See the DrugPatentWatch profile for sapropterin
Sapropterin, also known as tetrahydrobiopterin, is a naturally occurring compound in the body that plays a crucial role in various biochemical reactions, including the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline [1]. These neurotransmitters are essential for proper brain function, and their decline has been linked to several neurological disorders, including age-related cognitive decline [2].
While there is no direct evidence linking sapropterin to age-related cognitive decline, its role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters suggests that it may play a role in maintaining cognitive function as we age. However, more research is needed to establish a clear connection between sapropterin and age-related cognitive decline [3].
It is worth noting that sapropterin is currently being studied as a potential treatment for several neurological disorders, including phenylketonuria (PKU), a genetic disorder that can cause intellectual disability, seizures, and other neurological problems [4]. The drug is currently approved for the treatment of PKU in several countries, including the United States and Europe [5].
In summary, sapropterin plays a crucial role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which are essential for proper brain function. While there is no direct evidence linking sapropterin to age-related cognitive decline, its role in maintaining proper neurotransmitter levels suggests that it may play a role in cognitive function as we age. More research is needed to establish a clear connection between sapropterin and age-related cognitive decline.
Sources:
1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Summary for CID 6307, Sapropterin. <
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sapropterin>.
2. National Institute on Aging. What Happens to Your Brain as You Age? <
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-happens-your-brain- ase-you-age>.
3. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics. The Role of Tetrahydrobiopterin in Neurodegenerative Disorders. <
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1586/14737175.2015.1056337>.
4. DrugPatentWatch. Sapropterin DiHCl (KUVAN). <
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/sapropterin-dihcl-kuvan>.
5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. FDA Approves First Treatment for Rare Genetic Disorder that Causes Phenylalanine Buildup in the Blood. <
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-rare-genetic-disorder-causes-phenylalanine-buildup-blood>.