Value Proposition
· Identification of a unique therapeutic target for neuropathic pain.
· Technology exhibits a clearly defined mechanism for propagation of neuropathic pain.
· Expression is widespread and may be implicated in other pathological processes.
Technology Description
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have identified a therapeutic target for reducing neuropathic pain in peripheral sensory neurons. These data demonstrate a previously unexplored mechanism in which inhibition of a long non-coding RNA diminishes neuron excitability and neuropathic pain symptoms.
Unmet Need
Neuropathic pain is a widespread condition with limited treatment options due to the lack of understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms. Current neuropathic pain treatments target nerves directly but exhibit systemic side effects with limited therapeutic success. Therefore, there is a strong need for a treatment that leverages the biological mechanisms of neuropathic pain with improved treatment outcomes.
Stage of Development
· Proof-of-concept (preclinical studies) have been performed in a mouse model of peripheral nerve injury.
· Patent granted.
Data Availability
· Data available upon request.
Publications
· Zhao et al. A long noncoding RNA contributes to neuropathic pain by silencing Kcna2 in primary afferent neurons. Nature Neuroscience (2013).
· Han et al. Making antisense of pain. Nature Neuroscience (2013).
· Fishburn. Silencing neuropathic pain. SciBX (2013).
· Morton et al. Novel Mechanisms of Ion Channel Regulation Implicated in Neuropathic Pain. Pain Research (2013).
· Generally Physiological Of antisense, antibodies, K+ channels, and jejunal metabolism. Journal of General Physiology. (2013).
· Along came a long RNA. Nature Chemical Biology. (2013).
