Angelman Syndrome

Advancing groundbreaking therapies to tackle the challenges of neurodegenerative and rare conditions.

What is Angelman Syndrome?

Angelman Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, leading to developmental delays, movement and balance issues, minimal to no speech, and frequent seizures. Despite these challenges, individuals with Angelman Syndrome often exhibit a happy demeanor, with frequent smiling and laughter.

On a Deeper Level

Angelman Syndrome is a neurogenetic disorder caused by abnormalities in the UBE3A gene, which is located on chromosome 15. This gene plays a crucial role in brain development, and its disruption results in the characteristic symptoms of the condition. Angelman Syndrome typically presents in early childhood, with delays in reaching developmental milestones like walking or speaking. Children with Angelman Syndrome often have a distinctive behavioral profile, including a consistently happy demeanor, hyperactivity, and fascination with water. While the condition is not degenerative, it requires lifelong care and management. Angelman Syndrome is frequently misdiagnosed as autism, cerebral palsy, or other developmental disorders, underscoring the need for increased awareness and early genetic testing.

Signs & Symptoms

The hallmark signs and symptoms of Angelman Syndrome include:

Developmental delays: Significant delays in sitting, crawling, or walking.
Speech impairment: Minimal to no use of words, although receptive communication (understanding) is often better than expressive abilities.
Movement disorders: Ataxia (uncoordinated movements) and tremors affecting balance and mobility.
Frequent seizures: Typically beginning between ages 2 and 5.
Distinctive behaviors: Frequent smiling, laughing, and hand-flapping movements.
Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

Other features may include a flattened back of the head, light hair and skin, and a fascination with water.

How many are affected by this condition?

Prevalence

Angelman Syndrome is estimated to affect 1 in 15,000 to 20,000 live births worldwide. Both males and females are equally impacted by this condition. Despite its rarity, Angelman Syndrome often goes undiagnosed or is misdiagnosed, delaying crucial interventions that can improve quality of life.

Insights and Data

Angelman Syndrome affects approximately 1 in 15,000 to 20,000 live births globally (Angelman Syndrome Foundation, 2024).
Up to 50% of individuals with Angelman Syndrome experience seizures that are difficult to control with standard treatments.
Early intervention and therapies, such as physical and occupational therapy, significantly improve quality of life for those with the condition.

Our Approach

Anavex’s approach to Angelman Syndrome focuses on restoring cellular homeostasis through SIGMAR1 activation. This pathway plays a critical role in maintaining neuronal health and regulating the mechanisms disrupted by UBE3A gene abnormalities. Our therapeutic strategy aims to address the root cause of the disorder while alleviating its most challenging symptoms, such as seizures and motor impairments. By adopting a precision medicine approach, we strive to bring meaningful and personalized treatments to those affected by Angelman Syndrome.

Clinical Progress

Preclinical studies have demonstrated that targeting the sigma-1 receptor (SIGMAR1) pathway has the potential to address symptoms of Angelman Syndrome. Anavex is actively advancing research to translate these findings into therapies that restore neuronal function and reduce the impact of UBE3A gene abnormalities. Early results provide hope for a transformative approach to managing this condition.

PRECLINICAL

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