Deferoxamine Improves Radiation-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy
Christopher V Lavin1,2, Alexander Z Fazilat1, Carter B Kendig1
1Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine
|June 8, 2026
Summary
Deferoxamine (DFO) shows promise in treating radiation-induced peripheral neuropathy (RIPN), a common side effect of radiation therapy (XRT). This study found DFO improved sensorimotor function and nerve regeneration in mice with RIPN.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Radiation-induced peripheral neuropathy (RIPN) is a debilitating complication following radiation therapy (XRT).
- Limited effective treatment options currently exist for RIPN.
- Deferoxamine (DFO) has demonstrated efficacy in managing radiation-induced dermal fibrosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic potential of Deferoxamine (DFO) in mitigating radiation-induced peripheral neuropathy (RIPN).
Main Methods:
- A murine model was established using 30Gy fractionated XRT.
- Mice were subsequently treated with DFO, saline, or no treatment.
- Functional assessments included footprint analysis, cold allodynia, and monofilament testing.
- Immunofluorescent staining assessed myelination (MPZ) and axonal regeneration (GAP43).
Main Results:
- DFO treatment significantly improved motor deficits and reduced cold allodynia in mice.
- A positive trend was observed in monofilament testing.
- DFO enhanced remyelination (MPZ staining) and promoted axonal regeneration (GAP43 staining).
Conclusions:
- Deferoxamine (DFO) demonstrates therapeutic benefits for radiation-induced peripheral neuropathy (RIPN) in a murine model.
- DFO improves sensorimotor function and promotes nerve repair.
- These findings offer a potential disease-modifying treatment for patients experiencing RIPN as a side effect of XRT.
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