BETHESDA, Md., Oct. 18, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- India Globalization Capital, Inc. (NYSE-MKT:IGC) provides compelling in vitro data compiled from genetically engineered cell lines within an Alzheimer’s disease model, showing that at varying concentrations of IGC-AD1 the expression of GSK3β is reduced by as much as 62%, leading in turn to a reduction in hyper phosphorylation of tau protein.
“Based on this and other previously announced compelling data, we are readying IGC-AD1, brand name Hyalolex, in a liquid formulation for commercialization in early 2018,” stated IGC’s CEO, Ram Mukunda.
We have identified Germany, Canada and certain licensed medical cannabis states in the U.S. for commercialization. The German market recently opened for imports of cannabis products that can be sold in licensed pharmacies. Our initial research indicates that there are about 7.8 million patients with AD in these combined markets.
One of the two types of legions found in the brain of AD patients is intracellular neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) composed of tau protein. This study shows that IGC-AD1 inhibits glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) a major kinase (catalyst) in the phosphorylation of tau protein. Curtailing abnormal hyperphosphorylation of tau, which leads to NFTs, is an accepted strategy for combating AD.
Tau proteins are Microtubule Associated Proteins (MAPs) that stabilize microtubules within a neuron. Abnormally phosphorylated tau leads to a disassociation of tau from MAP, leading to a destabilization of microtubule associated protein complexes; eventually leading to neuronal degeneration. Studies have shown that in the brains of AD patients the phosphorylation of tau is 3 to 4 times more than in normal brains.
This study result, when combined with the earlier reported data that shows IGC-AD1 reduces Aβ production and inhibits Aβ aggregation without any neuronal toxicity, represents a novel breakthrough. The summary in vitro data indicates that at varying concentrations of IGC-AD1, GSK3β levels decreased between 53% and 62%. This in turn curtailed hyperphosphorylation of tau protein as measured by immunoblotting studies on N2aAβPPswe cells. Dr. Chuanhai Cao, IGC’s Senior Advisor and Associate Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at USF’s College of Pharmacy conducted the studies.
About Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a form of dementia. It is known as America’s most expensive disease, with an estimated cost to the U.S. economy of $236 billion. AD currently affects more than 5.3 million Americans and over 65% of AD patients are women. Over the next 20 years, the number of those afflicted with the disease is expected to double. The forecast is staggering, considering that to date, no effective cure has been found.
About IGC
IGC is engaged in the development of cannabis based combination therapies to treat Alzheimer’s, pain, nausea, eating disorders, several end points of Parkinson’s, and epilepsy in dogs and cats. IGC has assembled a portfolio of patent filings and four lead product candidates addressing these conditions. The company is based in Maryland, USA.
For more information please visit www.igcinc.us
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Forward-looking Statements
Please see forward looking statements as discussed in detail in IGC's Form 10K for fiscal year ended March 31, 2017, and in other reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.