Antibody against VGamma4 T Cells reduces Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms in a mouse

Tech ID:  2007-06

Summary

Successful treatment of autoimmune disorders continues to be an unmet challenge. Scientists at National Jewish Health have identified a subset of gamma delta T cells that is active in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. These cells produce IL-17, which is associated with inflammatory damage in rheumatoid arthritis, certain cancers, and is a major player in chronic autoimmune diseases. Targeting this small subset of T cells offers a unique way to limit inflammation and treat autoimmune diseases or cancer.

Potential Applications

Rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, other autoimmune and allergic diseases

Advantages of Invention

Targeting a small subset of gamma delta T cells will have fewer side-effects than depleting IL-17 using antibody based technology and won’t disrupt the bodies ability to function in other diseases.

State of Development

Our scientists have shown in a collagen-induced arthritis murine model:

  • Increased numbers of activated Vgamma4 cells in active disease
  • Vgamma4 cells were major producers of the inflammatory cytokine, IL-17
  • Administration of a monoclonal antibody targeting Vgamma4 T cells in mice resulted in a 42% decrease in RA histological parameters and a significant decrease in autoantibodies

Publication

Roark et al. J Immunol. 2007 Oct. 1; 179: 5576-5583

Patent Status

US and International patent applications pending

Inventors

Christina Roark, PhD; Rebecca O’Brien, PhD; and Willi Born, PhD

Licensing Status- Available for licensing.

For Further Information, Contact:
Emmanuel Hilaire, PhD
Licensing Associate
Intellectual Property and Technology Commercialization Program
National Jewish Health
1400 Jackson Street, Room M206b
Denver, CO 80206
Voice: (303) 398-1262
Fax: (303) 270-2352
hilairee@njc.org

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