TACOMA, Wash., Oct. 16, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — A paper published in the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology shows that Revalesio's novel therapeutic RNS60 significantly improved biochemical and behavioral (movement) outcomes in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease (PD). The research was conducted by the laboratory of Dr. Kalipada Pahan at Rush University Medical Center.
The model used in the study generates Parkinson's-like symptoms through targeting dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, a region of the brain involved in controlling movement. The model produces neuronal death, loss of dopamine, and physical symptoms of the disease. The experiments conducted by Dr. Pahan's group demonstrate that treatment with RNS60 restored dopamine and provided a significant level of protection against neuronal death through upregulation of a protein called I kappa B alpha (IkBa).
"IkBa is an anti-inflammatory protein that helps with survival and function of neurons in neuroinflammatory conditions," said Dr. Pahan. "For therapeutic purpose, the best option would be to increase the level of this protein directly in the brain using a non-toxic medication. Remarkably, RNS60 treatment achieved this goal and thereby protected dopaminergic neurons in the mouse model of PD," Dr. Pahan said.
In addition to protecting the brain from the biochemical damage associated with PD, RNS60 also preserved the motor function of the animals, which the researchers assessed using numerous techniques. The ability to protect dopaminergic neurons, preserve striatal neurotransmitter function, and halt the progression of neurodegeneration and associated symptoms strongly suggest RNS60 as a promising therapeutic for PD and other neuroinflammatory diseases.
Revalesio's director of neurology research, Dr. Supurna Ghosh said, "In this study, RNS60's effect on the central anti-inflammatory mechanism in the glial cells of the brain is remarkable. Based on this work, and research previously published, we are hopeful RNS60 can have significant therapeutic effects in multiple neuroinflammatory and neuro-degenerative diseases. We are moving forward with additional research and human trials to further understand the therapeutic potential of RNS60."
A copy of the paper, Protection of Dopaminergic Neurons in a Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease by a Physically-Modified Saline Containing Charge-Stabilized Nanobubbles, can be found online at the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology. (http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11481-013-9503-3)
About RNS60
Revalesio is developing the use of RNS60 as a therapeutic that alters whole cell conductance through effects voltage-sensing membrane-bound proteins, thereby modulating the activity of G protein-coupled receptors and the secretion of cytokines, chemokines resulting in decreased inflammation and cell death. RNS60 contains charge-stabilized nanostructures (CSN) that are created by subjecting normal saline to Taylor-Couette-Poiseuille (TCP) flow. RNS60 has demonstrated a reduction in inflammatory responses that are linked to numerous diseases, including neurodegenerative, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
About Revalesio Corporation
Revalesio is a pioneering-clinical stage biomedical company dedicated to restoring hope and transforming lives. Founded in 2000 and based in Tacoma, Washington, Revalesio has partnered with leaders in biomedical research around the world to develop RNS60. Revalesio has an extensive patent portfolio on a novel class of anti-inflammatory products and is advancing the use of CSN-based therapeutics in neuro-inflammatory, respiratory, cardiovascular and other inflammatory diseases. For more information about Revalesio, visit revalesio.com. (http://www.revalesio.com)
About Parkinson's disease
Parkinson's disease is the most common neurodegenerative condition afflicting 1 in 100 people over age 60[1]. Currently, there is no cure for the disease. The symptoms of Parkinson's are caused by the death of dopamine producing neurons in the brain, which affects movement, balance, flexibility and coordination.
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