Potential of Nilotinib to Modulate Dopamine in Parkinson

According to the Phase 2 of clinical trial, Nilotinib (Brand Tasigna) manufactured by Novartis can help in modulating the metabolism and level of dopamine in the body. Formation of toxic-alpha synuclein aggregates can also be prevented with the help Nilotinib (generic of Tasigna) treatment.

And these studies have led researchers to believe that Nilotinib has the potential to promote long-term benefits to individuals who are suffering from Parkinson’s.

During the 2018 World Congress on Parkinson’s Disease and Related Disorders (IARPD) held in Lyon, France, Novartis has presented to the world that Nilotinib can reduce the oligomeric (total alpha-synuclein ratio) and increase the dopamine metabolism with the help of its clinical trials conducted in Phase 2.

Nilotinib (Brand Tasigna, Novartis) is an approved treatment for certain types of Leukemia. Blocking the protein BCR-ABL activity that is known to be key cause of cancer development is how the Nilotinib works. This protein BCR-ABL is also heavily linked to several other mechanisms of the brain like alpha-synuclein- induced neurodegeneration and oxidative stress etc.; and these mechanisms are known to play a very critical role in Parkinson’s and other brain disorders.

According to results from the study Nct02281474 conducted at Georgetown University, Washington D.C., Parkinson’s patients’ cognitive abilities and motor skills have improved with the help of Nilotinib – 150 mg and 300 mg. Tasigna medication also has the potential to reduce the stress levels of protein called alpha-synuclein, which helps in contribution in destruction of nerve cells in Parkinson’s suffering individuals’ brain.

In the ongoing trial of Phase 2 named NCT02954978, a total of 75 patients were recruited who were suffering from Parkinson’s and are at mid-stage with a mild cognitive impairment. Theses patients were randomised to take 1 of the 4 oral doses of Nilotinib – 150, 200, 300 and 400 or a placebo.

After the doses were taken, researchers assessed several biomarkers of the Parkinson’ disease including the alpha-synuclein levels and dopamine derivate compounds in patients suffering with Parkinson’s cerebrospinal fluid. Tasigna medication is only available in 150 mg and 200 mg strength.

Within 1 to 4 hours, improvement in the production and metabolism of dopamine can be observed. This improvement was suggested by increase in the DOPAC levels and homovanillic acid (HVA).

Researchers were not able to find in any significant change of CSF total alpha-synuclein levels, but a low dose of Nilotinib (generic of Tasigna) therapy resulted in a reduced level of oddly clustered and toxic alpha-synuclein.

As the Parkinson’s disease progresses there is a significant reduction of oligomeric alpha-synuclein which is expected to increase in Parkinson’s patients. Researchers wrote that Nilotinib may reduce misfolded alpha-synuclein accumulation and can have a long-term modifying effect. The results from the clinical studies depicted that Nilotinib may have a symptomatic effect through modulation of level of dopamine in the brain.

Novartis has initiated a new phase 2 trial, which investigates further the potential of Nilotinib (generic of Tasigna) in Parkinson’s patients who are at moderate to advanced stage of disease. A total of 135 patients have been recruited for this study so far. This study is scheduled for 12 months and will take place in 25 states of the United States. One of the main agendas of this study is to compare the motor functions safety and effects once the treatment with Nilotinib (taken once daily) as compared to a placebo.

The information provided on the page is meant for the purpose of being helpful and educational. It should not be considered as medical advice.

Source: https://www.cancercurepharmacy.com/BlogDetails.aspx?Title=Potential-of-Nilotinib-to-Modulate-Dopamine-in-Parkinsons

Cancer awareness team working for patients in term of Treatment, Medication globally.