Title : Exploration of natural products and newly synthesized compounds as potential alternatives for alleviating symptoms of psychological conditions
Abstract:
Psychological disabilities such as Major depressive (MD) and anxiety-like disorders are a leading cause of global economic and social burden. While current treatments offer some effectiveness, they often fall short. This underscores the urgent need for faster-acting and more efficient treatments. In this discourse, we aim to explore how natural products and newly synthesized compounds might provide potential alternatives for alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression, illustrated with examples currently under exploration in Dr. Michelle Rosa's laboratory. For example, lectins are proteins with diverse biological and pharmacological potentials. These proteins typically contain at least one carbohydrate-binding domain, enabling specific and reversible binding to carbohydrates. Despite their known properties, there is limited understanding of the effects of lectins on the Central Nervous System (CNS). One such lectin, Schinus terebinthifolia leaf lectin (SteLL), is a glycosylated protein extracted from S. terebinthifolia leaves with the ability to bind chitin. In mouse models of anxiety and depression-like symptoms, SteLL significantly reduced the number of entries and time spent in the open arms, while decreasing immobility time in the tail suspension test. Furthermore, the efficacy of SteLL in the elevated plus maze and immobility test was reversed by pretreatment with pharmacological antagonists of the α2-adrenoceptor, 5-HT2A/2C serotonin receptor, and the D1 dopamine receptor. In a subacute evaluation, the anti-immobility effect of SteLL persisted after seven days of treatment. Dr. Michelle Rosa's laboratory also focuses on synthesizing new organic molecules with medicinal potential and maintains a molecule bank containing approximately 1,600 registered bioactive molecules. In another series of experiments, we are investigating the effects of newly synthesized compounds on neuropathological conditions. We discovered that a thiazolidine derivative exhibited a significant anxiolytic-like effect by reducing traumatic memory in a fear conditioning extinction learning protocol. Molecular docking analysis also suggested potential interactions with sodium channels and Proliferator-activated receptor gamma receptors. Currently, a range of natural and chemical products have been evaluated for psychological and neurological conditions. Leveraging available tools and expertise, we aim to contribute to the development of alternatives that could revolutionize the treatment of psychological disorders. Faster-acting and better-tolerated drugs have the potential to significantly improve the lives of millions and alleviate the global burden associated with these conditions.
Audience Take Away Notes:
- The limitations of current treatments for Major Depressive Disorder (MD) and anxiety disorders, highlighting the urgent need for more effective and faster-acting therapies.
- The potential of natural products and newly synthesized compounds as alternative treatments for anxiety and depression.
- The broader scope of research into natural and chemical products for psychological and neurological conditions and the laboratory's commitment to contributing to the development of improved treatments.
- The potential impact of faster-acting and better-tolerated drugs in improving the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions and reducing the overall burden on society.
