Researchers from the Indiana University School of Medicine in the United States have developed experimental molecular compounds that showed promising results in reducing the accumulation of proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease, by enhancing cells' ability to eliminate the amyloid precursor protein before it transforms into molecules that contribute to the formation of plaques in the brain.
Mechanism of action
The scientific website Medical Xpress reported on Wednesday, citing a statement from Indiana University published on October 13, that the study published in the scientific journal Advanced Science addressed compounds known as "molecular glue proteolysis-targeting chimeras," which enhance the binding between the amyloid precursor protein (APP) and the regulatory protein (CAPRIN1), thereby helping cells direct the protein toward lysosomes.
Experiments conducted on nerve cells derived from Alzheimer's patients and laboratory-prepared cellular models showed that the compounds enhanced the degradation of the amyloid precursor protein and reduced the secretion of "beta-amyloid" peptides associated with plaque formation and disease progression.
Results of mouse trials
In an Alzheimer's disease mouse model, administering one of the developed compounds, known as "0152," led to a decrease in levels of the amyloid precursor protein and beta-amyloid production, along with a reduction in plaque accumulation in the brain. Researchers clarified that this approach differs from some therapeutic strategies that target plaques after their formation, as it focuses on an earlier stage by enhancing the elimination of the protein from which amyloid molecules are derived.
Current stage of research
Researchers noted that the results are still in the preclinical stage, and the compounds require further studies to improve their efficacy and pharmacological properties and assess their safety before moving to clinical trials on humans. These results represent a research step toward exploring new methods for dealing with Alzheimer's disease, although determining the therapeutic potential of these compounds requires additional studies to verify their efficacy and safety in humans.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the brain. It is the most common cause of dementia, leading to a gradual decline in memory and cognitive abilities, and may affect a person's ability to think, speak, and perform daily activities as the disease progresses.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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