Delix Therapeutics

Delix Therapeutics is an American biotechnology company headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 2019 by David E. Olson and Nick Haft as a spinout from UC Davis. The company is focused on developing a novel class of compounds called neuroplastogens — small molecules engineered to promote neuroplasticity in the brain without the hallucinogenic or cardiotoxic properties associated with first-generation psychoplastogens such as ketamine and psilocybin.

Delix's science originates from Professor David E. Olson's UC Davis laboratory, where research demonstrated that the therapeutic and hallucinogenic effects of psychedelics could be separated. The company has since synthesized over 2,000 novel compounds, many of which are small molecule analogs of known psychedelics such as ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT, targeting conditions including major depressive disorder (MDD), PTSD, and neurodegenerative diseases.

The company's lead asset, DLX-001 (zalsupindole), has completed Phase 1 trials showing CNS engagement and a favorable safety profile, with preclinical data demonstrating rapid and enduring antidepressant-like effects after a single dose. Delix has raised $110M in total funding, including a $70M Series A, with investors such as RA Capital Management, plus grants from the U.S. Department of Defense and NIH/NIDA.

Recognized by Nature Biotechnology and Fierce Biotech as a leading biotech in 2021, Delix represents a significant player in next-generation CNS drug development, making it highly relevant to innovations in neuropsychiatric therapeutics and non-hallucinogenic psychedelic-inspired medicine.