ADispell’s Technology
Recent laboratory research has led to an enhanced understanding of how the interaction of compounds with newly-discovered specific binding sites on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) leads to positive effects on ion channels and hence on aspects of neurotransmission in the brain.
The model leads to two predictions relevant to the discovery of better Alzheimer’s Disease drugs:
- Compounds that bind to more tightly to the closed-channel form of the nAChR, rather than the open-channel form, are inhibitors of neurotransmission and brain activity;
- Compounds binding equally well to both forms of the neuronal channel (open and closed) alleviate inhibition of neurotransmission.
These predictions have been validated using a library of compounds that specifically bind to the receptors. Two classes of candidate drugs have been discovered, corresponding to 1) and to 2) above. This represents a major scientific advancement in the search for an understanding of the mechanism for AD. Proprietary rights to this technology are protected by a series of patents licensed and owned by ADispell.
Newly developed research methods have been used to test the effectiveness of performing both aspects of this model - These methods have studied nAChR-channel changes in isolated cells caused by compounds of both classes. This work has identified lead compounds that have the potential to enhance ion channel performance. Lead compounds have tested favorably with in vivo models and experiments. Additionally, these compounds bind to the beta amyloid components associated with AD in a way that prevents the toxic affects of amyloid, opening the possibility that the ADispell compounds can alleviate the cognitive losses caused by AD, prevent amyloid toxicity, and reverse disease progression.
The Novelty of the ADispell Technology
In contrast with some other AD research, the work of ADispell is based on novel and unique aspects to AD:
- Specific utilization of compounds that bind to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) ion channels. These ion channels are regulated by acetylcholine -ACh. Unlike AD technology from others, ADispell is focused on a direct effect on the channel opening and closing, thus preserving the health of the neuron.
- Our discovery of analogous sites on nAChRs and the beta amyloid peptides, such that a single administered compound can be expected to interact favorably with both the receptors and the amyloid peptides.
- The knowledge that amyloid oligomers interact unfavorably with the receptors on the neurons, and that this interaction can be prevented by compounds binding to the sites on the receptors on the neurons.
Status of Technology
Three key compounds have been identified as having the characteristics of leads. Each has the binding properties to the ion channel that allow neurons to function effectively while also preventing amyloid aggregation in vitro. Each falls within the licensed patent.
This novel project is in the ‘Lead Optimization’ phase of the new drug discovery process and has begun in vivo work. The in vivo testing is providing very positive and interesting results which has attracted the interest of international pharmaceutical companies.
We are glad to provide a white paper providing more non-confidential information about our technology, Please send a request to info@adispell.com and let us know about your interest in the technology and our company.