New Treatment Targets Harmful Proteins
Researchers have developed a groundbreaking nasal spray that may revolutionize the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. This innovative treatment targets the harmful build-up of proteins in the brain, showing promise in tests on older mice by clearing away proteins that impair cognitive function.
How the Spray Works
The nasal spray focuses on tau proteins, which are crucial for maintaining the cell’s internal support structure and transporting molecules and nutrients inside nerve cells. In neurodegenerative disorders, tau proteins detach and clump together, forming neurofibrillary tangles that disrupt brain cell function and lead to cognitive decline.
Promising Results in Mouse Studies
The research team from the United States and Italy tested the nasal spray on older mice and observed significant improvements in cognitive function. Their findings, published in Science Translational Medicine, highlight the potential of this non-invasive delivery method for therapeutic antibodies directly to the brain, targeting tau proteins effectively.
Mechanism of Action
The team developed an antibody called TTCM2, designed to specifically identify and target toxic tau accumulations. This antibody was optimized for brain delivery by being packaged in particles and administered through the nasal cavity, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. The spray also utilizes TRIM21, a protein that helps tag and remove unwanted materials, to clear harmful tau clumps inside brain cells.
Potential Impact on Alzheimer’s Treatment
This breakthrough could significantly impact treatment strategies for Alzheimer’s and related tauopathies, offering new hope for millions of patients. By effectively targeting and eliminating tau build-ups, the nasal spray improves cognitive functions, marking a promising advancement in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Daily Express
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