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Pixantrone (BBR2778): a new immunosuppressant in multiple sclerosis with a low cardiotoxicity

R E Gonsette1, B Dubois

  • 1National Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Vanheylenstraat 16, B_1820, Melsbroek, Belgium. r.gonsette@skynet.be

Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|July 21, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Pixantrone (PIX), a safer alternative to Mitoxantrone (MX), shows similar efficacy in multiple sclerosis (MS) models. Its low cardiotoxicity suggests potential for treating progressive MS, warranting further clinical trials.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimmunology
  • Pharmacology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Mitoxantrone (MX) is FDA-approved for rapidly progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) but limited by cardiotoxicity.
  • Pixantrone (PIX) is an analogue of MX developed for cancer treatment, with reduced cardiac toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate Pixantrone (PIX) as a potential alternative to Mitoxantrone (MX) for multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment.
  • To assess the efficacy and safety profile of PIX in preclinical MS models.

Main Methods:

  • Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) models were used to assess PIX's efficacy in acute and chronic settings.
  • Preclinical safety data and existing Phase II cancer trial data were reviewed for cardiotoxicity information.

Main Results:

  • PIX demonstrated comparable potency to MX in preventing EAE development and relapses.
  • Animal studies and Phase II cancer trials indicated minimal to no cardiotoxicity associated with PIX.

Conclusions:

  • Pixantrone (PIX) exhibits significant therapeutic potential for multiple sclerosis (MS) due to its efficacy and favorable safety profile.
  • A Phase I clinical trial of PIX in patients with rapidly progressive MS is recommended.

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