Methods for making and delivering rho-antagonist tissue adhesive formulations to the injured mammalian central and peripheral nervous systems and uses thereof

Patent Number: 7,141,428

Stem cells are increasingly seen as a source for the generation of new neurons. In this patent, ways of protecting neurons and stimulating axon regrowth are thought. Specifically, the patent deals with two GTPases called Rho and Rac. Rac activation causes axon spreading, while Rho activation causes axon retraction. In many neurodegenerative diseases, axons are retracted and important neural connections are broken, despite the fact that the neuron bodies are still alive.

The patent covers a kit for the stimulation of axon sprouting, by claiming a mixture of Rho antagonists and fibrin glue. It also covers a biocompatible composition of fibrin glue and Rho antagonists that is useful for stimulation of axon spreading. Described are specific Rho inhibitors including the complement component C3, as well as mixtures of the Rho antagonist with protease inhibitors.

This patent is useful for treatment of neurodegenerative conditions, as well as for combining with sources of stem cells. It could also be used to “precondition” neurons derived from stem cells so as to enhance their function in vitro before in vivo application. More exotic uses of the ideas in the patent would be to develop three dimensional brain-like structures by mixing different stem cells and stimulating their neuronal axon growth in vivo.

View this patent on the USPTO website.

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