Neurosteroid Approach

Our neurosteroid programs embrace a transdiagnostic approach to mental health — targeting the converging neurobiological pathways that drive diverse mood and stress disorders. Neurosteroids are a special class of molecules produced in the brain and endocrine system that powerfully influence neural activity.

Unlike traditional neurotransmitters, these natural compounds modulate broad brain circuits, including those governing stress, mood, and even immune responses . They can impact both excitatory and inhibitory signaling in the brain, helping maintain equilibrium in neural networks. Notably, neurosteroids have been implicated in numerous psychiatric conditions – from depression and anxiety to PTSD and beyond – highlighting their central role in emotional regulation.

In developing our neurosteroid therapeutic, we purposefully avoid overly specific receptor targeting or narrow mechanisms that could limit its applicability. The goal is a broad yet safe modulation of the brain’s stress response system. Because our oral compound is designed to cross the blood–brain barrier and reach key regions quickly, it holds potential for fast-acting relief. Moreover, by not divulging specific molecular targets publicly, we protect the novelty of our approach while we gather robust preclinical evidence.