Optimizing Kv7 Openers for Treatment of GWI Pain

Abstract

Our laboratory developed an animal model that replicates some of the symptoms of the chronic pain of GWI. Through this animal model we identified molecular targets in pain sensing neurons, which appear to have been chronically altered following exposure to insecticides and repellants that were present in the GW theater. Kv7 openers (KVOs) have known analgesic/palliative capacities that could serve as treatments for the chronic pain associated with GWI. We have previously shown that Retigabine (KVO) can temporarily reverse signs of GWI pain. Building on year 1 progress, we tested whether a combination KVOs (Retigabine and Diclofenac) could reverse behavioral pain-signs in our GWI pain model. Some positive outcomes were found but were compromised by serious side effects. Molecular experiments in year 2 indicated that the combination of Retigabine and Meclofenamate could be more effective. Behavioral studies on this treatment approach are ongoing.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2021
Accession Number
AD1151203

Entities

People

  • Brian Y. Cooper

Organizations

  • University of Florida

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Biomedical Research
  • Cell Size
  • Cells
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Drug Abuse
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Insecticides
  • Medical Personnel
  • Membrane Potentials
  • Neurosciences
  • Pain
  • Pain Management
  • Penis
  • Persian Gulf Syndrome
  • Pesticides
  • Pharmacology
  • Pyridostigmine Bromide
  • Rodents
  • Statistical Tests

Readers

  • Gulf War Illness and Chronic Multisymptom Illness in Veterans.
  • Materials Science.