Innovative solutions to novel drug development in mental health.
Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2013;
37:2438-44. [PMID:
23563062 PMCID:
PMC3788850 DOI:
10.1016/j.neubiorev.2013.03.022]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Revised: 03/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
New approaches to identifying and validating potential drug targets are essential.
A novel drug toolbox and innovative private-public partnerships are required.
Translational neuroscience research will enhance understanding of mental health.
The training of a new cadre of clinician scientists is a necessary foundation.
Neuropsychiatric disorders require holistic, early, effective treatment.
There are many new advances in neuroscience and mental health which should lead to a greater understanding of the neurobiological dysfunction in neuropsychiatric disorders and new developments for early, effective treatments. To do this, a biomarker approach combining genetic, neuroimaging, cognitive and other biological measures is needed. The aim of this article is to highlight novel approaches for pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment development. This article suggests approaches that can be taken in the future including novel mechanisms with preliminary clinical validation to provide a toolbox for mechanistic studies and also examples of translation and back-translation. The review also emphasizes the need for clinician-scientists to be trained in a novel way in order to equip them with the conceptual and experimental techniques required, and emphasizes the need for private-public partnership and pre-competitive knowledge exchange. This should lead the way for important new holistic treatment developments to improve cognition, functional outcome and well-being of people with neuropsychiatric disorders.
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