Validation of TRPM3 as a target for neuropathic pain

The TRPM3 protein is an ion channel that is functionally expressed in peripheral pain-sensing neurons of human. TRPM3 is functionally linked to the pain pathway and genetic ablation or pharmacological inhibition of TRPM3 prevent or revert hypersensitivity associated with inflammation or nerve injury. A collaboration with the centre of drug discovery and development has resulted in the identification of a class of TRPM3 antagonists, including a preclinical candidate drug with efficacy in different preclinical pain models and an excellent safety profile (two patents filed). However, our drug development project still has some important lacunas that hinder partnering and progression toward phase I studies. The aim of this project is to investigate the role of TRPM3 and the long-term efficacy, and safety of our first-in-class TRPM3 antagonist in relevant models of neuropathic pain. Moreover, we will evaluate the possibility that TRPM3 inhibitors can be use prophylactically, to prevent the development of the neuropathic pain. The successful execution of this project will provide the needed preclinical data to advance our program towards clinical studies.

Keywords:Neuropathic Pain, Novel analgesics, TRPM3, Antagonists

Disciplines:Non-clinical studies