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POTENTIAL TREATMENT FOR ALZHEIMER’S

JNCASR Scientists develop a new molecule that could be a potential drug candidate for the treatment of Alzheimer’s. JNCASR – Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, autonomous institute under the Dept. of Science and Technology, GOI. Located in Bengaluru.

Details:

  • Scientists have developed a small molecule that disrupts the mechanism through which neurons become dysfunctional in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).
  • The molecule could be a potential drug candidate to halt or cure the leading cause of dementia (70- 80%) worldwide.

Alzheimer’s Disease:

  • In the Alzheimer’s brain, abnormal levels of naturally forming protein clump together to form plaques that collect between neurons and disrupt cell function.
  • This is caused by production and deposition of the amyloid peptide (Aβ) that accumulates in the central nervous system.
  • The multifactorial nature of Alzheimer’s disease attributed to multifaceted amyloid toxicity has kept researchers from developing effective treatment.

The Study:

  • The scientists designed and synthesized a set of novel small molecules and identified a lead candidate which they found could reduce the toxicity of Amyloid Beta (Aβ) toxicity.
  • The detailed studies established the molecule called TGR63 as the lead candidate to rescue neuronal cells from amyloid toxicity.
  • Mice brain affected with Alzheimer’s disease when treated with TGR63 showed a significant reduction of amyloid deposits, validating its therapeutic efficacy.
  • The mice also showed reduction of learning deficiency, memory impairment, and cognitive decline as revealed by distinct behavioural tests.
  • These key attributes have validated the potential of TGR63 as a promising drug candidate for the treatment of AD.

Background:

  • Currently available treatments provide only temporary relief, and there are no approved drugs that directly act on the disease mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Thus, there is an unmet need to develop drug candidates to halt or cure Alzheimer’s disease.
  • AD severely affects the patients, families, caregivers and hence is a major societal and economic burden globally.

 

SOURCE: PIB,THE HINDU

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