New arthritis therapy designed to fool pain receptors

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New arthritis therapy designed to fool pain receptors

(Gainesville, Florida) May 26, 2004 - Millions of Americans live with

rheumatoid or osteoarthritis pain, which force them to take daily treatment

for pain. But, now researchers say they could eventually block arthritic

inflammation permanently by fooling pain receptors and keeping them very

busy.

University of Florida researchers say the key to the treatment lies in

flooding pain sites with a common anti-arthritis protein.

Past gene therapy studies using the protein have shown promise, but only in

short-term treatment programs. Now scientists have managed to re-produce the

protein indefinitely in laboratory animals.

In effect, the therapy tricks pain receptors in aching joints into ignoring

signs of arthritis. Researchers say doctors could administer it directly to

disease joints, preventing some of the side effects current pain medications

can cause.

Scientists will next test a form of the therapy in horses with

osteo-arthritis, which will give them an even better idea how it would work

in humans.

http://www.wistv.com/Global/story.asp?S=1898017