Phase 2 Inducers and Related Signaling Pathways Protect Cartilage Against Inflammation/Infection, Apoptosis and Stress

The molecular pathogenesis of arthritis associated with increased chondrocyte apoptosis is earmarked by over-expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in articular tissues. COX-2 inhibitors are efficacious in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis but clinical findings of serious gastro-intestinal, renal and cardiovascular side-effects have resulted in some COX-2 inhibitors, such as Vioxx, being pulled from the market. JHU researchers have made the novel discovery that phase II inducers and PPAR agonists are effective in abrogating the over-expression of COX-2 and apoptosis of chondrocytes stimulated with high levels of fluid mechanical stress, a stimulus for an arthritic pathology. Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) As many phase II inducers are of dietary origin, they will likely offer cartilage protection without the serious side-effects that accompany COX-2 inhibitors. In addition, clinical studies to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of phase II inducers will likely be quicker and less expensive than for other pharmaceutical agents. Phase II inducers and PPAR agonists may also be useful for the production of functionally relevant artificial cartilage for transplantation purposes.

Inventor(s): Konstantopoulos, Konstantinos

Type of Offer: Licensing



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