Invention:
This innovation is centered around a peptide designed to interrupt the action of a protein called Aminopeptidase N (APN). This peptide functions as an antagonist or inhibitor, binding to the intracellular portion of APN. The primary focus of this technology is to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and viral infections, including COVID-19. PAH is a severe cardiovascular disease characterized by thickening of the pulmonary arteries due to uncontrolled proliferation of smooth muscle cells, leading to right ventricular hypertrophy and failure. The technology aims to target the causal protein, APN, which plays a major role in the pathological mechanisms of PAH triggered by mitochondrial dysfunction (MD). The research team has identified a specific domain of APN in the cytosolic region that has significant pathological implications. Initial results in preclinical studies with the APN blocking peptide have shown promising outcomes, effectively controlling APN signaling without affecting its essential peptidase domain, thus offering a novel and efficient strategy for treating PAH.
Background:
Current treatment options for pulmonary arterial hypertension focus on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression, but they often have limited efficacy and manage symptoms without addressing the underlying pathological mechanisms. There is a critical need for a targeted therapy that can intervene at the early stages of this deadly cardiovascular disease to reverse vascular remodeling and mitigate disease progression. In contrast, this novel peptide technology specifically targets a protein implicated in the pathology of PAH, particularly in cases induced by mitochondrial dysfunction (MD). Moreover, the technology's ability to block specific signaling domains of APN makes it unique in its precision and selectivity.
Applications:
- Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
- Treatment for pulmonary vascular diseases where APN is involved
- Treatment for viral infections, including COVID
Advantages:
- Targeted and precise action
- Demonstrated results in preclinical studies
- Addresses underlying pathological disease mechanism
