coluracetam

Coluracetam (development code BCI-540; formerly MKC-231) is a nootropic agent of the racetam family. It was initially developed by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation for Alzheimer's disease but did not meet clinical endpoints in this indication. The compound was subsequently in-licensed by BrainCells Inc for investigation in major depressive disorder (MDD) with comorbid anxiety and has also been studied for potential use in ischemic retinopathy and retinal/optic nerve injury. Coluracetam acts primarily by enhancing high-affinity choline uptake (HACU), which is the rate-limiting step of acetylcholine synthesis, thereby increasing acetylcholine levels especially under conditions of neuronal impairment. It may also have neurogenic effects independent of serotonin modulation and has shown procognitive and neuroprotective properties in preclinical models[1][3][5][7]. Clinical development for depression with anxiety reached phase II trials but was discontinued[7][8].

Other names

coluracetamBCI-540BCI540BCI 540MKC-231MKC231MKC 231