Abstract: This invention relates to methods and compositions for overcoming the dose-dependent down regulation of interleukin 10 (IL-10) by expressing, in addition to an interleukin 10 (IL-10) peptide, an IL-10 receptor type 1 (IL-10R1) peptide. The methods have use in treating a variety of diseases and symptoms, including but not limited to neuropathic or chronic pain; symptoms and physiological damage associated with multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, ALS, neuroinflammation, arthritis and other diseases of the joint; and autoimmune diseases.

Abstract: Methods of delivering transgenes to target cells using plasmids comprising viral inverted terminal repeat (ITR) sequences are described. Such plasmids are capable of directing sustained transgene expression in target cells in rats provided that at least one adeno-associated virus (AAV) ITR sequence is present in the plasmid, regardless of whether that ITR is located upstream or downstream of the transgene. In a particular embodiment, plasmids comprising one or more AAV ITR sequence and an IL-10 transgene are shown to be effective in sustained reversal of pain in an animal model of neuropathic pain.

Abstract: The present invention includes a composition comprising an A2A agonist. The present invention also includes a method of treating or reducing the symptoms of a neuroinflammatory disease in a patient in need thereof, wherein the method comprises administering to the patient a therapeutically effective amount of an A2A agonist. In one embodiment, the A2A agonist is administered intrathecally to the patient. In another embodiment, the A2A agonist comprises ATL313.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of treating neuropathic pain via intrathecal administration of agonists of A2A adenosine receptors (ARs).

Abstract: The present invention is directed to the use of ibudilast for treating addictions, including drug and behavioral addictions. In particular, ibudilast is used to diminish the dopamine-mediated reward associated with addictions and to treat withdrawal syndromes after discontinuance of addictive drug use or behavior.

Abstract: Methods of treating pain by delivery of anti-inflammatory cytokines, proinflammatory cytokine antagonists, and agents that act to reduce or prevent proinflammatory cytokine actions, to the nervous system are described. These agents can be delivered using gene therapy techniques. Alternatively, the agents can be delivered in protein compositions.