Bavisant: AI-Discovered Drug Shows Promise for Progressive MS | Science News
A drug already known and studied for unrelated purposes may offer a significant advancement in the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis. This potential breakthrough stems from research published in Science Translational Medicine, which for the first time demonstrates the possibility of protecting neurons and repairing myelin in experimental models of the disease.
A New Hope for Progressive MS
The molecule, called bavisant, emerged as the most promising candidate from an analysis of over 1,500 already-approved drugs. This screening process utilized an innovative system powered by artificial intelligence. This finding is particularly important for progressive forms of multiple sclerosis, which have historically proven the most challenging to treat.
International Collaboration Drives Discovery
The research is the result of the international consortium BRAVEinMS, established in 2017 with support from the International Progressive MS Alliance. The Associazione Italiana Sclerosi Multipla (AISM) and its Foundation (FISM) are founding and funding members of this alliance.
The initial question driving the research was straightforward: could existing medications be repurposed to combat multiple sclerosis? Researchers used advanced computational models and AI to narrow down the possibilities, progressing from 1,500 molecules to 273, then 32, then 6, ultimately identifying bavisant. This drug is currently used to treat sleep and wakefulness disorders as an antagonist of the histamine H3 receptor.
Dual Action Offers Unique Potential
In experimental models of multiple sclerosis, bavisant demonstrated a dual action not previously observed with such clarity. It both stimulates cells that produce myelin to repair nerve fibers and protects neurons from degenerative damage. Svetlana Bezukladova, the study’s first author, explained, “We have demonstrated that bavisant promotes both remyelination and neuroprotection.” This result was achieved not only in animal models but also in organoids derived from human cells, both from healthy subjects and individuals with multiple sclerosis.
Paola Panina, a senior co-author of the study, emphasized the broader significance of this work. “For the first time, we demonstrate that a systematic approach, based on human models, can lead to the identification of molecules capable of regenerating myelin and protecting neurons in progressive multiple sclerosis.”
Professor Gianvito Martino, coordinator of BRAVEinMS, described the effort as a research platform. “We not only have a candidate ready for the final mile towards clinical trial, but also over 30 new potentially usable molecules. And above all, a scientific tool capable of transforming knowledge into cures.”
What’s Next?
The research is now moving toward evaluating clinical trials in humans. The International Progressive MS Alliance has announced new funding of 700,000 euros to support this next phase. While a cure remains elusive, this research represents a concrete possibility, grounded in solid data, international collaboration, and an innovative approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bavisant currently used for?
Bavisant is currently used as an antagonist of the histamine H3 receptor to treat disorders of sleep and wakefulness.
What two key actions did bavisant demonstrate in the study?
Bavisant stimulated cells to repair nerve fibers by producing myelin and protected neurons from degenerative damage.
Who funded the BRAVEinMS consortium?
The BRAVEinMS consortium was supported by the International Progressive MS Alliance, with founding and funding from the Associazione Italiana Sclerosi Multipla (AISM) and its Foundation (FISM).
What role could collaborative research play in finding new treatments for complex diseases like multiple sclerosis?