| abstract |
The Rho family GTPases regulates axon growth and regeneration. Inactivation of Rho with C3, a toxin from Clostridium botulinum , can stimulate regeneration and sprouting of injured axons. The present invention provides novel chimeric C3-like Rho antagonists. These new antagonists are a significant improvement over C3 compounds because they are 3-4 orders of magnitude more potent to stimulate axon growth on inhibitory substrates than recombinant C3. The invention further provides evidence that these compounds promote repair when applied to the injured mammalian central nervous system. |