Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset: More Alzheimer Patients Receive 'Protein Factory' Brain Implants

Main Category: Alzheimer's / Dementia
Also Included In: Medical Devices / Diagnostics;  Neurology / Neuroscience
Article Date: 03 Nov 2008 - 8:00 PST

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Clinical testing of a new, innovative method to treat Alzheimer's disease began in March 2008 at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm. (See press release from April 7, 2008: http://www.karolinska.se/Pressmeddelanden). Six patients have now received brain implants of small capsules containing protein-producing cells.

Cells in the implanted capsules produce a protein called NGF (Nerve Growth Factor). NGF can stimulate the survival and growth of cholinergic nerve cells. These cells, essential for memory, time perception, problem solving, and other functions, break down in Alzheimer's disease. The new treatment method aims to prevent these cells from breaking down, thereby inhibiting disease progression.

"Although implantation of encapsulated cells is a new method for treating Alzheimer's disease, our extensive experience in stereotactic surgery at Karolinska University Hospital enables us to perform the procedure in a safe and controlled manner," says Professor Bengt Linderoth at the Department of Neurosurgery.

Three patients received NGF-producing cell capsules (developed by NsGene A/S Denmark) in March, and three additional patients received the implants in September 2008. The procedures were completed without complications, and the patients are well. "Using this unique method we can deliver drugs directly to the brain in a controlled way and over a longer period," says Maria Eriksdotter Jönhagen, Associate Professor, Department of Geriatrics, and Principal Investigator for the study. Outcomes are being rigorously assessed through examinations such as memory testing and radiography.

Karolinska Institutet