In a study published in Neuron, researchers discovered a pathway that plays a fundamental role in learning and memory, and designed small interfering peptides to improve cognitive performance relating to memory in vivo.



Using a peptide array, the group studied the interactions of a receptor and enzyme, NR2B (a subunit of the NMDA receptor complex)

and cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5), respectively. Based on the identification of NR2B regions that interacted with CDK5, the

group designed novel peptides that would disrupt the interactions of the 2 proteins. The introduction of the peptide by

hippocampal infusion into aged mice resulted in an enhancement in learning and memory tasks.


The study has implications for the development of drugs to treat cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's Diseases.



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