Regeneration in a Degenerating Brain: Potential of Allopregnanolone as a Neuroregenerative Agent
2007

Allopregnanolone's Potential in Brain Regeneration

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ming Wang, Jun Irwin, Ronald W Liu, Lifei Chen, Shuhua Brinton, Roberta Diaz

Primary Institution: University of Southern California, School of Pharmacy

Hypothesis

Can allopregnanolone promote neurogenesis and modify Alzheimer's disease pathology?

Conclusion

Allopregnanolone may enhance neurogenesis and reduce Alzheimer's pathology in mouse models.

Supporting Evidence

  • Allopregnanolone promotes proliferation of neural progenitor cells in vitro and in vivo.
  • APα treatment reduced levels of Aβ and phospho-tau in the brains of treated mice.
  • Neurogenic potential of APα varies with age and disease state in mouse models.

Takeaway

Allopregnanolone is a substance that might help the brain grow new cells and fight Alzheimer's disease.

Methodology

The study involved in vitro and in vivo analyses using neural progenitor cells and a triple transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

Limitations

The study primarily focuses on animal models, which may not fully replicate human conditions.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.2174/156720507783018262

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication