Exxel Pharma’s ARN molecules are a novel family of global FAAH inhibitors which were designed to improve on the well-studied URB597 compound. The target indication for these molecules is PTSD, a disease with a significant unmet medical need and a market size projected to reach $1.7 billion by 2019. The Company is also exploring additional clinical indications, including cannabis and opioid use disorders (dependence and addiction).
The ARN molecules block the FAAH enzyme, similar to URB937 and URB597, thereby preventing degradation of the endocannabinoid anandamide and leading to increased cannabinoid receptor signaling. In contrast to URB937, the ARNs readily enter the CNS, which enables treatment of neurological disorders such as PTSD, addiction, anxiety and insomnia. The ARN FAAH inhibitors are patented, very potent and have improved oral bioavailability compared to the parent URB597 compound.
Published data for the ARN parent molecule, URB597, including work from international, academic research laboratories, can be found here.