Molecules Protective Against Peripheral Neuropathies
Scientists from the University of Pittsburgh have identified a group of chemical compounds that have demonstrated a protective and restorative benefit on peripheral neuropathies.
Description
Peripheral neuropathies, when the nerves in the hands, feet, or arms are damaged, can have a variety of causes from physical injuries to viral infections. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is the most common side effect caused by Treatment with chemotherapy. It can severely impact on a patient's quality of life and can continue long after chemotherapy ends. Treatment of these conditions remains an unmet need among many individuals, and any treatment or preventative strategy could provide real benefit to patients with CIPN.Applications
1. CIPN prevention and treatment2. Treatment of other peripheral neuropathies
Advantages
Currently there is no treatment for CIPN, a condition that can have an impact on patients even after chemotherapy has ceased.These novel compounds, 8-substituted guanine and/or 8-substituted guanosine, have been shown to inhabit purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNPase). Additionally, PNPase purine nucleoside substrates, such as guanosine and inosine can also bind to PNPase. Using these compounds on their own or as a mixture may provide neuroprotective effect through inhibition of PNPase functionality preventing nerve damage or playing a role in neural regeneration.