Spinogenix's tazbentetol shows 6.3-point PANSS reduction in schizophrenia trial
First-in-class synaptic regenerative drug sustains efficacy days after discontinuation.
Spinogenix’s tazbentetol, a first-in-class investigational synaptic regenerative therapy, demonstrated significant symptom improvement in a Phase 2 add-on trial for schizophrenia. The drug achieved a placebo-adjusted reduction of 6.3 points on the PANSS (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale) score. Notably, patients who discontinued tazbentetol after six weeks retained therapeutic benefits for many days afterward, suggesting durable synaptic remodeling rather than transient modulation.
Tazbentetol works by modulating fascin-1/F-actin dynamics to promote the formation of dendritic spines with glutamatergic synapses—effectively rebuilding neural connections lost in schizophrenia. The same mechanism is under investigation for Alzheimer’s disease, ALS, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy, positioning it as a potential platform therapy for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions. Spinogenix presented the data at the Schizophrenia International Research Society (SIRS) 2026 Annual Congress.
- Placebo-adjusted 6.3-point PANSS reduction in Phase 2 add-on trial for schizophrenia.
- Efficacy sustained for days after discontinuing the 6-week treatment regimen.
- First-in-class synaptic regenerative therapy targeting fascin-1/F-actin to rebuild dendritic spines.
Why It Matters
A durable, regenerative approach to schizophrenia could transform treatment by restoring synapses instead of just managing symptoms.