(ANSA) – ANCONA, 11 SEPTEMBER – Blocking a ‘lock protein’ restores synapse function and memory in the brain. This is what was revealed by a UnivPM-Inrca study for the therapy against cognitive decline in the elderly published in the important international journal Aging Cell. The study by researchers from the Center for Neurobiology of Aging of the Irccs Inrca and the Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine of the Polytechnic University of Marche, led by Professor Fiorenzo Conti, with the fundamental contribution of Professor Marcello Melone, of the University of Catania (led by Professor Daniela Puzzo, with the crucial contribution of Dr. Maria Rosaria Tropea) and of the Catholic University of Rome (directed by Professor Claudio Grassi) demonstrates that in normal adult mice, blocking the receptor with drugs or its genetic removal enhances the synapse and, consequently, the formation of memories.
In old mice, blocking D3 receptors cancels the synaptic alterations present and in mice that lack D3 receptors due to genetic manipulation do not present alterations of the synapses and memory deficits when they become old. This study is of great interest for the applicative perspectives, considering that drugs that block D3 receptors (antagonists) are already in the clinical trial phase, although for other pathologies.
“This is a study that will be able to open new therapeutic paths and lead to a significant improvement in people’s lives”, comments the Rector of UnivPM, Professor Gian Luca Gregori. “The study conducted highlights how collaboration between institutions and between different research groups allows the synergy necessary to achieve objectives of great scientific relevance”, concludes the General and Scientific Directorate of Inrca.
(ANSA).
2024-09-11 22:15:38