Biogen Idec identify novel approach for treatment of multiple sclerosis

Biogen Idec announced results from a study that suggest that inhibiting death receptor-6 (DR6) function may represent a novel approach in the treatment of multiple sclerosis by blocking autoimmune response while promoting remyelination. Data from in vitro and in vivo models were published online and in the July print issue of Nature Medicine.

MS affects each person differently, and more treatment options that target multiple pathways are needed in order to meet the various needs of patients. This study is said to be the first-ever to demonstrate the negative role that DR6 plays in regulating remyelination within the central nervous system.

Equally important, the data support the development of DR6 antagonist as a treatment for MS, a neurodegenerative disease that contains both autoimmune and demyelination components. The dual role of DR6 antagonists in promoting remyelination and inhibiting autoimmune activation represents a novel approach for the treatment of multiple sclerosis and other central nervous system diseases that result from demyelination.