PSD-95

Nerinetide (also known as NA-1) is a neuroprotective drug that has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. The drug works by inhibiting the activity of a protein called PSD-95, which is involved in the death of brain cells following a stroke.

Nerinetide has been shown to reduce brain damage and improve functional outcomes in preclinical models of stroke. In Phase II clinical trial, nerinetide was found to be safe and well-tolerated and to improve functional outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke who received intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) therapy.

However, in a subsequent Phase III clinical trial, called the ESCAPE-NA-1 study, nerinetide did not meet its primary endpoint of reducing disability after 90 days compared to placebo in patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent endovascular treatment. Despite this, some experts believe that nerinetide may still have potential as a neuroprotective agent for certain patient populations, and further research is ongoing.

It is important to note that nerinetide is not currently approved for use in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke, and should only be used in the context of a clinical trial or under the direction of a healthcare provider.