From concept to potential therapeutics: Neuroprotective peptides

Abstract

This chapter outlines the discovery and activity of the potent neuroprotective peptides ADNF-9 (SAL) and NAP. These peptides are fragments of larger proteins, activity-dependent neurotrophic factor (ADNF) and activity-dependent neuroprotective protein (ADNP). The discovery of these proteins and peptides was a result of long-term collaborative studies between Douglas E. Brenneman and Illana Gozes to reveal the mechanisms and molecules associated with neuropeptide-based neuroprotection, particularly related to vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Recent studies identified tubulin in glia (the brain support cells) as a target for NAP actions. It is suggested that NAP provides astrocyte protection by enhancing tubulin assembly into microtubules. These results paved the path to the initiation of clinical trials led by Allon Therapeutics, Inc., the Neuroprotection Company, with the lead compound NAP (formulations: AL-108 and AL-208). © 2007 Springer-Verlag US.