8
Fox Focus | Research
Research News
Novel Vaccine Appears to Block Toxic Alpha-Synuclein
An experimental vaccine from Vaxxinity , called UB-312 , appears to reduce the toxic alpha-synuclein that damages nerve cells . Twelve of 13 people who received UB-312 had significantly fewer alphasynuclein clumps in spinal fluid after 44 weeks compared to those who received a placebo , according to analysis based on the recently discovered biomarker — the alphasynuclein seeding amplification assay . Participants also had significantly improved motor functioning , according to the Phase I trial results published in Nature Medicine . The trial was funded by MJFF in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic and UTHealth Houston . Vaxxinity is now focused on optimizing UB-312 treatment for slowing or stopping the progression of PD .
PD Drug Shows Promise in Slowing Disease Progression
Buntanetap — a daily pill designed to halt the production of toxic alphasynuclein proteins in people with Parkinson ’ s — may slow the progression of Parkinson ’ s disease according to its maker , Annovis Bio . Following a three-year Phase III trial , the pharmaceutical company reported that buntanetap safely improved motor , non-motor and cognitive symptoms among subgroups of study participants diagnosed with PD for longer than three years and with faster disease progression . Based on these findings , Annovis announced it will continue testing to learn more about buntanetap ’ s impact on symptoms and disease progression .
Grants Awarded for Research Addressing Freezing of Gait
In people with PD , freezing of gait ( FOG ) increases the risk for dangerous falls by causing unintended stops while walking or turning . Despite its devastating effects , FOG research historically has been underfunded . Effective treatments have remained elusive . To fill this gap , MJFF posted a request for applications on novel approaches to FOG treatment that generated an enthusiastic response and recently awarded a total of $ 7 million to six research groups . These include a group that uses technology to make deep brain stimulation more responsive on an individual basis . Funding also went to expand testing on a wearable robotic garment that provides hip flexion assistance timed to the user ’ s gait .