Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibition for Treatment of Cardiac Hypertrophy

Phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes are a family of proteins that degrade cyclic nucleotides; thus, playing a major role in cell signaling. PDE5a selectively catabolizes cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). This action is the central mechanism underlying the use of PDE5a inhibitors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. JHU researchers have discovered that increasing cGMP by PDE5a inhibition can also potentially affect the heart. Specifically, sustained inhibition of PDE5a prevents development of cardiac hypertrophy (thickening of the muscle wall) in response to increased heart loading (constriction of the aorta) as well as sustained adrenergic stimulation. This finding is particularly important as PDE5a has not been thought to play a role in the heart until recently. The data further suggests that inhibition of hypertrophy by PDE5a inhibition produces favorable effects on the cardiac chamber, preventing dilation and heart failure, and improving heart function. Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) This technology may be potentially useful for the treatment of cardiac hypertrophy

Inventor(s): Kass, David

Type of Offer: Licensing



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