Human enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), which scavenges the superoxide anion, had been developed by many companies, but their clinical applications have all failed due to its low blood stability. In contrast, we have succeeded in dramatically increasing the blood stability of SOD by our original DDS technology (protein lecithinization) (PC-SOD). Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a severe side effect caused by anticancer drugs, which is a major problem in clinical practice. There are no preventive or therapeutic agents for oxaliplatin-dependent CIPN, and the only remedy is to discontinue oxaliplatin administration. Since oxaliplatin is the first-line drug in chemotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy for many types of cancer, including colorectal cancer, its discontinuation leads to a worsening of patient prognosis. Therefore, the development of preventive drugs for oxaliplatin-dependent CIPN could not only improve the quality of life of patients, but also the prognosis of cancer patients. We found that PC-SOD prevents oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy, cold hypersensitivity, and hyperalgesia through experiments using rats. On the other hand, PC-SOD did not affect the anticancer effect of oxaliplatin. Next, a phase II clinical trial was conducted to confirm the CIPN-preventive effect of PC-SOD in colorectal cancer patients receiving oxaliplatin as adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery. As a result, PC-SOD prevented not only the development of CIPN but also the development of oxaliplatin allergy. Based on these results, we consulted with the PMDA and they agreed to conduct a Phase III clinical trial, and we have started the trial in August 2025.
Development of Lecithinized Superoxide Dismutase for oOxaliplatin-induced Peripheral Neuropathy
Tohru Mizushima
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