Off topic-Neurovax

[Guest guest]

I did a search and came up with this article:

Here is the part of it about Neurovax

September 6, 2005

Jen Christensen

NeuroVax™ for MS

The exact cause of MS isn't known. It's believed to be an autoimmune-

type disease, in which certain T-cells (specific type of infection-

fighting white blood cells) turn against the body and, in MS, attack

the myelin. Researchers at Portland V.A. Medical Center and Oregon

Health and Science University recently discovered patients with MS

have lower levels of a gene called FOXP3. This gene appears to be

responsible for the production of regulatory T-cells that keep the

destructive T-cells in check. Reduced levels of the FOXP3 gene may

allow the " bad " T-cells to proliferate and attack the myelin.

Investigators are testing a new vaccine that aims to increase FOXP3

levels and activate the regulatory T-cells. It's called NeuroVax™

(Immune Response Corp.). NeuroVax contains three peptides, or

receptors for the regulatory T-cells. When injected into an MS

patient, the drug appears to stimulate the regulatory T-cells,

hopefully enabling the cells to control the proliferation of the

attacking T-cells. The drug would initially be given once a month

for three months, followed by booster injections every three to six

months.

Preliminary research shows promise. About one-third of those who

responded to the injections got better. The treatment appears to

help patients with early stage disease and those with later stages,

as well. There is also some evidence NeuroVax may promote repairs in

the central nervous system and help patients recover from the damage.

Find this article at:

http://www.hoinews.com/news/features/3/1708456.html