This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. Huperzine A is a natural cholinesterase inhibitor derived from the Chinese herb Huperzia serrata. There is eveidence that huperine A may compare favorably in symptomatic efficacy to cholinesterase inhibitors currently in use. In addition, huperzine A has antioxidant and neuroprotective properties that suggest that it may be useful as a disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD). the drug is currently available as s nutriceutical in this country, and is being used by some U.S. clinicans to treat AD. However, ther have been no controlled clinical trails outside China assessing its toxicity and efficacy. The primary aim is to determine treatment with huperzine A 200ug bid improves cognitive function in patients with AD. Secondary Aims are: To determine whether treatment with huperzine A 400ug bid improves cognitive function in patients with AD. To determine the effect of huperzine A treatment on global clinical status, activities of daily living, and behavior in AD. To evaluate the tolerability of huperzine A treatment at dosages of 200ug bid and 400ug bid in AD. To determine the relationship between blood cholinesterase activity and cognitive function in AD patients treated with huperzine A.
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