Ovid Therapeutics Inc. has taken a significant step forward in its mission to address rare epilepsies and other brain disorders by expanding its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). The New York-based biopharmaceutical company announced the appointment of several leading figures in neurology and neuroscience, who will provide their expertise to enhance the development and application of Ovid’s innovative pipeline programs.
Among the newly appointed members are Dr. Imad Najm and Dr. Raman Sankar, both distinguished neurologists and epileptologists. Dr. Najm is affiliated with the Cleveland Clinic Neurological Institute and the Cleveland Clinic Epilepsy Center, while Dr. Sankar serves as the Emeritus Chief of Pediatric Neurology at UCLA Health. Their extensive experience in the field will be invaluable as Ovid seeks to explore the therapeutic potential of its compounds in broader neurological disorders.
Joining them are renowned neuroscientists Dr. Jamie Maguire from Tufts University and Dr. Jeff Noebels from Baylor College of Medicine. Their expertise in neurophysiology, hyperexcitability, and network effects will contribute significantly to the SAB’s efforts to assess how Ovid’s innovative therapies can be applied to various brain conditions.
The SAB is tasked with advising Ovid on the potential applications of its compounds, particularly as they relate to disorders characterized by hyperexcitability, neurovascular dysfunction, and neuroinflammatory conditions. This strategic expansion of the advisory board aligns with Ovid’s commitment to advancing its research and development capabilities in the field of neurology.
At the helm of the SAB is Professor Robert Langer, a prominent figure in biomedical engineering and a member of the National Academy of Engineering. Under his leadership, the SAB convened its first meeting at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in July 2024. During this initial gathering, members discussed the translation and clinical development strategies associated with Ovid’s pipeline, which includes a range of compounds targeting ROCK2 inhibition and KCC2 direct activation.
Ovid’s recent advancements in its Rho associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase 2 (ROCK2) inhibitor and potassium chloride co-transporter 2 (KCC2) direct activator libraries have shown promise in modifying complex brain disorders. These mechanisms are believed to play a critical role in addressing conditions that are typically resistant to current treatment options.
Dr. Langer expressed his enthusiasm for Ovid’s potential to tackle significant challenges in neuroscience. He stated, “I challenge every team and company that I support to answer big questions that will help patients. Neuroscience is a particularly challenging area in scale and complexity; I believe that Ovid is positioned to help answer major questions about intractable conditions of the brain.”
With a robust small molecule pipeline that includes multiple promising candidates, Ovid Therapeutics is poised to make impactful strides in the treatment of neurological disorders. The expertise brought by the new SAB members will undoubtedly enhance the company’s research efforts and clinical strategies, ultimately aiming to improve the lives of individuals affected by these challenging conditions.
As the SAB begins its work, the focus will be on developing actionable insights and strategies that can lead to effective therapies for patients suffering from various neurological disorders. The collaboration of these experts signifies a commitment to advancing scientific understanding and therapeutic solutions in the realm of neurology.
