ACD856
Pan-Trk positive allosteric modulator (AlzeCure) that amplifies BDNF/NGF signaling, with Phase 1 human data.

Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS ACD856?
Detailed overview
ACD856 (AlzeCure Pharma) is a triazinetrione-class, orally active, pan-Trk positive allosteric modulator (PAM) that potentiates the tropomyosin receptor kinase family (TrkA, TrkB, TrkC). It does not activate the receptor directly; instead it amplifies signaling triggered by the body's own neurotrophins (BDNF, NGF), so it acts only where an endogenous signal is already present. In preclinical models it improved memory, produced antidepressant-like effects, and showed neuroprotective, disease-modifying effects. In completed Phase 1 (single and multiple ascending dose) human trials it was well tolerated, with a half-life of roughly 19 to 20 hours and a pro-cognitive signature on quantitative EEG. A Phase 2 trial is planned for Alzheimer's disease; depression, sleep disorders, and traumatic brain injury indications remain at the preclinical stage.
Mechanism
Pan-Trk PAM (amplifies BDNF/NGF signaling)
Evidence
Phase 1 human safety + PK, preclinical efficacy
Legal status
Investigational (unapproved) drug
Receptor profile
- TrkA / TrkB / TrkC receptorsStrong
- BDNF and NGF neurotrophin signalingStrong
- PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK downstream cascadesModerate
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 5
- Well tolerated in Phase 1 human trials with no serious adverse events reported
- Mild, transient headache is possible
- Mild nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort may occur
- Long-term safety in patient populations remains unestablished (ongoing development)
- Theoretical risks of Trk signaling (e.g. modulation of pain signaling) are not yet fully characterized in humans
Contraindications · 4
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: safety not established, avoid
- Investigational, unapproved drug; not recommended outside clinical supervision
- Effect of co-administration with other agents affecting neurotrophin signaling is unknown
- Theoretical caution warranted with known Trk-dependent malignancy given the amplification of neurotrophin signaling
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
Studies
Related research and clinical findings
ACD856, a novel positive allosteric modulator of Trk receptors, single ascending doses in healthy subjects: Safety and pharmacokinetics
Nilsson B, Bylund J, et al.
Safety, Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics and Quantitative Electroencephalography Assessment of ACD856, a Novel Positive Allosteric Modulator of Trk-Receptors Following Multiple Doses in Healthy Subjects
Onnestam K, Nilsson B, et al.
Neuroprotective and Disease-Modifying Effects of the Triazinetrione ACD856, a Positive Allosteric Modulator of Trk-Receptors for the Treatment of Cognitive Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease
Parrado Fernandez C, Juric S, et al.
Antidepressant effects of novel positive allosteric modulators of Trk-receptor mediated signaling: a potential therapeutic approach for depression
Madjid N, Lidell V, et al.
Identification of Novel Positive Allosteric Modulators of Neurotrophin Receptors for the Treatment of Cognitive Dysfunction
Dahlstrom M, Madjid N, et al.
Positive Allosteric Modulators of Trk Receptors for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Forsell P, Parrado Fernandez C, et al.
FAQ
FAQ
Pan-Trk positive allosteric modulator (AlzeCure) that amplifies BDNF/NGF signaling, with Phase 1 human data.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.