http://www.jhttportal.jhu.edu/TechTransfer/TechnologyLocator.asp

Description (Set) JHU inventors have identified a population of microRNA (miRNA) associated with a critical neurotransmitter transporter gene regulatory region. miRNA has roles in modulating gene expression levels. Transporter activity is essential to maintain proper neurotransmitter levels in the nervous system. Multiple neurological diseases have been linked to abnormal transporter activity and neurotransmitter levels. JHU inventors determined that at least one of the miRNA levels are elevated in spinal cord tissue from a mouse ALS model. Therefore, these miRNA are potential biomarkers for neurological disease. JHU inventors discovered that introducing specific miRNAs to cultured astrocytes can enhance or inhibit glutamate transporter gene expression levels. These miRNA are potential therapeutics for multiple neurological problems with no effective treatments or cures to date. Key Features: ? Genetic targets in an essential neurotransmitter transporter gene. ? Potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for abnormal neurotransporter expression in neurological diseases. ? Potential nucleic acid-based therapeutics. Proposed Use (Set) This technology can be commercialized as potential biomarkers of neurological disorders, therapeutic targets and nucleic acid based therapeutics.

Inventor(s): Regan, Melissa ,Rothstein, Jeffrey D

Type of Offer: Licensing



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