Dihexa (developmental code name PNB-0408), also known as N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6) aminohexanoic amide, is a small oligopeptide drug derived from angiotensin IV. It is currently being investigated for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders.
Dihexa is thought to work by potentiating the activity of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) at its receptor, c-Met. HGF is a potent neurotrophic factor that plays an important role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. It also has neuroprotective and regenerative effects.
In animal studies, Dihexa has been shown to:
- Improve cognitive function
- Reduce amyloid beta plaques
- Promote the growth of new neurons in the hippocampus
- Protect neurons from damage
- Enhance nerve regeneration
- Improve blood flow to the brain
Based on these findings, Dihexa is being investigated for the following potential uses:
Alzheimer’s disease: Dihexa is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. In a Phase 1 clinical trial, Dihexa was found to be safe and well-tolerated. In a Phase 2a clinical trial, Dihexa was shown to improve cognitive function and reduce amyloid beta plaques in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
Other neurological disorders: Dihexa is also being investigated for the treatment of other neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury. Preclinical studies have shown that Dihexa can improve cognitive function and protect neurons from damage in these disorders.
Cognitive impairment in cancer patients: Dihexa is also being investigated for the treatment of cognitive impairment in cancer patients who are undergoing chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can cause a number of side effects, including cognitive impairment. Dihexa is thought to be able to protect neurons from damage caused by chemotherapy and improve cognitive function in cancer patients.
Other potential uses: Dihexa is also being investigated for a number of other potential uses, including:
- Stroke
- Traumatic brain injury
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Pain
- Inflammation
Recent research on Dihexa
In recent years, there has been a growing body of research on Dihexa. Some of the most notable findings from this research include:
- A 2022 study published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology found that Dihexa improved cognitive function and reduced amyloid beta plaques in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease.
- A 2021 study published in the journal Sleep Medicine found that Dihexa improved sleep quality in rats.
- A 2020 study published in the journal Molecular Neurobiology found that Dihexa protected neurons from damage in a mouse model of multiple sclerosis.
- A 2019 study published in the journal Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience found that Dihexa improved cognitive function in mice with mild cognitive impairment.
Dihexa is a promising new drug for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders. It is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, and the results of these trials are eagerly awaited.
More research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of Dihexa. However, the existing evidence suggests that Dihexa is a promising new drug for the treatment of neurological disorders.
