A Novel Mechanism and Target for Asthma Intervention

The Challenge

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by an obstruction of airflow, usually caused by mucus overproduction. Currently, most treatments for mucus hyper secretion (corticosteroids) have limited efficacy and are largely non-specific, indicating a clear need for new therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, morbidity and mortality rates associated with asthma have risen globally over the last 20 years. This increase is largely attributed to an increase in urbanization. Currently, approximately 36 million people suffer from Asthma in the top seven global markets which include France , Germany , Italy , Spain , the United Kingdom , Japan and the United States . Despite advancements in our understanding of asthma the morbidity and mortality rates due to asthma are expected to continue to increase with the growth of urban living unless more effective and specific treatments for mucus overproduction are developed.

The Solution

Airway inflammation and obstruction are the result of interactions between various cells, cellular elements, and cell signaling factors. The major cause of airway obstruction is the overproduction of mucus from a special group of cells called “airway epithelial cells”. If mucus production can be controlled effectively, then airway obstruction will be minimized. Our unique technology is the first of its kind to target airway epithelial cells and specifically disrupt the signal for mucus production, resulting in a decrease in mucus and better air way clearance.

The Technology


We have identified a novel therapeutic target on airway epithelial cells that can modulate cellular function resulting in a decrease in mucus production. Our in-vivo animal model studies indicate that this approach may be appropriate for all persistent classes of asthma. Therefore, this intervention modality would be appropriate for the vast majority of asthma sufferers, especially chronic patients. The U.S. provisional patent describing this technology was filled in May 2007.



The Opportunity



Worldwide sales of Asthma drugs reached US$17.8 billion in 2006 and are expected to grow with the increase in the prevalence of Asthma. Currently, there are 5 major mechanisms of action for Asthma drugs. Our technology represents a novel mechanism of action and would be the first of its kind in the Asthma market. This opportunity is for a company that is looking to add to their technology pipeline with novel target pathway for Asthma. The Innovations Group at the University of Toronto is seeking a partner to license this IP to a company interested in taking this process through a quick clinical phase and then to the market.

Type of Offer: Licensing



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