Invention:
Lasmiditan is a drug currently used to treat migraines. However, University of Arizona researchers discovered that Lasmiditan induces mitochondrial biogenesis in mouse kidneys and restores renal function to mice subjected to kidney injury. Mitochondria have been identified as important therapeutic targets in the aftermath of organ transplantation. This indicates that Lasmiditan could be repurposed to treat patients suffering from organ transplant rejection.
Background:
Organ transplant rejection occurs when, after an organ transplant, the immune system recognizes the new organ as foreign and attacks it. This affects a large percentage of organ transplant recipients, with 50% of kidney transplants being affected 5 years post-transplant. Currently, a variety of immunosuppressants are used to treat organ transplant rejection. Lasmiditan could serve as another treatment option.
Applications:
- Therapeutic for organ transplant rejection
- Drug repurposing
Advantages:
- Novel usage of Lasmiditan
- Repurposes an FDA-approved drug
- New therapeutic for organ transplant rejection
