Background:
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder involving
the predominant loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars
compacta (SNc), subsequent decay of the nigrostriatal tract and associated
movement anomalies such as rigidity, bradykinesia and tremor. The foremost
pathological features associated with SNc dopaminergic degeneration are
mitochondrial abnormalities, ergogenic failure, excessive dopamine oxidation,
Lewy body deposition, inflammation, a-synuclein/ubiquinated protein
aggregation, heightened concentration of redox-active free iron and a gradual
loss of neuromelanin in and around the SNc. Susceptibility of these events
could be dependent upon a battery of genetic mutations (ie parkin, DJ-1,
PINK-I, LRRK2, park-1, ubiquitin-carboxy-terminal-hydrolase L1) or exposure
to environmental mitochondrial toxins, head trauma, viral/bacterial infections,
metals, antipsychotic/antidepressant drugs or rural/farm living
Statement of Problem:
Standard medical treatment for PD involves the use of therapeutics that
mitigate neurological effects through modulation/regulation of
neurotransmitter function (ie. levodopa/dopa-decarboxylase inhibitors
Sinemet and Madopar, dopamine agonists, catechol-o-methyltransferase
inhibitors, monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, anti-cholinergics and surgical
treatments. There is a need for nutritional formulations that could slow the
progressive nature of this disease, extending quality of life and rapid decline
with late stage onset.
Potential Solution:
FAMU has developed and patented a nutraceutical formulation/vitamin that
PD patients can take orally, that could potentially slow/halt the
neurodegenerative process. The premise for the invention is based on
experimental findings of protective agents in a number of experimental
models that pertain specifically to PD. The formulation is comprised of a
proprietary blend of carboxylic acids, pyruvate, succinate, alpha.-ketoglutarate
and/or oxaloacetate, niacin/NADH, further combined with specific
macro/micronutrients, trace elements, amino acids, biochanin A ,butein
and/or concentrated plant sources.
Commercialization Status:
The product holds potential for development and commercialization with
specialty therapeutics in areas of PD. Currently, clinical trials would be
required.
Brochure
