Mycobacterial Catalase-peroxidase in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Sarcoidosis

Sarcoidosis is an organ-wide inflammatory disease of unknown etiology that is characterized by the presence of granulomas, and frequently, pulmonary dysfunction. Currently there are no definitive diagnostic tests, and treatment regimes consist of drugs with significant side-effects. Johns Hopkins scientists have newly discovered that the exaggerated immune response in sarcoidosis patients is triggered by the catalase-peroxidase protein from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This novel discovery will provide a foundation for the development of diagnostic tests and vaccine-based therapy Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) Sarcoidosis is recognized as the most common fibrotic lung disorder with cases worldwide. However, sarcoidosis is difficult to diagnose and typically a battery of tests are required including chest x-rays, pulmonary function tests, special blood tests, and invasive tissue biopsies. In light of the research conducted by Moller and colleagues, there is now a business development opportunity for interested companies to design and market a simple skin test or laboratory test that can be used to quickly diagnose the disease, in addition to a vaccine-based treatment that will be less toxic than existing therapies.

Inventor(s): Moller, David

Type of Offer: Licensing



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