First-in-class thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)-based compound binds to a pharmacologically distinct TRH receptor subtype in human brain and is effective in neurodegenerative models
Summary
Demonstrated that a TRH-based compound selectively binds a novel TRH receptor subtype in human hippocampus distinct from pituitary TRH receptors. Showed significant neuroprotective effects in kainate-induced neurodegeneration, free radical damage, and ALS mouse models while crossing the blood-brain barrier.
Key Findings
- Identified a pharmacologically distinct TRH receptor subtype in human hippocampus
- Reduced cognitive deficits in kainate-induced neurodegeneration model
- Reduced motor decline and neuronal loss in ALS transgenic mice
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