Resiniferatoxin: Mechanism in Treating Osteoarthritis Pain and Slowing Osteoarthritis Progression, Safety, and Efficacy

Project by Polygence alum David

Resiniferatoxin: Mechanism in Treating Osteoarthritis Pain and Slowing Osteoarthritis Progression, Safety, and Efficacy

Project's result

A Review Paper

They started it from zero. Are you ready to level up with us?

Summary

Resiniferatoxin is a diterpene found in E. resinifera and E. poissonii, and is a more potent functional analog of capsaicin. Resiniferatoxin provides pain relief by binding as an agonist to transient vanilloid receptor 1 (TRPV1), a nociceptive ion channel. Resiniferatoxin targets the TRPV1 channel and activates it, allowing calcium cations to flow in and desensitize the TRPV1 receptors, producing an analgesic effect. Resiniferatoxin was recently designated as a Breakthrough Therapy by the FDA for the treatment of the pain caused by knee osteoarthritis, a common degenerative joint disease caused by aging, joint injury, and obesity. Studies suggest that osteoarthritis is linked with chronic inflammation through a cycle of injury, inflammation, and repair. Multiple studies involving TRPV1 agonists have shown anti-inflammatory properties, presenting TRPV1 agonists as a potential inhibitor for the progression of osteoarthritis. This review highlights the mechanism of resiniferatoxin in treating pain caused by knee osteoarthritis, its potential in treating inflammation in osteoarthritis, its efficacy, and its safety.

Andrew

Andrew

Polygence mentor

PhD Doctor of Philosophy candidate

Subjects

Biology, Chemistry

Expertise

Biochemistry, biomaterials, nanochemistry, English literature

David

David

Student

Graduation Year

2024

Project review

“I was able to write a review paper, like I expected”

About my mentor

“My mentor was good at explaining concepts and basic knowledge to me.”