SEAD1

SEAD1 is a synthetic peptide therapeutic designed to mimic the soluble form of the brain protein α2δ-1 (encoded by the *Cacna2d1* gene). Developed by researchers at Northwestern University, it aims to treat the cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders. The mechanism involves restoring network homeostasis in brain circuits that become overexcited due to a deficiency of naturally occurring soluble α2δ-1 in the cerebrospinal fluid. In preclinical studies, SEAD1 administration corrected abnormal brain circuit activity and rescued behavioral deficits in mouse models of schizophrenia without causing common side effects like sedation. The therapeutic is currently being optimized for clinical trials, particularly for patients with 16p11.2 duplication syndrome.

Other names

synthetic soluble alpha2delta-1soluble alpha2delta-1 peptide