Minerva Neurosciences Inc. (NASDAQ: NERV) announced the establishment of a Scientific Advisory Board to guide the development of its experimental drug roluperidone and broader research strategy, according to a company statement.

The board includes eight members with expertise in psychiatry and neuroscience, including company executives and external researchers from institutions such as the University of Miami, King's College London, and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

The advisory board will provide guidance on the company's ongoing Phase 3 confirmatory trial of roluperidone for treating negative symptoms of schizophrenia. The global trial, designated NCT07565428, plans to enroll approximately 380 adults aged 18-55 with moderate to severe negative symptoms of the condition.

Roluperidone is being evaluated as a monotherapy for negative symptoms of schizophrenia, which include lack of motivation, inability to experience pleasure, and social withdrawal. Currently, no treatments are approved by the Food and Drug Administration specifically for these symptoms.

The Phase 3 trial uses a two-part design. Phase A is a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study comparing 64 mg of roluperidone to placebo. Phase B extends for 52 weeks, comparing continued roluperidone treatment with three commonly prescribed antipsychotic medications.

The company expects topline data from the 12-week portion of the trial in the second half of 2027. The formation of the advisory board fulfills a commitment made in connection with Minerva's PIPE financing announced in October 2025.

Minerva Neurosciences is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing treatments for central nervous system disorders.