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Drug Shows Demonstrated Ability to Improve Cognitive Function in DS Mice
Feb 25, 2007

Dr. Craig Garner's DSRTF-funded lab at Stanford University's Center for Research & Treatment of Down Syndrome published a research article in Nature Neuroscience, a scientific research journal, focusing on the compound pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) and its demonstrated ability to improve the cognitive function of "DS" mice. In short, the article speaks to how "DS" mice respond in a similar way to typical mice on maze running and object recognition tests when they are fed multiple, daily doses of PTZ in their milk. Although more research needs to be done, Dr. Garner believes that PTZ might have similar positive effects on humans living with Down syndrome.

After reviewing Dr. Garner's research, DSRTF Scientific Advisory Board member and preeminent molecular geneticist, Dr. Roger Reeves, stated that even though researchers have long considered Down syndrome too complex to crack, Dr. Garner's research "serves as notice to the neuroscience community that there are a lot of interesting things to do here. This is not some vague, mega-complex issue."

Although Nature Neuroscience's publication of Dr. Garner's research has helped to raise awareness about Down syndrome research, Dr. Garner's work is far from complete. Researchers now have the task of gathering more information about this compound and testing it to determine how it can best help to deter DS-related cognitive decline. These investigations will place us one step closer to realizing a medical treatment to help improve cognition for individuals with Down syndrome.

These are definitely exciting times for Down syndrome research and DSRTF-funded investigators continue to advance the field of Trisomy 21 research. As always, DSRTF is grateful for your past support and we look forward to witnessing the research breakthroughs that your future support will help produce. Your contributions will undoubtedly accelerate our ability to realize even greater scientific advances in the near future.

Please join DSRTF in congratulating Dr. Garner's research team for their accomplishments and commitment to Down syndrome research!!!