Bioactive structural analogues of protectins

Pharmaceutical, Life sciences

UNMET NEED

Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) derived from long-chain omega-3 fatty acids have pro-resolving and anti-inflammatory effects in many acute and chronic pathologies. Protectins are among the most studied SPM members and protectin DX (PDX) has been shown to (i) improve insulin resistance in diabetes models, (ii) reverse lung fibrosis, (iii) ameliorate osteoarthritis progression, and other benefits with potential therapeutic applications.
A major limitation with PDX has been its exorbitant cost of production ($7500/mg), while achieved by biosynthesis with very low yields. Historically, this precluded more extensive in vitro and in vivo studies toward its development as a therapeutic agent.

TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEW

The researchers developed the first total synthesis of PDX in 2019. Further optimization led to a more efficient synthesis route that allows to obtain PDX on a gram scale at a fraction of the cost of the biosynthesis method. This creates the opportunity to accelerate pre-clinical and clinical studies in a variety of indications.

Even more impressive, this new synthetic pathway allows the synthesis of small analogues of PDX (and eventually other SPMs) with potent biological actions through a simplified and flexible synthetic route.

Currently, PDX and SPM analogues can be produced at laboratory gram scale quantities (non-GMP).

 

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES

  • Low-cost synthesis of PDX and analogues
  • Wide range of therapeutic applications

 

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

  • Technology available for in-licensing
  • Seeking for industrial partner for co-development
  • Eligibility to government financing for industry/academic maturation program

 

IP PROTECTION

  • Active Patent: Can, US, EU (US9782379B2)
  • Pending PCT
  • Provisional Patent

CONTACTS

Prof. André Marette, Ph. D.

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Department of medicine,
IUCPQ research center

Prof. Donald Poirier, Ph. D.

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATORS
Department of molecular medicine
CHUQ-UL research center

Sébastien Bergeron

CONTACT PERSON
Project Manager, Life Sciences
Axelys
sebastien.bergeron@axelys.ca