Professor Giovanna Bermano g.bermano@rgu.ac.uk
Professor
Exploring the anti-atherogenic properties of a compound derived from Amaryllidaceae (Daffodil)
People Involved
Project Description
Agroceutical Products Ltd (APL) produces sustainable quantities of the naturally derived alkaloid galanthamine from daffodils, which is a key active pharmaceutical used for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Daffodils contain an abundance of other alkaloid compounds, some of which (e.g. narciclasine and haemanthamine) APL can extract alongside galanthamine. There is emerging evidence that some of these alkaloids may target cellular events in the heart cell (cardiomyocyte) to interrupt heart failure (HF) associated structural changes, and thus have the potential for development as novel therapeutics in the prevention of HF. Previous work, carried out on a Proof of concept grant from HVB, has shown that one alkaloid compound has potential. This project will involve further testing to increase the body of evidence for its potential as anti-hypertrophic/anti-fibrotic molecules, and to gain better understanding into cellular mechanism of action. Outcomes will bring added value to the company current production stream which will, in turn maximise the commercial potential for their products.
| Project Acronym | HVB Follow on Fund |
|---|---|
| Status | Project Live |
| Funder(s) | Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council |
| Value | £27,501.00 |
| Project Dates | Sep 1, 2023 - Apr 30, 2024 |
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