Preventing cisplatin-caused brain fog, nerve pain, and balance problems by blocking p38/JNK
Targeting p38/JNK MAPK to ameliorate cisplatin-induced adverse sequelae on the nervous system
This project looks at whether drugs that block the p38/JNK pathway can help people treated with cisplatin avoid brain fog, nerve pain, and walking difficulties.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11210538 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will test drugs that block the p38 and JNK signaling pathways—such as neflamapimod and SP600125—to see if they stop nerve and brain-cell damage caused by cisplatin. The work uses lab experiments and animal models to measure memory, nerve pain, nerve cell structure, and gait after cisplatin with or without these inhibitors. Scientists will measure DNA damage, oxidative stress, and markers of neuronal death to understand how protection occurs. If the preclinical results are promising, this research could guide development of treatments to prevent chemotherapy-related cognitive and peripheral nerve problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People receiving or recently treated with cisplatin-based chemotherapy—for example patients with ovarian cancer—who are at risk for or experiencing cognitive problems, neuropathic pain, or balance issues would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Patients whose symptoms are caused by non-chemotherapy neurological disorders or who receive different chemotherapy agents may not benefit from these specific pathway-targeting treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to medicines that prevent or reduce chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment, peripheral neuropathy, and gait problems in people treated with cisplatin.
How similar studies have performed: Early laboratory studies show p38/JNK inhibitors can protect nerve cells from cisplatin damage, but benefits in people have not yet been demonstrated.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bota, Daniela Annenelie — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Bota, Daniela Annenelie
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.