The selective Rho-kinase inhibitor Fasudil is protective and therapeutic in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Xiaojia Sun, Motozumi Minohara, Hitoshi Kikuchi, Takaaki Ishizu, Masahito Tanaka, Hua Piao, Manabu Osoegawa, Yasumasa Ohyagi, Hiroaki Shimokawa, Jun ichi Kira

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67 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

We studied the role of fasudil, a selective Rho-kinase inhibitor, in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Both parenteral and oral administration of fasudil prevented the development of EAE induced by proteolipid protein (PLP) p139-151 in SJL/J mice. Specific proliferation of lymphocytes to PLP was significantly reduced, together with a downregulation of interleukin (IL)-17 and a marked decrease of the IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio. Immunohistochemical examination also disclosed a marked decrease of inflammatory cell infiltration, and attenuated demyelination and acute axonal transaction. These results may provide a rationale of selective blockade of Rho-kinase by oral use of fasudil as a new therapy for multiple sclerosis.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)126-134
Number of pages9
JournalJournal of Neuroimmunology
Volume180
Issue number1-2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2006

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology
  • Neurology
  • Clinical Neurology

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