New Dog Arthritis Drug by AUSC Researcher Promises to Slow Aging and Relieve Pain
A researcher from the University of Southern California (USC) is making strides in the field of veterinary medicine with the development of a groundbreaking drug aimed at treating arthritis in dogs. Denis Evseenko, a professor of orthopedic surgery, stem cell research, and regenerative medicine at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, is spearheading the effort to create a non-opioid pain relief and joint preservation treatment for our four-legged companions.
Arthritis is a prevalent condition among dogs, affecting up to 25% of them, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Canine arthritis often leads to chronic pain and reduced mobility, significantly impacting a dog’s quality of life. Recognizing the need for better treatment options, Evseenko and his team at USC have been working on developing a drug to address this problem.
The startup company, named ReParris, aims to translate the research findings made by Evseenko and his team earlier this year into a therapeutic approach for both animals and humans. The drug being developed by ReParris targets a molecular pathway responsible for signaling the immune system to attack infected cells but can also trigger an excessive inflammatory response in subjects with osteoarthritis.
Initial studies conducted on animal models have shown promising results. The chemical compound in the drug prevented systemic low-grade inflammation, reduced pain, and increased activity in mice with osteoarthritis. Additionally, the drug appeared to promote tissue regeneration instead of scarring and even slowed down premature aging in animals.
If successful, this drug has the potential to significantly extend the healthy lifespan of dogs by reducing chronic systemic inflammation associated with aging and easing musculoskeletal pain. Chronic pain is often a major reason why pet owners choose to euthanize their beloved companions. By addressing this issue, ReParris hopes to make a positive impact on both animals and their owners.
The co-founders of ReParris include R. Rex Parris, an attorney and the mayor of Lancaster, California, who supports longevity research at USC, as well as Anja Skodda, the CEO of HappyBond, a pet healthcare company. Together, they aim to revolutionize veterinary medicine and ultimately develop therapies that can also slow down premature aging in humans.
Denis Evseenko shared his optimism about the potential of the drug, stating, If we are able to extend their healthy life, that’s huge. That’s the holy grail. Our ultimate goal is to use this experience in veterinary medicine to develop a therapy that eventually can slow down premature aging in human patients.
With ReParris on the horizon, dog owners can look forward to a brighter future where their furry companions can live longer, healthier lives with reduced pain and improved mobility. The groundbreaking research conducted by Evseenko and his team is a testament to the growing focus on improving the well-being of our beloved pets.
