Peptide Substrates for Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP) that can be Used to Generate FAP-activated Prodrugs and Protoxins

Fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAP-alpha) is a membrane bound serine protease that is only produced by reactive stromal cells present within sites of epithelial cancers. FAP-alpha is not expressed within normal stroma of any other adult tissues and therefore represents a potential target for epithelial cancer therapeutics. Researchers at JHU have identified and synthesized the first known peptide substrate for FAP that can be used to generate prodrugs and protoxins that are selectively activated by proteolytic cleavage by FAP. Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) The non-discriminatory nature of chemotherapeutics is one of the greatest obstacles in cancer treatment today. The ideal drug would exert its action on cancer cells, leaving healthy cells untouched. The discovery by Denmeade and Aggarwal of a peptide that is readily hydrolyzed by FAP means that highly cytotoxic therapeutic prodrugs can be targeted to cancer cells, eliminating the unpleasant side-effects of conventional chemotherapy.

Inventor(s): Denmeade, Samuel

Type of Offer: Licensing



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