Novel TLR Inhibitors Reduce Lung Inflammation In Vivo
Tech ID: 2007-07
Summary
Inflammation has been shown to play a large role in diseases of the lung, often leading to tissue destruction and airway remodeling. Scientists at National Jewish Health have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties of unsaturated phosphatidylglycerols (PGs). PGs are normal constituents of pulmonary surfactant, though normally in low concentrations, and may play a role in ensuring that the lung is not chronically inflamed at the interface with its external environment. Increasing their concentration in an injured or diseased lung should interfere with the TLR activation pathway and thereby reduce inflammation and infection in a number of respiratory diseases.
Potential Applications
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), sepsis-induced ARDS, influenza, asthma, reducing the effects of inflammation during mechanical ventilation, chronic bronchitis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Advantages of Invention
PGs occur naturally in surfactant and surfactant preparations have a proven track record of safety.
State of Development
- PGs prevent the cytopathic effects of RSV in vitro
- PGs inhibit inflammatory mediator production (e.g. TNF-alpha, nitric oxide, IL-8, IL-6) in vitro
- PGs antagonize the effects of LPS on primary human alveolar macrophages
- Aerosolized PGs attenuate lung inflammation in mice challenged with LPS
Publication - Kuronuma, et al. Journal of Biological Chemistry. (2009): [Epub ahead of print]
Patent Status - Published U.S. Patent application #20080242640. International patents pending.
Inventors
Dennis R. Voelker, PhD
Licensing Status
- Available for licensing.
For Further Information, Contact:
Emmanuel Hilaire, PhD
Manager
Technology Transfer Office
National Jewish Health
1400 Jackson Street, Room M206b
Denver, CO 80206
Voice: (303) 398-1262
Fax: (303) 270-2352
HilaireE@njhealth.org
