Researchers in Vienna have developed gut-stable oxytocin analogs for targeted pain treatment, offering a promising alternative to opioids for conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). These innovative oral peptide therapeutics aim to address the complex mechanisms of chronic abdominal pain by modulating pain and gut function through oxytocin receptors.
The new class of oral peptide therapeutic leads offers a safe, non-opioid-based solution for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel diseases ., with sensations ranging from aching and stabbing to burning, twisting, or cramping. In most cases, however, it resolves on its own after a couple of days without any specialized treatment.opioids, have shown limited benefits
“We sought to overcome these challenges by developing analogs of oxytocin that remain stable in the harsh gastrointestinal environment and target gut-specific receptors.” “Our approach focuses on targeting oxytocin receptors within the gut to suppress pain at its site of origin in the colon,” explains Muttenthaler.
“Its activation can modulate pain signaling pathways by inhibiting the release of pain-inducing neurotransmitters and reducing the excitability of nociceptive neurons.”This minimizes the risk of systemic off-target effects, providing a safer therapeutic option for long-term use. Additionally, the approach is particularly innovative, as most peptide drugs – such as insulin and GLP1 analogs – require injection due to their rapid degradation in the gut.
“Gut-specific treatments avoid the systemic exposure that often leads to side effects, tolerance, or dependency,” says Muttenthaler. “It is a new approach that moves away from relying on opioids or other treatments with side effects, addressing a major unmet medical need,” states Muttenthaler.
Pain Relief IBS IBD Opioid Alternatives Oxytocin Analogs
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