This study sought to “identify genetic variation that can modulate and predict the risk of developing thalidomide-related peripheral neuropathy (TrPN).” Analyzed were 1,495 patients with multiple myeloma. The clinicians learned that “an individual’s risk of developing a peripheral neuropathy after thalidomide treatment can be mediated by polymorphisms in genes governing repair mechanisms and inflammation in the peripheral nervous system.” The hope is to use these findings to further develop “neuroprotective strategies with thalidomide therapy,” and to improve use of this important compound.

Authors:

Johnson DC, Corthals SL, Walker BA, Ross FM, Gregory WM, Dickens NJ, Lokhorst HM, Goldschmidt H, Davies FE, Durie BG, Van Ness B, Child JA, Sonneveld P, Morgan GJ.

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