Glatiramer acetate: evidence for a dual mechanism of action.
Glatiramer acetate is a disease-modifying drug approved for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Since its discovery almost four decades ago, and in particular since the observation of its beneficial clinical effects in the late 1980s and early 1990s, numerous data have been generated and contribute pieces of a puzzle to help explain the mechanism of action of glatiramer acetate. Two major themes have emerged, namely (i) the induction of glatiramer acetate-reactive TH2 immunoregulatory cells, and (ii) the stimulation of neurotrophin secretion in the central nervous system that may promote neuronal repair.
Blanchette
François
F
Scientific Affairs Director (Europe), Teva Pharma S.A., Immeuble Palatin 1, 1 cours du Triangle, 92936, Paris La Defense Cedex, France. francois.blanchette@tevafrance.com
Neuhaus
Oliver
O
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000266:history / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000818:Animals; D000068717:Glatiramer Acetate; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049674:History, 21st Century; D006801:Humans; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010455:Peptides / Q000266:history / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011134:Polysaccharides / Q000378:metabolism; D018418:Th2 Cells / Q000187:drug effects
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic; D010455:Peptides; D011134:Polysaccharides; C010491:neurotropin; D000068717:Glatiramer Acetate