Therapeutic Effect of GGsTop, Selective Gamma-glutamyl Transpeptidase Inhibitor, on a Mouse Model of 5-Fluorouracil-induced Oral Mucositis

Background: Oral mucositis (OM) induced by cancer chemotherapy has a high incidence and serious symptoms, which often force chemotherapy to be stopped. GGsTop is a newly-discovered gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) inhibitor. Previous research suggested that inhibition of GGT suppressed reactive oxygen species and induced the production of collagen and elastin. We hypothesized that GGsTop could safely treat OM. Materials and Methods: A mouse model of OM was treated with GGsTop and ulcer area, weight, and white blood cell count were determined. The treatment effect was also evaluated by hematoxylin-eosin and collagen staining. Results: The therapeutic effect of GGsTop was better than that of an existing drug and may be safely used in combination with chemotherapy. Furthermore, GGsTop promoted collagen production in oral mucosa. Conclusion: GGsTop treated OM quickly and safely. GGsTop is highly valuable for use as a treatment for OM.