Researchers have created a new type of oral painkiller designed to alleviate chronic abdominal pain. This innovative medication is based on oxytocin, a peptide hormone known for triggering contractions during childbirth.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have introduced a new class of oral pain relief medications aimed at managing chronic abdominal pain. This breakthrough utilizes oxytocin, a peptide hormone that plays a significant role in childbirth contractions.
Associate Professor Markus Muttenthaler, leading a team at UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience, has modified the chemical structure of oxytocin to enhance its stability in the gastrointestinal tract. Previous research uncovered the potential of this hormone in treating abdominal pain.
Dr. Muttenthaler emphasized the pressing need for novel therapies for chronic discomfort caused by gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).
“Chronic abdominal pain affects about 15% of adults at some point in their lives, yet our only options are anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids, which often lead to adverse side effects and addiction issues,” explained Dr. Muttenthaler.
“Our research is targeting peptides that are not only potent and selective but also have minimal side effects. Traditionally, most peptide-based medications require injections due to their rapid breakdown in the digestive system.”
“Now, we have developed a method to create gut-stable peptides that can be administered orally.”
“This represents a novel and highly encouraging strategy for treating gastrointestinal disorders.”
Oxytocin, produced in the brain, is popularly known as the ‘bonding hormone’ or ‘love molecule’ because of its influence on forming relationships, empathy, and trust.
Additionally, oxytocin is crucial for inducing uterine contractions during childbirth and assisting in the release of milk during breastfeeding.
“We pinpointed the sections of oxytocin that are quickly broken down by digestive enzymes and utilized medicinal chemistry to modify them, ensuring the new compound remains gut-stable while still activating the oxytocin receptor,” said Dr. Muttenthaler.
“Our newly engineered molecules are highly effective yet resistant to degradation in the stomach or intestines, making them suitable for oral use.”
The findings suggest that these new compounds function within the colon and do not need to enter the bloodstream to alleviate abdominal pain.
“This approach is remarkably safe since it minimizes the risk of side effects throughout the body, which is often a concern with many systemic drug treatments,” added Dr. Muttenthaler.
“We are thrilled about this innovative method for pain relief.
“We are currently seeking investors to fast-track pre-clinical studies, aiming to advance to clinical trials.
“With our success in stabilizing peptides, we are now exploring additional gastrointestinal drugs to enhance treatment alternatives for various gastrointestinal disorders, addressing a critical medical need.”
