http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-04/25/content_8049093.htm
New drug found in mice to fight Alzheimer's
BEIJING, April 25 (Xinhuanet) -- Scientists found a new kind of drug that
can "hitch-hike" into cells and reverse signs of Alzheimer's disease when
injected into the brains of mice and may become a potent new treatment for
humans, media reported Friday quoting a new research.
The compound effectively blocks an enzyme responsible for the build-up of
sticky deposits, or plaques, in the brain by attaching to exactly the right
spot on the cell wall where the toxic activity takes place, according to the
research.
The formation of plaque is thought to play a key role in the development of
Alzheimer's disease.
If all goes well, a version could be available for use by patients in five
to 10 years, said Kai Simons of the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell
Biology and Genetics in Dresden.
"It's clear that when it is injected into the brain of mice it works," said
Simons. "The next stage is to see if can cross the blood-brain barrier ... if
we get it through, it has huge potential."
Medicines given by mouth or standard injection that target the brain must
be able to cross the natural barrier protecting the brain from chemicals in the
blood if they are to work.
Animal tests on this next step are now under way, following the success
seen with the direct brain injections, which reduced plaque formation by 50
percent in mice within four hours.
The World Health Organization estimates there are about 18 million people
worldwide with Alzheimer's disease and this figure is projected to reach 34
million by 2025.
(Agencies)
Editor: Song Shutao
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