Peptide-Dragged Mitochondria-Targeted Electron Scavengers as Novel Anti-Inflammatory Agents

University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel class of anti-inflammatory agents: peptide-dragged mitochondria-targeted electron scavengers. These compounds are designed to target mitochondria and act as potent antioxidants, reducing excessive inflammation associated with various acute and chronic medical conditions such as sepsis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. This innovative approach offers a new mechanism of action for anti-inflammatory therapy.

Description

Provided herein are methods for using mitochondria-targeted electron scavengers as anti-inflammatory agents. The mitochondria-targeted electron scavenger comprises a free radical-scavenging group covalently linked to a mitochondria-targeting group derived from a hemigramicidin moiety. The mitochondria-targeted electron scavenger can be used to treat medical conditions associated with acute or chronic inflammation.

Applications

• Treatment of sepsis
• Management of rheumatoid arthritis
• Therapy for inflammatory bowel disease
• Potential use in other conditions associated with excessive inflammation

Advantages

The mechanism of action of these compounds is novel, targeting mitochondria to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. The compounds are highly potent, with activity observed in the nanomolar range. This targeted approach may offer improved efficacy and reduced side effects compared to existing anti-inflammatory therapies.

Invention Readiness

Proof-of-principle has been obtained in cell culture and in vivo models. The next steps include additional proof-of-principle experiments using animal models of disease.

IP Status

https://patents.google.com/patent/US8487079B2