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news.Inhibiting death receptor-6 (DR6) function may represent a novel approach in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) by blocking autoimmune response while promoting remyelination, according to a study by Biogen Idec.
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The study demonstrated the negative role that DR6 plays in regulating remyelination within the central nervous system.
The dual role of DR6 antagonists in promoting remyelination and inhibiting autoimmune activation represents a novel approach for the treatment of MS and other central nervous system diseases that result from demyelination.
Biogen Idec Neurobiology Research investigator Sha Mi said the in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrate that inhibiting or blocking DR6 function results in robust axonal remyelination.
"These data provide strong evidence that this targeted approach warrants further research and ultimately may lead to an important new way of treating demyelinating diseases, including MS," Mi said.
Biogen Idec R&D EVP said Douglas Williams said no currently approved MS treatment targets DR6, and the identification of the potential role of this receptor illustrates the breadth of their ongoing commitment to using cutting-edge science to discover of potential new treatment options for the MS community.