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A study published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society highlights the efficacy of a new photoswitchable drug, MRS7787, in treating psoriasis. MRS7787 is activated by blue light and acts on the A3 adenosine receptor, providing targeted immune modulation. The study, involving collaborators from the University of Barcelona and other institutions, emphasizes the potential of this drug in reducing inflammation and minimizing side effects compared to conventional therapies. Promising results in animal models suggest that this approach may enhance therapeutic outcomes for psoriasis and similar inflammatory diseases.
Photopharmacology is an emerging field that utilizes light to modulate drug activity, providing a targeted approach to treatment. This method is particularly beneficial in conditions like psoriasis, where localized treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
Photopharmacology uses light to convert an inactive drug into its biologically active form at the specific site of action within the body, as noted by Marc López-Cano in their study.
By controlling the activation of the drug with light, clinicians can minimize systemic exposure and focus the therapeutic effects on the necessary areas, thereby reducing potential side effects.
The innovative compound MRS7787 binds to the A3 adenosine receptor and generates an anti-inflammatory effect. It features a photoswitchable design, allowing precise control over its activation using blue light.
MRS7787 is a photo-switchable molecule. One of the isomers, Z-MRS7787, is inactive, while the E-MRS7787 isomer activates the adenosine receptor, explained Francisco Ciruela, leading researcher.
This mechanism not only offers improved management of psoriatic symptoms but also reduces the risk of systemic adverse effects commonly associated with broader immunomodulatory therapies.
MRS7787 presents a promising addition to the arsenal of psoriasis treatments, particularly by enhancing the effects of established therapies such as PUVA. This combination strategy could mitigate some of the long-term risks associated with conventional treatments.
The use of multimodal phototherapy could simplify the treatment regimen, maintaining anti-psoriatic efficiency while improving patient engagement, according to the researchers involved in the study.
The potential integration of MRS7787 could streamline therapeutic protocols, offering a pragmatic approach to managing treatment-resistant psoriasis with minimized adverse effects.