Lysosomal storage diseases (LSDs) are a group of genetic disorders caused by defects in lysosomal function, which lead to the accumulation of undigested substrates and subsequent cell and tissue damage. Batten disease and Mucopolysaccharidosis are two neurodegenerative LSDs that have devastating consequences for affected individuals and their families. Despite significant research efforts, there is currently no cure for these diseases.
Here, we present an innovative strategy to tackle LSDs that combines high-content imaging techniques with repurposing approved drugs to identify the correctors of these diseases.
Our results show that several drugs that are already approved for other indications can effectively reduce lysosomal storage in different LSDs, including batten disease and Mucopolysaccharidosis. We further validated the most promising drug candidates in mouse models of these diseases and found that they can improve several disease phenotypes, including pathological storage, motor function, and neuroinflammation.
In conclusion, our findings provide a promising starting point for the development of new treatments for these devastating diseases.
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