Scientists from the University of Vienna have developed a new class of oral peptide drugs to treat chronic abdominal pain. Their action is based on the work of oxytocin, which can eliminate pain. Research results It was published In the journal Angewandte Chemie (AngeChem).
Pain is common in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which affect millions of people worldwide, scientists say.
Current medications used to treat chronic abdominal pain often contain opioids. These medications are effective but can have serious side effects such as addiction, nausea, and constipation. Additionally, opioids affect the central nervous system, causing fatigue and drowsiness.
A new therapeutic approach targets oxytocin receptors in the gut. Oxytocin is commonly known as the “love hormone” due to its important role in social interaction. Oxytocin may also affect the perception of pain.
When the peptide hormone oxytocin binds to the relevant receptors, it triggers a signal in the intestines that reduces pain. Moreover, since this effect is specific to a single organ, it reduces the risk of side effects caused by non-systemic effects.
Oxytocin itself should not be taken orally because it is rapidly destroyed in the gastrointestinal tract. Taking this feature into account, scientists have successfully created a new oxytocin compound that is completely stable in the intestines. This innovative solution distinguishes the drug from other peptide drugs that need to be injected (such as insulin and Ozempic analogues).
Previously was named An effective method for relieving back and leg pain.
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Source: Gazeta
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