Neurotrophin-targeted therapeutics: A gateway to cognition and more?. Issue 10 (October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nordvall, Gunnar; Forsell, Pontus; Sandin, Johan
• Is Part Of: Drug discovery today. Volume 27:Issue 10(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-10
• Subjects: Neurotrophins -- Alzheimer's disease -- Depression -- TrkA -- TrkB; Drugs -- Design -- Periodicals; Drugs -- Research -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.07.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-6446

Abstract

Highlights: Neurotrophins have been linked to several disorders, including AD and depression. Complex biology has led to difficulties in identifying suitable drug candidates. Novel compounds targeting this biological system are now in clinical testing. ACD856 is a clinical drug candidate targeting cognitive disorders, e.g. AD. Abstract : Neurotrophins, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), are small proteins expressed in the brain and peripheral tissues, which regulate several key aspects of neuronal function, including neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection, but also programmed cell death. This broad range of effects is a result of a complex downstream signaling pathway, with differential spatial and temporal activation patterns further diversifying their physiological effects. Alterations in neurotrophin levels, or known polymorphisms in neurotrophin genes, have been linked to a variety of disorders, including depression and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Historically, their therapeutic potential in these disorders has been hampered by the lack of suitable tool molecules for clinical studies. However, recent advancements have led to the development of new therapeutic candidates, which are now in clinical testing.