AU experts develop compounds that may boost human memory

Prayagraj: In a breakthrough development, scientists from Allahabad University (AU) have identified 14 chemical compounds that could significantly enhance human memory. These compounds, developed in the university's chemistry laboratory, show promising effects in opening constricted brain neurons, which are often associated with memory loss and cognitive decline. The research, led by Prof Ramendra Kumar Singh of the Department of Chemistry at AU, marks a major advancement in the search for memory-enhancing drugs. Remarkably, the compounds developed in the Prayagraj-based university are currently undergoing international testing in laboratories in the United States, specifically at California State University, Fullerton.

According to Prof Singh, preliminary results from the testing of three compounds showed positive outcomes, suggesting their potential in combating memory-related disorders. A research paper detailing this discovery was recently published in the Netherlands-based scientific journal, Journal of Molecular Structure, further highlighting the global relevance of this work. Explaining the scientific basis of the study, Prof Singh said that hyperphosphorylated tau proteins—proteins with an excess of phosphate groups—are responsible for memory degradation in humans. These proteins accumulate in the brain due to a deficiency of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. The enzyme acetylcholinesterase is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine, thus leading to its depletion.

The 14 newly developed compounds aim to inhibit the function of acetylcholinesterase, thereby maintaining healthy acetylcholine levels and potentially improving memory and brain health. To identify these compounds, the research team conducted a series of chemical reactions in the lab and utilised computational techniques such as molecular docking and computer simulation to evaluate the compounds' activity and cytotoxicity. The detailed analysis confirmed that all 14 compounds showed significant promise in both effectiveness and safety. These compounds, after being encoded, were sent to California for second-phase testing on specific cell lines known to produce the tau protein responsible for Alzheimer's disease. Although the names of the compounds have not yet been disclosed, Prof Singh noted that the early-stage results are encouraging, with three compounds already delivering positive findings. The next steps in the research include developing a drug based on the most effective molecule. If successful, this could lead to a new therapeutic option for millions suffering from memory loss and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's.