Novel positive findings related to its ability to protect and regenerate dopamine-producing neurons

Among the neurological growth factors i.e. the factors that are able to promote survival, regrowth and resumption of function of dopaminergic cells, neurturin has a prominent role.  As these factors are proteins, they cannot be taken by mouth (they would be "digested" ) or injected (they cannot pass through the blood-brain barrier).  Consequently, they must be introducted into the brain, either directly via a catheter; or via "engineered" stem cells designed to produce the growth factor, so that the brain itself starts to produce it continuously, a method that prevents rejection.   Adopting the latter method, Ceregene Inc. in San Diego has patented a system (CERE 120) made of a non pathogenic virus that transports the human neurturin gene directly inside the cells of the striatum.   Two recent animal studies report important data on the ability of CERE 120 to protect dopaminergic neurons in the striatum in a model of parkinsonism in the rat (Gasmi M et al. - Neurobiol Dis - 2007; 27: 67-70) and in elderly monkeys with poor dopaminergic function in the long term. The good tolerability of the system is of particular interest. In the meantime clinical trials in patients with Parkinson's disease given neurturin have started, but long term results will not be available for several years. 

Source: Herzog CD et al - Mov Disord - 2007; 22: 1124-32