By Pat Anson, PNN Editor

An experimental gel developed to prevent skin damage caused by aging and ultraviolet light is showing promise as a treatment for chronic neuropathic pain, according to research underway in Australia.

The topical gel – known as RM191A – contains a copper-based compound that is absorbed by the skin and prevents the buildup of free radicals that cause skin damage associated with aging and skin cancer.

In a study recently published in the journal Redox Biology, RM191A was found to have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties in laboratory mice.

The gel is currently being evaluated in 24 patients at a Sydney hospital as a treatment for chronic nerve pain caused by surgery, chemotherapy, trauma and diabetes.  Results are expected later this month.

“Early sample uses of this topical formulation indicated it could be a significant in the management of certain types of chronic nerve pain,” says Llewellyn Casbolt, chief scientist and co-founder of Sydney-based RR MedSciences, which is developing the gel.

“In many ways, scientists see our discovery as a new class of anti-inflammatory that acts by the modulation of free radicals as well as reducing several inflammatory cytokines, providing a drug that can be therapeutically useful where the reduction of inflammation, as well as cellular and tissue healing - indeed pain relief - is also advantageous for a patient.”

The company plans to release an over-the-counter version of its gel in the next 12-18 months as a treatment for skin damage. It will take longer to get regulatory approval for the gel as a treatment for nerve pain and may require a prescription.

RR MedSciences (RRMS) plans to conduct further trials and is seeking additional partners and funding to accelerate the gel’s development.

“The management of pain, often related to conditions of inflammation or trauma that results in nerve or chronic pain is an area of great need.  Advancing the ability for people to modulate their pain, in a safe and effective manner that improves quality of life, is a core objective,” said Helena Libershal Casbolt, CEO and co-founder of RRMS.

A subsidiary of RRMS is currently selling a copper-based body cream called Blue Healer Care as a treatment for damaged skin and for relief from skin irritation and muscle soreness.