CLARKSVILLE, MD – Neuronascent Inc., a company developing compounds to replace damaged brain cells, has received grants and funding totaling under $500,000 from multiple sources. Its lead compound in preclinical development may reverse cognitive losses from Alzheimer’s and other neurological disorders.

Neuronascent has received grants and funding from the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development Challenge Investment Program; the Maryland Industrial Partnerships in collaboration with University of Maryland, Baltimore; and Jefferson Corner Group I, LLC, a member-managed angel fund located in Charlottesville, VA.

The company’s lead compounds, currently in preclinical testing, aim to replace damaged neurons, restore neurons critical to cognition and memory and enhance neuroprotection against neurodegenerative diseases. Results from recent animal studies show a reversal of cognitive loss in aged mice to young levels.

“Our lead compound for Alzheimer’s disease may represent the first disease-modifying therapeutic under development,” said Judith Kelleher-Andersson, Ph.D., president and chief scientific officer.

Dr. Kelleher-Andersson went on to say, “This funding affords us the opportunity to pursue multiple preclinical studies to further develop our lead agents for clinical trials.”

Founded in 2004 by Dr. Kelleher-Andersson, Neuronascent, Inc. is a small-molecule central nervous system drug discovery company developing novel therapeutics based on the science of neurogenesis that target Alzheimer’s disease, depression and ischemia.

Neuronascent has laboratories in Rockville and Walkersville, MD.

On the Web: www.neuroascent.com

© 2008, TechJournal South. All rights reserved.