University of Florida Researchers Use 'Sponge' to Reduce Plaque Deposits
Related to the Deadly Disease
ARLINGTON, Va., May 25 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Florida researchers
have discovered a way to reduce plaque deposits on the brain that could slow
the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Their findings, which will be
highlighted at the upcoming 2005 American Association of Pharmaceutical
Scientists' (AAPS) National Biotechnology Conference in San Francisco, brings
renewed hope to the 4.5 million Americans who have Alzheimer's disease.
"This is the first time this approach has been used to treat Alzheimer's
disease," said Jeffrey Hughes, Ph.D., of the University of Florida College of
Pharmacy. "After only one injection, the plaque on the brain has stopped
forming."
For years scientists have recognized a connection between plaque deposits
on the brain and the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Plaque deposits are
formed when amyloid precursor protein (APP), found widely throughout the body,
releases itself into fragments, called beta-amyloids, which in turn form
plaque.
While other scientists have been researching ways to prevent plaque from
depositing, the University of Florida team sought to reduce plaque by using a
naturally occurring human-binding protein, gelsolin, to absorb the beta-
amyloids. Preliminary data from the National Institute of Aging-sponsored
research reveals that gelsolin has succeeded in reducing amyloid deposition by
as much as two-thirds to three-quarters.
"We are excited by the preliminary results," Dr. Hughes said. "We look
forward to further testing our approach to see if gelsolin continues to act as
a sponge, absorbing and reducing plaque and ultimately affecting the
progression of Alzheimer's disease."
The AAPS National Biotechnology Conference is an annual event
incorporating all aspects of the pharmaceutical sciences and providing an open
forum for discussion of hot industry topics. The conference will take place at
the San Francisco Marriott, June 5 - 8. Dr. Hughes and Aaron Hirko will
present the team's findings during a poster session held on Monday, June 6,
2005 11:30 am - 12:30 pm in Yerba Buena Salons 2 - 6.
About AAPS
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) is a
professional, scientific society of more than 12,000 members employed in
academia, industry, government and other research institutes worldwide.
Founded in 1986, AAPS provides a dynamic international forum for the exchange
of knowledge among scientists to enhance their contributions to health. AAPS
offers timely scientific programs, on-going education, information resources,
and opportunities for networking and professional development. For more
information about AAPS, visit us at http://www.aapspharmaceutica.com .
SOURCE American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists
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CONTACT:
Jim Greif, AAPS, +1-415-284-9011, or
greifj@aaps.org; or Media, Stephanie Lamenta, GolinHarris,
+1-305-572-2151, or slamenta@golinharris.com, for AAPS
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