what is this promising drug developed by researchers?

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THE Tau proteins play a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of neurones. However, in Alzheimer’s disease, these proteins malfunction, clumping together to form long twists.

These accumulations create “neurofibrillar” tangles that obstruct neurons, preventing them from receiving the nutrients and signals necessary for their survival. This is why as neurons die, memory, thinking and behavior become more and more altered.

Target the two “hot spots” of the protein

However, according to researchers at the University of Lancaster, in England, there is two “hot spots” specific to the Tau protein “where this aggregation tends to occur”. Also, target these points could help combat cognitive decline.

Based on this principle, scientists have developed a drug, a peptide inhibitor called RI-AG03which targets precisely these famous “hot spots”.

By testing this product on Drosophila fliesthe authors found that the drug suppressed neurodegeneration and extended the insects’ lives by about two weeks, a significant extension given their short lifespan.

Effective… on flies

In-depth examinations of the flies’ brains revealed a significant decrease in the amount of pathogenic fibrils after administration of the molecule. Moreover, tests on modified human cells confirmed that the drug effectively penetrated cells and reduced Tau protein aggregation.

The team now plans to test the RI-AG03 on rodents before carrying out clinical trials, therefore in humans.

This research, funded by the Alzheimer’s Society UK, opens new perspectives in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.

With Destination Santé.

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