Peptide-analogues of Cathepsin D as therapeutic agents in Alzheimer's Disease
Exploration of Cathepsin D-derived peptides: Novel therapeutic agents targeting Amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology in Alzheimer's disease.

Background
Global population ageing, notably in Greece, poses a significant healthcare challenge accompanied by immense economic and social impact. This is further aggravated by the rising prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and dementia, conditions for which ageing represents the main risk factor. WHO states that the costs of caring for the estimated 14.1M people living with dementia in Europe amounted to EUR 392 billion (2019) . Unfortunately, existing treatments offer limited efficacy.
Technology Overview
We have identified peptides that interfere with the formation of Aβ amyloid fibrils, which are a key pathological feature in Alzheimer's disease. This discovery suggests their potential use in halting the disease's progression and offers promise for treatment.
Stage of Development
Today, the invention is in TRL* 2, with the next steps being:
- Transgenic Mouse Selection and Experimentation
- Human Cell Line Selection and Experimentation
- Peptides Optimization
- Dose Optimization
- Collaborative Partnerships
Benefits
- Potential for early intervention: Peptide inhibitors of Aβ fibril formation may be used for early intervention in Alzheimer's disease, potentially preventing or delaying the onset of cognitive decline.
- Specificity: Peptides are designed to specifically target and inhibit the formation of Aβ fibrils.
- Versatility: Peptides can be engineered to possess various properties, such as increased stability, enhanced blood-brain barrier penetration, and prolonged half-life.
- Combination therapy potential: peptide inhibitors of Aβ fibrilogenesis may be used in combination with other Alzheimer's disease therapies for synergistic effects and improved clinical outcomes.
Applications
- Development of treatment for the Alzheimer's disease.
Opportunity
National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, in collaboration with the National Hellenic Research Foundation, are seeking to collaborate and/or license the technology to a pharma company, for scale-up development and commercialization.
Patents
IP Status
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Seeking
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