A team of researchers at the Federal University of ABC (UFABC) in Brazil has made a promising breakthrough in treating Alzheimer’s disease. They’ve developed a new chemical compound that targets one of the hallmarks of the condition: beta-amyloid plaques in the brain.
The study, funded by the São Paulo Research Foundation (FAPESP), used a multi-faceted approach combining computer modeling, cell culture tests, and animal experiments. The researchers found that their compound acts as a copper chelator, binding to excess copper present in the plaques and promoting their degradation.
Tests on rats showed significant improvements in memory impairments, spatial awareness, and learning capabilities. Biochemical analyses also indicated a reversal in beta-amyloid plaque formation.
The research team engineered molecules capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, allowing the compound to target regions devastated by Alzheimer’s disease. The selected compound proved non-toxic in cell cultures and animal models, with vital signs monitored throughout experiments.
This breakthrough is significant given the complexity of Alzheimer’s disease, which affects 50 million people globally. The researchers have already filed for a patent for their innovative compound and aim to establish partnerships with pharmaceutical companies for human clinical trials.
Source: https://news.ssbcrack.com/brazilian-researchers-develop-promising-compound-for-alzheimers-treatment