P2X7 receptor identified as drug target to block brain inflammation

Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that blocking the P2X7 receptor significantly reduces neuroinflammation in live human brain cells and tissue slices. Published in Brain, the work points to possible clinical trials for Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and traumatic brain injury.

• Blocking P2X7 cut inflammation in human brain tissue
• P2X7 drives release of cytokines such as IL-1β
• Monocytes from blood were converted into microglia-like cells
• Next step is clinical trials in neurodegeneration and TBI