First human trials of designer protein therapies stun US neuroscientists
Summary
The article reports that Chinese researchers are testing DREADDs, designer receptors activated by designer drugs, in the clinic as the first human trials of chemogenetic brain therapies. It explains how viral-vector delivery of receptor proteins can suppress activity in targeted neurons, potentially treating conditions like intractable epilepsy, Parkinson’s, and neuropathic pain, while noting safety concerns such as immune reactions and off-target effects. The piece also discusses the broader scientific and regulatory context and the potential future impact of circuit-based therapeutics.