Previous research has attempted to develop treatments to inhibit a protein called the NK-1 receptor, which has long been associated with chronic and acute pain. However, these treatments fell short, only targeting the receptor on the exterior of the cell.
The Monash University research team discovered the NK-1 receptor controls pain inside the cell. The team subsequently developed drugs to specifically target the receptor in the cell’s interior. In animal models, the treatment effectively blocked pain for extended periods of time.
“This is a proof-of-concept study that shows that we can re-engineer current pain drugs and make them more effective,” said Meritxell Canals, PhD, a research fellow with Monash University and one of the study’s authors. “The challenge is now to translate the technology into human clinical trials. This is a complex and challenging path — but the ultimate benefits to patients with nerve pain are potentially highly significant.”
More articles on quality:
High blood sugar post-surgery linked to complications
IHI’s Dr. Tejal Gandhi: ‘We have to address safety with a total systems approach’
Sleep disorders linked to brain disease
