Comprehensive data review suggests a central role for the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in neuronal development, cognitive function and in the pathogenesis of Fragile X syndrome (FXS)
Cannabidiol may help restore the function of the ECS in FXS patients according to review of data
Consistent with the proposed mechanisms of action of cannabidiol in FXS, Zygel™ showed a significant reduction in behavioral symptoms, in patients with ≥90% methylation of the FMR1 gene, compared to those treated with placebo in the CONNECT-FX clinical study
Devon, PA, January 11, 2023 — Zynerba Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZYNE), the leader in innovative pharmaceutically-produced transdermal cannabinoid therapies for orphan neuropsychiatric disorders, today announces the publication of a paper entitled, “Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Fragile X Syndrome: Potential Mechanisms for Benefit From Cannabidiol Treatment,” in the Journal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders. The review of evidence suggests a central role for the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in neuronal development and cognitive function and in the pathogenesis of Fragile X syndrome (FXS), and the potential role of cannabidiol as a treatment for FXS. The article can be accessed online at the Journal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders at https://rdcu.be/c25fu.
“This publication describes the potential of Zygel as a treatment for Fragile X syndrome based on the central role the endocannabinoid system plays in neuronal development and function,” said Armando Anido, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Zynerba. “The proposed mechanisms of action of cannabidiol are supported by the results from our Phase 3 CONNECT-FX trial in patients with Fragile X syndrome with greater than or equal to 90% methylation of the FMR1 gene, benefited from treatment with Zygel. These findings bolster our confidence in the design of the ongoing, confirmatory, pivotal Phase 3 RECONNECT trial.”
FXS is caused by deficiency or absence of the FMR1 protein, FMRP. The absence of FMRP disrupts ECS signaling, which has been implicated in FXS pathogenesis. The ECS helps maintain neuronal function and signaling and is thought to be disrupted in FXS. Cannabidiol may help restore the function of the ECS in FXS according to a review of data to date. Cannabidiol may also act as an agonist on serotonin 5HT1A and other receptors which may contribute to beneficial effects in people with FXS. Consistent with these proposed mechanisms of action of cannabidiol in FXS, in the Phase 3 CONNECT-FX trial, Zygel was associated with improvements in measures of social avoidance, irritability and social interaction, particularly in patients showing ≥90% methylation of the FMR1 gene. Results from the CONNECT-FX study of Zygel for the treatment of behavioral symptoms in children and adolescents with FXS can be accessed online at the Journal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders at https://rdcu.be/c0sKz.
About Zygel
Zygel is the first and only pharmaceutically-manufactured cannabidiol formulated as a patent-protected permeation-enhanced clear gel, designed to provide controlled drug delivery into the bloodstream transdermally (i.e. through the skin). Recent studies suggest that cannabidiol may modulate the endocannabinoid system and improve certain behavioral symptoms associated with neuropsychiatric conditions. Zygel is an investigational drug product in development for the potential treatment of behavioral symptoms associated with Fragile X syndrome (FXS), 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Company has received orphan drug designation for cannabidiol, the active ingredient in Zygel, from the FDA and the European Commission in the treatment of FXS and the treatment of 22q. Additionally, Zygel has been designated a Fast Track development program for treatment of behavioral symptoms of FXS.
About Fragile X Syndrome (FXS)
Fragile X syndrome is a rare genetic developmental disability that is the leading known cause of both inherited intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder, affecting 1 in 4,000 males and 1 in 6,000 females. It is the most common inherited intellectual disability in males and a significant cause of intellectual disability in females, and the leading genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The disorder negatively affects synaptic function, plasticity and neuronal connections, and results in a spectrum of intellectual disabilities and behavioral symptoms, such as social avoidance and irritability. In the U.S., there are about 78,000 people suffering with FXS, approximately 60% of whom have complete methylation of the FMR1 gene.
FXS is caused by a mutation in FMR1, a gene which modulates a number of systems, including important effects on the endocannabinoid system, and most critically, codes for a protein called FMRP. This protein helps regulate the production of other proteins and plays a role in the development of synapses, which are critical for relaying nerve impulses, and in regulating synaptic plasticity. The FMR1 mutation manifests as multiple repeats of a DNA segment, known as the CGG triplet repeat. In most neurotypical people, the FMR1 gene correctly codes for the FMRP protein. As a result, FMRP is produced at levels that enable control over behaviors like social avoidance and anxiety. In people with full mutation of the FMR1 gene, the CGG segment is repeated more than 200 times, and in most cases causes the gene to not function. Methylation of the FMR1 gene also plays a role in determining functionality of the gene. For patients with complete methylation, no FMRP is produced. With no FMRP, the systems and processes that are modulated by FMRP become dysregulated.
About Zynerba Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Zynerba Pharmaceuticals is the leader in innovative pharmaceutically-produced transdermal cannabinoid therapies for orphan neuropsychiatric disorders. We are committed to improving the lives of patients and their families living with severe, chronic health conditions including Fragile X syndrome and 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Learn more at www.zynerba.com and follow us on Twitter at @ZynerbaPharma.
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