The goal of this preclinical study was to determine whether two anti-gout medications could slow progression in models of Parkinson’s.
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About the study
Professor Heather Mortiboys at the University of Sheffield conducted an 18-month preclinical study on two anti-gout medications to determine their potential as disease-modifying treatments for Parkinson’s. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis suggested to have an association with Parkinson’s risk. In prior preclinical screenings, these two drugs showed strong evidence of being able to restore the health of mitochondria – the part of the cell involved with energy production. Issues with the mitochondria are common in the nerve cells (neurons) of people with Parkinson’s and is thought to be a driver of progression.
The primary goal of this project was to better understand the mechanism of action of these drugs, or what they interact with in the cell to achieve their intended effect. They also looked for evidence of neuroprotection and target engagement. We are currently waiting on the publication of results of this study.
Study overview
- Researcher: Professor Heather Mortiboys
- Institution: University of Sheffield
- Project Type: Preclinical
- Status: Completed
- Start Date: May 2023
- Therapy Target: Mitochondrial dysfunction