Shares in Prana Biotechnology (NADSAQ:PRAN) surged 19% and was earlier higher in New York as it said an article about early data on PBT434 had been accepted in a peer review journal.

The article deals with the fact the compound PBT434 prevents iron-mediated neurodegeneration and alpha-synuclein toxicity in multiple models of Parkinsons disease.

Dr David Stamler, Pranas chief medical officer, said: These findings are important because Parkinsons disease and the related synucleinopathies cause significant disability and diminish the independence of afflicted individuals.

"An agent which slows disease progression could have a great impact on reducing disease burden and improving quality of life. We are eager to begin clinical testing of PBT434.

The publication is the culmination of ten years of research from scientists at the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, (Melbourne, Australia), investigating compounds from Prana Biotechnologys propriety chemical library.

Not only was PBT434 shown to block alpha-synuclein accumulation, but it also prevented loss of nerve cells in the region of the brain primarily affected in Parkinsons disease.

To investigate the therapeutic potential of PBT434 to slow neurodegeneration, the researchers performed extensive animal testing in multiple Parkinsons disease models, including tests in mice that over-expressed the alpha-synuclein protein.

These results showed that PBT434 lowered alpha-synuclein and its toxic effects and simultaneously improved motor performance.

Shares added 19% to $2.73.

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Prana Biotechnology shares surge after journal publication - Proactive Investors UK