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Updated: May 26, 2026
07:16
Methods for the Discovery of Novel Compounds Modulating a Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid Receptor Type A Neurotransmission
Published on: August 16, 2018
Neuroscience networking: linking discovery to drugs
Jill Heemskerk1, Rebecca Farkas, Petra Kaufmann
1Office of Translational Research, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. jill.heemskerk@nih.gov
Summary
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) is accelerating neuroscience therapy development. New strategies include a virtual pharma model for drug discovery and the NeuroNEXT network for clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Translational Research
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Pre-clinical neuroscience discoveries are advancing potential therapies for neurological disorders.
- The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) funds research from basic science to clinical testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To accelerate the translation of neuroscience discoveries into clinical practice.
- To implement novel organizational strategies for therapy development.
Main Methods:
- Establishing a 'virtual pharma' structure for drug development partnerships (NIH and researchers).
- Piloting the Network for Excellence in Neuroscience Clinical Trials (NeuroNEXT) for phase 2 trials.
Main Results:
- The 'virtual pharma' model aims to expedite drug development from hit discovery to phase 1 trials.
- NeuroNEXT will facilitate efficient, scientifically sound, biomarker-informed phase 2 clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- NINDS is implementing innovative approaches to speed up the delivery of new neurological therapies.
- These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between basic research and patient treatment for neurological disorders.
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