Selene Therapeutics is developing a small molecule inhibitor of the mitochondrial enzyme Dihydro Orotate Dehydrogenase (DHODH) for the treatment of epilepsy.
Scientific approach
Stable neuronal and neuronal network function is achieved through various homeostatic mechanisms. DHODH appears to be a leading player in securing metabolic homeostasis of hyperexcitable hippocampal circuits. Inhibition of DHODH potentially decreases the average level of spontaneous neuronal spiking activity, known as the mean firing rate (MFR), buffers levels of neuronal Ca2+ and reduces susceptibility to induced seizures.
Indications
Epilepsy
Team
Prof. Inna Slutsky, PhD – Inventor
Neta Pessah, PhD – CSO