CMCC 1595
A small molecule drug as a topical treatment for small fiber peripheral neuropathy
Inventors: Gabriel Corfas, Joshua Murtie
Invention Types: Therapeutics
Research Areas: Endocrinology, Neurology/Neuroscience
Keywords: Drug Discovery, Drug Screening, Small Molecule/Drug
For More Information Contact: Caron, Connie
Invention Description:
A small molecule that enhances ligand-induced signaling by the Glial Derived Neurotrophic Factor receptor (GFR-alpha/RET)Â family, which when applied topically in mouse models of small fiber peripheral neuropathy prevents nerve degeneration and preserves sensory function.
Applications:
Peripheral neuropathy is very prevalent and can be caused by many diseases and disorders. Applications include neuropathies caused by:|
• Chemotherapy
• Cancer
• Lupus
• Diabetes
• Shingles
• Alcoholism
Competitive Advantages:
There are no products currently available to directly treat the underlying causes of nerve damage; the current treatments (antidepressants, anticonvulsants, lidocaine patches) only alleviate the symptoms but do not treat the associated nerve damage or address the disease that has neuropathy as a side effect. The topical use is expected to be safer and have fewer side effects than the oral administration.
Business Opportunity:
• Exclusive License
• Partnerships for Development
Key Publications: Manuscript in press (PNAS)
Related Publications: Roy K, Murtie JC, El-Khodor BF, Edgar N, Sardi SP, Hooks BM, Benoit-Marand M, Chen C, Moore H, O'Donnell P, Brunner D, Corfas G. Loss of erbB signaling in oligodendrocytes alters myelin and dopaminergic function, a potential mechanism for the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders, Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2007; 104: 8131-8136.
IPStatus: Patented