Growth Factor Gene Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease

Nervous system growth factors are natural proteins of the brain that influence neuronal survival and function throughout life, from embryonic development to old age. In animal models of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the growth factor brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) prevents neuronal death, activates neuronal function, builds new synapses and improves learning and memory. Accordingly, we are determining whether gene delivery of BDNF in patients with AD will slow disease progression and improve memory. In a previous clinical trial of nerve growth factor (NGF) gene therapy in AD patients (NCT00017940, June 2001), we learned that growth factors can unequivocally elicit classic trophic responses from degenerating neurons in AD. Experience gained from the earlier NGF gene therapy trial is guiding our effort to optimize gene delivery of BDNF in our present clinical program (NCT05040217, June 2021).