Huntington's Disease

Investigational Treatments

Research is ongoing to learn more about the inheritance patterns, pathophysiology, symptoms, and progression of HD and develop new or improved therapies. For example, investigators are evaluating whether excessive activation of glutamate may be reduced by blocking receptors of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), a similar neurotransmitter, possibly helping to halt abnormal nerve cell death. Studies are being conducted to assess the potential symptomatic and neuroprotective effects of riluzole (Rilutek®), an agent that is thought to moderate the effects of glutamate. Investigations are also evaluating other possible disease-modifying therapies, such as the use of antioxidants (e.g., coenzyme Q10) or certain growth factors that may have a protective effect on striatal nerve cells (neurotrophic growth factors). In addition, experimental animal studies and clinical investigations are ongoing to evaluate the safety and possible effectiveness of certain surgical techniques for HD. Such procedures include replacement of degenerated neuronal tissue through transplantation of human or pig fetal cells.