Category: biotechnology & health
BNL Reference Number: BSA 12-03
Patent Status: U.S. Patent Number 8,415,344 was issued on April 9, 2013
Depression related illness represents an enormous cost to the US economy. Current approved drugs have deleterious side-effects. The repurposing of approved compounds to the treatment of depression directs treatment through a novel target.
Methods for treatment of depression-related mood disorders in mammals, particularly humans are disclosed. The methods of the invention include administration of compounds capable of enhancing glutamate transporter activity in the brain of mammals suffering from depression. ATP-sensitive K+ channel openers and β-lactam antibiotics are used to enhance glutamate transport and to treat depression-related mood disorders and depressive symptoms.
Re-purposing of approved compounds may have immediate market potential.
Intractable depression and depressive symptoms may respond to this alternative therapeutic target.
For more information about this technology, contact Christine Brakel, (631) 344-7134.
Tags: therapy