Emu Oil and prevention of intestinal damage

Summary

The proposed study seeks to identify locallyproduced Emu Oil as a novel adjunctive treatment modality for three serious gastrointestinal disorders: chemotherapyinduced mucositis, inflammatory bowel disease and NSAIDenteropathy. These three aims form the principal objectives of the study. Utilizing our proven animal model studies, these preclinical objectives will be addressed in Years 1 and 2 of the proposed study. Should our results appear promising at the end of Year 2, in Year 3 we will pursue commercial collaborations through which the animal model studies can be extended to human studies. This will entail engagement with the appropriate regulatory bodies. Finally, in Year 3, we will seek to determine the reproducibility of Emu Oil efficacy by investigating different batches of Emu Oil. Moreover, we will conduct a small pilot study in which Ostrich Oil and Rhea Oil are each subjected to preclinical examination.

Program

New and Emerging Animal Industries

Research Organisation

The University of Adelaide

Objective Summary

Aim 1: To identify effects of Emu Oil on Mucositis We will utilize our proven rat model of 5Fluorouracilinduced mucositis to conduct a full timecourse of Emu Oil efficacy. This will include essential safety data. Endpoint analyses will include biochemical and histological indicators of intestinal inflammation and structural integrity. Aim 2: To identify effects of Emu Oil on Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) We will utilize our proven rat model of dextransulphate sodium (DSS) induced ulcerative colitis to conduct a full timecourse of Emu Oil efficacy. Analyses will be as for Aim 1. Aim 3: To identify effects of Emu Oil on NSAIDenteropathy We will utilize our proven rat model of indomethacininduced enteropathy to conduct a full timecourse of Emu Oil efficacy. Analyses will be as for Aim 1. Aim 4: To compare different batches of Emu Oil for reproducible preclinical efficacy We will compare 34 different batches of Emu Oil for therapeutic efficacy using the 3 model systems described above. Analyses will be as for Aim 1. Aim 5: To conduct preliminary investigations into the therapeutic potential of Ostrich and Rhea Oils We will obtain Ostrich Oil and Rhea Oil from established national and international collaborators. These oils will be tested for clinical efficacy in the 5FU mucositis model (see Aim 1) as a proofofconcept in the first instance. Aim 6: If indicated, to commence development of human trials in humans afflicated by mucositis, IBD or NSAIDenteropathy