Drug Discovery

Neuroprotection

Microtubule-Stabilizing Drugs for Alzheimer's Disease

Investigator(s): Mary L. Michaelis, Ph.D., Professor of Pharmacology & Toxicology

Institution(s): School of Pharmacy and the Center for Neurobiology and Immunology Research, University of Kansas, KN

Duration: 1999 - 2001

Summary:

Neurofibrillary tangle may develop because microtubules (MTs) are damaged. Drugs that can stabilize MTs may prevent tangle formation and neuronal death. These investigators have discovered that the MT stabilizing drug Taxol® can protect neurons against the toxic effects of ß-amyloid. However, Taxol®, an anti-cancer drug, has many side effects and does not cross the blood brain barrier. This project will develop new MT-stabilizing compounds that can protect against ß-amyloid toxicity and cross the blood brain barrier in cell models. Promising compounds will be further evaluated in animal models.