Selection of novel activators of non-genomic estrogen-like signaling (ANGELS) with promising potential for Alzheimer’s disease - 07/11/26
, Norbert Jeszenői e, 2
, Tamás Kovács b, c, 3
, Adrienn Szabó a, c, 4
, Erzsébet Kövesdi b, c, 5
, István Horváth e
, Dóra Zelena a, b, c, ⁎, 6, 7
, Csaba Hetényi e, f, 6, 8
, István Ábrahám b, c, 6, 9, 10 
Abstract |
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, affecting elderly women two- to threefold more than similar aged man, or the younger generations. Although 17β-estradiol offers neuroprotection, its clinical use is limited by serious side effects. This study explored a molecular group called ANGELS (Activators of Non-Genomic Estrogen-Like Signaling) as safer alternatives. A steroid library was screened via computational docking to estrogen receptor α. The top binders were preselected via in vitro and in vivo tests. The neuroprotective effect was examined in two mouse models of AD (neurotoxic and genetic). Morphological and behavioral changes were investigated. From the 15 top binders six molecules were identified without estrogen-like uterus effects and with rapid kinase activation. The chosen compound (A3270), acutely given, significantly restored cholinergic fiber loss without affecting cell loss or AD-related morphologies (amyloid β and phospho-Tau). Furthermore, it increased locomotor activity but had no effect on short term memory. These molecules lack ERE reporter activity and uterotrophic effects in vitro and in vivo and A3270 was promising in two AD model mice. We believe that these or similar compounds may provide novel approaches for AD therapy.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Graphical Abstract |
Highlights |
• | AD risk is driven by hormone depletion during the post-menopausal period. |
• | Side effects via classical pathways limit use of standard estrogen therapy. |
• | In silico screening identified a novel class of Activators of Non-Genomic Estrogen-Like Signaling (ANGELS). |
• | ANGELS bypass genomic pathways to provide safer neuroprotective actions. |
• | These molecules rescue the cholinergic fibers to combat AD signs. |
Keywords : Alzheimer’s disease, Molecular screening, Estradiol, Non-classical mechanism, ANGELS, Neuroprotection, Cholinergic system
Plan
Vol 204
Article 120002- novembre 2026 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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