Areas of innovation

Mental health

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For more than 40 years, we’ve been working to reshape our understanding of serious neurological conditions and their impact on our bodies and brains. That includes psychiatric disorders and Alzheimer’s disease. Now, we’re exploring additional mental health and substance use disorders, including alcohol use disorder. We’re building on our foundation of rigorous scientific exploration to find potential medicines for some of the toughest-to-treat diseases.

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Alcohol use disorder

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Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition with serious health and life consequences. It involves a problematic pattern of alcohol use resulting in a person experiencing loss of control with significant consequences to physical health, mental health and relationships.

In 2023, AUD affected more than 28 million adult Americans and 400 million adults worldwide. This disease causes medical complications across the body and can lead to other diseases, like heart disease, cancer and liver disease. It can also occur alongside psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety.

Currently, less than 10% of those diagnosed with AUD get any kind of treatment.

We’re currently exploring potential treatments for AUD. Find a clinical trial for you or someone you know.

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Major depressive disorder

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Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental health conditions. Annually, it affects up to 21 million adults in the U.S. and 332 million worldwide. MDD involves a person having at least one episode during which they experience five or more of the following symptoms over the same two-week period which represents a change from previous functioning: depressed mood and/or decreased interest or pleasure in most or all activities (one of these must be present); significant change in appetite and/or weight; insomnia or hypersomnia; change in motor activity; loss of energy; feelings of worthlessness or guilt; impaired concentration or indecisiveness; recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.  These episodes are called ‘major depressive episodes.”

MDD is among the leading causes of disability worldwide and MDD can negatively impact an individual’s life roles, including at home, with family and friends, and at their job. Those with MDD experiencing symptoms of major depression may face challenges building or maintaining social or romantic relationships. Similarly, for those with MDD, experiencing symptoms of depression can make it harder for the individual to be at their best at their job and, over time, may face challenges in keeping their job or over time.

We are studying a potential treatment for patients with MDD. See our clinical trials if you are interested in participating.

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