Sanju Narayanan

Sanju Narayanan is a Principal Investigator and Research Chemist at RTI International, with broad expertise in organic synthesis, lead optimization, and rational drug design of small molecules targeting novel receptor systems.

Dr. Narayanan currently leads a NIH-funded research program aimed at discovering and developing small molecule antagonists of the GPR17 receptor. These compounds hold potential as remyelinating agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). In this effort, his team has identified novel and selective compounds that demonstrate promise in promoting oligodendrocyte precursor cell (OPC) differentiation. As a lead medicinal chemist, Dr. Narayanan led a successful optimization campaign focused on APJ receptor agonists, with therapeutic potential in fibrotic and cardiometabolic diseases. This work resulted in multiple issued patents and a licensing agreement with APIE Therapeutics. He is currently spearheading efforts to develop central nervous system (CNS)-penetrant APJ receptor agonists for the treatment of APJ-mediated CNS disorders. Beyond these programs, Dr. Narayanan has contributed to the design and synthesis of novel T-type calcium channel inhibitors and small molecule agonists targeting the neuropeptide S (NPS) receptor, supporting RTI’s broader neuroscience drug discovery portfolio.

Prior to joining RTI, Dr. Narayanan held a postdoctoral tenure at Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc. He contributed to the discovery of novel small molecule GPR119 agonists for type II diabetes and selective CB2 receptor agonists for the treatment of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Notably, one CB2 agonist identified from this effort was later optimized into a clinical candidate, Olorinab (APD371), for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

Dr. Narayanan’s doctoral research in medicinal chemistry was focused on the design and synthesis of selective sigma receptor antagonists to mitigate the toxic effects of psychostimulant drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine. His work led to the development of a drug-like sigma receptor antagonist (SN79) that significantly attenuated stimulant-induced convulsions and hyperactivity.

Prior to his doctoral research, Dr. Narayanan worked on diverse drug discovery projects, including synthetic experiences at Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories. Ltd., India. 

Dr. Narayanan holds professional memberships at the Society of Neuroscience and the American Chemical Society (ACS), Division of Medical Chemistry.