Neuronal cell differentation promoter patent granted to Regen Therapeutics

Regen markets it as Colostrinin, with potential applications in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease.

The new patent covers the use of Colostrinin(tm), its constituent peptides and analogues to promote neuronal cell differentiation. The selective loss of nerve cells in the hippocampus, a region of the brain associated with memory, is a key feature in the pathogenesis of severe neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Consequently, any treatment that can stimulate the production and maturation of nerve cells may be useful in preventing or slowing these disease processes. Potential utility of this patent is expected to be welcomed by people with Alzheimer's disease, because "the invention provides a method to promote differentiation and subsequent conversion of potentially damaged cells to functional neuronal cells", said Dr. Kruzel, Scientific Consultant and Adjunct Professor at UT Medical School at Houston.