The development of new neurotherapeutics has been facing a tremendous challenge for over a decade. Several promising drug candidates for brain disorders indeed fail too late in the drug development process, most of the time for lacking effectiveness. Finding the most relevant pathological model as well as translational read-outs very early on, count among the biggest hurdles to overcome in CNS drug development. 

In this work, we took advantage of electroencephalography (EEG) to give a direct access to brain function with high time resolution and a great sensitivity. Indeed, neuronal network oscillations are highly conserved across mammals, which makes EEG a translational brain monitoring technique that bridges the gap between preclinical research and clinical outcomes when it comes to the development of new neurotherapeutics. 

The aim of this communication is to show how EEG and its related methodologies can be used to reveal or at least improve the translational value of rodent models of brain disorders. 

We have identified and validated translational EEG biomarkers for several brain disorders in relevant rodent models with the help of our proprietary Cue® platform. These biomarkers are being routinely used to support our predictive drug discovery programs. 

Epilepsies: Based on the detection of epileptic discharges by EEG, we have characterized non-convulsive models of mesio-temporal lobe and genetic absence epilepsies and developed solutions ranging from the screening of small libraries of compounds to the selection and validation of lead compounds. 

Essential tremor: In a pharmacological induced model of essential tremor, we have identified a specific EEG biomarker that relates to the tremor and shows a pharmacosensitivity to drug of reference and useful for drug development. 

Parkinson’s disease (PD): We have identified specific EEG signatures in two models of Parkinson’s disease, mimicking either the evolution of the disease, or the late stage of PD and dyskinesia. These new biomarkers allowed the development of drug discovery programs designed for evaluating new neurotherapeutics and neuroprotective agents against PD. 

Conclusion: When “augmented” by EEG Biomarkers, rodent models of brain disorders can improve the predictivity of preclinical research, accelerating therefore the discovery of new innovative treatments for patients.