Biotechnology company Psylo, Tessara Therapeutics and the University of Sydney announced on Monday that they have secured a AUD3m Cooperative Research Centres Projects grant, matched by partner funds for a total project investment of AUD6.2m.

This collaboration focuses on developing neuroplastogens to treat substance use disorders, primarily targeting methamphetamine addiction. Methamphetamine addiction presents a critical public health challenge with limited treatment options, underscoring the demand for innovative therapeutic solutions.

Tessara's RealBrain microtissue technology, Psylo's neuroplastogens, and the University of Sydney's neuroscience expertise will drive this research. Neuroplastogens, a novel class of compounds, enhance neuroplasticity, aiming to restore brain function by stimulating neural circuit growth and remodeling.

Set to run from January 2025 to December 2027 this initiative is expected to accelerate neuroplastogen discovery, improve preclinical models, and advance sustainable drug discovery practices.