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AD is characterized by degeneration of the cholinergic system which is involved in memory and learning. A class of cholinergic agents called M1 agonists can stimulate cholinergic activity and may improve cognition and slow the progression of AD. A number of M1 agonists have failed in AD trials but these earlier compounds were not very selective for the M1 receptor and interacted with other receptors (e.g. M3 and M5) which resulted in a number of unpleasant side effects. These side effects may have prevented patients receiving adequate doses of compound to evaluate the M1 approach properly. Dr. Messer has discovered a new M1 agonist called CDD-0102. The new compound is believed to be more selective at the M1 receptor than the earlier compounds. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) has recently funded a two week toxicity study in rats to assess its safety. The results were encouraging and the NIA would like to fund two additional toxicity studies. In order to carry out these planned studies, sufficient quantities of CDD-0102 are required. Dr. Messer will use these funds to synthesize the required amount of compound. Successful completion of the NIA toxicity studies will allow an application to be made to the Food and Drug Administration to begin testing CDD-0102 in humans.