FTIR spectroscopy characterization of fatty-acyl-chain conjugates.

FTIR spectroscopy is used to identify poly-L-lysin fatty-acyl-chain (PLL-FAC) conjugates based on structural differences found between FAC species. Twenty-one PLL-FAC models were used, from C8 to C24, and with up to 5 unsaturation levels (C20:5). Curve fitting of the 3050-2800 cm(-1) spectral interval permitted extraction of IR bands belonging to the stretching vibration modes of methyl, methylene, and alkene groups. Based on molecular structure models in 3D, the number and position of methyl bands could be set according to chain length and unsaturation level. Band positions for ν-(C = C < H), ν(as)(CH3), and ν(as)(CH2) groups did not follow the maximum intensity shift of spectrum curve; it is the underlying band's intensity that is modifying maximum intensity of spectrum curve with respect to chain length and unsaturation level. We thus propose to use FTIR spectroscopy for the production monitoring and the quality control of PLL-FAC conjugates used as nutritional complements, and this should be extended to analysis of fatty acid compounds in general.

GEMSP: a new therapeutic approach to multiple sclerosis.

A new therapeutic approach called Endotherapia (GEMSP) for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is suggested. Endotherapia is the result of an immunopathological strategy addressing chronic incurable diseases with a multifactorial etiology. This approach combines a biomedical evaluation of circulating immunoglobulins directed against specific self-antigens and self-antigens modified by free radicals. GEMSP is a "tailor-made" combination of small molecules (fatty acids, antioxidants, radical scavengers, amino acids) linked to a non-immunogenic linear chain of poly-L.lysine (PLL). Each individual linkage or PLL derivative offers great advantages, such as an increase in the half-life of the active small molecules. GEMSP inhibits brain leukocyte infiltration and abolishes episodes of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. In a clinical trial with 102 MS patients treated with GEMSP Endotherapia, 28% of them showed a worsening of their state; 20% showed a decrease in the progression of the disease; 17% showed disease stabilization; and 35% showed a reversal of the evolution of disease; i.e., an improvement in their disease state. In 72% of the cases, a positive evolution of the state of the MS patients treated with Endotherapia was observed (a decrease or stabilization of disease evolution or an improvement). Endotherapia is very safe and no side-effects were reported for GEMSP. Moreover, GEMSP showed no toxicity either in experimental animals or in humans. It seems that Endotherapia is a promising therapy for MS, with no side-effects, which should be considered in the management of long-term pathologies.