Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare but devastating neurodegenerative disorder precipitated by a persistent infection with the measles virus. Our team is dedicated to discovering and developing effective vaccines and therapies to combat SSPE and providing professional solutions to pharmaceutical companies.
Overview of Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) typically manifests years after the initial measles infection, with an average latency period of 7-10 years. It is characterized by a gradual decline in cognitive function, behavioral changes, and neurological symptoms such as seizures, myoclonus, and ataxia. The pathophysiology of SSPE is linked to the persistence of the measles virus in the central nervous system, which leads to neuronal degeneration and the formation of inclusions within brain tissue.
Fig.1 The most common mutation in SSPE cases. (Hashimoto K., et al., 2021)
Vaccine Development for Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis
Live Attenuated Measles Vaccine
The cornerstone of SSPE prevention is the live attenuated measles vaccine, which has been effectively utilized for over four decades. This vaccine induces a robust immune response that protects against measles infection, thereby significantly reducing the risk of developing SSPE. The vaccine's efficacy is well-documented, with studies indicating that vaccination reduces the incidence of measles and its complications, including SSPE, to less than one case per 100,000 vaccinated individuals.
Vaccine Innovations and Research
Research continues to explore improvements in measles vaccine formulations, focusing on enhancing immunogenicity and safety profiles. Current studies are investigating the potential of combining the measles vaccine with other childhood vaccines in combination formulations, which may streamline vaccination schedules and improve coverage rates. Additionally, ongoing genetic studies aim to understand the correlation between vaccine strains and the lack of SSPE association, emphasizing the importance of targeted vaccine development.
Therapeutics Development for Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis
- Immunomodulatory Drugs
Isoprinosine has been a cornerstone in SSPE therapeutics due to its immunomodulatory and antiviral properties. It enhances T cell proliferation and natural killer cell activity, which are critical for combating the measles virus. Despite its widespread use, Isoprinosine's high cost can limit its accessibility in low-resource settings.
Interferons (IFNs), specifically IFN-α and IFN-β, have shown promise in inhibiting viral replication and have been used in combination with Isoprinosine. However, the remission induced by IFNs is often temporary, and long-term neurological deterioration is typically inevitable.
- Antiviral Agents
Ribavirin, a nucleic acid analogue, has demonstrated the ability to inhibit the replication of the measles virus in vitro and in animal models. It has been administered intravenously or intrathecally, sometimes in conjunction with interferon-alpha.
Favipiravir and Remdesivir are newer nucleic acid analogues that have shown therapeutic activity against a range of RNA viruses, including the measles virus. These agents interfere with viral RNA polymerase, potentially offering a new avenue for SSPE therapeutics.
Our Services
The development of effective vaccines and therapies for SSPE requires a multifaceted approach involving extensive research, preclinical testing, and collaboration across various disciplines. Our services encompass the following areas:
- Vaccine Design and Formulation: Utilizing advanced biotechnological techniques to design effective vaccine candidates.
- Drug Discovery and Development: Identifying and optimizing new drug candidates aimed at mitigating the effects of SSPE.
Preclinical Research
- Pharmacodynamics Study Services
- Pharmacokinetics Study Services
- Drug Safety Evaluation Services
Disease Models
- Canine Distemper-Associated Demyelinating Encephalomyelitis Models
- YAC-CD46 Transgenic Models
- NS-CD46 Transgenic Models
- YAC-CD46 × Rag1−/− Genetically Engineered Models
Our laboratories perform rigorous in vitro testing to assess the efficacy of potential vaccines and therapeutics against the measles virus. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
References
- Hashimoto, Koichi, and Mitsuaki Hosoya. "Advances in antiviral therapy for subacute sclerosing panencephalitis." Molecules 26.2 (2021): 427.
- Samia, Pauline, et al. "Options in the treatment of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis: implications for low resource areas." Current treatment options in neurology 24.3 (2022): 99-110.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
