Restoring Sensation: Cutting-Edge Skin Reprogramming to Combat Diabetic Nerve Damage
This invention utilizes a unique cocktail of transcription factors, known as ASK, delivered via Tissue Nanotransfection (TNT) to non-invasively reprogram skin cells in vivo. By transforming skin fibroblasts into functional nerve-supporting cells, the technology restores lost sensation and promotes nerve regeneration in patients suffering from debilitating diabetic polyneuropathy.
Description
The ASK technology works by administering a specific genetic cocktail consisting of ASO-miR200b (an antisense oligonucleotide), and nucleic acids encoding the transcription factors SOX10 and KROX20. When delivered to the skin, typically through a high-efficiency Tissue Nanotransfection (TNT) system, these factors work together to reprogram existing skin fibroblasts into a new cell population that includes Schwann cells. These newly formed cells create a neurogenic and neurotrophic environment that supports nerve health. The process significantly increases the co-production of numerous therapeutic proteins, including but not limited to Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which are critical for maintaining nerve conductivity and sensory function. Unlike traditional treatments that only manage symptoms, this method actively repairs the underlying nerve damage by restoring the skin's natural ability to support and maintain healthy nerve endings.Applications
- Diabetic Polyneuropathy (DPN) Therapy: A primary treatment for the millions of diabetic patients suffering from chronic nerve pain and numbness.- Peripheral Neuropathy Management: Application in treating nerve damage caused by obesity, type I and II diabetes, or pre-diabetic conditions.
- Advanced Wound Care & Skin Grafts: Enhancing nerve innervation in skin grafts to restore sensation and improve the functional outcomes of reconstructive surgeries.
- Regenerative Medicine Platforms: A foundational approach for other in vivo tissue reprogramming therapies targeting diverse degenerative conditions.
- Neurotrophic Factor Delivery: A specialized system for the localized production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and other neurotrophins in the skin.
Advantages
- Restores Sensory Function: Successfully rescues the loss of skin sensation (hypoesthesia) associated with diabetic nerve damage.- Non-Invasive Delivery: Utilizes Tissue Nanotransfection (TNT) for highly efficient, non-viral delivery of genetic material directly into the skin.
- In Vivo Reprogramming: Enables the conversion of common skin cells into specialized nerve-supporting cells directly within the patient's body, avoiding the need for complex external cell culture.
- Long-Lasting Effects: Demonstrated sustained increases in neurotrophic factors and improved nerve markers for over 20 weeks post-treatment in preclinical models.
- Enhanced Tissue Viability: Improves peripheral blood flow and vascularization in affected areas, providing a healthier environment for nerve recovery.