FibroKine(TM) A Novel Inhaled Delivery of Peptides to Target Fibrosis

University of Pittsburgh and Tuskegee scientists have developed a novel treatment for lung fibrosis. This treatment is based on peptides to enhance a key signaling pathway in fibrosis development and can be delivered through inhalation, directly targeting the affected organ and providing hope to patients of life-limiting lung fibrosis.

Description

Fibrosis - when thickened, scar-like tissue replaces healthy tissue - is linked to 45% of deaths in the US. Fibrosis in the lungs from conditions including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis results in decreased oxygen uptake into the bloodstream and can progress to acute respiratory failure with a 5-year mortality rate as high as 80%. CXCL10/CXCR3 signaling is involved in inflammation processes. Using in silico prediction, peptides have been identified that mimic the cytokine CXCL10 and are designed to act on the receptor CXCR3. These peptides have the potential to inhibit the effects of TGF-b, a major contributing factor in fibrosis. Given the high mortality rates, a safe, effective, and accessible treatment for lung fibrosis could revolutionize treatment options and dramatically improve the lives of people living with fibrosis.

Applications

1. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)
2. Systemic scleroderma (SSc)
3. Other causes of lung fibrosis

Advantages

No approved drug to reverse lung fibrosis exists. Lung transplantation is the only curative treatment available but is a limited option for many due to a lack of donor organs and eligibility requirements. While some medications have been approved to slow the progression of lung fibrosis, they do not improve long term-survival and many patients cease use due to side effects including nausea and liver toxicity. This novel approach targets the underlying pathogenesis of fibrosis. These novel peptides, delivered through an optimized inhalation mechanism can directly target the lungs including penetration into the deep lung area. They can act as agonists to CXCR3, enhancing the signaling known to inhibit the effects of TGF-? induced fibrosis. Additionally, inhalation of FibroKine(TM) will avoid first-pass metabolism, decreasing the risk of liver toxicity.

Invention Readiness

Pre-clinical studies found these peptides can halt TGF-b induced fibrosis, tackling the source as well as the symptoms of fibrosis, and an aerosol was developed with an off-the-shelf nebulizer. It is likely that reduced treatment frequency may be needed, saving patients time and money. Further testing is required to develop this novel therapy.

IP Status

https://patents.google.com/patent/US9872889B2