Advanced Pulmonary Treatment with Verteporfin and Glutaminase Inhibitors
University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel formulation for the simultaneous delivery of Verteporfin and glutaminase inhibitors to the lungs and pulmonary blood vessels. Verteporfin, an FDA-approved drug for macular degeneration, inhibits the Yap/Taz pathway involved in tissue remodeling and extracellular matrix stiffening, which leads to pulmonary hypertension. Glutaminase inhibitors, such as C968 and CB-839, target the glutaminolysis pathway, a major energy source during pulmonary hypertension. This innovative approach aims to reduce pulmonary hypertension by blocking the Yap/Taz-GLS1 axis through controlled delivery of these drugs using poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) particles.
Description
The technology involves the use of 10-micrometer porous PLGA particles to encapsulate Verteporfin and glutaminase inhibitors. These particles are designed to deliver the drugs to the deep lung tissue, ensuring effective treatment of pulmonary hypertension. The porosity and size of the particles allow for fast release kinetics, with the drugs being released within 1 to 3 days. This controlled delivery mechanism prevents the fast clearance of the drugs and reduces immune-mediated clearance in the lungs, enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of the treatment.Applications
- Treatment of pulmonary hypertension- Controlled drug delivery to the lungs
- Potential applications in other lung diseases involving tissue remodeling and extracellular matrix stiffening