Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (SCMP) announced the presentation of preclinical data at Digestive Disease Week 2012, in San Diego that shows the protective effect of cobiprostone, also known as SPI-8811, against epithelial barrier dysfunction in models of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID,-induced gastric mucosal injury.
In the study presented, treatment with the NSAID indomethacin resulted in increased permeability due to dysregulation of occludin co-localization. The results of this in vitro study show that cobiprostone, via ClC-2 activation, can counter act such adverse effects of NSAID on tight junction proteins. Cobiprostone was also shown to prevent indomethacin-induced cell death.
"NSAIDs are commonly prescribed drugs for pain, fever and inflammation, but are not ideal for long-term use because of the risk of ulcer formation," said Anthony Blikslager, NC State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. "In this study, we demonstrated that cobiprostone exerts a protective effect against epithelial barrier dysfunction in the presence of an NSAID in human gastric epithelial cells. Based on these data, we believe that cobiprostone could serve as a treatment option in patients taking NSAIDs."
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