RTN4 and S1PR2 identified as targets for stroke

INDICATION: Stroke

A team led by NovaGo Therapeutics co-founder Martin Schwab showed inhibition of RTN4 or its receptor S1PR2 could help treat stroke. In mice, levels of RTN4 and S1PR2 were elevated in the peri-infarct region of the cortex following stroke. In a mouse model of the disease, systemic knockout of RTN4 or S1PR2, or intracerebroventricular delivery of an anti-RTN4 mAb, reduced disease-associated vascular damage and improved motor performance. The anti-RTN4 mAb also promoted axon growth and decreased apoptosis in the peri-infarct region. NovaGo Therapeutics Inc. is developing additional antibodies against RTN4 for clinical testing. ...