Multi-target design strategies in the context of Alzheimer's disease: acetylcholinesterase inhibition and NMDA receptor antagonism as the driving forces

Neurochem Res. 2014 Oct;39(10):1914-23. doi: 10.1007/s11064-014-1250-1. Epub 2014 Feb 4.

Abstract

In recent years, the multi-target-directed ligand concept has been used to design a variety of molecules hitting different biological targets for Alzheimer's disease. We have sought to combine, in the same molecule, the neuroprotective action of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonism with the symptomatic relief offered by cholinergic activity through acetylcholinesterase inhibition. This strategy could potentially maintain the positive outcomes of memantine-acetylcholinesterase inhibitor combinations, but with the benefits of a single molecule therapy. Herein, we discuss selected examples of multifunctional compounds, which we rationally designed to simultaneously modulate these targets. We also examine the intertwined relationship between acetylcholinesterase, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, and other active players in the neurotoxic cascade.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acetylcholinesterase / drug effects*
  • Alzheimer Disease / drug therapy*
  • Alzheimer Disease / enzymology
  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  • Receptors, N-Methyl-D-Aspartate
  • Acetylcholinesterase