[New pharmacologic aspects in the neurologic profile of propentofylline (Karsivan ad us. vet.)]

Propentofylline (Karsivan, Hoechst Roussel Vet) is a selective inhibitor of adenosine transport and phosphodiesterase. For several years it has been well established in the geriatric therapy of the dog improving hemodynamics in cerebral and peripheral compartments. In human medicine clinical development of this pharmaceutical has already entered an advanced stage for the long-term therapy of patients with Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. In the brains of senile dogs and in human patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease comparable neuropathological findings can be made. In senile dogs a distinctive correlation exists between the quantity of beta-amyloid accumulation and the degree of dementia. The extension of knowledge by clinical studies in humans and by experimental studies in animals may contribute to a deeper understanding of therapeutical approaches of cognitive dysfunction in the old dog. The xanthine derivative propentofylline [1-(5'-oxohexyl)-3-methyl-7-propylxanthine] directly interfers with the neurodegenerative process and reduces the extent of damage to brain structures. In experimental models of vascular dementia and/or Alzheimer's disease it improves cognitive functions, inhibits inflammatory processes as well as excessive activation of microglia, formation of free radicals, cytocines and abnormal amyloid precursor proteins (APP). It stimulates synthesis and liberation of nerve growth factor (NGF) and reduces ischemic damage to the brain. In clinical studies in humans it improved cognitive functions as well as global functions and the ability to cope with tasks of routine daily life in patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.