Context

To date, antipsychotics prescribed in the context of schizophrenia still have little effect on negative and cognitive symptoms. This is why new therapeutic strategies have emerged, such as limiting the signaling of glutamate in the brain. Metabotropic receptors for type 2 glutamate (mGlu2 receptors), which are self-receptors inhibiting the release of glutamate, have been considered promising new therapeutic targets. While the few small chemical molecules that entered the clinical phase have not been shown to be sufficiently effective, the use of antibodies appears to be a relevant alternative.

Benefits

The research team optimized a mGlu2 activator nanobody that corrects cognition defects in a mouse model of schizophrenia. These effects are observed for several days after intrapitoneal injection and early results show the ability of the nanobody to cross the blood-brain barrier.

Applications

These findings have very promising implications for improving the treatment of schizophrenia with a potential effect on positive and negative symptoms.