A new gene therapy has shown promising results in improving memory and reducing anxiety in animal models. The therapy, known as COG-201, uses RNA-based technology to decrease the activity of a specific serotonin receptor in the brain, leading to significant improvements in memory and reductions in anxiety-like behaviors.
Researchers at Cognigenics conducted the study, which explored the potential of an innovative intranasal treatment. The therapy targets the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor, which plays a crucial role in regulating mood, anxiety, and cognitive functions. By focusing on this receptor, the researchers aimed to develop a therapy that could improve both memory and anxiety symptoms simultaneously.
The study used COG-201, an intranasal therapy based on short hairpin RNA (shRNA). The treatment was administered through a nasal spray and delivered using an adeno-associated virus (AAV9) vector. The results showed significant improvements in memory retention, with treated rats spending more time exploring new objects compared to untreated animals.
The researchers also found that the therapy reduced anxiety-like behaviors in environments that typically elicit these responses. Molecular data confirmed that COG-201 effectively reduced the expression of the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor in the brains of both mice and rats.
While the findings are encouraging, there are some limitations to consider. The study was conducted in animal models, and results may not directly translate to humans. However, the researchers plan to continue studying the mechanisms behind COG-201 and its potential to treat other conditions beyond mild cognitive impairment and anxiety.
The goal is to gain approval for human clinical trials of COG-201 and potentially adapt the therapy to target other receptors and conditions. The study’s authors believe that gene therapy has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of anxiety and various neuropsychiatric conditions, and they are excited about the impact their work may have in motivating scientists, patients, and healthcare professionals to explore possibilities for advancements in medicine.
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Source: https://www.psypost.org/new-intranasal-rna-therapy-shows-promise-in-boosting-memory-and-reducing-anxiety/