Early last week, biopharmaceutical company MediciNova Inc. (“MediciNova”) announced promising results for their therapeutic candidate MN-166 (ibudilast). The company, which published in the findings in Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology, explored MN-166 as a therapy designed to prevent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in patients with gastrointestinal cancer.
MN-166
Developed by MediciNova, MN-166 has the potential to be useful for a wide range of conditions ranging from glioblastoma, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), drug and alcohol addiction, progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) and CIPN. MN-166 is an orally administered small molecule macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) inhibitor and phosphodiesterase (PDE) -4 and -10 inhibitor. It works by supporting neuronal growth and inhibiting inflammatory proteins called cytokines.
In the recent study, researchers found that using MN-166 and oxaliplatin reduced the neurotoxicity of chemotherapy. 16 patients enrolled in the study. Of these, 14 received 2 cycles of oxaliplatin chemotherapy, one of conventional chemotherapy, and one of chemotherapy while also receiving MN-166. Ultimately, MN-166 prevented worsening neurotoxicity or improved its symptoms. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), symptoms of neurotoxicity include:
- Sexual dysfunction
- Headache
- Vision or memory loss
- Limb or muscle weakness
- Cognitive problems
- Changes in behavior
Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)
So what is peripheral neuropathy, and how can it be stimulated by chemotherapy? Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is caused by peripheral nerve damage. Peripheral nerves are located near the brain and spinal cord. According to a JAMA Oncology Patient Page:
These nerves carry sensation, control movements of the arms and legs, and control the bladder and bowel.
Chemotherapy drugs, like oxaliplatin, docetaxel, vincristine, and bortezomib, are likely to cause neuropathy. Higher doses of chemotherapy drugs increase the risk of developing CIPN. Additionally, diabetes, older age, or vitamin deficiencies also increase the risk.
Symptoms of CIPN include:
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- A tingling or burning sensation in the hands and feet
- Increased sensitivity to pain, pressure, and temperature
Learn more about CIPN here.
