Novel ‘Chimera’ Drug Targets the ‘Undruggable’ Parkinson’s Protein

Researchers at The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology in Jupiter, FL have created a “two-headed” drug they’re calling the Chimera. Designed for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, the “two-headed” drug not only prevents the production of the toxic protein linked to Parkinson’s disease, but also destroys the RNA machinery that makes it.

Matthew Disney, Ph.D. is a researcher at the Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute focusing on genome sequencing and RNA targeting. He says this research is critical because it tackles the cause of the disease rather than simply changing its course and relieving symptoms for patients.

“The medical need for a truly disease-modifying treatment is significant, and we know that patients are awaiting better options,” said Disney. “We’re hopeful that we’re on the road to better days for people living with Parkinson’s.”

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