A Novel Class of Modulators of the Abc Transporter Family to Improve the Outcomes of Treatment for Cancer Therapy, Secretory Diarrhea, and Cystic Fibrosis

ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transmembrane proteins function to transport small molecules such as drugs across membranes. Dartmouth researchers have identified a protein, which is secreted by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which selectively reduces plasma membrane expression of ABC transmembrane proteins. Inhibition of the expression of these ABC transmembrane proteins in the plasma membrane by this protein or active fragments or mimetics thereof is expected to be useful in promoting delivery of therapeutics to the central nervous system, treating cancers that have developed resistance to conventional therapies due to overexpression of multidrug resistance transporters, and in inhibiting secretory diarrhea. Suppression of the inhibitory effects of this newly identified protein on expression of ABC transmembrane proteins, particularly CFTR expression, is expected to be useful in treating patients with cystic fibrosis.



Characterization of the protein, will include its purification or partial purification from the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa and synthesis of proteins with the same amino acid sequence as this protein but prepared recombinantly, identification of small molecule mimetics, and eventually, clinical development.



This technology is claimed in the published Patent Corporation Treaty Application No. PCT/US2004/033874. We are seeking an industrial partner interested in its commercialization. (Ref: J249)

Type of Offer: Licensing



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