Scientists at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), have identified promising drug candidates that may help treat neurodegenerative disorders, a growing health challenge worldwide.
Their research, published in ‘Drug Discovery Today’, focuses on the use of peptidomimetics—synthetic compounds that replicate the structure of natural proteins—to support neuronal growth and survival in diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Peptidomimetic drugs imitate neurotrophins, the natural proteins vital for neuron health and function.
However, neurotrophins themselves have limited therapeutic use due to their instability and rapid breakdown in the body.
To overcome these issues, IASST researchers have been developing peptidomimetics that can mimic neurotrophins but with improved stability and effectiveness.
Professor Ashis K Mukherjee, leading the study, explained, “Neurotrophin peptidomimetics are developed to target specific biological functions and can be valuable tools in drug discovery, especially when natural peptides have limitations like poor oral bioavailability or susceptibility to degradation.”
“One of the significant advantages of peptidomimetics is their improved stability and bioavailability compared to endogenous neurotrophins. This means they can deliver more effectively to the brain and maintain their therapeutic activity for a longer duration,” the team noted.
The research team said peptidomimetics stay active longer and target specific receptors more precisely, potentially reducing side effects.
The study also investigated the signalling mechanisms involved in neuronal survival, the drug targets of peptidomimetics, and their applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Moreover, the researchers explored the potential to repurpose existing peptidomimetic drugs for other conditions like cancer, as well as the development of new drugs inspired by neurotrophin mimetics.
With further research, peptidomimetics may offer a valuable new approach to managing neurodegenerative diseases and improving patient outcomes in the years ahead.
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