Methods and Compositions for the Treatment of Neurological Diseases

Introduction Amyloid β (Aβ) peptides are thought to be the key pathogenic element in the initiation and progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and alpha-synuclein (αS) is thought to play a similar role in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Microglia can be neuroprotective by phagocytosing Aβ; however, this comes at the cost of activated innate immunity that causes paracrine damage to neurons. Similarly, αS activates microglia of PD patients, leading to inflammation and neurotoxicity. Technology description Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a product derived from arachidonic acid by cyclooxygenase, has potent autocrine and paracrine roles in the activation of innate immunity in brain. Researchers at the University of Washington have developed methods to enhance the microglia phagocytosis of Aβ and αS, without increased bystander damage to neurons. This invention provides a method for preventing or treating AD and PD by administering a compound capable of inhibiting the PGE2 receptor, EP2, as well as methods for screening and identifying EP2 inhibitors. Business opportunity AD and PD are the two most common neurodegenerative disorders in the world, affecting at least 11 million people in developed countries. To date there is no cure for AD or PD, as no treatment has been able to prevent the death of substantia nigra neurons in PD or the brain Aβ accumulation in AD. The suppression of the EP2 receptor signaling represents a very promising avenue for the development of future therapeutics. Intellectual property position The University has applied for patent protection to secure the rights to this technology (US-2007-0232556). Related Publications J Neuroinflammation. 2007 Jan 4;4:2. Am J Pathol. 2005 Apr;166(4):1163-72. For more information on this technology contact:
Angela Loihl, Ph.D., MBA Licensing Officer, Invention Licensing [email protected] 206-543-3970

Type of Offer: Licensing



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