American scientists have published preliminary data from the first-ever clinical trials of a drug based on circular RNA. This drug is designed to combat xerostomia, which occurs after radiation therapy, as it encodes the aquaporin 1 protein.
The application of the drug as a single injection demonstrated a positive effect in six tested patients who received a minimal dose. Improved saliva production and reduced symptoms of the disease were noted, with no serious side effects recorded.
The results of these preliminary studies were officially published in the scientific journal The New England Journal of Medicine.