Z944 is a novel, oral, T-type calcium channel blocker that has demonstrated preclinical efficacy in multiple inflammatory and acute pain models. A Phase 1 clinical trial evaluating the safety and tolerability of Z944 is ongoing. If Z944 successfully completes this Phase 1 clinical trial, Zalicus plans to advance Z944 into Phase 2 clinical development.
The wide distribution of T-type calcium channels found in brain, heart, endocrine cells and other tissues provides the possibility of developing therapeutics for multiple indications, including treatment of pain. Zalicus has utilized its expertise in this field to successfully discover high affinity, selective and orally available compounds, such as Z944, that show promise for further development.
T-type Calcium Channel Blockers
T-type, or transient-type (referring to the length of time activated), calcium channel blockers target low-voltage-activated, calcium channels. These channels have been recognized as critical components in numerous cell functions and have been implicated in the frequency and intensity of pain signals. Zalicus is investigating compounds to modulate T-type calcium channel signaling in the treatment of pain. Our orally-administered T-type calcium channel blockers have shown efficacy in animal models of acute and chronic pain, as well as other indications.
Z944 is a novel, oral, T-type calcium channel blocker that we are developing for pain.
