Omeros is developing compounds that inhibit PDE10 for the treatment of schizophrenia. PDE10 is an enzyme that is expressed in areas of the brain strongly linked to schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. PDE10 inhibitors have been shown to be as effective in vivo as current anti-psychotic drugs. In addition, results from preclinical studies suggest that PDE10 inhibitors may address the limitations of currently used anti-psychotic drugs by avoiding the associated weight gain, improving cognition and, potentially, reducing the risk of associated sudden cardiac death.

We have synthesized a series of proprietary compounds that demonstrate promising preclinical results in pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and behavioral studies. Our PDE10 program is supported by funds from The Stanley Medical Research Institute, a non-profit corporation that supports research on the causes and treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. We are in late-stage optimization and plan to select a clinical product candidate to advance into toxicology studies in preparation for clinical trials.

Patent Position

Omeros has three pending U.S. patent applications, one European pending patent application and two international patent applications with claims directed to both composition of methods of use of PDE10 inhibitors for the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.