2023-08-10 18:31:31
Some cognitive abilities have been restored in mice with Alzheimer’s thanks to the molecule created by scientists from Laval University and the University of Lethbridge.
“Even if the demonstration remains to be done in humans, we believe that the mechanism that we have highlighted constitutes a very interesting therapeutic target because it is not limited to slowing down the progression of the disease, but also can partially restore certain cognitive functions,” explains the head of the study, Yves de Koninck, professor at the Faculty of Medicine and researcher at Laval University.
The mechanism that enables this advance revolves around a transporter in the brain, called KCC2. A study had already shown that levels of the KCC2 transporter were lower in people who died of Alzheimer’s.
The molecule created by the researchers, CLP290, is an activator of KCC2 which prevents its reduction.
“In the short term, administering this molecule to mice that already had reduced KCC2 levels led to an improvement in their spatial memory and social behaviors. In the long term, CLP290 protected them once morest a decrease in cognitive abilities and once morest neuronal hyperactivity, ”indicates Laval University in a press release.
Since the CLP290 molecule cannot be used in humans, scientists are testing existing molecules that might also activate KCC2. A molecule already on the market would make it possible to accelerate work on this new therapeutic avenue.
The treatments currently on the market for Alzheimer’s can only slow the progression of the disease and alleviate certain symptoms.
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