Transforming stroke recovery through neuroprotection
Welcome to Glicothera!
Glicothera BV is a specialty pharma company dedicated to the development of a first-in class neuroprotective therapeutic agent GA-086-1 for acute stroke patients. Founded as a joint venture between Galenicap BV and Neurevo GmbH, Glicothera integrates deep expertise in product & IP development, and translational neuroscience.
Neuroprotection: the treatment-gap in acute ischemic stroke
When a stroke cuts off blood flow to the brain, neurons are deprived of oxygen and begin to die within minutes. Current treatments like thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy are lifesaving by restoring circulation, but they don’t prevent damage to the surrounding “penumbra” — the fragile brain tissue that determines long-term recovery. As a result, 30–50% of patients still suffer lasting disability despite successful initial treatment.
At Glicothera, we’re addressing this critical gap with innovative neuroprotective therapies designed to shield vulnerable neurons, preserve brain function, and improve recovery outcomes. Our science aims not just to restore blood flow, but to truly protect and heal the brain after stroke.
GA-086-1: a first-in class neuroprotective approach for AIS
Glicothera’s lead candidate, GA-086-1, is a New Chemical Entity (NCE) designed to protect the brain where current stroke treatments fall short — by preventing neuronal death and preserving mitochondrial function. Acting through a triple mechanism that targets oxidative stress, calcium overload, and energy depletion, GA-086-1 stabilizes neurons in the vulnerable penumbra and supports functional recovery after stroke.
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GA-086-1 has demonstrated strong neuroprotective efficacy in multiple preclinical stroke models, including large-animal studies showing significant infarct reduction and neurological improvement. Delivered through a combined intra-arterial and intravenous regimen, it is designed to complement thrombectomy procedures and extend protection beyond reperfusion. With formulation and stability work complete, GA-086-1 is progressing through GLP toxicology and IND-enabling studies, supported by positive scientific advice from BfArM.
GA-086-1 demonstrates strong neuroprotective efficacy in a swine stroke model, showing a 50% reduction in brain infarct size
Pioneering neuroprotection across neurological diseases
The cellular mechanisms targeted by GA-086-1 — oxidative stress reduction, calcium regulation, and mitochondrial restoration — are not unique to stroke; they are central to many neurodegenerative and acute brain disorders. Building on its compelling preclinical profile, Glicothera is now exploring the potential of GA-086-1 in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Parkinson’s disease, where mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal loss drive progressive disability. By addressing these fundamental pathways, GA-086-1 has the potential to slow or prevent neuronal degeneration across multiple conditions. This marks the foundation of Glicothera’s broader vision: to develop a platform of neuroprotective therapies that preserve brain health, enhance recovery, and ultimately transform outcomes in diseases where effective neuroprotection has long been out of reach.
"GA-086-1 addresses one of the most critical unmet needs in neurology — true neuroprotection. Its strong preclinical results are highly compelling, and if replicated in patients, GA-086-1 could redefine stroke treatment and open entirely new opportunities across neurodegenerative diseases."
Prof. Dr. Heinz Reichmann
Professor and Chair Dept. Neurology, Dresden, and former President of the German Neurology and Parkinson associations
Team
Glicothera is led by a team of seasoned industry experts with extensive experience in drug development and clinical innovation. Collectively, the team has successfully advanced over 100 formulation programs and overseen numerous Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials, bringing a proven track record of translating science into meaningful therapies.
Bernd van Buuren
CEO
Yvonne van Rijswick
Clinical Development
Francisco Pan-Montojo Puga
Co-founder & CSO
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Bertine de Wijs
Regulatory Affairs
Hans Platteeuw
Co-founder & CDO
Carolin Schwartner-Lehr
CBO
Collaborate to accelerate
At Glicothera, we are dedicated to accelerating access to groundbreaking neuroprotective therapies through strategic collaboration. We are currently raising €7.5 million to complete IND-enabling studies and initiate Phase I/II clinical trials for our lead program, GA-086-1. We welcome discussions with co-development and strategic pharmaceutical partners who share our vision of transforming outcomes in stroke and neurodegenerative diseases.
If you’re interested in partnering or investing, we’d love to connect and explore how we can advance this innovation together.
Glicothera BV
Hoofdstraat 43
5481 AA Schijndel, The Netherlands
General inquiries: info@glicothera.com
Partnering: partnering@glicothera.com
Company registration No.: KVK 97257648
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Glicothera BV is a JV between Galenicap BV and Neurevo GmbH
