Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 4, 2025
Nerve Excitability Assessment in Chemotherapy-induced Neurotoxicity
Published on: April 26, 2012
Oxaliplatin-Induced Neuropathy: Genetic and Epigenetic Profile to Better Understand How to Ameliorate This Side
Jacopo Junio Valerio Branca1, Donatello Carrino1, Massimo Gulisano1
1Histology and Anatomy Section, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Firenze, Firenze, Italy.
Abstract:
In the most recent decades, oxaliplatin has been used as a chemotherapeutic agent for colorectal cancer and other malignancies as well. Oxaliplatin interferes with tumor growth predominantly exerting its action in DNA synthesis inhibition by the formation of DNA-platinum adducts that, in turn, leads to cancer cell death. On the other hand, unfortunately, this interaction leads to a plethora of systemic side effects, including those affecting the peripheral and central nervous system. Oxaliplatin therapy has been associated with acute and chronic neuropathic pain that induces physicians to reduce the dose of medication or discontinue treatment. Recently, the capability of oxaliplatin to alter the genetic and epigenetic profiles of the nervous cells has been documented, and the understanding of gene expression and transcriptional changes may help to find new putative treatments for neuropathy. The present article is aimed to review the effects of oxaliplatin on genetic and epigenetic mechanisms to better understand how to ameliorate neuropathic pain in order to enhance the anti-cancer potential and improve patients' quality of life.
Insights
Oxaliplatin chemotherapy causes nerve damage and pain by altering DNA. Understanding these genetic and epigenetic changes could lead to better treatments for neuropathy, improving cancer therapy and patient life.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Oxaliplatin is a key chemotherapy drug for colorectal cancer and other malignancies.
- It functions by inhibiting DNA synthesis, leading to cancer cell death.
- However, oxaliplatin causes significant neurotoxicity, manifesting as peripheral and central nervous system side effects, including neuropathic pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of oxaliplatin on genetic and epigenetic mechanisms within nervous cells.
- To explore how understanding these molecular changes can inform new therapeutic strategies for oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy.
- To enhance the efficacy of anti-cancer treatments and improve patient quality of life.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies investigating oxaliplatin's effects on genetic and epigenetic profiles.
- Analysis of research on gene expression and transcriptional alterations in neural cells exposed to oxaliplatin.
- Synthesis of findings related to the mechanisms underlying oxaliplatin-induced neuropathic pain.
Main Results:
- Oxaliplatin alters the genetic and epigenetic landscape of nervous system cells.
- These alterations contribute to the development of acute and chronic neuropathic pain.
- Specific gene expression and transcriptional changes are implicated in oxaliplatin neurotoxicity.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the genetic and epigenetic effects of oxaliplatin is crucial for managing neurotoxicity.
- Targeting these molecular pathways may offer novel therapeutic avenues for neuropathic pain.
- Improved neuropathy management can support continued oxaliplatin use, enhancing its anti-cancer benefits and patient outcomes.
