Novel Charge-Stabilized Nanostructure Drug Reverses Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis in a Mouse Model

A novel therapeutic agent comprising charge-stabilized saline nanostructures (CSNs) with no associated chemical compounds reversed the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in a mouse model while Phase I safety studies demonstrated an excellent safety profile with no known side effects.

The RNS60 CSN was produced by the biomedical company Revalesio (Tacoma, WA, USA) by subjecting a 0.9% normal saline solution to Taylor-Couette-Poiseuille (TCP) flow under elevated oxygen pressure. The long-lasting nanostructures created by this process acted in a broad-based manner to change the responsiveness of cells to inflammatory stimuli. RNS60 altered whole cell conductance through effects on voltage-gated ion channels and other voltage-sensing proteins, thereby modulating the G protein-coupled receptors and secretion of cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules.

In the current study, which was carried out in collaboration with investigators at Rush University (Chicago, IL, USA), RNS60 was tested in an MS mouse model.

Results published in the December 20, 2012, online edition of the journal PLOS ONE revealed that administration of RNS60 either at early disease onset or late at the relapsing phase halted disease progression (as measured by progressive limb paralysis) and prevented inflammation in the brain and spinal column while also protecting against demyelination. The beneficial effects of RNS60 were due to its ability to increase the number of regulatory T-cells (Tregs), which have protective function, while reducing the number of inflammatory Th17 T-cells. This shift in balance among T-cell classes reduced the damage caused by autoimmune processes related to MS progression. At the molecular level RNS60 boosted Treg formation by suppressing nitric oxide (NO) production, which increased expression of the Treg marker Foxp3.

RNS60 was tested in two Phase I safety studies and demonstrated an excellent safety profile with no known side effects. Based on the success of these studies Revalesio plans to initiate a Phase II MS clinical trial of RNS60.

Related Links:
Revalesio
Rush University