Genetic evidence
A common genetic variant (SNP rs1450522) that increases SPT activity is associated with elevated Parkinson’s disease risk, linking SPT biology directly to PD susceptibility.
Targeting ceramide synthesis in Parkinson’s disease
CeraLink Therapeutics is developing a first-in-class approach to treating Parkinson’s disease by targeting an underlying mechanism of membrane pathology and neurodegeneration.
Explore our scienceParkinson’s disease has no treatment that slows progression
Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, affecting approximately one million people in the United States and more than 10 million worldwide.
Despite decades of research, every available therapy focuses on managing symptoms — primarily by restoring dopamine levels. None addresses the underlying mechanisms driving disease progression. As these therapies lose effectiveness over time, patients face a growing burden of motor and non-motor symptoms with no disease-modifying alternative.
- ~1M
- people living with Parkinson’s disease in the U.S.
- >10M
- people affected globally
A new approach: from membrane biology to medicine
CeraLink is pursuing a non-dopaminergic mechanism with the potential to modify disease progression. Our approach targets serine palmitoyl transferase (SPT), a key enzyme whose overactivity leads to the accumulation of neurotoxic deoxyceramides — disrupting the cellular membranes that are critical to neuronal health.
Pathological evidence
Neurotoxic deoxyceramides are found in the brains of PD patients, disrupting mitochondrial, lysosomal, and autophagy function — pathological hallmarks of Parkinson’s disease.
Clinical evidence
D-Serine, a natural SPT inhibitor, demonstrated meaningful improvements in motor symptoms in a controlled pilot study in Parkinson’s disease patients.
Built by experienced neuroscience drug developers
CeraLink’s founding team brings together deep expertise in neurology drug development, biotech company building, and translational science.
Interested in learning more about CeraLink?
We welcome conversations with potential partners, investors, and collaborators who share our commitment to advancing new treatments for neurodegenerative disease.