Receptor successfully isolated to tackle Alzheimer’s
Scientists have discovered that blocking a specific part of an ion channel can prevent the memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s.
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) can be found in the cell membranes of the central and peripheral nervous system, and are involved in functions such as controlling voluntary movement, memory, pain and anxiety.
Researchers from the Institut Pasteur studied the _2 subunit of nAChRs and, using mouse models, they discovered that when blocked, mice were protected from the memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s.
Uwe Maskos, main author of the study from Institut Pasteur, said: “Characterising this new therapeutic target will enable us to test molecules that are capable of blocking the _2 subunit. The aim is to find a therapeutic molecule that resembles nicotine but does not have the same harmful effects such as dependence, premature cell aging, increased heart rate and effects on the gastroenteric system.”Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed by amyloid plaques and the build-up of coarse fibres within nerve cells in the brain. Amyloid plaques are formed by large concentrations of amyloid beta peptide which lead to a loss of neuronal structures and neurofibrillary degeneration which leads to nerve cells’ death.
Nine genes code for nicotinic receptors subunits in the hippocampus. Researchers created a mouse model where the _2 subunit was inactivated by blocking the gene coding for it. Memory tests in these mice showed they did not develop and negative cognitive effects associated with Alzheimer’s. They also were protected from the effects of amyloid beta peptide.
Maskos said that no adverse effects on hippocampal function had been seen by blocking the _2 subunit. However subunit _7, when blocked, was found to negatively affect this function.
The results of this study were published in Neurobiology of Aging.Related Content
Bath combines biology and chemistry to thwart cancer drivers
University of Bath researchers are harnessing bacteria to develop millions of potential drug molecules inside living cells, in order to …
Phesi founder: digital twins offer potential for combatting rare diseases
Digital twins are offering new therapeutic possibilities for diseases where the number of sufferers is small and for which little …
Biosimilars and the post-patent environment
The market and frameworks for biologics and their biosimilars are growing and ever-evolving, as illustrated by the news around rheumatoid …
