Achalasia
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Achalasia is an unusual degenerative condition characterized by dysphagia which results from a lack of peristalsis and inability to relax the lower esophageal sphincter. Protheragen provides a full range of therapeutic development solutions necessary for various rare gastrointestinal disorders and achalasia in particular. We assist in all stages of research and development of new ways to treat achalasia, within our knowledge of gastroenterology and rare diseases.
Achalasia, a rare disease worldwide, affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), manifesting as a lower esophageal sphincter that cannot relax, as well as an esophageal body that is absent or spastic contractions. The prevalence is about 27 people per 100,000 and the incidence rate is only 1.5 to 2 people in 100,000 yearly. The most common signs of this disorder include difficulty swallowing, regurgitating food, pain in the chest, and sudden loss of body weight.
Fig.1 A computed tomography scan reveals a dilated esophagus. (Slim, N., and Williamson, J. M., 2023)The degeneration of the enteric neurons located in the esophageal wall accounts for the development of achalasia but the causative mechanisms are obscure, however, genetics, autoimmunity, and viral factors may be involved. The main mechanism that is more likely to correlate with the pathophysiological process is a loss of function of the inhibitory nerve that is most likely due to autoimmune attacks on the myenteric nerve of the esophagus, indeed these may be cell-mediated and probably antibody-mediated. The risk of developing this condition is increased by the presence of HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DRB1 risk genes.
| Drug Names | Mechanism of Action | Targets | Research Phase |
| Botulinum toxin | By blocking the release of acetylcholine from presynaptic nerve terminals in Auerbach's plexus. | SNAP25 | Approved |
| Vasoactive intestinal peptide | Improved LES relaxation and reduced LESP. | VIPR | Phase I |
| Olinciguat | A stimulator of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC). | sGC | Phase II |
Disclaimer: Protheragen focuses on providing preclinical research services. This table is for information exchange purposes only. This table is not a treatment plan recommendation. For guidance on treatment options, please visit a regular hospital.
Comprising experienced professionals with in-depth knowledge of gastroenterology and rare disease research, our company offers a bespoke approach to tackling the challenges faced within the achalasia therapy development. We are determined to foster the growth of research and innovation in the field of gastroenterology through providing a wide array of services such as diagnostic, and therapeutic development as well as disease model development and research for conditions such as achalasia.
The animal model development services are catered towards the specific research needs and goals of our clients, tailoring our approach to address unique aspects of achalasia pathogenesis and therapeutic.
Injecting benzalkonium chloride (BAC) into the area around the animal's LES results in the development of esophageal achalasia.
A more constricted band (covering 90% of the esophageal circumference) was applied to increase the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter.
Animal models with specific gene mutations related to achalasia, such as Pvrl3-Cre model, Lsc/p115-/- model, Rassf1a-/- model, etc.
Through Protheragen's comprehensive services encompassing pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and drug safety evaluation, we committed to serving as the trusted partner for a wide array of researchers, scientists, and companies in developing effective therapies for achalasia and other rare gastrointestinal diseases, our goal is to foster innovation and expedite the advancement of achalasia treatments. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us for more details.
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All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.