As shown in the graphic above, Pentad identifies product candidates that interact selectively
with NNRs in the brain rather than NNRs in the cardiovasular and neuromuscular systems.

Decades of research with nicotine and other compounds that interact with NNRs have validated NNRs as therapeutic targets. Our scientists have played a prominent role in the growth of knowledge about NNRs, as well as the effects of compounds that mimic the action of acetylcholine and interact with different NNR subtypes. For example, numerous published studies implicate nicotine’s interaction with the α4β2 NNR and with the α7 NNR in the brain in its well-documented abilities to enhance attention, learning and memory. Other published studies evaluating the effects of nicotine in humans and animals, as well as published studies showing the prevalence of diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease in non-smokers as compared to smokers, suggest the therapeutic effects of compounds that interact with NNRs.

Targacept's Solution

Nicotine and other compounds known to interact with NNRs are not sufficiently selective. As a result, they interact with NNRs associated with side effects.

Based on our 20+ years of focus on NNRs and the expertise we have built over that time, we are developing product candidates that are designed to interact selectively with specific NNR subtypes to achieve therapeutic effects and limit or potentially eliminate adverse side effects.