A world-first Perth-developed drug is showing promising results in protecting the brain after concussion.
The neuroprotective treatment ARG-007 may limit harm from head injuries, potentially reducing the long-term effects of traumatic brain injury.
The drug is a small peptide given intravenously, enters the brain and protects neurons from damage following trauma.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers in the body.
Traumatic brain injury affects an estimated 69m people worldwide and is a leading cause of death and disability.
Research indicates ARG-007 reduces brain damage and improves motor and memory function.
Francis Corrigan, associate professor at the University of Adelaide, said: “Because it’s a really small peptide it can sneak into the brain and that means it can act on the neurons within the brain and protect them from the damage following a head injury.”
Human trials for traumatic brain injury are set to begin next year, with hospitals in Perth and nationally set to take part.
The drug is already being tested on stroke patients in emergency departments across Australia, with results due next month.
Dr Liz Dallimore described ARG-007 as a “one shot wonder type of drug.”
“The hope for this drug is that it will be in every single ambulance in the world,” she said.
