- In July 2023, Golgi Neurosciences and Breye Therapeutics closed a collaboration to advance their oral P2X7 receptor antagonist program aimed at treating retinal diseases like diabetic retinopathy and dry AMD—highlighting the expanding therapeutic interest beyond CNS and immune disorders
- In May 2023, a Phase I trial of JNJ‑54175446 (a brain-penetrant P2X7 antagonist) in patients with major depressive disorder showed the drug was safe and well-tolerated, and demonstrated pharmacological activity—supporting its progression in psychiatric and neuroinflammatory indications
- In April 2025, BioWorld reported that AFC‑5128, a CNS-active P2X7 antagonist, significantly mitigated both acute and chronic experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in preclinical models—reinforcing its potential in treating multiple sclerosis
- In January 2021 (still highly relevant), Lilly licensed AK1780, a potent oral P2X7 antagonist, from Asahi Kasei Pharma—providing USD 20 M upfront and up to $210 M in milestones, marking strong pharma investment and interest in chronic pain applications
