Neurology

Mouse studies suggest CHRM3 antagonists could help treat demyelination diseases. In a mouse model of CNS demyelination, transplantation into the corpus callosum of CHRM3-deficient human oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) increased the number of mature human oligodendrocytes and of myelinated axons in the engrafted area compared with transplants of CHRM3-expressing OPCs. In a mouse model of chemical-induced spinal cord demyelination, OPC-specific knockout of CHRM3 increased the density of oligodendrocytes and increased the percentage of myelinated axons in the spinal cord compared with normal CHRM3 expression. Also in the model, the muscarinic receptor antagonist Vesicare solifenacin increased the density of oligodendrocytes in the spinal cord compared with vehicle. Next steps include identifying and testing CHRM3 antagonists in the models.

Astellas Pharma Inc. and GlaxoSmithKline plc market Vesicare to treat overactive bladder (OAB). Astellas also markets an orally disintegrating tablet formulation of the drug to treat OAB. ...