Opportunity
A family of peptides secreted by parasitic worms which have potent anti-inflammatory benefits.
Background
Parasite worms have evolved in their human hosts for millions of years and during this time have developed exquisite mechanisms to modulate the human immune response to ensure their own long-term survival.
This immune modulation is primarily mediated by the molecules that are secreted by the parasites as they migrate through their host’s tissue. The efficacy of parasite-derived molecules has been fine-tuned over millennia of co-evolution with humans, suggesting that the pharmacological activity of these peptides has already been optimised over time by nature.
Our Solution
Researchers at UTS have identified a novel family of small (8 kDa, 68 amino acids) proteins secreted by parasitic worms, which we have termed the helminth defence molecules (HDMs). Originally identified in the secretions of the liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica), sequences for HDMs have now been identified in other related trematodes, but not in any other class of parasitic worm or mammal.
Data from animal models of disease show that only a short course of peptide treatment is required to produce a protective effect (better than most current strategies which require long term treatments). The parasite peptides are not cytotoxic; most current treatment regimes are associated with severe side effects. In vitro screening has suggested that the peptides are unlikely to induce any adverse events.
Potential Applications
- Treatment of steroid resistant asthma.
- Possibly applicable for other disease conditions that are mediated by chronic inflammation.
IP Status
NPE filed in the United States and Australia.
Inventors
Sheila Donnelly, Mark William Robinson, John Pius Dalton, Joyce To.
Contact us
If you are interested in working with our researchers to develop any of our technologies, please contact the UTS Commercialisation Team at patents@uts.edu.au.