Ulysses Neuroscience Ltd. has a specific line of research for the identification of both novel translational peripheral molecular biomarkers and neurophysiological biomarkers of disease progression for Major Depressive Disorders (MDD) and Anorexia Nervosa (AN). We have particular interest in the cellular pathways affecting synaptic plasticity and how drugs having antidepressant activity can modulate those pathways. Our research is also active in developing preclinical models and assays having translational relevance to accelerate progression of novel antidepressant drugs into the clinic.
We have open lines of research on CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD) and X-linked neurodevelopmental disorders such as Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). In particular, Ulysses Neuroscience Ltd. is engaged in unravelling the pathogenesis of CDD and FXS by using transgenic models coupled with translational molecular analysis and electrophysiology, which is then applied in clinical settings. Our team is also engaged in the important task of identifying early biomarkers of disease in order to facilitate preventive treatment. Hopefully, our research will also identify new drug targets to aid development of new treatments for these devastating brain disorders which mainly affect paediatric and adolescent patients.
Another strength of Ulysses Neuroscience Ltd. is our expertise on the aetiology and pathology of neurodegenerative disorders. We have particular interest in synaptic pathology which may anticipate neurodegeneration in Parkinsons’ disease (PD). In partnership with Atuka Inc, we are investigating potential biomarkers associated with synaptic plasticity and inflammation in preclinical models of PD. In collaboration with the Michael J. Fox Foundation, we are also exploring novel iPSC-derived organoid models of PD in which we can test pharmacological interventions on a variety of molecular assays.
The function, morphology and numbers of synaptic connections are constantly changing, an attribute called synaptic plasticity. Experience alters the organisation of the brain and synaptic plasticity is required for processing emotions, learning and memory functions. Microtubules are the primary component of the cytoskeleton and are formed by the polymerisation of the alpha/beta-tubulin heterodimers. Microtubule dynamics is the property exhibited by the plus end of the microtubules to alternate periods of prolonged assembly to rapid disassembly. It is fundamental in synaptic plasticity phenomena including formation, maintenance and remodelling of dendrites and dendritic spines. Research at Ulysses Neuroscience Ltd. is particularly focused on further advancing the current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms and pathways linking synaptic plasticity and microtubule dynamics, and how alterations to these links can cause different synaptic pathologies eventually leading to various brain disorders. We are also active in exploring novel therapeutic approaches modulating microtubule dynamics and synaptic plasticity.
Ulysses Neuroscience Ltd is embracing the psychedelic renaissance through our Psychedelics 2.0 campaign. Our research facilities in Trinity College Dublin and Maynooth University are fully licensed for the use of Schedule I drugs (glutamatergic and serotonergic psychedelics) for research. Our research capabilities on psychedelics can offer novel preclinical approaches to investigate mechanisms of action and efficacy of psychedelics and new derivatives.
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