CA2132427A1 - Method and composition for suppresion of side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs - Google Patents
Method and composition for suppresion of side effects of anti-inflammatory drugsInfo
- Publication number
- CA2132427A1 CA2132427A1 CA 2132427 CA2132427A CA2132427A1 CA 2132427 A1 CA2132427 A1 CA 2132427A1 CA 2132427 CA2132427 CA 2132427 CA 2132427 A CA2132427 A CA 2132427A CA 2132427 A1 CA2132427 A1 CA 2132427A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- acetyl glucosamine
- synthesis
- human
- inflammatory drug
- nag
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
- A61K31/00—Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients
- A61K31/70—Carbohydrates; Sugars; Derivatives thereof
- A61K31/7004—Monosaccharides having only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
- A61K45/00—Medicinal preparations containing active ingredients not provided for in groups A61K31/00 - A61K41/00
- A61K45/06—Mixtures of active ingredients without chemical characterisation, e.g. antiphlogistics and cardiaca
Abstract
This invention pertains to the novel use of N-acetyl glucosamine to overcome or minimize the side-effects of anti-inflammatory agents by providing for the synthesis of essential human tissue components whose formation is inhibited by the action of these drugs.
A method of minimizing adverse side effects in a human being who is being treated with anti-inflammatory agents comprising feeding the human being a therapeutic amount of N-acetyl glucosamine, and pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, on a periodic basis.
A method of minimizing adverse side effects in a human being who is being treated with anti-inflammatory agents comprising feeding the human being a therapeutic amount of N-acetyl glucosamine, and pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, on a periodic basis.
Description
WO 93/1877~ _ 1 - PCI`/CA93/0010g METHOD AND COMP08ITION FOR ~UPPR~8ION OF
FIE~D OF THE INVENTION
This invention pertains to the novel use of N-acetyl glucosamine to overcome or minimize the side-effects of anti-inflammatory agents by providing for the synthesis of essential human tissue components whose formation is inhibited by the action of these drugs.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Anti-inflammatory agents are the most widely used of medications, and include two main types: steroid and non-steroid. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most frequently prescribed drugs and are used on a daily basis by 40 million people in North America alone. Corticosteroids are derived from the natural hor~one, cortisol, which is essential for life, but whose many properties have been exploited for therapeutic pur-poses including its anti-inflammatory effects. Cortico-steroids are frequently life-saving in more severe situ-ations and are very effective in many diverse conditions.
These include the suppression of the inflammatory response which is a common acco~paniment of many human disorders, as well as suppression in humans of the immune response which is also considered to be responsible for many disorders which, among other effects, initiate inflammation.
Corticosteroids inhibit most cellular processes thereby decreasing those which are harmful, but in long-term treatment - months or years - the slowing of synthetic processes results in deficiencies in many tissues.
Corticosteroids inhibit protein synthesis which impairs growth and regeneration of tissues. Some of these effects can be at least partially overcome by modifications in treatment schedules and diet.
WO 93/lX77~ PCl`iCAg3/00109 ~132~27 `
Both corticosteroids and NSAIDs appear to owe their anti-inflammatory action largely to the inhibition of the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are regulatory substances formed in tissues and~which modify function of many processes in various ways. Prostaglandins play a major role in initiating the inflammatory response so suppressing the synthesis of prostaglandins can be a desired effect. However, some processes which are essen-tial for normal tissue function are also slowed by the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis.
Corticosteroid treatment for many months can result in inhibition of the synthesis of vital substances thereby causing serious tissue defects. In joints, the formation of glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronate, a major constituent, is impaired. This can lead to severe damage of joints, especially large joints such as the hip.
Hylauronate is 50 percent by weight composed of N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG). The supporting structures around blood vessels are also composed of NAG and related sub~tances, and defective synthesis leads to vascular fragility and easy bruising.
A major side-effect of both corticosteroids and NSAIDs is decreased synthesis of the protective lining of the digestive tract. Especially in the case of NSAIDs, which are more commonly used, the development of ulcers in the lining of the stomach and the duodenum and of gastro-intestinal bleeding is a major problem. About 5 percent of persons taking NSAIDs, mostly the elderly, suffer from such problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION ;~
The invention pertains to a method of minimizing adverse side effects in a human being who is being treated with anti-inflammatory agents comprising feeding the human ~'093/1877~ ~13 2 4 2 7 PCT/CA93/00109 being a therapeutic amount of N-acetyl glucosamine on a periodic basis. The N-acetyl glucosamine can be ingested by the patient either alone, or with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, or with a corticosteroid or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
The N-acetyl glucosamine can be fed to the human being on a daily basis. The dosage can be about 300 mg to about 10,000 mg, about 1,000 mg to about 6,000 mg or about 500 mg of N-acetyl glucosamine per day. The N-acetyl glucosamine can be incorporated in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The N-acetyl glucosamine can be fed to the human being as required to restore the integrity of affected tissues in the body of the human being.
The invention is also directed to a composition u~eful for minimizing adverse side effects in a human being who is being treated with anit-inflammatory agents compris-ing N-acetyl glucosamine and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The N-acetyl glucosamine can be present in the amount of about 300 mg to 10,000 mg, or about 1,000 mg to about 6,000 mg.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
There are structures in many tissues of the body the synthesis of which are reduced by anti-inflammatory drugs. Such synthesis can be increased by provision of N-acetyl glucosamine without diminishing the anti-inflamma-tory action of the drugs.
N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) is formed from gluco-samine. NAG is then directly converted into other amino sugars in the human body. NAG is a key substance in the healthy function of constant tissue regeneration and replacement. We have found that the formation of NAG
itself from glucosamine is the slow part of the overall WO93/1877~ 3 2 427 PCT/CA93/~109 amino sugar processing sequence. This necessitates the use of NAG, specifically, and not a de-acetylated form, or an oligomer. ~ t N-acetyl glucosamine is more stable than gluco-samine, is a neutral substance and is readily assimilated and utilized bv tissues whereas most oligomers are not.
It is important to note that it is the availabil-ity of amino sugars which appears to limit the synthesis of these vital glycoproteins and glycosaminoglycans. When blood flow is thus arrested, an ulcer forms within an hour, illustrating dramatically the dynamic nature of these regeneration processes and the need for continual syn-thesis. The action-of a drug, Proglumide, which protects against gastric erosion, has been attributed to the fact that it stimulates synthesis of glycoproteins and glyco-saminoglycans (Umetsu, T. et al., European Journal of Pharmacology 1980, 69: 69-77).
We have found that N-acetyl glucosamine can be provided as an external human body source to provide for synthesis of essential tissue components when the synthesis o~ such components is inhibited by administration of anti-inflammatory agents. The synthesis of each component canbe stimulated by N~G without interfering with the anti-inflammatory action of these drugs, both corticosteroids and NSAIDs.
Tissue defects in the di~estive tract of human beings suffering food intolerance or food allergies have been found. These defects can be corrected to enable the mucosa in the tract to form a necessary barrier to trans-mission of food allergens and to maintain normal function.
The mucosa tissue structure is rich in amino sugars derived from N-acetyl glucosamine and we have found that the W093/l8775 ~ 13 2 4 2 7 PCT/CA93/00109 availability of N-acetyl glucosamine is critical to its synthesis.
N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) is an amino sugar, which is formed in all animal cells and is utilized for the synthesis of many cellular components. The biochemical process by which these components are made is similar in all cells although the end products differ depending upon the type of cell involved. Most of the end products are found outside the cells where they form sheaths which bind cells together, and are major structural components, as in the walls of blood vessels, and fill the spaces between cells, i.e. the interstitium. Amino sugars are found combined with other large molecules (macromolecules) of protein, lipid (fats) or other carbohydrates to form glycoproteins (GP), glycolipids (GL) and glycosaminoglycans (GAG). Glycoproteins have many functions, some circulate in the blood, others are anchored on the surface of cells, as are glycolipids. They can confer unique properties to the cell, for example, on the surface of red blood cor-puscles there is a glycolipid which determines the blood groups A, B and 0. The sole difference between these groups is the presence of a single amino sugar. Such remarkable specifi~ity indicates that there is a "language"
in which amino sugars are the "letters" analoqous to the genetic code, by which biological information is recorded and put into action.
Each cell makes its own amino sugars an~ the process, as in the c~se of most biochemical synthesis, is regulated by the availability of the first member of the sequence, which in this case is glucosamine. Glucosamine is formed from the pool of sugars derived from glucose, blood sugar, and is acetylated to form N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG). NAG is the immediate precursor for two other amino eugars, N-acetyl galactosamine and N-acetyl neuraminic (sialic) acid. These amino sugars constitute about half WO93/1877~ PCTtCA93/OOIOg '~132~2~ ,.....
the total weight of the GAG found in human tissues (Refer-ences 1-7).
In the synthesis of these molecules, the avail-ability of the su~strate, amino sugars, is critical to proper function. We have discovered that although the formation and utilization of amino sugars takes place in all human cells independently, nevertheless an external source of amino sugar is readily taken up by the cells and is utilized by them for incorporation into the macro-molecules. An external source of amino sugar, we have found, can provide for an adequate amount of substrate to satisfy cell demands which otherwise might be greater than the cells can meet.
The interstitium is the space between th~ cells which contains the fibrous protein collagen ensheathed by glycosaminoglycan (GAG). The GAG absorbs very large quan-tities of water to form a gel-like material which resists compression thereby giving shape and firmness to the tissue. This material acts as a medium which regulates the passage of nutrients, etc., between the blood and the tissues, and also acts as a barrier, for example, to the spread of infection (Bert and Pearce).
Mucous membranes are covered by a microscopically thin glycoprotein rich in sialic acid called the glyco-calyx. In the gastrointestinal tract (GI), this micro-scopically thin layer is the ultimate barrier between the underlying tissue and the corrosive digestive juices. When the layer is damaged, erosion and ulceration of the under-lying tissue occurs. If the blood supply to the upper GI
is arrested for about 5 minutes, for example, it has been found that all synthetic processes cease, including forma-tion of the glycocalyx, and an ulcer can be seen formingwithin an hour. This illustrates the dynamic nature of the biological processes in the human body. There are several WO93/1877~ ~1 3 2 4 2 7 PC~/CA93/00109 hundred grams of amino sugar in the various tissue compo-nents of the body but the average life of a given molecule is only 3 days or so. There is thus a constant turnover of all molecules in the body, even in tissues such as bone, and a constant supply of substrates for synthesis is therefore required.
An important and novel feature of the pre~ent invention is that increased demands caused by injury such as food allergen injury can be placed upon cells which might strain their resources, and in this situation, an external supply of amino sugars is beneficial. In the gastrointestinal tract (GI), the rate of synthesis of the glycocalyx had been considered to be adequate in persons afflicted with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). However, in these persons, as in many situations where there is di~ease or injury, the turnover of cells is increased, perhaps as much as threefold. This creates a demand that is beyond what is considered normal. We have found that the incorporation of NAG into the intestinal mucosal tissue is three times greater in persons afflicted with IBD than in those who are not afflicted.
We have also found that in human placenta near term, the formation of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) is stimu-lated strongly by the steroid 17 ~-hydroxyprogesterone (Burton et al.) which appears to function by increasing the ~ynthesis of amino sugars. We have discovered that the same stimulation can be achieved merely by providing the appropriate amino sugars.
Others have shown that in chondrocytes, the cells which form cartilage, the presence of corticosteroids inhibits the formation of GAG. Supplying amino sugars largely overcame this inhibition (Fassbender).
WO 93/1877~ PCI'/CA93/00109,, '~3'~27 - 8 -In a recent publication, the question of intesti-nal permeability in persons with Crohn's Disease, a form of IBD, was reviewed (Olaison et al.). It was found that these persons have greater than n~rmal permeability of the GI tract which leads to the absor~tion into the bloodstream of substances normally excluded. This includes the sub-stances which cause food sensitivities or food allergies.
The condition is attributed to a defect in the mucosal barrier, the glycocalyx, and the intercellular cement composed of GAG. Even unaffected relatives of these pa-tients have been found to have increased permeability (Hollander et al.) which supports the concept that some individuals have a genetic or constitutional defect which sets the stage for a spectrum of disorders ranging from mild to serious food intolerance to severe inflammatory lesions.
Various agents inhibit the formation of the mucosal barrier including ethanol, aspirin and other anti-inflammatory agents. Erosion and bleeding of the GI tractis a major side-effect of such drugs. An agent, proglumide, which protects against ulcer formation has been shown to stimulate the incorporation of NAG into mucosal glycocalyx and this is considered the reason for its effectiveness (Umetsu).
Inflammation is a common accompaniment of many forms of injury and is part of the body's defence and repair mechanism. Often, however, the inciting agent is 3~ such that the inflammation serves no protective purpose and in fact results in tissue damage causing pain and disabil-ity, as in arthritis.
The treatment of these conditions involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and of corticosteroids. These have great benefits. However, they have side-effects which are largely related to their ~132~27 WO 93J18775 PCI'/CA93/00109 _ g _ J
slowing the formation of tissue structures such as GP and GAG which contain amino sugars.
There are, therefore, many situations where an external source of amino sugar can be beneficial. We have discovered that a good choice is N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) which is a neutral compound, is stable, is very soluble, is tasteless, and is readily absorbed from the digestive tract. It circulates in the blood with a half-life about 4 hours and very little is excreted since it is a "com-mitted metabolite" utilized exclusively for the synthesis of GP, GL, GAG in tissue components. An external supply is readily taken up and utilized by the human body and therefore has the potential to be of benefit in many lS situations where the synthetic processes are less than adequate t~ meet demands. NAG alone is capable ol effi-cient utilization for these processes when taken by mouth.
Example 1 Case History - R.R.
R.R., male, 42, underwent surgery for Inflamma-tory Bowel Disease with partial removal of the colon.
After the surgery, he continued to suffer rectal bleeding and ulceration of the mouth. He took aspirin and aceta-minophen regularly for pain relief, and underwent surgery for hip replacement, due to hip degeneration from arthritis and administration of anti-inflammatory agents. He began taking NAG, 3 g per day, before the hip surgery and con-tinued taking it at that rate during and after the surgery.He reported that the main immediate improvement he experi-enced was less fatigue and nausea, and a generally better feeling. However, he also noted after several weeks of NAG
ingestion that there was a lessening of rectal bleeding, and a decrease in the development ~f mouth ulcers.
WO93/1877~ PCT/CA93/00109j '~132427 - lo R.R. then underwent surgery for complete removal of the colon. At the time, he stopped taking NAG. He again began to experience difficùlties with intestinal discomfort and mouth ulcers. Subsequent to surgery for removal of the colon, he resumed taking NAG at a rate of 3 g per day and found that as before, it made him feel better and lessened the incidence of mouth ulcers.
In the period before colectomy, the evidence of decreased bleeding is of significance and is consistent with the discovery that NAG provides for the formation of essential tissue structures whose deficiency contributes to GI bleeding and oral cavity lesions.
Example 2 Case History - A.B.
A.B., male, 62, was taking aspirin at a rate of 325 mg per day. Gafitrointestinal bleeding began suddenly after a time of taking such aspirin. Black stools (which indicate blood from internal bleeding) were accompanied by considerable fresh blood with every movement. Discomfort in the upper abdomen was felt.
A.B. began taking NAG at a dosage of 3-4 g per day, as ~oon as intestinal bleeding was observed. A.B.
also continued to take aspirin. No other medication was taken, such as antacids. Bleeding began to decrease after 3 days of treatment and was completely gone in 4 days.
Thirteen days after bleeding had started, A.B. visited a gastroenterologist who advised terminating the aspirin ingestion. The diagnosis was upper GI, probably duodenal bleeding, likely caused or aggravated by the aspirin.
Blood tests indicated that haemoglobin fell from 142 to 109 g per litre, representing a loss of about 25% of blood volume. Subsequently, A.B. began to take NAG and after 4 weeks, the upper abdominal discomfort had disappeared W093/18775 ~13 2 4 ~ 7 PCT/CA93/~109 comp_etely. Aspirin consumption was resumed (without the physician's knowledge) but taken together with NAG, A.B.
continues to be free of any GI symptoms after 4 months.
FIE~D OF THE INVENTION
This invention pertains to the novel use of N-acetyl glucosamine to overcome or minimize the side-effects of anti-inflammatory agents by providing for the synthesis of essential human tissue components whose formation is inhibited by the action of these drugs.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Anti-inflammatory agents are the most widely used of medications, and include two main types: steroid and non-steroid. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the most frequently prescribed drugs and are used on a daily basis by 40 million people in North America alone. Corticosteroids are derived from the natural hor~one, cortisol, which is essential for life, but whose many properties have been exploited for therapeutic pur-poses including its anti-inflammatory effects. Cortico-steroids are frequently life-saving in more severe situ-ations and are very effective in many diverse conditions.
These include the suppression of the inflammatory response which is a common acco~paniment of many human disorders, as well as suppression in humans of the immune response which is also considered to be responsible for many disorders which, among other effects, initiate inflammation.
Corticosteroids inhibit most cellular processes thereby decreasing those which are harmful, but in long-term treatment - months or years - the slowing of synthetic processes results in deficiencies in many tissues.
Corticosteroids inhibit protein synthesis which impairs growth and regeneration of tissues. Some of these effects can be at least partially overcome by modifications in treatment schedules and diet.
WO 93/lX77~ PCl`iCAg3/00109 ~132~27 `
Both corticosteroids and NSAIDs appear to owe their anti-inflammatory action largely to the inhibition of the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are regulatory substances formed in tissues and~which modify function of many processes in various ways. Prostaglandins play a major role in initiating the inflammatory response so suppressing the synthesis of prostaglandins can be a desired effect. However, some processes which are essen-tial for normal tissue function are also slowed by the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis.
Corticosteroid treatment for many months can result in inhibition of the synthesis of vital substances thereby causing serious tissue defects. In joints, the formation of glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronate, a major constituent, is impaired. This can lead to severe damage of joints, especially large joints such as the hip.
Hylauronate is 50 percent by weight composed of N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG). The supporting structures around blood vessels are also composed of NAG and related sub~tances, and defective synthesis leads to vascular fragility and easy bruising.
A major side-effect of both corticosteroids and NSAIDs is decreased synthesis of the protective lining of the digestive tract. Especially in the case of NSAIDs, which are more commonly used, the development of ulcers in the lining of the stomach and the duodenum and of gastro-intestinal bleeding is a major problem. About 5 percent of persons taking NSAIDs, mostly the elderly, suffer from such problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION ;~
The invention pertains to a method of minimizing adverse side effects in a human being who is being treated with anti-inflammatory agents comprising feeding the human ~'093/1877~ ~13 2 4 2 7 PCT/CA93/00109 being a therapeutic amount of N-acetyl glucosamine on a periodic basis. The N-acetyl glucosamine can be ingested by the patient either alone, or with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, or with a corticosteroid or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
The N-acetyl glucosamine can be fed to the human being on a daily basis. The dosage can be about 300 mg to about 10,000 mg, about 1,000 mg to about 6,000 mg or about 500 mg of N-acetyl glucosamine per day. The N-acetyl glucosamine can be incorporated in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The N-acetyl glucosamine can be fed to the human being as required to restore the integrity of affected tissues in the body of the human being.
The invention is also directed to a composition u~eful for minimizing adverse side effects in a human being who is being treated with anit-inflammatory agents compris-ing N-acetyl glucosamine and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The N-acetyl glucosamine can be present in the amount of about 300 mg to 10,000 mg, or about 1,000 mg to about 6,000 mg.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
There are structures in many tissues of the body the synthesis of which are reduced by anti-inflammatory drugs. Such synthesis can be increased by provision of N-acetyl glucosamine without diminishing the anti-inflamma-tory action of the drugs.
N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) is formed from gluco-samine. NAG is then directly converted into other amino sugars in the human body. NAG is a key substance in the healthy function of constant tissue regeneration and replacement. We have found that the formation of NAG
itself from glucosamine is the slow part of the overall WO93/1877~ 3 2 427 PCT/CA93/~109 amino sugar processing sequence. This necessitates the use of NAG, specifically, and not a de-acetylated form, or an oligomer. ~ t N-acetyl glucosamine is more stable than gluco-samine, is a neutral substance and is readily assimilated and utilized bv tissues whereas most oligomers are not.
It is important to note that it is the availabil-ity of amino sugars which appears to limit the synthesis of these vital glycoproteins and glycosaminoglycans. When blood flow is thus arrested, an ulcer forms within an hour, illustrating dramatically the dynamic nature of these regeneration processes and the need for continual syn-thesis. The action-of a drug, Proglumide, which protects against gastric erosion, has been attributed to the fact that it stimulates synthesis of glycoproteins and glyco-saminoglycans (Umetsu, T. et al., European Journal of Pharmacology 1980, 69: 69-77).
We have found that N-acetyl glucosamine can be provided as an external human body source to provide for synthesis of essential tissue components when the synthesis o~ such components is inhibited by administration of anti-inflammatory agents. The synthesis of each component canbe stimulated by N~G without interfering with the anti-inflammatory action of these drugs, both corticosteroids and NSAIDs.
Tissue defects in the di~estive tract of human beings suffering food intolerance or food allergies have been found. These defects can be corrected to enable the mucosa in the tract to form a necessary barrier to trans-mission of food allergens and to maintain normal function.
The mucosa tissue structure is rich in amino sugars derived from N-acetyl glucosamine and we have found that the W093/l8775 ~ 13 2 4 2 7 PCT/CA93/00109 availability of N-acetyl glucosamine is critical to its synthesis.
N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) is an amino sugar, which is formed in all animal cells and is utilized for the synthesis of many cellular components. The biochemical process by which these components are made is similar in all cells although the end products differ depending upon the type of cell involved. Most of the end products are found outside the cells where they form sheaths which bind cells together, and are major structural components, as in the walls of blood vessels, and fill the spaces between cells, i.e. the interstitium. Amino sugars are found combined with other large molecules (macromolecules) of protein, lipid (fats) or other carbohydrates to form glycoproteins (GP), glycolipids (GL) and glycosaminoglycans (GAG). Glycoproteins have many functions, some circulate in the blood, others are anchored on the surface of cells, as are glycolipids. They can confer unique properties to the cell, for example, on the surface of red blood cor-puscles there is a glycolipid which determines the blood groups A, B and 0. The sole difference between these groups is the presence of a single amino sugar. Such remarkable specifi~ity indicates that there is a "language"
in which amino sugars are the "letters" analoqous to the genetic code, by which biological information is recorded and put into action.
Each cell makes its own amino sugars an~ the process, as in the c~se of most biochemical synthesis, is regulated by the availability of the first member of the sequence, which in this case is glucosamine. Glucosamine is formed from the pool of sugars derived from glucose, blood sugar, and is acetylated to form N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG). NAG is the immediate precursor for two other amino eugars, N-acetyl galactosamine and N-acetyl neuraminic (sialic) acid. These amino sugars constitute about half WO93/1877~ PCTtCA93/OOIOg '~132~2~ ,.....
the total weight of the GAG found in human tissues (Refer-ences 1-7).
In the synthesis of these molecules, the avail-ability of the su~strate, amino sugars, is critical to proper function. We have discovered that although the formation and utilization of amino sugars takes place in all human cells independently, nevertheless an external source of amino sugar is readily taken up by the cells and is utilized by them for incorporation into the macro-molecules. An external source of amino sugar, we have found, can provide for an adequate amount of substrate to satisfy cell demands which otherwise might be greater than the cells can meet.
The interstitium is the space between th~ cells which contains the fibrous protein collagen ensheathed by glycosaminoglycan (GAG). The GAG absorbs very large quan-tities of water to form a gel-like material which resists compression thereby giving shape and firmness to the tissue. This material acts as a medium which regulates the passage of nutrients, etc., between the blood and the tissues, and also acts as a barrier, for example, to the spread of infection (Bert and Pearce).
Mucous membranes are covered by a microscopically thin glycoprotein rich in sialic acid called the glyco-calyx. In the gastrointestinal tract (GI), this micro-scopically thin layer is the ultimate barrier between the underlying tissue and the corrosive digestive juices. When the layer is damaged, erosion and ulceration of the under-lying tissue occurs. If the blood supply to the upper GI
is arrested for about 5 minutes, for example, it has been found that all synthetic processes cease, including forma-tion of the glycocalyx, and an ulcer can be seen formingwithin an hour. This illustrates the dynamic nature of the biological processes in the human body. There are several WO93/1877~ ~1 3 2 4 2 7 PC~/CA93/00109 hundred grams of amino sugar in the various tissue compo-nents of the body but the average life of a given molecule is only 3 days or so. There is thus a constant turnover of all molecules in the body, even in tissues such as bone, and a constant supply of substrates for synthesis is therefore required.
An important and novel feature of the pre~ent invention is that increased demands caused by injury such as food allergen injury can be placed upon cells which might strain their resources, and in this situation, an external supply of amino sugars is beneficial. In the gastrointestinal tract (GI), the rate of synthesis of the glycocalyx had been considered to be adequate in persons afflicted with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). However, in these persons, as in many situations where there is di~ease or injury, the turnover of cells is increased, perhaps as much as threefold. This creates a demand that is beyond what is considered normal. We have found that the incorporation of NAG into the intestinal mucosal tissue is three times greater in persons afflicted with IBD than in those who are not afflicted.
We have also found that in human placenta near term, the formation of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) is stimu-lated strongly by the steroid 17 ~-hydroxyprogesterone (Burton et al.) which appears to function by increasing the ~ynthesis of amino sugars. We have discovered that the same stimulation can be achieved merely by providing the appropriate amino sugars.
Others have shown that in chondrocytes, the cells which form cartilage, the presence of corticosteroids inhibits the formation of GAG. Supplying amino sugars largely overcame this inhibition (Fassbender).
WO 93/1877~ PCI'/CA93/00109,, '~3'~27 - 8 -In a recent publication, the question of intesti-nal permeability in persons with Crohn's Disease, a form of IBD, was reviewed (Olaison et al.). It was found that these persons have greater than n~rmal permeability of the GI tract which leads to the absor~tion into the bloodstream of substances normally excluded. This includes the sub-stances which cause food sensitivities or food allergies.
The condition is attributed to a defect in the mucosal barrier, the glycocalyx, and the intercellular cement composed of GAG. Even unaffected relatives of these pa-tients have been found to have increased permeability (Hollander et al.) which supports the concept that some individuals have a genetic or constitutional defect which sets the stage for a spectrum of disorders ranging from mild to serious food intolerance to severe inflammatory lesions.
Various agents inhibit the formation of the mucosal barrier including ethanol, aspirin and other anti-inflammatory agents. Erosion and bleeding of the GI tractis a major side-effect of such drugs. An agent, proglumide, which protects against ulcer formation has been shown to stimulate the incorporation of NAG into mucosal glycocalyx and this is considered the reason for its effectiveness (Umetsu).
Inflammation is a common accompaniment of many forms of injury and is part of the body's defence and repair mechanism. Often, however, the inciting agent is 3~ such that the inflammation serves no protective purpose and in fact results in tissue damage causing pain and disabil-ity, as in arthritis.
The treatment of these conditions involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and of corticosteroids. These have great benefits. However, they have side-effects which are largely related to their ~132~27 WO 93J18775 PCI'/CA93/00109 _ g _ J
slowing the formation of tissue structures such as GP and GAG which contain amino sugars.
There are, therefore, many situations where an external source of amino sugar can be beneficial. We have discovered that a good choice is N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG) which is a neutral compound, is stable, is very soluble, is tasteless, and is readily absorbed from the digestive tract. It circulates in the blood with a half-life about 4 hours and very little is excreted since it is a "com-mitted metabolite" utilized exclusively for the synthesis of GP, GL, GAG in tissue components. An external supply is readily taken up and utilized by the human body and therefore has the potential to be of benefit in many lS situations where the synthetic processes are less than adequate t~ meet demands. NAG alone is capable ol effi-cient utilization for these processes when taken by mouth.
Example 1 Case History - R.R.
R.R., male, 42, underwent surgery for Inflamma-tory Bowel Disease with partial removal of the colon.
After the surgery, he continued to suffer rectal bleeding and ulceration of the mouth. He took aspirin and aceta-minophen regularly for pain relief, and underwent surgery for hip replacement, due to hip degeneration from arthritis and administration of anti-inflammatory agents. He began taking NAG, 3 g per day, before the hip surgery and con-tinued taking it at that rate during and after the surgery.He reported that the main immediate improvement he experi-enced was less fatigue and nausea, and a generally better feeling. However, he also noted after several weeks of NAG
ingestion that there was a lessening of rectal bleeding, and a decrease in the development ~f mouth ulcers.
WO93/1877~ PCT/CA93/00109j '~132427 - lo R.R. then underwent surgery for complete removal of the colon. At the time, he stopped taking NAG. He again began to experience difficùlties with intestinal discomfort and mouth ulcers. Subsequent to surgery for removal of the colon, he resumed taking NAG at a rate of 3 g per day and found that as before, it made him feel better and lessened the incidence of mouth ulcers.
In the period before colectomy, the evidence of decreased bleeding is of significance and is consistent with the discovery that NAG provides for the formation of essential tissue structures whose deficiency contributes to GI bleeding and oral cavity lesions.
Example 2 Case History - A.B.
A.B., male, 62, was taking aspirin at a rate of 325 mg per day. Gafitrointestinal bleeding began suddenly after a time of taking such aspirin. Black stools (which indicate blood from internal bleeding) were accompanied by considerable fresh blood with every movement. Discomfort in the upper abdomen was felt.
A.B. began taking NAG at a dosage of 3-4 g per day, as ~oon as intestinal bleeding was observed. A.B.
also continued to take aspirin. No other medication was taken, such as antacids. Bleeding began to decrease after 3 days of treatment and was completely gone in 4 days.
Thirteen days after bleeding had started, A.B. visited a gastroenterologist who advised terminating the aspirin ingestion. The diagnosis was upper GI, probably duodenal bleeding, likely caused or aggravated by the aspirin.
Blood tests indicated that haemoglobin fell from 142 to 109 g per litre, representing a loss of about 25% of blood volume. Subsequently, A.B. began to take NAG and after 4 weeks, the upper abdominal discomfort had disappeared W093/18775 ~13 2 4 ~ 7 PCT/CA93/~109 comp_etely. Aspirin consumption was resumed (without the physician's knowledge) but taken together with NAG, A.B.
continues to be free of any GI symptoms after 4 months.
Claims (13)
1. Use of N-acetyl glucosamine in the preparation of a medicament for promotion of biosynthesis of glycoproteins in the gastrointestinal mucosa of humans undergoing treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs.
2. The use of claim 1, wherein the N-acetyl glucosamine is incorporated in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
3. The use of claim 2, wherein the pharmaceutical formulation is in dosage unit form, each dosage unit containing from 500 to 6,000 mg of N-acetyl glucosamine.
4. A pharmaceutical formulation for treating inflammation and promoting the biosynthesis of glycoproteins in the gastrointestinal mucosa of humans comprising N-acetyl glucosamine and a pharmaceutically acceptable anti-inflammatory drug.
5. The formulation of claim 4, wherein the anti-inflammatory drug is aspirin.
6. The formulation of claim 4, wherein the anti-inflammatory drug is a corticosteroid.
7. The formulation of claims 4, 5 or 6, wherein the N-acetyl glucosamine and anti-inflammatory drug are incorporated in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
8. The formulation of claim 7, wherein the pharmaceutical formulation is in dosage unit form, each dosage unit containing from 500 to 6,000 mg of N-acetyl glucosamine.
9. Use of N-acetyl glucosamine and a pharmaceutically acceptable anti-inflammatory drug in the preparation of a medicament for treating inflammation and promoting biosynthesis of glycoproteins in the gastrointestinal mucosa of humans.
10. The use of claim 9, wherein the anti-inflammatory drug is aspirin.
11. The use of claim 9, wherein the anti-inflammatory drug is a corticosteroid.
12. The use of claim 9, 10 or 11, wherein the N-acetyl glucosamine and the anti-inflammatory drug are incorporated in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
13. The use of claim 12, wherein the pharmaceutical formulation is in dosage unit form, each dosage unit containing from 500 to 6,000 mg of N-acetyl glucosamine.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US85440692A | 1992-03-19 | 1992-03-19 | |
| US07/854,406 | 1992-03-19 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2132427A1 true CA2132427A1 (en) | 1993-09-30 |
Family
ID=25318604
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2132427 Abandoned CA2132427A1 (en) | 1992-03-19 | 1993-03-18 | Method and composition for suppresion of side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0630251A1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU3881493A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2132427A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1993018775A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (14)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP0749314A4 (en) * | 1994-03-02 | 2002-09-18 | Neose Technologies Inc | Method for treating and inhibiting gastric and duodenal ulcers |
| CN1067245C (en) * | 1996-12-27 | 2001-06-20 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-aceto-D-aminoglucose in medicinal preparation for curing respiratory tract diseases |
| CN1067246C (en) * | 1996-12-27 | 2001-06-20 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-aceto-D-aminoglucose for preparing skin sanitary article preparation |
| CN1095366C (en) * | 1996-12-27 | 2002-12-04 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-aceto-D-aminoglucose in medicinal preparation for curing intestinal diseases |
| JP2002532079A (en) * | 1998-12-15 | 2002-10-02 | ザ ブライハム アンド ウイミンズ ホスピタル， インコーポレイテッド | Methods and products for modulating the lectin complement pathway associated with complement activation |
| US7273925B1 (en) | 1998-12-15 | 2007-09-25 | Brigham And Women's Hospital, Inc. | Methods and products for regulating lectin complement pathway associated complement activation |
| CN1131038C (en) * | 2001-02-28 | 2003-12-17 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-acetyl-D-aminoglucose in preparing medicine to help treatment of perianal diseases |
| CN1131037C (en) | 2001-02-28 | 2003-12-17 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-acetyl-D-aminoglucose in preparing medicines to prevent and treat sexual disfunction |
| CN1168453C (en) * | 2001-02-28 | 2004-09-29 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-acetyl-D-aminoglucose in preparing medicine to prevent and treat motion sickness |
| CN1131036C (en) * | 2001-02-28 | 2003-12-17 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-acetyl-D-aminoglucose in preparing medicines to suppress by-effect of radiotherapy and chemicotherapy |
| CN1183913C (en) | 2001-02-28 | 2005-01-12 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-acetyl-D-aminoglucose in preparing medicines to treat cardiac and cerebral ischemia and anoxia |
| CN1173706C (en) * | 2001-02-28 | 2004-11-03 | 中国人民解放军第三军医大学 | Application of N-acetyl-D-aminoglucose in preparing medicines to treat cervical erosion |
| US20070082851A1 (en) * | 2003-11-24 | 2007-04-12 | Optimer Pharmaceuticals Inc. | Treatment of a condition in a mammal with administration of Compounds and Methods of Use |
| US8524453B2 (en) | 2006-02-10 | 2013-09-03 | The Brigham And Woman's Hospital, Inc. | Lectin complement pathway assays and related compositions and methods |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP0013783B1 (en) * | 1979-01-12 | 1984-04-04 | The Australian National University | Protection of the gastric mucosal lining from damage by aspirin and related drugs |
| GB2155329A (en) * | 1984-03-08 | 1985-09-25 | Kim Drummond Rainsford | A pharmaceutical formulation containing azapropazone |
| DE3602670A1 (en) * | 1986-01-29 | 1987-07-30 | Speck Ulrich | USE OF N-ACETYLGLUCOSAMINE FOR THE THERAPY OF DEGENERATIVE JOINT PROCESSES AND RELATED DISEASES |
| CA1318592C (en) * | 1988-11-18 | 1993-06-01 | University Of British Columbia | N-acetyl glucosamine as a cytoprotective agent |
-
1993
- 1993-03-18 AU AU38814/93A patent/AU3881493A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1993-03-18 CA CA 2132427 patent/CA2132427A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1993-03-18 WO PCT/CA1993/000109 patent/WO1993018775A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1993-03-18 EP EP93907684A patent/EP0630251A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU3881493A (en) | 1993-10-21 |
| EP0630251A1 (en) | 1994-12-28 |
| WO1993018775A1 (en) | 1993-09-30 |
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