Potential Anti-Prion Agents
Author Information
Author(s): Chung Erika, Prelli Frances, Dealler Stephen, Lee Woo Sirl, Chang Young-Tae, Wisniewski Thomas
Primary Institution: New York University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Can styryl-based and tricyclic compounds effectively inhibit prion infection?
Conclusion
The study found that four compounds significantly prolonged the incubation period of prion infection and reduced brain pathology in treated mice.
Supporting Evidence
- Two imaging agents, 23I and 59, were effective at inhibiting prion infection in tissue culture.
- Fluphenazine and trimipramine also significantly prolonged the incubation period of prion infection in mice.
- All four compounds reduced the degree of spongiform change and PrPSc levels in the brains of treated mice.
- The compounds were non-toxic in tissue culture assays.
Takeaway
Researchers tested some medicines to see if they could help fight prion diseases, and found a few that worked well in mice.
Methodology
The study used a tissue culture model of prion infection and tested various compounds for their anti-prion activity and toxicity.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific mouse model and the long-term effects of the treatments were not assessed beyond three weeks post-symptom onset.
Participant Demographics
CD-1 mice, aged 2 months.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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