[Therapy for Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease: From the Standpoint of Neurologists]

To date, there is no approved pharmacologic treatment for any form of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). However, some clinical or preclinical trials for CMT1A have been undertaken, for example Neurotrophin-3, PXT3003, and neuregulin-1. Gene therapy for CMT1X, CMT2F and Giant axonal neuropathy using animal model or culture cells have been reported with some interesting results. Stem cell research for example iPS cells derived from patients with CMT2A or CMT2E, is being conducted to clarify the mechanism of CMT and find therapeutic clues. The development of new surrogate markers for clinical trials is also needed. Additionally, steps should be taken to improve the quality of life of patients with CMT, including pain control and life style enhancement.