Research in Progress

Drug Development

Paxil: For Depression... and HD?

Researchers have found that the widely prescribed antidepressant Paxil (paroxetine) fights neurodegeneration in the brains of HD mouse models. Paroxetine works by blocking the uptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin into the bloodstream, as well as the reuptake of this chemical. Serotonin, often called the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, is involved in many systems, including pain control, sleep/wake control, and mood. Under normal conditions, serotonin is immediately cleared from the synapse (the narrow space between the nerve cells). The nerve cells often reabsorb serotonin for reuse after it has been released (a process known as reuptake). Paroxetine prevents this from happening, so serotonin remains in the synapse for a longer period of time, thereby enhancing mood and countering anxiety.

Paroxetine is also able to suppress neurodegeneration in mice with the mutated huntingtin protein. Research has shown that the drug lessens motor dysfunction and body weight loss, as well as improves glucose metabolism in the mice. The treatment was equally beneficial whether paroxetine was given to the mice before or after the onset of motor dysfunction. These results suggest that Paxil and similar antidepressants may be able to treat presymptomatic and symptomatic HD patients.

To view the abstract on PubMed, please click here.

Last Modified: 04/12/2007

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