Scientists at the Hannover School of Medicine have discovered that the drug amisulpride, used to treat schizophrenia, could potentially improve the condition of Alzheimer’s patients by preventing abnormal tau deposition in their brains. The results of tests on cells and animals were published in the journal: magazine Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
Previously, scientists had found that signaling via 5-HT7R, a specific serotonin-binding protein, plays a critical role in the formation of protein clumps in Alzheimer’s disease. These clusters cause the death of nerve cells and, as a result, cause a decrease in the volume of all areas of the brain, which is manifested in people affected by progressive dementia.
Now researchers have evaluated the effect of the antipsychotic drug amisulpiride on the receptor. A drug approved for the treatment of schizophrenia can block 5-HT7R and thus prevent abnormal tau accumulation. Scientists have confirmed this in experiments on mice and cells grown in the lab.
Scientists noted that although dead nerve cells cannot be restored, in the early stages of the disease, the drug can slow the development of dementia. Human clinical trials will be required to confirm this.
Source: Gazeta
Barbara Dickson is a seasoned writer for “Social Bites”. She keeps readers informed on the latest news and trends, providing in-depth coverage and analysis on a variety of topics.