Hedgehog Pathway Agonist
Also known as:
Other Hedgehog terms:
Summary:
Curis Inc., has several small molecule agonists that may be able to treat diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).[1] These agonists, called small molecule Hedgehog pathway agonists, would be used in activating the Hedgehog signaling pathway. Scientists at Curis believe that when the hedgehog agonists activate the Hedgehog signaling pathway, the result is neuroprotection.[2]
The Hedgehog signaling pathway regulates the normal development of the brain and spinal cord. The small molecule Hedgehog pathway agonists can activate the Hedgehog signaling pathway and promote nervous system repair. These Hedgehog pathway agonists can be taken orally and can enter into the brain and spinal cord.[3]
Potential benefits:
Obstacles:
Research involving animals:
Animals treated with Sonic Hedgehog protein (Shh) showed significant improvement in tests of movement, and preservation of brain tissue normally lost with progression of Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, the animals that had been previously treated with Shh and later received L-Dopa showed significantly better improvement in movement than did non-Shh-treated controls.[4]
[1] BiotechTracker: Curis Approaches the Starting Gate; BioPortfolio, September 02, 2003
[2] Hedgehog Small Molecule Agonist Neurological Disorders Programs, Curis, Inc.
[3] Press Release: Report of Hedgehog Pathway Efficacy in Preclinical Model of Parkinson's Disease; Source: Curis, Inc.; Friday December 17, 8:30 am ET
[4] Sonic Hedgehog Reduces Behavioral Impairment in a Primate Model of Parkinson's Disease, September 18, 2002 - Curis, Inc.
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