SP16 to prevent chemotherapy-related nerve damage
A Novel LRP1 Agonist, SP16, as a Therapeutic Treatment in Preventing Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy
This project tries to prevent or reduce nerve pain and lasting nerve damage from taxane chemotherapy using a new drug called SP16 that activates the LRP1 receptor.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Serpin Pharma, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Manassas, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11193543 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you're getting taxane chemotherapy, this program is developing SP16, a first-in-class anti-inflammatory drug that activates LRP1 to reduce harmful inflammation and support nerve repair. Early phase 1 human studies and laboratory models showed SP16 can reduce sensory neuropathy and support nerve regeneration after injury. The work includes further drug development and clinical testing to refine dosing, safety, and whether SP16 prevents chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Participation would likely involve clinic visits for treatment, monitoring, and symptom assessments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are cancer patients about to receive taxane-based chemotherapy who do not already have severe, permanent neuropathy.
Not a fit: People not receiving taxane chemotherapy or those with long-standing, irreversible neuropathy are unlikely to benefit from this preventive approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, SP16 could lower the chance of developing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, reduce chronic pain, and help people complete full cancer treatment with better quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Phase 1 human data and translational (animal and lab) models have shown promising analgesic and regenerative effects for SP16, but larger clinical trials are still required.
Where this research is happening
Manassas, UNITED STATES
- Serpin Pharma, LLC — Manassas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gelber, Cohava — Serpin Pharma, LLC
- Study coordinator: Gelber, Cohava
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.