed by formation of so-called biomolecular condensates, a novel concept of how protein complexes are formed and regulated and has recently been shown to be affected by mutations causing SYNGAP and PSD-95 associated synaptopathies. We design a new class of drugs by directly targeting the condensates of the PSD, to aid their proper formation and function. It is the goal of the project to generate data to support further investment, and within the next 24 months to establish as an independent company dedicated to treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders. Additional funding at this stage of our journey will greatly improve our ability to test our approach in multiple different disease relevant biological cell and animal models.