[Pharmacological basis of the action of isaxonine (author's transl)].

The author reviews previous therapeutic attempts to stimulate regeneration of peripheral nerves. Since 1971 he has been studying a synthetic compound, isaxonine, which in rats accelerates nerve regeneration and functional recovery. Stimulation of axonal regeneration and collateral sprouting has been demonstrated in tissue cultures. The therapeutic activity of the compound has been demonstrated in man in leprous neuropathy and in vincristine neuropathy. Isaxonine has specific affinity for peripheral nerves. Its acts directly on the neuron or indirectly by stimulating production of a growth factor remains unknown. In vitro and in vivo studies isaxonine have shown that isaxonine antagonizes the noxious effects of Vinca alkaloids on neurotubular structure. Research in progress suggest a possible action of this new compound in other diseases related to tubulin anomaly.