Mair Therapeutics has announced a scientific collaboration with Radboud University to accelerate the discovery of small-molecule agonists of TMEM175, a lysosomal ion channel genetically linked to Parkinson's disease.

TMEM175 plays a key role in maintaining lysosomal homeostasis, which is essential for the clearance of misfolded proteins such as alpha-synuclein. Genetic studies have linked TMEM175 dysfunction to increased risk of Parkinson's disease, while protective variants have been shown to reduce disease susceptibility. Mair's drug discovery platform is focused on identifying small molecules that enhance TMEM175 activity and restore lysosomal function.

Under this collaboration, Dr Marijn Kuijpers' laboratory at the Donders Centre for Neuroscience, Faculty of Science, Radboud University, will assess a portfolio of TMEM175-targeting compounds developed by Mair Therapeutics. The compounds will be evaluated in human neuron models derived from Parkinson's disease and healthy donor cells, using assays focused on lysosomal pH regulation and degradation capacity—two critical functions impaired in Parkinson's disease.

"Parkinson's disease remains one of the most pressing medical challenges of our time, and targeting lysosomal dysfunction offers a promising path forward. We are excited to collaborate with Radboud University, whose deep expertise in neuronal biology and Parkinson's research will be instrumental in validating our therapeutic approach," said Dr Vasily Kazey, CEO, Mair Therapeutics. 

The collaboration underscores Mair's commitment to build partnerships within the East Netherlands' neuroscience and innovation ecosystem. The company, which recently launched with backing from Torrey Pines Investment and Oost NL, is headquartered in Nijmegen, a leading hub for Parkinson's research and home to the Parkinson expertise centre led by Professor Dr Bas Bloem at Radboudumc.