Vernalis announces positive results for Parkinson's Disease treatment study

AIM-listed pharmaceutical company Vernalis has published positive results for a Receptor Occupancy study of an antagonist with potential applications for Parkinson's disease and other Central Nervous System indications.

The study examined the relationship between dose, plasma concentration and blockade of the so-called "A2A" receptor using positron emission tomography scanning and included a preliminary evaluation, using functional magnetic resonance imaging of the effects of V81444, the particular antangonist, on cognitive function.

The study demonstrated that full A2A blockade could be achieved with single doses that were within the range of doses previously shown to be well tolerated with no safety concerns.

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As such, the study has provided confirmation of the appropriate dose to be used in the forthcoming clinical proof-of-concept trial.

Vernalis now plans to initiate, in the first half of next year, a Phase IIa proof-of-concept study to further evaluate the pharmacokinetics, safety and tolerability of V81444 in patients, together with an evaluation of efficacy in a target patient population.

Ian Garland, Chief Executive Officer of Vernalis, commented: "We are very pleased with these results and are already actively preparing for the continued development of this exciting programme over the next 12 months".

Vernalis's share price was up 0.55% to 23p at 09:27 on Wednesday morning.

MF