| abstract |
Gly-Pro-Glu (GPE) is rapidly metabolized in vivo. We have demonstrated that GPE infusion induces strong and lasting neuroprotection in all brain regions tested, and in certain embodiments, the effect of GPE infusion is post-bolus injection (“load dose / infusion”). It was found that the effect is higher than that. GPE alleviated apoptosis in the hippocampus, inhibited microglial proliferation, prevented damage-induced loss of astrocytes, and improved long-term physical function. Post-infusion GPE exhibits a broad effective dose range (0.3-30 mg / kg / h), surprisingly prolongs the treatment effective period and can be used from 1 hour to at least 24 hours after nerve injury. The present inventors have found that the neuroprotective effect of acute GPE administration is prolonged, so that it can be used for effective treatment of various neurodegenerative conditions even when administered after nerve injury. GPE is therefore an effective neuroprotective agent and can be used alone or in conjunction with other neuroprotective agents, anti-inflammatory agents or peptidases or protease inhibitors. Compositions of GPE and protease and / or peptide inhibitors are provided. |