Tau deposits, along with beta-amyloid plaques are the characteristic features of Alzheimer's disease. These protein deposits to interfere with the communication of nerve cells in the brain and contribute to its degeneration. Despite intensive research, no drug is until today what can prevent damage thereby. Based on the findings of Prof. Dr. Christa Mller at the University of Bonn, Dr. David Blum and her team a new class can be developed now of drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
Caffeine, an adenosine receptor antagonist blocked various receptors in the brain that are activated by adenosine. First results of the team of scientists had already indicated that the blockade of A2A adenosine receptor subtype could in particular an important role. Initially developed Prof. Mller and her colleagues an A2A antagonist in the form of high-purity and water soluble (MSX-3). This connection had fewer side effects than caffeine, as it blocks only the A2A adenosine receptor subtype, and at the same time, it is much more effective. Over several weeks, the researchers altered then genetically treated mice with the A2A antagonists. The mice had a modified Tau protein, which leads without therapy, the early development of Alzheimer's disease symptoms.
When compared to a control group, which received only a placebo, reached the treated animals significantly better on memory tests. The A2A antagonist shows positive impact in particular on spatial memory. In addition, an improvement showed the pathogenic processes in the hippocampus, is the place of memory in rodents.
"We went a good step forward," says Prof. Mller. "The results of the study are really promising, as we demonstrate for the first time were that A2A adenosine receptor antagonists have very positive effects in an animal model simulation of Hallmark characteristics and progression of the disease." And the side effects are low."
Now want researchers to test the A2A antagonists in additional animal models. If the results are positive, a clinical study can be carried out. "Patience is needed until A2A adenosine receptor antagonists as new Therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease are approved. But I am optimistic that clinical trials are conducted, "says Prof. Mller.