The present application is directed to the discovery that hedgehog gene products
are able to protect peripheral nerve cells under conditions which otherwise result
in peripheral neuropathy. Certain aspects of the invention are directed to preparations
of hedgehog polypeptides, or other molecules which regulate patched or smoothened
signalling, and their uses as protective agents against both acquired and hereditary
neuropathies. As used herein, "peripheral neuropathy" refers to a disorder affecting
a segment of the peripheral nervous system. For instance, the method of the present
invention can be used as part of a treatment program in the management of neuropathies
associated with systemic disease, e.g., viral infections, diabetes, inflamation;
as well as genetically acquired (hereditary) neuropathies, e.g., Charcot-Marie-Tooth
disease; and neuropathies caused by a toxic agent, e.g., a chemotherapeutic agent
such as vincristine.
