Neuropeptide Development for Stroke

There is a relative lack of progress in current treatments and cures for stroke. The complexity of neurological processes, the irreversibility of neurological decline, and the presence of a highly selective blood-brain barrier (BBB) make conventional small-molecule drugs insufficient to address the underlying etiology of stroke. Neuropeptides are small molecules of proteins produced by the body in the nervous system or peripheral organs that modulate neurological function. They are characterized by high efficiency, clear specificity, low immunogenicity, biocompatibility, mild action, and no side effects. Different groups of peptides have been shown to have potential as neuroprotective agents in stroke. The action of the peptides is aimed at blocking the cascade of pathological processes due to reduced blood flow to brain tissue.

Our Neuropeptide Development Services

Ace Therapeutics offers customized neuropeptide development services to assist clients in their stroke drug development efforts. We have a team of experienced experts with in-depth knowledge of neuropeptide biology, stroke pathophysiology, and drug development to provide comprehensive solutions at each stage of the neuropeptide development process.

Design and Optimization of Neuropeptides

Our neuropeptide discovery platform utilizes advanced computational algorithms and high-throughput RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to identify potential therapeutic targets and analyze the molecular mechanisms by which neuropeptides exert neuroprotective effects in cerebral ischemia.

We can design custom peptide amino acid sequences and utilize state-of-the-art molecular modeling techniques and medicinal chemistry strategies to enhance the potency, affinity and stability of neuropeptides for specific targets and provide a broad spectrum of activity.

In Vitro Analysis of Neuropeptides

We offer a range of in vitro assays to evaluate the functional activity and mechanism of action of neuropeptides.

• Radioligand binding assays: Use radiolabeled neuropeptides to quantify binding to receptors.
• This signaling assays: Use fluorescent calcium indicators, such as Fura-2 or Fluo-4, to detect changes in intracellular calcium levels, a common signaling pathway for many neuropeptides.
• Membrane clamp recording: Measure ion channel activity at the single cell level, providing detailed information on how neuropeptides affect neuronal excitability.
• Multi-electrode arrays (MEA): Simultaneous recording of the electrical activity of multiple neurons helps to assess the overall network response to neuropeptides.
• Functional assays for cultured neurons: Cell proliferation assays and apoptosis assays.
• Mass spectrometry-based assays: Mass spectrometry can be used to accurately quantify and characterize neuropeptides and their metabolites. LC-MS/MS provides detailed information on the structure and abundance of neuropeptides in brain tissue samples.
• Neurotransmitter release assays: HPLC separates and quantifies neurotransmitters released from neurons. Real-time neurotransmitter release is measured with high temporal resolution using electrochemical detection.

In Vivo Studies of Neuropeptides

We offer well-established animal models of stroke to evaluate the efficacy and safety of neuropeptides. In addition, we offer advanced formulation technologies to optimize neuropeptide delivery, including nanotechnology-based approaches, liposomal formulations, and targeted drug delivery systems.

• Behavioral testing to evaluate neurological deficits
• Histological analysis to assess tissue damage and repair
• BBB permeability measurements
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to monitor the area of cerebral infarction in animals
• TTC staining of brain slices

Types of Neuropeptides We Can Develop

Our advanced screening platforms, computational modeling tools, formulation technologies, and stroke models enable us to help clients accelerate the neuropeptide development process and deliver high-quality results. We are working closely with academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies to advance the development of several neuropeptides for stroke.

• Small interfering peptides: Blocking protein-protein interactions
• Arginine-rich peptides: Polyarginine peptides, arginine-rich cationic cell-penetrating peptides (CCPPs) or protein-derived peptides
• Shuttle peptides: Enhance the permeability of neuroprotective agents across the blood-brain barrier
• Synthetic peptides: Mimic natural regulatory peptides and hormones

Ace Therapeutics is committed to helping our clients accelerate the development of neuropeptides for stroke. Please contact us. We look forward to working with you!

1. Yeo, X. Y., et al. (2022). Potentials of neuropeptides as therapeutic agents for neurological diseases. Biomedicines, 10(2), 343.