USC scientists discover a hidden Alzheimer’s trigger and a possible way to shut it down
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- USC researchers identified experimental compounds that selectively inhibit cPLA2, reducing brain inflammation linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
- cPLA2 activity was shown to be elevated in APOE4 carriers who later develop Alzheimer’s, linking the enzyme to disease risk.
- USC’s computational screening evaluated billions of molecules and selected compounds predicted to cross the blood‑brain barrier and target cPLA2 with minimal off‑target effects.
- Lead cPLA2 inhibitor reduced harmful enzyme activation in human brain cells and animal models at low concentrations, confirming potency and brain penetration.
Why it matters: APOE4 carriers and broader Alzheimer’s patients stand to gain a therapy that directly curbs brain inflammation, while biotech firms could secure a novel drug pipeline, potentially lowering treatment costs and accelerating market entry.
