MC4R Selective Ligand for Obesity and Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention

Case ID:
UA22-062
Invention:

This technology is a novel peptide that has been shown to be a potent MC4R selective antagonist. It is a potential therapeutic for cognitive loss and obesity.

Background:
The challenges of neurodegradation, Alzheimer’s disease, and obesity have been shown to have some similar molecular signatures that contribute to disease and have thus created opportunities for new drug targets for these conditions. Previous studies have implicated low levels of selective melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) in both obesity and aging/cognitive decline.

In this technology, the inventors purpose the use of a novel MC4R selective ligand to increase expression of MC4R in patients. This could be used as a therapeutic to help ameliorate neurodegradation or help treat obesity.

Applications:

  • Neurodegeneration
  • Obesity


Advantages:

  • Selective for MC4R
Patent Information:
Contact For More Information:
Jonathan Larson
Senior Licensing Manager, College of Science
The University of Arizona
jonathanlarson@arizona.edu
Lead Inventor(s):
Minying Cai
Victor Hruby
Keywords: