A team of researchers from New York University Abu Dhabi and University of Denver has developed a promising new approach that could help slow—or even halt—the progression of serious brain disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, opening the door to treatments that go beyond symptom management.
In the new study, the Majzoub Lab at New York University Abu Dhabi and the Kumar Lab at the University of Denver, in collaboration with international partners, engineered a specialised class of small molecules designed to prevent harmful protein build-up in the brain. One such molecule, known as SK-129, works by inhibiting the aggregation and spread of these proteins—processes widely associated with neurodegenerative diseases.
The research team tested SK-129 across a broad range of disease models, including human cells, patient-derived tissues, and living organisms. In all cases, the molecule demonstrated a clear reduction in disease-related toxicity and harmful effects.
Importantly, the researchers also found that SK-129 is capable of crossing the blood–brain barrier—a protective layer that often prevents therapeutic compounds from reaching the brain. In experiments conducted on mice, the treatment significantly reduced the progression of disease-related damage in brain tissue.
Mazen Majzoub, Associate Professor of Biology at New York University Abu Dhabi and co-lead author of the study, highlighted the significance of the findings, noting that the research represents a step towards therapies that address the root cause of such conditions. Rather than focusing solely on alleviating symptoms, the aim is to slow or stop the disease itself.
