Artelo Biosciences Inc. (NASDAQ: ARTL) announced the publication of a peer-reviewed study in the European Journal of Pain supporting its drug candidate ART26.12 as a potential pain treatment. The article examines fatty acid-binding protein 5 (FABP5) as a therapeutic target for pain management.

The publication discusses preclinical evidence showing FABP5 inhibition produced analgesic effects across multiple pain models, including visceral, inflammatory, neuropathic, and joint pain. The research indicates FABP5 inhibition may influence several pain-related pathways while reducing pro-inflammatory mediators.

Seven prior preclinical studies examined ART26.12 specifically in diabetic neuropathy, osteoarthritis, cancer bone pain, and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. The compound demonstrated analgesic activity across each model, according to the company.

"This peer-reviewed publication strengthens the scientific foundation for ART26.12 and reinforces our view that FABP5 inhibition represents a novel mechanism of action with the potential to redefine the treatment of pain," stated Dr. Andrew Yates, Artelo's Chief Scientific Officer.

The company completed a Phase 1 single ascending dose study of ART26.12, which showed no severe or serious drug-related adverse events across all doses evaluated. Artelo plans to advance ART26.12 into a multiple ascending dose study this year.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 24.3% of U.S. adults experienced chronic pain in 2023. The Food and Drug Administration has highlighted risks associated with opioid analgesics, including misuse, addiction, overdose, and death.

Artelo Biosciences develops therapeutics that modulate lipid-signaling pathways for conditions including cancer, pain, dermatological disorders, and neurological conditions.