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news.Microarray studies being conducted by Nutra Pharma have identified a new gene involved in the disease process of multiple sclerosis. Although the gene and some of its functions are already known, this is the first time it has been associated with multiple sclerosis.
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The research also provides evidence that the drug candidate RPI-78M modulates the expression of this gene in laboratory assays. RPI-78M is the lead drug candidate of Nutra Pharma’s holding, ReceptoPharm, and is being studied in preclinical assays for its efficacy in treating multiple sclerosis (MS).
Eno R&D was contracted by Nutra Pharma to analyze samples of immune cells and brain lesion material from MS patients, with and without the addition of RPI-78M. They measured the changes in gene expression that occurred with treatment.
Statistical evaluation of the data revealed more than sixty genes with significant changes in expression as a result of exposure to RPI-78M. In analyzing the affected genes, at least thirty of them may have a specific role in the progression of the disease and symptoms of MS.
“While RPI-78M alters the regulation of genes known to be involved with MS, we are especially excited by the modulation of this gene previously unassociated with MS at all. Work to further characterize the involvement of this gene in the disease progression of MS is ongoing,” commented James Flowers, president and chief scientific officer of Eno R&D.