DAT Blocker Program
Parkinson's Disease Therapeutic
Parkinson's Disease is a disorder that results from the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Today's first-line treatment options for Parkinson's Disease include dopamine agonists or a prodrug option such as levodopa, both of which act as a substitute for the decreased concentrations of dopamine and are used to relieve the symptoms of PD.
Therapeutic Approach
Alseres Pharmaceuticals is developing small molecules called DAT blockers for the potential treatment of Parkinson's Disease. This group of DAT blocker candidates has high selectivity for the Dopamine Transporter (DAT) and may represent a novel and promising approach for both symptomatic management and disease modification in PD.
By blocking the DAT and preventing dopamine from re-entering the neuron, there is an increased amount of dopamine at the nerve junctions to compensate for the dwindling dopamine production that is characteristic of PD. This may provide symptomatic relief. In addition, growing research indicates that blocking dopamine and possible neurotoxins from entering the neuron through the DAT may protect the existing dopamine-producing neurons from further destruction, representing a potential for preventing disease progression.
Development
We have identified promising lead compounds that were tested in preclinical development using primates. These lead compounds alleviated the symptoms of PD and demonstrated comparable efficacy to standard dopamine agonist treatment.
We are currently performing additional preclinical animal studies, as well as developing standardized manufacturing methodology, in order to submit an IND for our lead DAT blocker.
For a list of websites providing information on Parkinson's Disease, click here.