MedPath

KNDY Neuron Research Leads to New Drugs for Infertility, Menopause Symptoms

• Researchers have developed drugs targeting KNDY neurons to treat reproductive system malfunctions, including infertility and menstrual issues. • One drug, developed following the discovery of KNDY neurons, has already received FDA approval for treating hot flashes by blocking neurokinin B (NKB). • Clinical trials are underway for additional drugs to address conditions like delayed puberty and PCOS, potentially revolutionizing treatment within five years. • The research, stemming from animal studies, exemplifies how understanding the brain's control of hormones can lead to innovative therapies.

Drugs targeting reproductive system malfunctions such as infertility, menstrual issues, delayed onset of puberty, and hot flashes—a common symptom of menopause—are under development following groundbreaking research on KNDY (kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin A) neurons. Clinical studies are underway, and some drugs have already received approval, according to Michael Lehman, Director of the Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Ohio.

Discovery of KNDY Neurons

Lehman, along with Lique Coolen and Robert Goodman, discovered KNDY neurons approximately 15 years ago. These neurons are a critical part of the brain controlling puberty, the menstrual cycle, and reproduction in adults. "The study resulted in the discovery of KNDY neurons around 15 years ago. The neurons are a critical part of the brain controlling puberty, the menstrual cycle, and reproduction in adults," Lehman stated.

Novel Treatments for Reproductive Disorders

The discovery of KNDY neurons has facilitated the development of drugs to treat a variety of disorders, including infertility, hot flashes, and PCOS. A drug blocking NKB, a component of KNDY neurons, has been approved by the USFDA for preventing hot flashes. "Hot flashes episodes are very disruptive... The drug, developed after our discovery, blocks NKB, preventing hot flashes. The drug has been approved by USFDA," Lehman explained.

From Animal Models to Clinical Translation

The basic science study, based on animal models, particularly sheep, has led to clinical translation. This has provided doctors with a new drug to use in treating hot flashes. Lehman emphasized that this is an example of how understanding the brain helps in finding new ways of treating disease.

Supporting Future Research

Lehman, also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Neuroendocrinology, highlighted the journal's commitment to supporting the training of the next generation of researchers. The journal publishes research on understanding how the brain controls hormones and their influence on the brain in health and disease. It supports researchers' and students' careers by providing financial support for the skilling of delegates and conferences worldwide.
Subscribe Icon

Stay Updated with Our Daily Newsletter

Get the latest pharmaceutical insights, research highlights, and industry updates delivered to your inbox every day.

Related Topics

Denali Therapeutics' Tividenofusp Alfa Receives FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for Hunter Syndrome

Denali Therapeutics' tividenofusp alfa (DNL310) has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the FDA for Hunter syndrome (MPS II).
The designation aims to expedite the development and review of tividenofusp alfa, a potential improvement over existing therapies.

Daré Bioscience Advances Sildenafil Cream for Female Sexual Arousal Disorder

Daré Bioscience is moving forward with Phase 3 trials for Sildenafil Cream 3.6% to treat Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD).
The planned Phase 3 study will assess the cream's efficacy over 12 weeks, focusing on arousal sensations and associated distress.

UK Clinical Trial Aims to Resolve Debate on Puberty Blockers for Gender Dysphoria

A clinical trial is being planned in the UK to evaluate the benefits and harms of puberty blockers for young people with gender dysphoria.
The trial aims to address the lack of high-quality evidence on the long-term effects of puberty blockers on mental health, brain development, and bone density.

FDA Approves Kebilidi, First Gene Therapy Directly Administered to the Brain, for AADC Deficiency

The FDA has granted accelerated approval to Kebilidi (eladocagene exuparvovec-tneq) for treating AADC deficiency in both children and adults, addressing the full spectrum of disease severity.
Kebilidi is the first gene therapy approved in the U.S. that is directly administered to the brain, offering a novel approach to treating this rare neurological disorder.

FDA Approves Orlynvah for Treatment of Uncomplicated UTIs in Women with Limited Options

The FDA has approved Orlynvah (sulopenem etzadroxil and probenecid), an oral antibiotic, for uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in adult women with limited treatment options.
Orlynvah is intended for use when other oral antibacterial treatments are not suitable or unavailable, addressing a critical unmet need for women facing recurrent UTIs.

FDA Approves Orlynvah, a Novel Oral Antibiotic, for Uncomplicated UTIs

The FDA has approved Orlynvah (sulopenem etzadroxil and probenecid) for treating uncomplicated urinary tract infections (uUTIs) in women with limited oral treatment options.
Orlynvah is the first oral penem antibiotic approved in the U.S., targeting uUTIs caused by _Escherichia coli_, _Klebsiella pneumoniae_, and _Proteus mirabilis_.

Celmatix Advances Oral FSHR Agonist for Fertility Treatment

Celmatix has nominated its first lead compound in its oral Follicle Stimulating Hormone receptor (FSHR) agonist drug development program, potentially replacing traditional hormone injections.
The oral FSH program compound has demonstrated oral bioavailability and biological activity in rodent models, showing specificity for FSHR superior to FSH itself.

U-Ploid Launches Novel Technology to Combat Age-Related Infertility

U-Ploid Biotechnologies introduces a new platform aimed at enhancing egg cell quality, addressing a key factor in the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF).
The technology targets the accumulated damage in older eggs, seeking to improve their viability and increase the likelihood of successful pregnancies.

Mirdametinib's NDA for NF1-PN Granted Priority Review by FDA

The FDA has granted priority review to SpringWorks Therapeutics' NDA for mirdametinib in treating Neurofibromatosis Type 1-associated plexiform neurofibromas (NF1-PN).
The PDUFA target action date is set for February 28, 2025, with the FDA indicating no current plans for an advisory committee meeting.

Bayer's Elinzanetant Shows Strong Phase III Results for Menopause Symptoms

Bayer's elinzanetant met primary endpoints in Phase III OASIS 1 and 2 trials, significantly reducing the frequency and severity of moderate to severe hot flashes in post-menopausal women.
The OASIS trials demonstrated statistically significant reductions in hot flash frequency at both four and twelve weeks compared to placebo, along with improvements in sleep and quality of life.

Reference News

[1]
Drug for infertility, puberty disorders, hot flashes soon: US scientist - Times of India
timesofindia.indiatimes.com · Nov 12, 2024

Clinical studies develop drugs for reproductive issues like infertility, menstrual problems, delayed puberty, and hot fl...

© Copyright 2025. All Rights Reserved by MedPath
HomeTerms & ConditionsPrivacy Policy