Gabather AB reported initial positive results from the EEG/fMRI target engagement study, a double-blinded placebo-controlled, cross-over phase Ib study of Gabather's GABAA-receptor positive allosteric modulator, GT-002, in healthy volunteers. The study met the primary objective to confirm a favourable safety and tolerability profile of GT-002. The secondary objective to demonstrate target engagement in human brain was also met.

The study clearly demonstrated that GT-002 is safe and well tolerated at dose levels expected to be effective for treatment of patients with neuropsychiatric disorders. Clinically relevant effects of GT-002 were observed on modulation of EEG frequency band power with a significant increase in alpha band power, compared to Lorazepam at the 2-hour after treatment. This effect spanned various brain regions, including frontal and occipital areas.

No significant effect of Lorazepam on EEG alpha band power compared to placebo was observed. The results suggest a distinct effect of GT-002 to modulate alpha band power across specific cortical regions. EEG alpha band power is recognized as a marker of cognitive activity such as attention and associated with relaxation and less anxiety, an increase in alpha band may be beneficial for a number of different neuropsychiatric conditions.

Of particular clinical interest are the reports that negative symptoms in schizophrenia patients are associated with reduced EEG alpha band power.