Ritonavir and disulfiram have potential to inhibit caspase-1 mediated inflammation and reduce neurological sequelae after minor blast exposure.

Abstract

Caspase-1 triggers cytokine release following acceleration-induced concussive head injury. Minor blast injury in which no physical tissue injury occurs, results in the release of cytokines in a similar fashion. Ritonavir, a generically available protease inhibitor with a benign short-term side-effect profile, has been shown to inhibit expression of caspase-1. We review the relevant literature and propose that ritonavir may be of benefit in reducing adverse neuropsychiatric outcomes and hastening recovery following mild blast injury. Further research in animal models of blast injury followed by clinical studies would determine whether this therapy is effective.

• Authors: Kevin Foley, Richard E Kast, Eric L Altschuler
• Journal: Medical hypotheses (Med Hypotheses) Vol. 72 Issue 2 Pg. 150-2 (Feb 2009) ISSN: 0306-9877 [Print] United States
• PMID: 19004566 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Caspase 1
• Ritonavir
• Disulfiram

Topics

• Caspase 1 (metabolism)
• Craniocerebral Trauma (complications, drug therapy)
• Disulfiram (metabolism, therapeutic use)
• Humans
• Inflammation (drug therapy, etiology)
• Ritonavir (metabolism, therapeutic use)