Startup launches trial of psychedelic-style drug for Parkinson’s symptom

A new biotech startup announced it will begin preclinical testing of a psychedelic-like compound aimed at alleviating a specific symptom of Parkinson’s disease.

The company plans to evaluate the drug’s efficacy in animal models that incorporate human neuronal features, building on recent advances that use mice with partially humanized brains.

The announcement arrives as the FDA’s recent hiring push encounters logistical challenges, underscoring broader industry pressures.

While the trial is still early-stage, the approach reflects growing interest in psychedelic-derived therapies for neurological conditions.