The compounds and pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention are believed to significantly inhibit Dyrk la activity which suggests that the agents could provide therapeutic benefit for Down syndrome, since Dyrk la overproduction in Down syndrome appears to account for the developmental cognitive impairment and reduction in neurogenesis. The compounds and pharmaceutical compositions, administered during early post-natal development, may increase neurogenesis and thereby reduce cognitive impairment which may ultimately allow individuals with Down syndrome to live a more independent life.
