Fisher R. Cherry

Abstract Colorectal cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing neurological issues, particularly peripheral neuropathy and chronic pain. Although pre-existing neuropathy is a risk factor for chronic pain, tumor-induced neuropathy has not been firmly established in pre-clinical models. Consistent with clinical observations, we show that mice with colorectal cancer develop peripheral neuropathy, which was associated with subtle locomotor deficits, without overt hypersensitivity.

Abstract Treatment of diseases of oxidative stress through activation of the antioxidant nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is limited by systemic side effects. We chemically functionalize the NRF2 activator monomethyl fumarate to require Baeyer–Villiger oxidation for release of the active drug at sites of oxidative stress. This prodrug reverses chronic pain in mice with reduced side effects and could be applied to other disorders of oxidative stress.