Therapeutics: Retinoid X receptor (RXR)

In vitro and mouse studies suggest combining docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and the RXR agonist bexarotene could help treat AD. In primary mouse glial cells and a transgenic mouse model of AD, DHA and bexarotene increased expression of cholesterol transport machinery that promotes clearance of soluble β-amyloid (Aβ) compared with either compound alone or vehicle. Also in the AD mouse model, the combination therapy decreased inflammatory gene expression, levels of soluble Aβ, formation of dense plaques in the cortex and memory defects. Next steps include evaluating options for combining DHA and bexarotene in clinical trials to treat AD.

Eisai Co. Ltd., Minophagen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., and Valeant Pharmaceuticals International Inc. market Targretin bexarotene to treat cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL)...