Study shows how troriluzole can target early-stage alterations associated with Alzheimer’s

In a recent development in Alzheimer’s disease research, scientists at Auburn University have studied a new drug, troriluzole, that may prevent brain changes that lead to memory loss and cognitive decline in a mouse model of the disease. This study, recently published in the Journal of Neurochemistryis the first to show how troriluzole can target early-stage changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease, offering new hope for potential treatments.

Dr. Miranda Reed, professor in the Department of Drug Discovery at Auburn University and Delivery and principal investigator of the study, noted that “by investigating how drug treatments can intervene early in the disease process, we aim to develop therapies that can prevent or even prevent this from happening. Cure Alzheimer’s.” “This study also highlights how scientific advances can transform our understanding of complex diseases like Alzheimer’s disease,” said Dr. Michael Gramlich, assistant professor of biophysics and the study’s other principal investigator.

Groundbreaking research into Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of people around the world, causing progressive memory loss, confusion and eventually the inability to perform basic tasks. Despite decades of research, a cure remains elusive. Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, which disrupt neural communication. In the early stages, excessive amounts of the neurotransmitter glutamate cause harmful overactivity in synapses, the connections between nerve cells.

The study conducted by researchers at Auburn University, led by Drs. Miranda Reed and Michael Gramlich investigated how troriluzole, a new drug, can maintain normal brain function in mice genetically modified to replicate the early stages of Alzheimer’s. The results are compelling: troriluzole not only reduced harmful glutamate levels, but also improved memory and learning in the mice, indicating that healthy brain function is maintained.

“Our research shows that by targeting synaptic activity early, we can prevent or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. This could revolutionize the way we approach the treatment of this disease.” both researchers noted.

How troriluzole works

In the Auburn study, mice treated with troriluzole showed a significant reduction in synaptic glutamate levels and reduced brain hyperactivity. These molecular changes led to tangible improvements: the treated mice performed better in memory tests, such as navigating mazes, indicating that their cognitive functions had been restored.

These findings are promising because they suggest that troriluzole may protect the brain at a fundamental level, starting with molecular changes and resulting in improved cognitive skills. It’s like fixing an engine before it completely fails.”

Dr. Miranda Reed, professor in the Department of Drug Discovery at Auburn University

A joint effort with major consequences

This research was a collaborative effort involving Auburn University’s College of Science and Mathematics, the Harrison College of Pharmacy, and the Center for Neuroscience Initiative, along with private researchers and students. The team’s combined expertise in neuroscience and pharmacology was crucial to the success of the study.

“This collaboration combines basic science and pharmaceutical research to tackle one of the most challenging neurological problems of our time,” Dr. Gramlich. “Our work not only advances the scientific understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, but also offers a potential new treatment that could improve the lives of millions of people worldwide.”

What’s next?

Although the results in mice are encouraging, the researchers emphasize the need for further research to determine how troriluzole works at different stages of disease progression.