Use of a natural enzyme...

[Marlene]

to treat GVHD is being explored. Looks like they may start trials for those with GVHD where conventional treatment has failed. It appears to have few side effects and does not suppress the immune system.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases...0117144224.htm

[DanL]

i think that in retrospect this sounds like a no duh trial. alpha 1 antitrypsin is responsible for protecting the lung and liver, which are 2 major gvhd sites. it protects them by reducing inflammation. i would hope this makes its way to tria
l quickly since there is a reasonable track record and history in copd patients with low alpha 1 levels

[Marlene]

Thank for the insights on this enzyme. I looked a bit further and found that it's used to treat genetic disorder where the liver cannot release what it manufactures it into the bloodstream causing a deficiency in it. Thereby, causing lung and liver problems. It's used to treat lung problems in these individuals. It's a once weekly IV infusion. The enzyme is derived from pooled blood plasma.

And since it is already being used in humans, I too think it's a "no-brainer" to move forward. I guess all they need is $$$$ and some patients. What's difficult though is that the patient has had to fail all other conventional therapies. And since it's not a drug, funding may be difficult to get.