Neotrofin Said to Increase Brain Stem Cells in Mice

The drug Neotrofin is showing early signs of increasing stem cells in the brains of adult mice, according to researchers.

Brain stem cells are a self-renewing population of cells that can restock the supply of mature nerve cells. The aim of the new drug is to repair and regenerate nerves, with Alzheimer's disease being its first target.

While studies are in the very early stages, initial findings are that mice given a single dose of Neotrofin developed newly-formed brain stem cells within 24 hours. Further studies are being done to see if the newly-formed brain stem cells will mature into neurons. Loss of neurons is the basis for many diseases, including Alzheimer's.

"Our greatest hope is that these cells might one day prove to slow down or reverse a variety of neurodegenerative brain disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. In addition, Neotrofin may reduce or eliminate the need to use fetal tissue as a source of brain stem cells for surgical implantation," said Alvin J. Glasky, CEO and chief scientific officer of NeoTherapeutics, the manufacturers of the drug.

In a phase 2 study conducted by Dr. Steven Potkin of the University of California, Irvine, Alzheimer's patients treated with Neotrofin experienced statistically significant improvement in memory, attention and judgment.

A new clinical trial is set to begin in April 2001, which will evaluate the effectiveness of higher doses of neotrofin in treating symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Other sources: University of California, Irvine; L. A. Times, NeoTherapeutics